Lima, OH Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Front setback
- 20% depth, min 30 ft
- Rear yard
- ≥15% of lot depth
- Rear max required
- 25 feet
- Accessory bldg
- 5 ft from side/rear lines
- Sections
- Lima C.O. 1248.08, .06, .11
Summary
In Lima's residential districts the front building line sits back from the street a distance equal to twenty percent of lot depth, but not less than thirty feet, and rear yards must be at least fifteen percent of lot depth, under Codified Ordinances 1248.08 and 1248.06.
On property fronting on any street, a line which is back of the street line a distance equal to twenty percent of the average or normal depth of the lot, provided such distance is not less than thirty feet, shall be the building line for such street frontage.
Full Breakdown
Lima sets residential setbacks in Chapter 1248. Section 1248.08 establishes the front building line at twenty percent of the average or normal lot depth, provided that distance is not less than thirty feet; where 25% of a block is already built, the average existing setback controls instead. Section 1248.06 requires a rear yard of not less than fifteen percent of lot depth (no more than twenty-five feet required in any case, and at least half the building height for buildings over 2.5 stories). Accessory buildings under 240 square feet must sit in the rear yard at least five feet from side and rear lot lines (Section 1248.11).
Violations & Fines
Building without meeting setback lines violates the Zoning Code; permits are withheld and violations are enforced under Chapter 1242, with variances available from the Board of Adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back must a house sit from the street in Lima?
How deep must my rear yard be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
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