Lot Coverage Limits: Cary vs Raleigh
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC?
Cary and Raleigh have similar restriction levels.
Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County UDO §5-21 caps impervious surface coverage in residential districts: R-30 (¾-acre) typically 30% max, R-40 (1-acre) 25% max, R-80 (2-acre) 15% max. Falls Lake and Neuse buffers further restrict. Driveways, patios, and roofs all count.
View full Cary rules →Raleigh, NC
Wake County
Raleigh's UDO limits the percentage of a lot that may be covered by impervious surfaces and structures. Lot coverage limits vary by zoning district and are specified in the Article 3 dimensional tables. Residential zones typically allow 25-50% lot coverage depending on density. Impervious surface limits also apply for stormwater management purposes. Projects that exceed impervious surface thresholds may trigger additional stormwater requirements.
View full Raleigh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cary | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| R-30 max | 30% | - |
| R-40 max | 25% | - |
| R-80 max | 15% | - |
| Falls Lake | Stricter | - |
| Pervious pavers | Reduced calc | - |
| Code Reference | - | UDO Article 3 — Dimensional Standards |
| Residential Coverage | - | Typically 25-50% depending on district |
| Impervious Surface | - | Separate limits for stormwater compliance |
| Calculation | - | All structures and impervious surfaces on the lot |
| Stormwater Trigger | - | Exceeding thresholds adds stormwater requirements |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cary FAQ
Does my deck count?
If wood with gaps over an open footing: usually not. Concrete patios and sealed surfaces always count.
What if I'm at the cap?
You can use pervious materials (pavers, gravel) or install a Stormwater Control Measure (rain garden, dry well) to add more impervious area.
How do I check my lot's max?
Look up your parcel on Wake County GIS — the zoning district tells you the percentage. Multiply by lot area for total square feet allowed.
Raleigh FAQ
How much of my lot can I build on in Raleigh?
Lot coverage limits depend on your zoning district. Residential zones typically allow 25-50% coverage. Both building footprint and other impervious surfaces count toward the limit.
Does my driveway count toward lot coverage?
Yes. Driveways, patios, sidewalks, and other impervious surfaces count toward lot coverage and impervious surface calculations under the UDO.
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