Dearborn single-family R-1 lots typically require a 25-foot front setback, 6-foot side setbacks, and a 30-foot rear setback. Setbacks vary by zoning district.
Setback rules in Dearborn are set by the Zoning Ordinance and enforced by the Building and Safety Division. In the R-1 One-Family Residential district, a principal dwelling typically requires a minimum front yard of 25 feet from the front lot line, side yards of 6 feet each (with a total of 12 feet combined on interior lots), and a rear yard of 30 feet. R-2 and R-3 multifamily districts allow smaller setbacks for attached dwellings. Corner lots have two front setbacks, with the second front yard reduced per the zoning table. Accessory structures such as garages may be placed 3 feet from side and rear lot lines if they are 10 feet or less from the principal structure and meet area limits. Variances to reduce setbacks require a hearing before the Dearborn Zoning Board of Appeals. Always check your specific district and lot conditions by calling Zoning at (313) 943-2150 before construction.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Wayne County.
See how other cities in Wayne County handle setback rules.
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