A setback is defined as open area between a structure or building, and the nearest property line. Setbacks are typically measured perpendicular from the property line, on a horizontal plane of the property line to the closest projection of the structure or building (typically the eave).

The front yard is typically considered the first 20-feet of a property adjacent to the street measured from the property line. Within any required front yard fences shall not exceed a total height of forty-two inches.

Note: the front property line does not always start at the back of the curb or back of the sidewalk. Please contact Engineering regarding potential property lines and public utility easements within the front yard.

Fences may be a maximum of seven feet in height when located on side or rear property lines (outside of the front yard setback). Fences may be solid or include decorative lattice at the top. The total height of the fence shall be measured as the vertical distance between the finished grade at the base of the fence or wall to the top edge of the structure from the higher grade elevation.

A portable shed is defined as a pre-manufactured garden shed that is less than 120 square feet and does not exceed seven feet in height, constructed with plastic or metal, is not attached to a foundation or constructed with posts in the ground, and can be easily moved.

A portable shed is permitted anywhere outside of the front yard setback provided its height does not exceed the height of the adjacent fence up to seven feet in height, its floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, and provided there exists unobstructed access (clear passageway) with a gate leading from a street to the rear yard of at least three feet of width on at least one side of the primary dwelling. In addition, a portable shed cannot obstruct any egress or windows of a dwelling unit on the property.

Sheds are allowed in any required interior side or rear yard, provided they are a minimum of four feet from any property line, other structures or buildings, and do not exceed fifteen feet in height. In no case shall more than fifty percent of a required minimum rear yard be covered by any buildings or structures, excluding pools and spas.

A permit is required for all sheds that exceed 120 square feet or any shed that includes electrical or plumbing. A permit is required for all accessory buildings or structures that contain a roof/cover or are intended to provide shelter (i.e. patio covers, gazebos, pergolas, carports) regardless of size. Accessory structures such as flagpoles that exceed eight feet in height and support poles for sun/shade sails that exceed eight feet in height require a permit.

Batting cages, trampolines, play structures and similar structures are prohibited in any front yard, but are allowed in any required interior side or rear yard, provided they are a minimum of four feet from any property line, other structures or buildings, and do not exceed fifteen feet in height.

A detached accessory structure or building is typically permitted in any required interior side or rear yard with a four feet setback from the adjacent property line, as measured from the closest point (e.g., roof overhang or eave if applicable).

An attached accessory structure such as an attached patio cover is typically only allowed to encroach two-feet into a required side yard setback and eight-feet into a required rear yard setback. In no case shall any portion of an attached accessory structure including eaves, result in a setback of less than three feet, measured from the closest projection. Please contact the Planning Division to determine what the required setbacks are for an attached structure.

In no case shall more than fifty percent of a required minimum rear yard be covered by any buildings or structures, excluding pools and spas.