Introduction
Home additions in Burlingame provide a perfect solution for those needing more space. Whether it’s a new room or a larger kitchen, these projects can add comfort and functionality to your home. With Burlingame’s unique charm and community feel, enhancing your living area through a home addition is a rewarding investment.
Vital Guidelines for Home Additions in Burlingame
What is Permissible
Maximum Addition Size
Home additions in Burlingame provide a perfect solution for those needing more space. Whether it’s a new room or a larger kitchen, these projects can add comfort and functionality to your home. With Burlingame’s unique charm and community feel, enhancing your living area through a home addition is a rewarding investment.
Height Restrictions
Additions must not exceed 25 feet in height to maintain the community’s character and prevent overshadowing.
Setback Requirements
A minimum setback of 10 feet from the property line is required for all additions.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR):
The total floor area of the addition must not exceed 0.6 of the lot size, balancing density and space.
Permitting Process Timeline
Standard
The total floor area of the addition must not exceed 0.6 of the lot size, balancing density and space.
Historic Property
For properties with historic status, the permit process may extend to 60 days to accommodate additional reviews.
Crucial Zoning Regulations in Burlingame
Understanding zoning regulations is essential for a smooth home addition process.
Size Limitations for Home Additions
| Zoning District | Maximum Addition Size | Notes |
| R-1 | 2,500 sq. ft. | Single-family residential |
| R-2 | 3,000 sq. ft. | Two-family residential |
| R-3 | 4,000 sq. ft. | Multi-family residential |
Height Limitations
- Single-family zones: Home additions are limited to two stories or 25 feet in height.
- Multi-family zones: Additions can reach up to three stories, capped at 35 feet.
Building Coverage Rules
Coverage must not exceed 50% of the lot area, promoting open spaces.
Location Requirements
- Front additions: Must maintain a 20-foot distance from the front property line.
- Side additions: A minimum of 5 feet from side property lines is required.
- Rear additions: Must be set back at least 15 feet from the rear property line.
Exterior Details
Materials must match or complement the existing structure to preserve aesthetic cohesion.
Parking
Additional parking spaces may be required based on the size of the home addition.
Guidelines for Obtaining Permits for Home Additions in Burlingame
Securing the right permits is crucial for a successful home addition.
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Fee |
| Building Permit | Required for all structural changes | $1,000 |
| Plan Check Fee | Review of submitted plans | $500 |
| Electrical Permit | For electrical system changes | $200 |
| Plumbing Permit | Required for plumbing modifications | $150 |
| Mechanical Permit | For HVAC system changes | $150 |
| Planning Review | Zoning and design review | $300 |
| School Impact Fee | Applicable for significant additions | $1.50 per sq. ft. |
Property Compliance Requirements
Ensuring compliance with local regulations is essential for any home addition project.
Parking
Ensure at least one off-street parking space per bedroom in the addition.
Setbacks
Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from property lines for additions.
Open Space and Yards
At least 30% of the lot must remain as open space.
Eligible Properties for Home Additions
Determining property eligibility for a home addition is straightforward.
Other General Plan designations that may allow home additions:
- Low-Density Residential: Suitable for small-scale additions that blend with existing structures.
- Medium-Density Residential: Allows for moderate additions, supporting the neighborhood character.
- Mixed-Use: Encourages versatile additions, incorporating both residential and commercial spaces.
Development standards
Single-family Homes
Additions must not exceed 40% of the existing structure’s area.
Multi-family Properties
Additions can cover up to 30% of the total lot area.
Historic Properties
Additions must adhere to historical preservation guidelines.
Property Designations
- Flood Zones: Additions in these areas require elevated foundations to minimize flood risk.
- Liquefaction Zones: Reinforced foundations are mandatory for new constructions.
- Historic Districts: Design approval is necessary to maintain historical integrity.
- Coastal Zone: Additions must meet coastal development regulations to protect natural resources.
Summary
Burlingame offers a vibrant environment for home additions, providing increased space and comfort while maintaining the area’s unique charm. By following local guidelines and securing necessary permits, homeowners can successfully enhance their living spaces.
FAQs
In Burlingame, homeowners can consider various types of home additions, including room expansions, new bedrooms, larger kitchens, or even accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Each option provides more space while improving the overall functionality of the home. It’s essential to comply with local zoning regulations to ensure the addition blends seamlessly with the neighborhood.
Yes, even for a small patio, you need approval. Obtaining a permit ensures that the patio meets safety and building standards. This process helps prevent any issues down the road, such as non-compliance with setback requirements or local ordinances, which could lead to fines or modifications.
Adding a second story is possible, but there are specific height limits and design guidelines you must follow. These regulations ensure that the new structure harmonizes with the existing neighborhood character and does not obstruct views or sunlight for adjacent properties. Checking local zoning codes can provide clarity on what’s permissible.
To find your zoning district, you can consult the Burlingame zoning map on the city’s official website. Alternatively, contacting the planning department directly can provide detailed information, ensuring you understand what types of additions are permissible for your property.
Design requirements ensure that home additions maintain the aesthetic coherence of the neighborhood. Your addition should match the architectural style of your existing home, using similar materials and colors. This not only enhances curb appeal but also preserves the character of the area.
While formal approval from neighbors is not typically required, it’s wise to discuss your plans with them. Doing so fosters good relationships and can prevent potential disputes. Some projects may have specific guidelines for neighbor notification, especially in historic or tightly-knit communities.
Yes, Burlingame may offer incentives for environmentally friendly building practices, such as energy-efficient designs or sustainable materials. These incentives can include tax credits, rebates, or expedited permitting processes, encouraging homeowners to adopt green building practices.
Building without a permit can lead to significant problems, including fines, penalties, or even the requirement to dismantle the unpermitted structure. It’s crucial to follow the proper permitting process to ensure your addition meets all safety and zoning requirements, avoiding complications in the future.
If your permit application is denied, you can file an appeal with the city’s planning department. This process typically involves submitting a formal request and attending a hearing where you can present your case. Understanding the grounds for the initial denial can help you address concerns effectively.
Yes, Burlingame promotes maintaining green spaces, so landscaping requirements may accompany your home addition. These guidelines aim to enhance the property’s appearance and contribute to the neighborhood’s environmental quality. Proper landscaping can also help with drainage and provide privacy.
