Montgomery County zoning regulations establish minimum setbacks for residential structures based on zone classification. The R-200 zone, common in suburban areas like Bethesda and Potomac, requires 40-foot front setbacks and 12-foot side setbacks. Setbacks vary significantly by zone.
Montgomery County setback requirements are governed by the county zoning ordinance under Chapter 59 of the Montgomery County Code. Setbacks vary by zoning classification. In the R-200 zone (one-family residential on 20,000 sq ft lots), the minimum front setback is 40 feet, side setbacks are 12 feet each, and the rear setback is 20 feet. The R-90 zone (9,000 sq ft lots, common in Silver Spring and Wheaton) requires 25-foot front, 8-foot side, and 20-foot rear setbacks. Townhouse and multi-family zones have different standards. Corner lots have two front setbacks. Accessory structures like sheds and detached garages have reduced setback requirements, typically 5 feet from rear and side property lines. The Department of Permitting Services (DPS) enforces setback rules and reviews building permit applications for compliance. Variances can be requested from the Board of Appeals.
Building within required setbacks without a variance is a code violation. The Department of Permitting Services can issue stop-work orders and require removal of noncompliant structures. Fines apply for unpermitted construction.
Montgomery County, MD
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