Santa Paula Driveway Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Santa Paula's residential parking and driveway standards are established through the city's Zoning Ordinance and property maintenance provisions within the Municipal Code. All vehicles parked on private residential property must be parked on a driveway or other off-street parking area that has been surfaced with an approved material. In single-family residential zones (R-1 and similar), approved surfaces include concrete, asphalt, and — in keeping with the city's semi-rural character — compacted gravel or decomposed granite where the adjacent zone and lot conditions are appropriate. The use of lawn, bare soil, or packed dirt as a parking surface is prohibited in front yard areas and is one of the more commonly cited code compliance violations in Santa Paula's residential neighborhoods.

New construction or widening of a driveway approach — the point where a private driveway connects to a city street — requires an encroachment permit issued by the Santa Paula Public Works Department. This ensures that the connection meets city standards for sight distance, curb cut dimensions, and drainage so that stormwater is not directed onto the public street. Minimum residential driveway widths are generally 10 feet for a single-car drive and 18 to 20 feet for a two-car configuration. Driveways serving more than one unit or providing tandem parking must comply with additional width and maneuverability standards.

Santa Paula's older downtown and central residential areas — particularly near historic Main Street — have narrower lots and older driveway configurations that may predate current standards. These legal nonconforming driveways are generally not required to be brought into full compliance unless the property is substantially remodeled or the driveway is reconstructed. Residents who have questions about whether their specific driveway or surface meets code should contact the Community Development Department for a pre-inspection or guidance before making changes.