Howard County, MD Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- R-20 principal height
- 34 feet
- R-20 accessory height
- 15 feet
- R-20 minimum lot size
- 20,000 sq. ft.
- R-20 minimum lot width
- 60 feet
- Section
- Zoning Reg. 108.0.D.1
Summary
In the R-20 residential district, a principal structure (house) may be up to 34 feet tall and an accessory structure up to 15 feet. Each Howard County zoning district sets its own maximum heights.
The following maximum height limitations shall apply: a. Principal structure .....34 feet b. Accessory structure .....15 feet
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 91 | Zoning: Supplement 25).
Full Breakdown
Howard County's Zoning Regulations cap building height by district. In the R-20 (Residential: Single) District, the maximum height limitations are 34 feet for a principal structure and 15 feet for an accessory structure. The minimum lot size is 20,000 square feet and minimum lot width is 60 feet at the building restriction line. Denser residential districts such as R-12 and R-SC, and multifamily districts, have their own height and lot tables; apartments can reach 40 feet in some districts. Fences and retaining walls are governed separately under Section 128.0.A.9.
Violations & Fines
Structures exceeding the district height cap violate the Zoning Regulations; DILP withholds permits or requires modification, and a height variance requires Hearing Examiner approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can a house be in R-20?
Does every district use the same height limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Howard County
Compare Howard County to another location·View the Maryland building setbacks & zoning overview
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