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Setback Requirements for the RL (Low Density Residential) District in Concord

Jurisdiction: ConcordCode Version: February 10, 2026

In the City of Concord RL (Low Density Residential) district, residential structures are required to maintain a front setback of 10 feet, an interior side setback of 3 feet, a corner side setback of 6 feet, and a rear setback of 10 feet for lots between 1,440 and 1,920 square feet. For larger lots in the RL and RS districts, the setbacks vary based on the specific lot dimensions as defined in the development code.

Setback Standards for RL District

The setback requirements for the RL (Low Density Residential) district vary based on the specific lot size. Development on these lots must comply with the dimensional requirements to ensure proper spacing and neighborhood compatibility.

Setbacks for Small Lots (RL and RS Districts)

For small residential lots in the RL and RS districts, the following setback standards apply, based on the square footage of the lot:

Lot Area (Square Feet) Front Setback Interior Side Setback Corner Side Setback Rear Setback
1,440 – 1,920 10 feet 3 feet 6 feet 10 feet
1,920 – 2,999 15 feet 4 feet 8 feet 15 feet
3,000 – 3,999 20 feet 5 feet 10 feet 15 feet

Note: Additional setback standards may apply in small lot subdivisions pursuant to Chapter 18.155 CDC [Section 18.30.040, Table 18.30.040].

General Setback Measurement Rules

Setbacks in the City of Concord are generally measured from the property line to the face of the building or structure [Section 18.150.140].

  • Front Setback: Measured from the front property line. On corner lots, the front property line is the most narrow lot line abutting a street [Section 18.150.140].
  • Interior Side Setback: Measured at right angles from the nearest point on the side property line to the nearest point of the wall of the structure [Section 18.150.140].
  • Rear Setback: Measured at right angles from the nearest point on the rear property line to the nearest line of the primary building [Section 18.150.140].

Exceptions and Adjustments

Certain features and specific conditions may allow for exceptions or adjustments to the standard setbacks in the City of Concord:

  • Architectural Projections: Certain features, such as awnings, canopies, and chimneys, may project into required setbacks provided they comply with the limitations set forth in Table 18.150.140 [Section 18.150.140].
  • Accessory Structures: Specific accessory structures, such as decks or patios under 18 inches in height or gazebos, may be exempt from standard setback requirements or subject to reduced setback requirements [Section 18.150.140].
  • Front Setback Averaging: In areas where existing development has front setbacks less than required, the City of Concord may allow a reduction to the required front setback based on the average depth of front yards on the block [Section 18.150.140].
  • Minor Exceptions: The City of Concord may grant a minor exception for a decrease in required setbacks, such as a reduction of up to 25 percent of the required rear setback for single-family residential properties, as detailed in Table 18.425.020 [Section 18.425.020].

Sections Cited

  • Section 18.30.040 – Table 18.30.040 (RL, RM, and RH districts – Development standards)
  • Section 18.150.140 – Setbacks
  • Section 18.155.040 – Lot sizes and dimensions
  • Section 18.425.020 – Applicability (Minor Exceptions)

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