East Baton Rouge Parish, LA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Single-family max
- 35 feet
- A4 multi-family max
- 45 feet
- Height bonus
- +1 ft per 1 ft extra setback
- Measured to
- Roof surface / pitch midpoint
- Exempt
- Steeples, flagpoles, water towers
Summary
UDC Chapter 11 caps structure height by zoning district. Single-family residential districts allow a maximum 35 feet, with a bonus of one extra foot of height for each foot a building is set back beyond its required yards.
A building may be increased in height one foot for each one foot that it is set back from all yard requirements.
Full Breakdown
Under UDC Section 11.1.3 and the district tables, single-family residential districts (RE/A, R, A1, A2, A2.7, etc.) cap buildings at 35 feet; the A4 multi-family district allows 45 feet, and commercial and downtown districts far more. Height is measured from the average finished ground level to the roof surface (or roof midpoint for pitched roofs). A building may be increased in height one foot for each one foot that it is set back from all yard requirements. Chimneys, church steeples, flagpoles, water towers, and similar appurtenances are totally exempt from height regulations. Central Business District and Regional/Employment Center buildings have separate, taller allowances.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the district height limit without a variance or bonus qualification is a zoning violation; permits are denied until plans conform.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can a house be in Baton Rouge?
Can I go higher than the limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in East Baton Rouge Parish
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