Setback Measurement Standards in Concord
In the City of Concord, setbacks are generally measured as the shortest horizontal distance from a property line to the face of a building or structure. For flag lots and corner lots, specific measurement methods are applied to ensure appropriate positioning of structures relative to rights-of-way and access easements.
Measurement Methods for Setbacks
The Concord Development Code establishes standard procedures for measuring setbacks to ensure consistent application of zoning regulations across the city. Unless an unusual parcel configuration requires an alternative method, the following measurement standards apply:
General Measurement
- Front and Street Side Setbacks: The setback is measured from the nearest point on the property line abutting the street right-of-way or private road easement to the nearest point of the wall of the structure [Section 18.150.140(C)(3)].
- Interior Side Setbacks: The setback is measured at right angles from the nearest point on the side property line to the nearest point of the structure's wall, establishing a setback line parallel to the side property line [Section 18.150.140(C)(4)].
- Rear Setbacks: The setback is measured at right angles from the nearest point on the rear property line to the nearest line of the primary building, establishing a line parallel to the rear property line [Section 18.150.140(C)(5)].
Specific Lot Configurations
- Corner Lots: The front property line is defined as the most narrow lot line abutting a street. If both frontage lines are of equal length, the front is determined by the street address assigned by the City of Concord [Section 18.150.140(C)(1)].
- Flag Lots: The front setback is measured from the nearest point of the structure's wall to the point where the access strip meets the bulk of the lot. A setback line is then established parallel to the lot line nearest to the public street or right-of-way [Section 18.150.140(C)(2)].
- Double-Frontage Lots: The Planning Division determines the location of the required rear setback on a double-frontage lot [Section 18.150.140(C)(5)(a)].
- Converging Side Lot Lines: If a lot has no rear lot line due to side lot lines converging to a point, a presumed rear yard setback line 10 feet within the parcel, parallel to and at a maximum distance from the front lot line, is used [Section 18.150.140(C)(5)(b)].
Allowable Projections into Setbacks
Certain features are permitted to project into required setbacks, provided they comply with the specific dimensional limitations established for each feature type.
| Projecting Feature | Front/Street Side Setback | Interior Side Setback | Rear Setback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awnings and canopies | 6 feet | 30 inches | 6 feet |
| Balcony, landing, porch, stairway (Uncovered, <30" above grade) | 25% of setback | 25% of setback | 25% of setback |
| Balcony, landing, porch, stairway (Covered but unenclosed) | 6 feet | 30 inches | 6 feet |
| Bay window or similar projecting feature | 30 inches | Greater of 30" or 20% of setback | 30 inches |
| Chimney/fireplace (≤6' wide, media niche) | 24 inches | 24 inches | 24 inches |
| Cornice, eave, mechanical equipment, roof overhang | 24 inches | 24 inches | 24 inches |
Note: Some projections may be subject to additional conditions or exceptions as detailed in Section 18.150.140.
Sections Cited
- Section 18.150.140: Setbacks
- Section 18.200.030: Accessory structures