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New Orleans, LA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Lot Coverage Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Control method
Open space + impervious limits
HU-RD2 front impervious
40% maximum
Rear-yard accessories
40% of rear yard max
Open space
Planted or permeable hardscape
Basis
CZO Art. 11 & Sec. 21.6.A

Summary

The CZO controls buildout through required open space and impervious-surface limits rather than a single lot-coverage cap. In HU-RD2, front-yard impervious surface is capped at 40%, and detached accessory structures may cover no more than 40% of the required rear yard.

The combined square footage of all detached accessory structures located in the required rear yard is limited to no more than forty percent (40%) of the required rear yard area.

View official code

Full Breakdown

New Orleans regulates how much of a lot may be built or paved through required on-site open space and impervious-surface limits in each district's bulk table, plus accessory-structure caps. In the HU-RD2 district (Table 11-2A), maximum front-yard impervious surface is 40%, with front yards governed by a build-to line and required on-site open space per Sec. 11.3.A.4. Under Sec. 21.6.A, the combined footprint of all detached accessory structures in the required rear yard may not exceed 40% of that rear-yard area. Required permeable open space must be planted or use permeable hardscape; parking, driveways, and required landscaping do not count toward it.

Violations & Fines

Exceeding impervious-surface or open-space limits is a CZO violation reviewed by the Department of Safety and Permits; relief requires a variance, and non-compliant paving or structures may be ordered removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a maximum lot coverage in New Orleans?
The CZO uses required open space and impervious-surface limits instead of one flat coverage number. In HU-RD2, front-yard impervious surface is capped at 40% and each district sets its own open-space rules.
How much of my rear yard can accessory buildings cover?
Under CZO Sec. 21.6.A, all detached accessory structures in the required rear yard combined may cover no more than 40% of that rear-yard area.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in New Orleans

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsSetback RulesSome RestrictionsStructure Height LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSignificant Restrictions

All New Orleans rules

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