Determining Setback Line
San Diego Municipal Code § 113.0249
in effect§113.0249 Determining Setback Line
(a) The setback line is a line that runs parallel to the nearest property line at a distance inward from the property line equal to the setback. The area between the setback line and the parallel property line is the required yard. A continuous line connecting all setback lines defines the boundaries of the building envelope at ground level. See also Sections 113.0246 (Determining Property Lines) and 113.0252 (Measuring Setbacks).
(b) Setbacks established by the Land Development Code may be modified by ordinance, approved final subdivision, record of survey, or division plat. In these situations the setback line will be as described in the pertinent document
(c) Where it can be demonstrated that setback lines shown on a final map, survey or other planning document were plotted solely for information purposes to illustrate the setback dimensions that were in effect at the time the document was approved, the setback required by the underlying base zone in the Land Development Code shall apply.
(d) When a side setback is allowed to observe the minimum dimensions as described in Section 131.0431, all additions to the primary structure thereafter shall maintain that established side setback.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)
(Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.)
Source: City of San Diego Office of the City Clerk, San Diego Municipal Code and City Charter (docs.sandiego.gov PDFs)URL: https://docs.sandiego.gov/municode/MuniCodeChapter11/Ch11Art03Division02.pdf#page=30Fetched: 10/28/2026