Philadelphia Code § 14-701 Dimensional Standards.
§ 14-701. Dimensional Standards.
(1) General Provisions.
(a) Applicability.
All primary and accessory structures must comply with the dimensional standards in this (§ 14-701). These dimensional standards may be further limited or modified by other applicable sections of this Zoning Code. General rules for measurement are in § 14-202 (Rules of Measurement).
(b) Dimensional Tables.
Basic dimensional standards for Residential, Commercial, and Industrial districts are listed in Tables 14-701-1 through 14-701-4. Dimensional standards for special purpose districts are included in § 14-404 (SP-INS, Institutional (Special Purpose) District) through § 14-408 (SP-AIR, Airport (Special Purpose) District).
(c) Front Yard Depths for Zone Blocks with More than One Zone. 721
Where any block frontage on one side of a street is divided into two or more districts, no structure shall be erected nearer to the street line than is permitted under the regulations for the district that covers the largest percentage of the street frontage on that block face.
(d) Requirements for Lots with Multiple Street Frontages. 722
For a lot fronting on more than one street, each street frontage shall be considered a front. The front yard requirements of the zoning district shall apply to those street frontages and the following side yard, rear yard, and primary frontage requirements shall apply. In all circumstances, the requirements for minimum open area and maximum occupied area remain the same. (See figure below for illustrative purposes only).
[image omitted; see the official code]
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
(.1) Properties Bounded by Two Streets.
When a property is bounded by two streets:
(.a) That constitute a corner, one of the remaining lot lines shall be deemed a side and the other remaining lot line shall be deemed a rear. Where the determination of side and rear lot lines is necessary for L&I to approve or deny a zoning permit application, the Commission shall determine the side and rear lot lines based on the orientation of the lot, orientation of the primary structure, orientation of the structures on adjacent lots, orientation of structures with frontage on the same blockface, the street type designation of the bounding streets, or any additional criteria stated in the regulations of the Commission for the purposes of clarifying or implementing this determination. 723
(.b) That are opposite each other, the remaining two property lines shall be considered sides and the side yard requirements of the zoning district shall apply to the remaining lot lines. The rear yard requirements of the zoning district shall not apply.
(.2) Properties Bounded by Three or More Streets.
When a property is bounded by three or more streets, the remaining lot line shall be considered a rear. The rear yard requirements of the zoning district shall apply to that lot line, except a rear yard is not required for attached buildings or semi-detached buildings but the requirements for lot coverage and open space remain the same. The side yard requirements of the zoning district shall not apply.
(.3) Properties Completely Surrounded By Streets.
When a property is completely surrounded by streets, only the front yard requirements of the zoning district shall apply.
(.4) Primary Frontage.
(.a) When necessary to apply certain provisions of this Zoning Code, properties bounded by two or more streets shall have at least one street frontage designated as a primary frontage by the Commission.
(.b) The Commission shall determine which street frontages shall be designated as a primary frontage based on the orientation of the primary structure, the orientation of the structures on adjacent lots, the orientation of other structures with frontage on same block face, the street type designation of the bounding street, or any additional criteria stated in the regulations of the Commission for the purposes of clarifying or implementing this determination.
(.c) The primary frontage designation shall only apply to those provisions of this Zoning Code where specified, otherwise the front yard and front setback requirements of this Zoning Code shall apply.
(e) Using the Dimensional Tables. 724
All primary and accessory structures are subject to the dimensional standards set forth in the following tables.
(.1) "Y" indicates that the building type is permitted, subject to compliance with the dimensional standards set forth in the table.
(.2) "N" indicates that the building type is prohibited.
(.3) "S" indicates that the building type may be allowed if reviewed and approved in accordance with the special exception procedures of § 14-303(7) (Special Exception Approval).
(.4) A number in brackets (e.g., "[2]") is a reference to a table note that contains supplemental standards or other explanatory information. Table notes are found in § 14-701(2)(b) (Notes for Table 14-701-1); § 14-701(2)(c) (Notes for Table 14-701-2); § 14-701(3)(a) (Notes for Table 14-701-3); and § 14-701(4)(a) (Notes for Table 14-701-4).
(.5) Cross-references to other sections of this Zoning Code are indicated by the word "see" and a specific section number.
Notes
721 | Amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).
722 | Added, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
723 | Amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018).
724 | Renumbered, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015).
(2) Residential District Dimensional Tables.
(a) General Street Frontage Requirements for All Residential Districts. 725
A lot in a Residential zoning district shall have a minimum street frontage as follows:
(.1) For Residential zoning districts with a minimum lot width requirement, the lot shall have a street frontage not less than two-thirds of the minimum lot width required for the subject zoning district.
