Plymouth County, MA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Typical cap
- 35 ft / 2.5 stories
- Authority
- Town bylaw, MGL c.40A
- County power
- None over height
- Near airports
- FAA limits apply
Summary
Plymouth County sets no height limit. Building height is capped by each town's zoning bylaw under the Zoning Act, MGL c.40A. Most residential districts across Brockton, Plymouth, and the South Shore limit homes to about 35 feet or 2.5 stories.
provided, however, that such land or structures may be subject to reasonable regulations concerning the bulk and height of structures and determining yard sizes, lot area, setbacks, open space, parking and building coverage requirements.
Full Breakdown
No county rule caps building height in Plymouth County; Massachusetts counties have no zoning authority. Height limits come from the town zoning bylaw, which the Zoning Act, MGL c.40A, authorizes to set reasonable regulations concerning the height of structures. A common residential cap across the county is 35 feet or 2.5 stories, measured to the mean roof line, though commercial and industrial districts allow more. Coastal towns such as Hull, Scituate, and Plymouth may measure height from base flood elevation in flood zones, effectively allowing added height for piling-elevated homes. Exceeding the district limit requires a variance from the town Zoning Board of Appeals. Near airports like Plymouth Municipal, FAA notice rules add a separate federal limit.
Violations & Fines
The town building department enforces height limits and issues stop-work orders for over-height construction. Legalizing it requires a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals under MGL c.40A §10, not action by the county.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the building height limit in Plymouth County?
Can I build taller than my town allows?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Plymouth County
Compare Plymouth County to another location·View the Massachusetts building setbacks & zoning overview
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