Building Setbacks & Zoning in Boston, MA (2026)
3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Boston, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
Boston's Zoning Code establishes setback requirements that vary by zoning district. Residential districts typically require front yard setbacks of 15-25 feet and side yard setbacks of 5-10 feet. The BPDA and Zoning Board of Appeal review projects requiring variances from setback requirements.
Boston Building Setback Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsStructure Height Limits
Boston's Zoning Code establishes maximum building heights by zoning district, ranging from 35 feet in low-density residential areas to no height limit in parts of the Financial District. The BPDA reviews large projects and the ZBA handles height variances. FAA height restrictions also apply near Logan Airport.
Boston Building Height Limit Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsLot Coverage Limits
Boston's Zoning Code limits the percentage of a lot that can be covered by buildings and impervious surfaces. Residential zones typically allow 40-60% maximum lot coverage. Open space requirements ensure a portion of each lot remains permeable. The BPDA and ZBA review projects that exceed lot coverage limits.
Boston Lot Coverage Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Suffolk County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Boston city rules.
Building Setbacks & Zoning in Suffolk County →