Building Setbacks & Zoning in Bristol County, MA (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Bristol County, Massachusetts.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Bristol County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Setback Rules

Setback requirements in Bristol County are set by local zoning under MGL c. 40A. Fall River, New Bedford, and Taunton each have residential districts with distinct front, side, and rear minimums.

building-setbacks/setback-rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Structure Height Limits

Height limits in Bristol County residential zones typically cap at 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Fall River, New Bedford, and Taunton downtowns allow greater heights. 780 CMR controls construction.

building-setbacks/structure-height-limits

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Lot Coverage Limits

Lot coverage ratios in Bristol County zoning districts typically cap impervious coverage at 40 to 60%. MA Stormwater Standards add post-construction treatment for larger disturbances.

building-setbacks/lot-coverage

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Bristol County ordinances

See every category we cover for Bristol County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Bristol County Ordinance Hub →