(.2) For all other Residential zoning districts, the lot shall have a street frontage not less than two- thirds of the width of the lot at its widest point.
(a.1) Reserved. 726
(b) Notes for Table 14-701-1.
[1] In the RSA-4 district, a group of attached buildings shall contain a maximum of four buildings, including the semi-detached buildings at either end of the group. Each semi-detached building at the end of a group shall comply with the following:
(.a) The minimum lot width shall be 30 ft.
(.b) The minimum lot area shall be 2,700 sq. ft.
(.c) The minimum required side yard width shall be a minimum average of 12 ft., not less than 8 ft. at any point.
[2] In the RSA-5 district, a lot containing at least 1,600 sq. ft. of land may be divided into lots with a minimum lot size of 800 sq. ft., provided that:
(.a) At least seventy-five percent (75%) of lots adjacent to the lot to be divided is 1,000 sq. ft. or less;
(.b) Each of the lots created is used for one single-family attached home; and
(.c) Each of the lots created meets the minimum lot width requirement of the zoning district.
[3] In the RSA-5 and RSA-6 districts, buildings on lots equal to or less than 45 ft. in depth are exempt from the maximum occupied area requirement. 727
[4] If abutting lots on both sides of an attached building contain only two stories of enclosed area, the stories above the second story of the attached house shall be set back an additional eight ft. from the minimum distance between the front facades and the front lot line required by § 14-701(2)(b)[5] below; except this requirement shall not apply to corner lots. 728
[5] In the RSA-5 and RSA-6 districts, front facades shall comply with the following: 729
(.a) On any given street, the distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall be no greater than the distance between the front facade and the front lot line of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the greater distance between its front facade and its front lot line; and shall be no less than the distance between the front facade and the front lot line of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the lesser distance between its front facade and its front lot line.
(.b) On any given street, if there is no principal building on an immediately adjacent lot, then the distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall match the distance between the front facade and the front lot line on the closest building to the subject property that is on the same blockface. If there is no such building, the minimum distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall be zero.
(.c) If the property is bounded by two or more streets, only the primary frontages as designated in § 14-701(1)(d)(.4) (Primary Frontage) shall be subject to the front facade requirements of (.a) and (.b) above. 730
[6] Number of required yards/required width (ft). "Each" identifies that each yard must meet the required minimum size. Where each yard size is not identified, table identifies total required yard.
[7] In the RSA-5 district, the minimum rear yard depth for lots equal to or less than 45 ft. in depth shall be 7 ft. 731
[8] In the RSA-1, RSA-2, and RSA-3 districts, side yards shall comply with the following: 732
(.a) For lots bounded on only one side by the side or rear yard of a semi-detached or detached structure, any structure must be constructed with a side yard that adjoins that side and that meets this minimum size.
[image omitted; see the official code]
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
(.b) For lots bounded on both sides by the side or rear yards of semi-detached or detached structures, a semi-detached structure is not permitted. Any detached structure must be constructed as stated in § 14-701(2)(b)[9]. 733
(.c) For lots that are not bounded on any side by the side or rear yard of a semi-detached or detached structure, any structure must be constructed with a side yard that fully meets this minimum size on either side.
[image omitted; see the official code]
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
[9] In the RSA-1, RSA-2, and RSA-3 districts, for lots bounded on both sides by the side yard of a semi-detached structure, any detached structure must be constructed with a side yard on both sides, each with at least fifty percent (50%) of the minimum semi-detached side yard width required for permitted residential uses. 734
[image omitted; see the official code]
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
[10] In the RSA-6 district, parapet walls on the front and rear facades may only extend 8 in. above the maximum height. The maximum height shall be 35 ft. if any of the following conditions apply, provided that the maximum height shall be 38 ft. if no roof deck access structures are included on the lot and any of the following conditions apply: 735
(.a) The lot has an area of 960 sq. ft. or greater;
(.b) The applicant records an instrument, or instruments, in favor of the City, in substance satisfactory to the Department of Planning and Development and in form satisfactory to the Law Department, committing to maintain the property as affordable, as defined in § 14-702(7)(a)(.1) and as regulated by § 14-702(7)(b)(.2) and § 14-702(7)(e); or
(.c) The applicant demonstrates that at least thirty percent (30%) of lots on the same block face as the primary frontage of the applicant's property have either:
(.i) No structures; or
(.ii) A structure with a height of at least 30 feet (not including roof deck access structures, parapets, balustrades, or solar collectors).
