Austin Land Development Code Title 25, Chapter 25-2 establishes setback requirements that vary by zoning district. In SF-2 (single-family small lot) zones, the front setback is 25 feet, side setbacks are 5 feet (15 feet on street side of corner lots), and rear setback is 10 feet. SF-3 (single-family standard lot) requires 25-foot front, 5-foot side, and 10-foot rear setbacks. Commercial and multifamily zones have different requirements. The city processes variance requests through the Board of Adjustment.
Austin's zoning ordinance establishes minimum building setbacks for all structures in city limits. Typical residential setbacks are: front yard 25-35 feet from the right-of-way, side yard 5-10 feet from the property line, and rear yard 25-35 feet. Corner lots have two front setbacks. Setbacks vary by zoning district (R-1, R-2, R-3, etc.) and may be adjusted for lot size, shape, and topography. Accessory structures (sheds, detached garages) may have reduced setbacks of 3-5 feet in rear yards. Variances for reduced setbacks require Board of Zoning Appeals approval with demonstrated hardship. Encroachments into setbacks (eaves, stairs, decks) may be limited to 2-3 feet.
Construction within required setbacks without a variance results in stop-work orders. Structures may be required to be moved or demolished. Variance applications cost $200–$500 with no guarantee of approval.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Travis County.
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