Building setbacks in Winter Haven are set by Chapter 21 ULDC Article II Division 2 (Zoning Districts), with specific minimums in Table 21-32(C) for commercial/industrial/institutional districts and Sec. 21-42 to 21-51 for individual residential zoning districts. Typical residential setbacks: 25 ft front, 10 ft rear, 5-7.5 ft side.
Winter Haven's commercial/industrial setback standards from Table 21-32(C) (per Ord. O-15-18): downtown C-1 has reduced or zero setbacks; general commercial requires 25 ft front, 10 ft rear, 5 ft side, 20 ft corner side; institutional 25 ft front, 10 ft rear; industrial 25/10/5; conservation/open space 25 ft front, 35 ft rear, 15 ft side. Residential districts (R-1, R-2, etc.) typically require 25 ft front, 10 ft rear, 5-7.5 ft side - check Sec. 21-42 to 21-51 for the specific district. Corner lots have a corner-side setback that is typically wider than interior side. Setbacks measure from the property line, not the curb. Encroachments (decks, eaves) into setbacks are limited to 2-3 feet under FBC.
Building inside the setback is a Ch. 21 violation - the city may require removal of the encroaching portion. Plans review at the Building Division catches most setback issues before construction. Variance requires Planning Commission hearing.
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Winter Haven, FL
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