[11] In the RTA-2 district, the maximum number of stories is three. 735.1
Table 14-701-1: Dimensional Standards for Lower Density Residential Districts 736
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
Previous District Name | R1 | R1A | R2 | R3 | R4 | R5 | R6/7 | R9A/10A | New | R5A | New
District Name | RSD-1 | RSD-2 | RSD-3 | RSA-1 | RSA-2 | RSA-3 | RSA-4 | RSA-5 | RSA-6 | RTA-1 | RTA-2
See § 14-701(2)(b) (Notes for Table 14-701-1) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes building type not permitted or zoning requirements not applicable.
Previous District Name | R1 | R1A | R2 | R3 | R4 | R5 | R6/7 | R9A/10A | New | R5A | New
District Name | RSD-1 | RSD-2 | RSD-3 | RSA-1 | RSA-2 | RSA-3 | RSA-4 | RSA-5 | RSA-6 | RTA-1 | RTA-2
See § 14-701(2)(b) (Notes for Table 14-701-1) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes building type not permitted or zoning requirements not applicable.
Lot Dimensions
Min. Lot Width (ft.) | 75 | 65 | 50 | 50 | 35 | 25 | 18 [1] | 16 | 14 | 25 | 16
Min. Street Frontage as taken from the front lot line (ft.) | | | | | | | | | | |
Min. District Area (acres) | | | | | | | | | | |
Min. Lot Area (sq. ft.) | 10,000 | 7,800 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,150 | 2,250 | 1,620 [1] | 960 [2] | 700 | 2,250 | 1,080
Max. Occupied Area (% of lot) | 35 | 35 | 30 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 50 | Intermediate: 75; Corner: 80 [3] | 80[3] | 50 | Intermediate: 75; Corner: 80
Front Yard Depth
Minimum (ft) | 35 | 35 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 8 | 15 | [4][5] | [4][5] | 8 | [4][5]
Minimum Side Yard Width [6], Permitted Residential Uses as set forth in § 14-602
Detached, Intermediate Lot (ft.) | 2/15 each | 2/10 each | 2/10 each, 25 total | 2/10 each, 25 total [8][9] | 2/8 each [8][9] | 2/8 each [8][9] | 2/8 each | 2/5 each | 2/5 each | 2/8 each | 2/5 each
Detached, Corner Lot (ft.) | 15 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 5
Semi-Detached (ft.) | | | | 25 [8] | 16 [8] | 8 [8] | 8 [1] | 5 | 5 | 8 | 5
Attached (ft.) | | | | | | | [1] | | | |
Minimum Side Yard Width [6], Permitted Nonresidential Uses as set forth in § 14-602
Detached, Intermediate Lot (ft.) | | | 2/15 each | 2/15 each | 2/10 each | 2/8 each | 2/8 each | 2/8 each | 2/8 each | 2/8 each | 2/8 each
Detached, Corner Lot (ft.) | | | 15 | 15 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8
Rear Yard
Min. Depth (ft.) | 30 | 30 | 25 | 25 | 20 | Single-Family 15; other 20 | Single-Family 20; other 25 | 9 [7] | 7 | Single-Family 15; Other 20 | 7
Height
Maximum (ft.) | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 | 38 | 25 [10] | 38 | 35 [11]
(c) Notes for Table 14-701-2.
[1] In the RM-1 district, a lot containing at least 1,920 sq. ft. of land may be divided into lots with a minimum lot size of 960 sq. ft., provided that: 737
(.a) At least seventy-five percent (75%) of lots adjacent to the lot to be divided are 1,000 sq. ft. or less; and
(.b) Each of the lots created meets the minimum lot width requirement of the zoning district.
[2] In the RM-1 district, buildings on lots less than 45 ft. in depth are exempt from the maximum occupied area requirement. 738
[3] The occupied area shall constitute no more than fifty percent (50%) of the master plan area, except that for land containing historically significant structures, occupied area shall constitute no more than seventy-five percent (75%) of the master plan area. 739
[4] Open air parking shall be included in the maximum occupied area measurement in the RMX-1 and RMX-2 district. 740
[5] If abutting lots on both sides of an attached building contain only two stories of enclosed area, stories above the second story of the attached house shall be set back an additional eight ft. from the minimum distance between the front facade and the front lot line described in § 14-701(2)(b)[6] below; except this requirement shall not apply to corner lots. 741
[6] In the RM-1 district, front facades shall comply with the following: 742
(.a) On any given street, the distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall be no greater than the distance between the front facade and the front lot line of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the greater distance between its front facade and its front lot line; and shall be no less than the distance between the front facade and the front lot line of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the lesser distance between its front facade and its front lot line.
