Setback Requirements — Philadelphia, PA
Governed by 14-601(2)(d). Last verified June 2, 2026.
all residential
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory Structure Setback | 3 ft | From side and rear lot lines Exception: Detached garages may have different setbacks | 14-702(1) |
| Corner Lot Setback | Front setback applies to both street frontages; may use reduced setback for one frontage if specified in district | — | 14-701(2) |
RM-1
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Setback | 15 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(d) |
| Rear Yard Setback | 20 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(d) |
| Side Yard Setback | 5 ft | Minimum each side | 14-601(2)(d) |
RSA-1
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Setback | 15 ft | Minimum; if prevailing setback on block exists, use that; otherwise average of two nearest buildings | 14-601(2)(a) and 14-701(1) |
| Rear Yard Setback | 20 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(a) |
| Side Yard Setback | 0 ft for attached units; 5 ft for end units on street side | Exception: Corner lots: additional rules apply | 14-601(2)(a) |
RSD-1
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Setback | 20 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(b) |
| Rear Yard Setback | 25 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(b) |
| Side Yard Setback | 8 ft | Minimum each side | 14-601(2)(b) |
RSD-2
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Setback | 20 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(c) |
| Rear Yard Setback | 25 ft | Minimum | 14-601(2)(c) |
| Side Yard Setback | 5 ft | Minimum each side | 14-601(2)(c) |
Official Code Language (14 sections)
Pursuant to Sections 14-601(2) and 14-701(1) of the Philadelphia Code, the minimum front yard setback for residential districts is as follows: RSA-1 and RM-1: 15 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 20 feet.
Pursuant to Section 14-601(2), rear yard setbacks: RSA-1 and RM-1: 20 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 25 feet.
Per Section 14-601(2), side yard setbacks in residential districts: RSA-1: 0 feet for attached units, 5 feet for end units on street side; RSD-1: 8 feet; RSD-2: 5 feet; RM-1: 5 feet.
Pursuant to Sections 14-601(2) and 14-701(1) of the Philadelphia Code, the minimum front yard setback for residential districts is as follows: RSA-1 and RM-1: 15 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 20 feet.
Pursuant to Section 14-601(2), rear yard setbacks: RSA-1 and RM-1: 20 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 25 feet.
Per Section 14-601(2), side yard setbacks in residential districts: RSA-1: 0 feet for attached units, 5 feet for end units on street side; RSD-1: 8 feet; RSD-2: 5 feet; RM-1: 5 feet.
Pursuant to Sections 14-601(2) and 14-701(1) of the Philadelphia Code, the minimum front yard setback for residential districts is as follows: RSA-1 and RM-1: 15 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 20 feet.
Pursuant to Section 14-601(2), rear yard setbacks: RSA-1 and RM-1: 20 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 25 feet.
Per Section 14-601(2), side yard setbacks in residential districts: RSA-1: 0 feet for attached units, 5 feet for end units on street side; RSD-1: 8 feet; RSD-2: 5 feet; RM-1: 5 feet.
Pursuant to Sections 14-601(2) and 14-701(1) of the Philadelphia Code, the minimum front yard setback for residential districts is as follows: RSA-1 and RM-1: 15 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 20 feet.
Pursuant to Section 14-601(2), rear yard setbacks: RSA-1 and RM-1: 20 feet; RSD-1 and RSD-2: 25 feet.
Per Section 14-601(2), side yard setbacks in residential districts: RSA-1: 0 feet for attached units, 5 feet for end units on street side; RSD-1: 8 feet; RSD-2: 5 feet; RM-1: 5 feet.
Under Section 14-702(1), accessory structures in all residential districts must be set back at least 3 feet from lot lines.
Per Section 14-701(2), on a corner lot, the front yard setback applies to both street frontages, but a reduced setback may be permitted for one frontage if specified in the district regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the front yard setback for a house in RSA-1 zone?
- In RSA-1, the minimum front yard setback is 15 feet. - This is based on Section 14-601(2)(a) and 14-701(1).
How far from the side lot line can I build a shed in an RSD-1 zone?
- For accessory structures like sheds, the setback is 3 feet from any lot line per Section 14-702(1). - This applies to all residential zones, including RSD-1. - The main building's side setback in RSD-1 is 8 feet, but the shed can be closer as an accessory.
I have a corner lot in RSA-1. What setbacks apply?
- For a corner lot, you need a front setback on both streets: 15 feet each for RSA-1. - Section 14-701(2) allows a possible reduced setback on one frontage if your specific district permits, but the standard is both at 15 feet. - Side setbacks: for an end unit on the side street, you need 5 feet; for attached side, 0 feet.
What is the rear yard setback for a house in RSD-2?
- In RSD-2, the rear yard setback is 25 feet. - This is from Section 14-601(2)(c). - The front setback is 20 feet in RSD-2 as well.
Sources
Data last verified: June 2, 2026
See how this works nationally: Setback Requirements Explained
This is an informational summary, not legal advice. Verify current requirements with Philadelphia Planning Department .
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