Building Setbacks & Zoning in Newton, MA (2026)
3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Newton, Massachusetts, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
Newton zoning sets front setbacks from 20-30 feet, side setbacks 7.5-15 feet, and rear setbacks 20-25 feet depending on zoning district. Single Residence 1 has the largest required setbacks.
Newton Setback Rules
Some RestrictionsStructure Height Limits
Newton caps residential building height at 36 feet or 2.5 stories in most single-residence districts. Multi-family and village centers allow up to 48 feet with design review.
Newton Height Limits
Heavy RestrictionsLot Coverage Limits
Newton limits building lot coverage to 20-35% and total impervious surface to 40-50% depending on zoning district. SR1 has the most restrictive coverage at 20% building footprint.
Newton Lot Coverage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Middlesex County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Newton city rules.
Building Setbacks & Zoning in Middlesex County →