How Ann Arbor Handles Building Setbacks & Zoning: A Practical Guide

Ann Arbor maintains 111 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with building setbacks & zoning. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Ann Arbor falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Structure Height Limits

Ann Arbor zoning code sets maximum building heights by district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2 to 3 stories.

Key details: Residential: 35 feet / 2.5 stories typical. Measured From: Average finished grade. Exceptions: Chimneys, antennas limited. Topic: Structure Height Limits.

Exceeding height limit: stop-work order. Required to reduce height or obtain variance. Fines $250 to $2,000.

Setback Rules

Ann Arbor zoning code requires minimum setback distances from property lines for all structures. Setbacks vary by zoning district and structure type.

Key details: Front: 20 to 25 feet typical. Side: 5 to 10 feet typical. Rear: 15 to 20 feet typical. Variance: Zoning board hearing.

Building in setback: stop-work order and required correction. Fines $100 to $1,000. May require structure removal at owner expense.

Lot Coverage Limits

Ann Arbor limits the percentage of a lot that can be covered by impervious surfaces and structures. Residential lots typically allow 40 to 60% coverage.

Key details: Residential Limit: 40 to 60% typical. Includes: Buildings, driveways, patios. Permeable Pavers: May get partial credit. Topic: Lot Coverage.

Exceeding lot coverage: correction required. May need to remove impervious surface. Fines $200 to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

Ann Arbor's building setbacks & zoning rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Ann Arbor is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Ann Arbor can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.