Philadelphia Zoning Code Title 14 sets setbacks by district. RSA-5 (rowhouse) typically 0-foot side, 9-foot rear. RSD (detached) requires 5-foot side, 20-foot front.
Per Phila Zoning Code §14-701, setbacks vary by district. Rowhouse districts (RSA-1 through RSA-5) permit zero-lot-line construction on sides. Detached single family (RSD-1, RSD-3) require 5-foot side yards. Rear yard minimums typically 9 feet (RSA-5) or 20 feet (RSD-3). Variance via Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).
Construction violating setbacks: stop-work order + 500-2,000 dollars per day. Potential required demolition of noncompliant portion.
See how Philadelphia County's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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