Suffolk, VA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- RLM Front/Side/Rear
- 30 / 15 / 30 ft
- RM Front/Side/Rear
- 25 / 10 / 25 ft
- RL Front
- 35 ft
- Code Section
- UDO Table 407-1
- Relief
- Variance via BZA
Summary
Suffolk sets minimum yard setbacks by zoning district in UDO Table 407-1. In RLM the minimum front setback is 30 feet, side 15 feet, and rear 30 feet; RM requires 25 feet front, 10 side, and 25 rear.
No application for development approval shall be approved unless the minimum lot area, density, intensity, floor area ratio, impervious surface ratio and dimensional requirements conform to the minimum and maximum requirements as set forth in Table 407-1 below.
Full Breakdown
The Suffolk Unified Development Ordinance § 31-407 and Table 407-1 fix minimum setbacks for every zoning district. Residential Low Density (RL) requires a 35-foot front, 15-foot side, and 30-foot rear yard; Residential Low-Medium (RLM) requires 30, 15, and 30 feet; Residential Medium (RM) requires 25, 10, and 25 feet; and higher-density RC and RU districts drop to 20-foot front and 5-foot side yards. Rural Estate and Rural Residential lots need 45-foot front yards. No structure may be approved unless it meets the minimum dimensional standards in Table 407-1.
Violations & Fines
Building inside a required setback violates the UDO and blocks permit or certificate-of-occupancy approval. Suffolk Zoning enforcement can require removal or a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals, and unpermitted work brings misdemeanor penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far from the property line can I build in Suffolk?
Can I get an exception to a setback?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Suffolk
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