Understanding Setback Measurement in Nevada City

In Nevada City, setback measurements are fundamentally defined by the physical relationship between a structure and the designated lot lines. The zoning code establishes specific methodologies for measuring these distances to ensure consistent application of density, open space, and building placement requirements.

General Measurement Methodology

Unless otherwise specified for a particular zone or unique structural condition, the depth of a required yard is measured horizontally from the nearest point of the building to the applicable lot line [Section 17.12.440, 17.12.450, 17.12.460].

Specific Yard Measurements

The zoning code categorizes setbacks by the type of yard:

Front Yard: The depth is measured horizontally from the nearest point of the building to the front lot line [Section 17.12.440].
Rear Yard: The depth is measured horizontally from the nearest point of the building to the rear lot line [Section 17.12.450].
Side Yard: The width is measured horizontally from the nearest point of the main building to the side lot line [Section 17.12.460].

Important Definitions for Setback Context

To accurately calculate setbacks, one must identify the relevant lot lines:

Front Lot Line: For an interior lot, this is the line separating the lot from the street. For corner lots, the owner designates which street serves as the front [Section 17.12.270].
Rear Lot Line: This is the line opposite and most distant from the front lot line. For irregular or triangular lots, the code specifies a line ten feet in length within the lot, parallel to and at the maximum distance from the front lot line [Section 17.12.280].
Side Lot Line: Any lot boundary line that is not a front or rear lot line [Section 17.12.290].

Exceptions and Modifications

The city recognizes that strict enforcement of these measurements may result in practical difficulties under certain site conditions. Consequently, the following modifications are permitted:

Non-Parallel Walls: Where the side wall of a residence is not parallel to the side lot line, the side yard width may be varied, provided the average width meets the required minimum [Section 17.84.040(A)].
Side Yard Averaging: The commission may approve a reduction in the width of one side yard, provided it is no less than three feet and the sum of both side yards equals the total minimum required for both [Section 17.84.040(B)].
Projections: Architectural projections into a required yard may not exceed six inches [Section 17.84.050(A)].
Patios and Sunshades: These structures may utilize up to twenty percent of the required rear yard, provided they are no closer than ten feet to the rear lot line [Section 17.84.050(B)].

Bufferyard Standards

When a development is contiguous to single-family residential zoning, transition standards apply. The building setbacks from these transitional lot lines must be the greater of:

Twenty-five feet; or
One foot for each foot of nonresidential building height [Section 17.80.080(A)].

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