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New construction · Hayward

Can I tear down and rebuild my house in Hayward?

Tear-down and rebuild is allowed in Hayward on most legally conforming parcels, but the path depends on the parcel's zoning, lot conformance, and any historic / hillside / coastal overlays. Flatland buildable envelope is set by RS coverage, setbacks, and a 30-foot height limit; HPD parcels add slope-band density caps and a 10-foot maximum vertical step.

What changes the answer in Hayward.

Hayward uses Single-Family Residential (RS) districts with sub-district minimum lot sizes; Hillside Residential (RH) and Hillside Planned Development (HPD) overlays apply across the eastern hills. Most R-1 SFRs are ministerial; HPD and hillside parcels above ridge-line thresholds require Site Plan Review with the Planning Commission.

  • Flatland buildable envelope is set by RS coverage, setbacks, and a 30-foot height limit; HPD parcels add slope-band density caps and a 10-foot maximum vertical step.
  • Most R-1 SFRs are ministerial; HPD and hillside parcels above ridge-line thresholds require Site Plan Review with the Planning Commission.
  • Hillside Residential (RH) and Hillside Planned Development (HPD) overlays govern slope-band density, retaining-wall heights, ridgeline protection, and grading limits.
  • Eastern hill parcels are in CAL FIRE Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zone; Chapter 7A applies on mapped lots.

Source-backed note

Demolition + new construction are reviewed by City of Hayward Development Services Department — Building Division alongside any required planning / coastal / hillside review.

Local authority: City of Hayward Development Services Department — Building Division

Get a Hayward-specific answer for your parcel.

Send us the address and we'll respond with a feasibility note that cites City of Hayward Development Services Department — Building Division and the parcel's actual constraints — not a generic checklist.

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