Dallas, TX Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

The Dallas Development Code sets structure height as one of the core yard, lot, and space regulations for each single family zoning district under Sec. 112. 5(A), Subsection (a)(4)(E) states flatly: "Height. " The same 30-foot cap applies to the R-16(A), R-13(A), R-10(A), and R-5(A) districts. Only the two largest-lot estate districts get more room: R-1ac(A) and R-1/2ac(A), Dallas's one-acre and half-acre single family districts, are capped at 36 feet under the identical Subsection (E) language in their respective district sections. None of the single family districts impose a maximum number of stories under Subsection (H); the linear foot limit is the only ceiling, so a builder can stack as many stories as fit under the 30 or 36-foot envelope.

Height is measured as part of the same subsection block that sets front, side, and rear yards, lot coverage, and lot size for each district, meaning a building permit reviewer checks all of these together before approving construction plans. 5(A) the front yard minimum is 25 feet and side/rear yard for single family structures is 5 feet, while lot coverage tops out at 45 percent for residential structures. These district-specific tables are administered by Dallas Building Inspection through the plan review and permitting process, and any proposal exceeding the stated height must seek relief through the Board of Adjustment rather than an administrative variance. ) before assuming which of the two height figures, 30 or 36 feet, applies to their lot.