New Home Construction in Los Altos, CA
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Rebuilding in Los Altos
Los Altos is one of the busiest rebuild markets in the area, with ranch homes on large lots replaced by new one- and two-story houses.
Los Altos design review covers exterior alterations, additions and new homes in R1 zones, using the Residential Design Guidelines and a Neighborhood Compatibility Worksheet. An on-site Notice of Development Proposal sign and mailed notice let neighbors comment. In R1-10, floor area is 35% of the lot up to 11,000 sq ft, plus 10% of the area beyond that; lot coverage is 35% for one-story homes up to 20 feet and 30% for two-story homes; height is 27 feet with an 11-foot, 25-degree daylight plane at the side lines. We confirm current setbacks for your lot.
Construction in Progress
Ask us about recent new-home and rebuild projects during your consultation.
New-Home Requirements
Fire sprinklers (Los Altos local amendment): all new homes, and additions over 50% of living area, over 750 sq ft, or exceeding fire flow, counted cumulatively over 3 years and including garages. No waivers.
- Protected-tree arborist report and tree protection during construction.
- Stormwater and grading review by Engineering.
- Gas or all-electric design, since the all-electric requirement was suspended in September 2024.
- Santa Clara County Fire, (408) 378-4010, for sprinkler plans.
1 N. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, CA 94022 · City Hall (650) 947-2700
Building (650) 947-2752 · Planning (650) 947-2750 · Engineering and stormwater (650) 947-2780
Permits run through eTRAKiT, and Planning applications are electronic only. All inspections are scheduled online in morning (8:30 to noon) or afternoon (12:30 to 3:30) windows. Construction hours: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, none on Sundays or holidays.
Explore More
Other Los Altos services: Bathrooms · Kitchens · Additions · Los Altos ADU builder · Los Altos overview
Same service nearby: Los Altos Hills · Palo Alto · Mountain View
See our custom home builder page.
Los Altos New Home Construction FAQ
Is design review required for a new Los Altos home?
Yes, with neighbor notice and an on-site sign.
How large can a new home be?
In R1-10, 35% of the lot up to 11,000 sq ft, plus 10% beyond that.
Do new homes need sprinklers?
Yes, all new homes.
When can crews work?
7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.