Setbacks for Accessory Structures in Concord
In the city of Concord, accessory structures at single-family dwellings are generally required to maintain a minimum five-foot separation from the primary structure, other accessory structures, or an accessory dwelling unit, except for carports and patio covers. Accessory structures are prohibited within any front or street side yard and must comply with specific setback and height limitations based on their height and size [Section 18.200.030].
General Requirements for Accessory Structures
Accessory structures, such as garages, tool sheds, storage sheds, carports, greenhouses, and gazebos, must be incidental to and not alter the primary use or character of the site. Construction of these structures must be concurrent with or subsequent to the construction of the primary residence [Section 18.200.030].
Location and Height Standards
- Prohibited Areas: Accessory structures are prohibited in any front or street side yard and cannot project beyond the front building line of the primary structure [Section 18.200.030].
- Height Limits:
- Structures meeting the standard setback requirements for the primary structure shall not exceed 16 feet in height [Section 18.200.030].
- Structures between six and 12 feet in height must maintain a minimum five-foot side and rear setback. This height can be increased by one foot for every additional two feet of setback provided, up to a maximum height of 16 feet [Section 18.200.030].
Exceptions for Certain Structures
- Gazebos and Unenclosed Patio Covers: If a gazebo or patio cover is open on at least three sides and supported by individual footings (without a continuous foundation), it may be located within three feet of a side or rear property line if it meets the side yard setbacks [Section 18.200.030].
- Small Accessory Structures: Accessory structures that are less than 120 square feet, six feet or less in height, do not require a building permit, and are not on a permanent foundation are exempt from these specific requirements [Section 18.200.030].
- Decks, Patios, and Terraces:
- Uncovered decks/patios 30 inches or less above grade must be set back three feet from an interior side or rear property line [Section 18.200.030].
- Balconies and decks more than 30 inches above grade must be set back 15 feet from the rear property line [Section 18.200.030].
Maximum Size Standards
The maximum allowable floor area for accessory structures in residential rear yards is determined by the lot size of the property, as follows:
| Minimum Lot Size (Square Feet) | Maximum Floor Area for Accessory Structures (Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|
| Less than 5,000 | To be specified in subdivision or use permit |
| 6,000 | 480 |
| 8,000 | 560 |
| 10,000 | 800 |
| 12,000 | 800 |
| 15,000 | 800 |
| 20,000 | 1,000 |
| 40,000 | 2,000 |
Note: An increase of up to 10 percent in floor area may be allowed subject to a minor exception approval [Section 18.200.030].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.200.030: Accessory structures