Madison, AL Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- R-1/R-1A/R-2 max
- 35 feet
- Accessory building max
- 15 feet
- Rooftop appurtenances
- Up to 50 feet
- FAA/airport limits
- May be stricter
- Code section
- Zoning Ord. 5-4 & 5-7-5
Summary
In Madison's single-family districts (R-1, R-1A, R-2), the maximum building height is 35 feet. Detached accessory buildings are capped at 15 feet. Spires, chimneys, towers and similar rooftop features may exceed the limit up to 50 feet.
The height limitations contained in this Ordinance do not apply to spires, belfries, cupolas, antennas, communication transmission towers, water towers, chimneys, elevator shaft enclosures, solar energy collectors and equipment... The heights of these structures or appurtenances shall not exceed 50 feet or any height limitations prescribed by the Federal Aviation Agency or airport zoning regulations.
Full Breakdown
The City of Madison Zoning Ordinance sets a 35-foot maximum building height in the R-1 Single-Family Estate, R-1A Suburban, and R-2 Neighborhood districts. Detached accessory buildings over eight feet or 200 square feet have a 15-foot maximum height (Section 5-7-2). Section 5-7-5 exempts spires, belfries, cupolas, antennas, communication towers, water towers, chimneys, elevator enclosures, and solar equipment from the height limits, but those appurtenances may not exceed 50 feet or any FAA/airport zoning limit. Building height is measured in stories and feet per Section 4-11-3.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the district height limit without a variance is a zoning violation; the City can deny zoning compliance and require the structure to be lowered or altered to conform.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can a house be in Madison, AL?
Do chimneys and antennas count toward the height limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
Compare Madison to another location·View the Alabama building setbacks & zoning overview
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Structure Height Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle structure height limits.