Wichita establishes building setback requirements through the Unified Zoning Code (Title 28). Setback distances vary by zoning district and are measured from property lines to the nearest point of the building structure.
Setback requirements vary by zoning district. In single-family residential (SF-5) districts, front setbacks are typically 25 feet, side setbacks are 5 feet minimum (15 feet on corner lots for the street side), and rear setbacks are 25 feet. Higher-density residential and commercial districts have different requirements. The Board of Zoning Appeals may grant variances for setback encroachments when hardship conditions are met. Certain features such as eaves, uncovered porches, and bay windows may encroach into setbacks by a limited amount. Accessory structures have separate setback rules.
Building within required setbacks without a variance results in a stop-work order and may require relocation or demolition of the encroaching structure. Retroactive variances are difficult to obtain. Permit applications are checked for setback compliance during plan review.
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See how Wichita's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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