New York, NY Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

NYC's building setback requirements are primarily governed by the Zoning Resolution, which divides the city into residential (R), commercial (C), and manufacturing (M) districts with specific dimensional requirements. In low-density residential districts (R1-R5), front yards typically range from 10-20 feet (contextual districts use the prevailing front yard setback of existing buildings). Rear yards are generally 30 feet in residential districts (ZR §23-47). Side yards vary: R1 and R2 districts require two side yards totaling at least 13 feet, while R3-R5 require at least one side yard of 2-8 feet for detached or semi-detached homes. In medium and high-density districts (R6-R10), setbacks are often controlled by sky exposure plane or tower regulations rather than simple yard requirements. Commercial districts mapped with residential equivalents follow corresponding residential setback rules. The Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) can grant variances for setback requirements upon showing of hardship. DOB reviews all building permit applications for zoning compliance including setbacks.