Vancouver's low-density residential zones (R-2 through R-9) set maximum lot coverage and minimum setbacks in VMC 20.410.050. Standard single-family coverage is 40%; infill standards under VMC 20.920 allow increases up to 60% for qualifying projects.
VMC 20.410.050 (Table 20.410.050-1) establishes development standards for lower-density residential zones including R-2, R-4, R-6, and R-9. Maximum lot coverage for standard single-family development is approximately 40%. Building height is limited to 35 feet at the setback, increasing 1 foot per additional foot of setback to a maximum of 75 feet. Side and rear setbacks escalate for additional building height (add 2 feet per 10 feet of height above 25 feet, up to 10 feet per side/rear). Infill development under VMC 20.920.050 Tier 1 allows lot coverage to be increased 30% above the zone standard; Tier 2 allows up to 60% building coverage for certain single-family attached projects. ADUs must not exceed lot coverage or encroach into required
Structures exceeding lot coverage or encroaching into setbacks without approval violate VMC Title 20; enforcement includes stop-work orders, civil penalties, and required removal or modification of non-compliant construction.
Vancouver, WA
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Vancouver, WA
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Vancouver, WA
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Vancouver, WA
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Vancouver, WA
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Vancouver, WA
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See how Vancouver's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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