The Yakima Urban Area Zoning Ordinance caps how much of a lot may be covered by buildings and impervious surfaces. SR and R-1 districts allow 60% coverage, R-2 permits 80%, and R-3 allows up to 85%.
Maximum lot coverage under the UAZO (YMC 15.05.020(C), Table 5-1) is the share of net land area covered by structures and other impervious surfaces. Yakima's low-density SR and R-1 districts cap coverage at 60% to protect open character and leave room for septic tanks and drainfields. R-2 allows 80% and R-3 up to 85%, reserving space for landscaping and recreation. Commercial districts run higher. Coverage counts buildings, garages, driveways, patios, and paving. Exceeding the limit requires a variance, and stormwater standards apply to heavily paved sites. Rural parcels follow Yakima County Code Title 19.
Covering more than the district maximum requires correction, which can mean removing impervious surface. Fines apply, and building permits are withheld until the lot conforms.
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See how Yakima's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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