Detroit's Zoning Ordinance establishes maximum building heights that vary by zoning district. Residential districts typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2.5 stories, while downtown and commercial districts allow significantly greater heights.
Height limits in Detroit's zoning ordinance vary by district. R1 and R2 (single-family and two-family) residential zones limit buildings to 35 feet or 2.5 stories, whichever is less. Multi-family residential districts (R3-R6) allow greater heights, up to 70-100 feet depending on the district. Commercial districts (B1-B6) range from 35 feet to unlimited height in the downtown core. Industrial districts generally allow 35-60 feet. Height is measured from the average grade at the building perimeter to the highest point of the roof. Architectural features such as chimneys, antennas, mechanical equipment, and church steeples may exceed height limits with conditions. The Board of Zoning Appeals may grant height variances. The downtown SD1 and SD2 special districts have their own height regulations tied to development agreements.
Construction exceeding height limits without a variance results in stop-work orders. Structures may need to be reduced in height to comply. Fines for each day of non-compliance apply. Height verification is part of the building permit review and inspection process.
Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Wayne County.
See how other cities in Wayne County handle structure height limits.
See how Detroit's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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