Height limits in Sacramento, CA

Building codes decide when you need a permit; zoning decides how tall you can go. Both are below, measured the way Sacramento measures them.

Rules last checked by a person on October 19, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Sacramento before you build.

Citywide

ADU: Detached ADU height (minimum a city must allow)	16 ft; 18 ft within 1/2 mile of major transit (+2 ft for matching roof pitch) or on a lot with a multistory multifamily building
ADU: Attached ADU height (minimum a city must allow)	25 ft or the house's height limit, whichever is lower

City of Sacramento, Required permits. Checked 2026-10-19.
One-story detached accessory structures, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high... Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to …
44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19.
One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…
HCD Accessory Dwelling Unit Handbook (March 2026). Checked 2026-10-19.
A setback of no more than four feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an attached or detached ADU (Gov. Code, 66314(d)(7)).