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Simpsonville, SC Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

R-E/R-Lo/R-Mid max
35 feet
R-Hi max
40 feet
Exempt features
Spires, chimneys, flagpoles
Roof character
Must match neighborhood
Code sections
Zoning Ordinance 2.2.4, 2.5.4

Summary

Most residential districts cap building height at 35 feet, while the R-Hi High Density district allows up to 40 feet. Spires, steeples, chimneys, flagpoles, and similar non-occupied appurtenances are generally exempt from the limit.

Maximum building height: 35 feet. These height limitations generally shall not apply to church spires, steeples, belfries, cupolas, domes, chimneys, smokestacks, fire or parapet walls, flagpoles, water towers, communication towers, transmission lines, or other minor common building appurtenances provided such appurtenances are proportional to the building and are not intended for human occupancy.

Full Breakdown

Under Simpsonville's Zoning Ordinance, the maximum building height is 35 feet in the R-E, R-Lo, and R-Mid residential districts (Sections 2.2.4, 2.3.4, 2.4.4) and 40 feet in the R-Hi, Residential. High Density district (Section 2.5.4). New roofs must reflect the traditional character of the neighborhood as determined by the Planning Director. Where existing structures already exceed the limit, height may be increased to the average of adjoining principal buildings. Church spires, steeples, cupolas, domes, chimneys, smokestacks, parapet walls, flagpoles, and similar appurtenances not intended for human occupancy are exempt.

Violations & Fines

Exceeding the district height limit is a zoning violation that can block permit approval and certificate of occupancy until the structure is brought into compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall can a house be in Simpsonville?
Up to 35 feet in the R-E, R-Lo, and R-Mid districts, and up to 40 feet in the R-Hi High Density district under the Zoning Ordinance.
Do chimneys count toward the height limit?
No. Chimneys, spires, steeples, flagpoles, and similar appurtenances not intended for human occupancy are exempt from the maximum building height.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Simpsonville

All Simpsonville rules

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