Richardson, TX Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Article VI, Section 4 of Richardson's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance sets the yard setbacks for the R-1250-M Residential District. The front setback must be at least 30 feet deep, though unenclosed porches, fireplaces and other architectural appendages may project up to 5 feet into it, and corner or double-frontage lots must meet the setback on both streets. Side setbacks scale with how the lot was created or combined: a lot narrower than 80 feet needs only a 7-foot side setback, a lot from 80 up to 120 feet needs 10 feet, and a lot of 120 feet or more needs 15 feet, except a corner lot's side setback along the side street cannot be less than 20 feet.

Reconstructing a house on an existing platted lot can keep the previous dwelling's side setback, but never less than 7 feet. The rear setback must be at least 25 feet, though a detached garage, carport or other accessory building may sit as close as 3 feet from the side lot line and 3 feet from the rear lot line, dropping to 18 inches if the rear line runs along an alley. Minor projections, roof eaves, cornices, fireplaces and bay windows up to 10 feet wide, can intrude up to 2 feet into the side or rear setback, and air conditioning equipment, uncovered porches and patios need no rear or interior-side setback at all. Swimming pool equipment can sit as close as 3 feet from a side or rear lot line, 18 inches if adjacent to an alley.