Shelby County, TN Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Single-family max
- 40 feet
- Accessory structure
- Not over principal
- Over 20 ft accessory
- 20-foot side setback
- Height exceptions
- Up to 20 feet more
- Height section
- UDC 3.6.1 / 3.2.6
Summary
The Unified Development Code caps single-family building height at 40 feet in most residential districts of unincorporated Shelby County, and an accessory structure may not exceed the height of the principal structure it serves.
In Relation to the Principal Structure... the height of an accessory structure shall not exceed the height of the principal structure. Any portion of an accessory structure over 20 feet in height shall be located at least 20 feet from all side and rear property lines that do not abut an alley.
Full Breakdown
The Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code sets maximum building heights by zoning district. Under UDC Section 3.6.1, the single-family residential districts (RE, R-15, R-10, R-8, R-6, R-3) and the Conservation Agriculture (CA) district each allow a maximum building height of 40 feet. Section 3.2.6 exempts spires, cupolas, water tanks, and mechanical roof appurtenances from the district height limit, and allows chimneys, elevator penthouses, flagpoles, parapet walls, solar panels, and mechanical equipment to exceed it by up to 20 feet. For accessory structures, Sub-Section 2.7.2B provides that height shall not exceed the principal structure, and any portion over 20 feet must be at least 20 feet from all side and rear property lines that do not abut an alley.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the district height limit without a special exception (where allowed) or building an over-tall accessory structure violates the UDC. Enforcement by the Division of Planning and Development can include correction orders, permit denial, and reducing the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can a house be in unincorporated Shelby County?
How tall can a detached garage or shed be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee building setbacks & zoning overview
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