Virginia Beach establishes building setback requirements through the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. Setbacks vary by zoning district and are specified in the district-specific regulations. Residential zones have standard front, side, and rear setback requirements.
In R-5 through R-20 residential districts, front setbacks range from 20-30 feet depending on the district. Side setbacks are typically 5-10 feet. Rear setbacks range from 20-25 feet. Corner lots have two front setbacks. Setback variances require Board of Zoning Appeals approval. Covered porches may encroach into front setbacks by limited amounts. Accessory structures have separate setback rules. The CBPA 100-foot buffer acts as a de facto setback from waterways.
Construction within required setbacks may result in stop-work orders and required removal. Building permits are checked for setback compliance before issuance.
Virginia Beach, VA
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See how Virginia Beach's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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