Building Setbacks & Zoning in Washington, DC (2026)
3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Washington, District of Columbia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
DC's zoning code (11 DCMR) establishes minimum setback requirements that vary by zone district. Residential zones typically require front yards of 12-20 feet, side yards of 5-8 feet, and rear yards of 20-25 feet. The Board of Zoning Adjustment may grant variances.
Washington DC Building Setback Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsStructure Height Limits
DC has the nation's most famous building height restriction under the federal Height of Buildings Act of 1910 (codified at 40 USC Section 3102). No building may exceed the width of the adjacent street plus 20 feet, with an absolute maximum of 130 feet for commercial buildings and 90 feet for residential.
Washington DC Building Height Limits
Heavy RestrictionsLot Coverage Limits
DC's zoning code (11 DCMR) limits lot coverage and floor area ratio (FAR) by zone district. Low-density residential zones allow 40-60% lot coverage, while higher-density and commercial zones allow more. Green area (pervious surface) requirements also apply.
Washington DC Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for District of Columbia county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Washington city rules.
Building Setbacks & Zoning in District of Columbia →