Height of Structure

(California Building Code Chapter 5) 

The height of a structure is the vertical distance from the average level of the highest and lowest point of the natural grade of that portion of the building site covered by the structure, to the topmost point of the structure, but excluding certain features, such as chimney, vents, and other mechanical appurtenances. (Reference Section 21.06.630, Title 21, Monterey County Code).

   Example
 Highest point of natural grade covered  100'
 Lowest point of natural grade covered
 90'
 Difference between the highest and lowest point
 10'
 10' divide by 2 = 5' + 90' (lowest point) = 95'  
 Average point of natural grade covered by the building  

 

Example of Height of Structure

Height of structure