Durham's UDO sets maximum building heights by zoning district. Single-family residential districts generally limit structures to 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Multi-family and commercial districts allow greater heights depending on the zoning classification. Downtown and mixed-use districts may permit buildings up to 120 feet or more. Height bonuses may be available for certain developments meeting specific criteria.
Durham regulates maximum building and structure heights through the zoning code. Typical residential zones allow 35 feet or 2.5 stories, whichever is less. Height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point of the roof. Chimneys, antennas, and mechanical equipment may be exempt up to a limited additional height. Commercial and mixed-use zones may allow greater heights. Planned unit developments may negotiate alternative height standards. Height variances require zoning board review.
Exceeding height limit: stop-work order. Required to reduce height or obtain variance. Fines $250 to $2,000.
Durham, NC
Durham caps daytime sound at 60 dBA (8 AM to 11 PM) and nighttime sound at 50 dBA (11 PM to 8 AM) under Ch. 26, Sec. 26-23. Measured at property line using A...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO Section 9.9 limits residential fences to 4 feet in front yards and 8 feet in side and rear yards. Corner lots face additional restrictions along s...
Durham, NC
Durham does not require a permit for most residential fences or walls. Permits are required for retaining walls, pool barriers on single-family parcels, prop...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO Section 9.9 sets general fence standards including setbacks, orientation, and vision-clearance rules. Fences between structures and streets within...
Durham, NC
Durham requires a building permit for all retaining walls. Retaining walls over 4 feet at street frontage must be terraced in Design Districts. Walls over 8 ...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO 9.9 prohibits razor wire, concertina wire, and barbed wire in residential districts. Uncoated chain link is banned in CI and Design Districts.
See how Durham's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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