Fort Worth's Zoning Ordinance limits building height based on zoning district. Single-family residential districts generally allow a maximum height of 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Multifamily and commercial districts allow taller structures depending on the specific district classification. The Zoning Ordinance Chapter 5 details height limits for each district. Airport overlay zones impose additional height restrictions near NAS JRB Fort Worth, Meacham International Airport, and Spinks Airport to protect flight paths.
Fort Worth 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.
Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Fort Worth, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tarrant County.
See how other cities in Tarrant County handle structure height limits.
See how Fort Worth's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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