New Orleans, LA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Set by
- CZO district bulk tables
- HU-RD2 side yard
- 3 feet (SF/2F/3-4 unit)
- HU-RD2 rear yard
- 20% depth or 15 ft, lesser
- Front yard
- Per build-to line rule
- Variances
- Board of Zoning Adjustments
Summary
Required yards (setbacks) are set per zoning district in the CZO. In a Historic Urban Neighborhood two-family district (HU-RD2), the interior side yard for single/two-family homes is 3 feet and the rear yard is 20% of lot depth or 15 feet, whichever is less.
Interior Side Yard — SF, 2F & MF 3-4 Unit: 3'. Rear Yard — 20% of lot depth or 15', whichever is less.
Full Breakdown
New Orleans sets setbacks (required yards) district-by-district in the CZO's bulk and yard tables (Articles 8-17). For the common Historic Urban Neighborhood Two-Family district (HU-RD2), Table 11-2A requires: interior side yards of 3 feet for single-family, two-family, and 3-4 unit multifamily (10 feet for 5+ unit); a rear yard of 20% of lot depth or 15 feet, whichever is less; and a front yard governed by the district build-to-line rule (Sec. 11.3.A.2). Corner side yards for single- and two-family follow Sec. 11.3.A.3. Because setbacks vary by district and by historic overlay, owners should confirm the exact district before building.
Violations & Fines
Encroaching into a required yard without a variance from the Board of Zoning Adjustments is a CZO violation; the structure may be denied a permit or ordered removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the setback for a house in New Orleans?
How do I get relief from a setback requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New Orleans
Compare New Orleans to another location·View the Louisiana building setbacks & zoning overview
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