(.b) On any given street, if there is no principal building on an immediately adjacent lot, then the distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall match the distance between the front facade on the closest building to the subject property that is on the same blockface. If there is no such building, the minimum distance between the front facade and the front lot line shall be zero.
(.c) If the property is bounded by two or more streets, only the primary frontages as designated in § 14-701(1)(d)(.4) (Primary Frontage) shall be subject to the front facade requirements of (.a) and (.b) above. 743
[7] For lot lines other than street lines, the minimum setback for structures from each lot line shall be equal to 3/4 of the height of the structure. For lot lines that are street lines, the minimum setback for structures, for the purposes of this subsection, shall be measured from the centerline of that street and shall be equal to 3/4 of the height of the structure.
[image omitted; see the official code]
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
[8] Number of required yards/required width (ft). "Each" identifies that each yard must meet the required minimum size. Where each yard size is not identified, table identifies total required yard.
[9] In the RM-1 district, lots less than 45 ft. in depth shall be exempt from rear yard area requirements but shall provide a minimum rear yard depth of 7 ft. 744
Table 14-701-2: Dimensional Standards for Higher Density Residential Districts 745
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
Previous District Name | R8/9/10/10B/18/19 | R11/11A/ 12/13 | R14 | R15/R16 | RC-6 | WRD/ITD | RC-4
District Name | RM-1 | RM-2 | RM-3 | RM-4 | RMX-1 | RMX-2 | RMX-3
See § 14-701(2)(c) (Notes for Table 14-701-2) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes building type not permitted or zoning requirements not applicable.
Previous District Name | R8/9/10/10B/18/19 | R11/11A/ 12/13 | R14 | R15/R16 | RC-6 | WRD/ITD | RC-4
District Name | RM-1 | RM-2 | RM-3 | RM-4 | RMX-1 | RMX-2 | RMX-3
See § 14-701(2)(c) (Notes for Table 14-701-2) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes building type not permitted or zoning requirements not applicable.
District and Lot Dimensions
Min. Lot Width (ft.) | 16 | 50 | 50 | 20 | | |
Min. Street Frontage as taken from the front lot line (ft.) | | | | | 50 | |
Min. District Area (acres) | | | | | 2 | 1 |
Min. Lot Area (sq. ft.) | 1,440 [1] | 15,000 | 10,000 | 2,500 | | |
Max. Occupied Area (% lot area, except as otherwise provided) | Intermediate: 75; Corner: 80 [2] | | 50 | Intermediate: 75; Corner: 80 | [3][4] | 75% of district area [4] | Buildings ≤ 5 stories with 1 or more dwelling units: 90; Others: 100
Front Yard Depth
Minimum (ft.) | [5][6] | [7] | 20 | | | |
Minimum Side Yard Width [8], Permitted Residential Uses as set forth in § 14-602
Single- or Two-family Detached, Intermediate Lot (ft.) | 2/5 each | [7] | 2/8 each | 2/5 each | | | If used: Buildings ≤ 4 stories with three or fewer dwelling units = 5; Others = 8
Single- or Two-Family Detached, Corner Lot (ft.) | 5 | [7] | 6 | 5 | |
Single- or Two-Family Semi-Detached (ft.) | 5 | [7] | 10 | 5 | |
Multi-Family, Detached (ft.) | 2/5 each | [7] | 2/8 each | 2/5 each | |
Multi-Family, Detached Corner Lot (ft.) | 8 | [7] | 8 | 5 | |
Multi-Family, Semi-Detached (ft.) | 12 | [7] | 16 | 5 | |
Minimum Side Yard Width [8], Permitted Nonresidential Uses as set forth in § 14-602
Intermediate Lot (ft.) | 2/12 each | [7] | 2/8 each | 2/5 each | | | If used: Buildings ≤ 4 stories with three or fewer dwelling units = 5; Others = 8
Corner Lot (ft.) [1] | 12 | [7] | 8 | 5 | |
Rear Yard
Min. Depth (ft.) | 9 [9] | [7] | 20 | 5 if used | | |
Min. Area (sq. ft.) | 144 [9] | [7] | | | | |
Height
Maximum (ft.) | 38 [5] | | | | | |
Floor Area Ratio
Maximum Floor Area (% of lot area, except as otherwise provided) | No Limit | 70 | 150 | 350 | 150 of district area, excluding streets | 250 of district area, excluding streets | 500
Notes
725 | Amended, Bill No. 140487 (approved November 12, 2014).
726 | Added, Bill No. 140487 (approved November 12, 2014). Enrolled bill numbered this as subsection (b); renumbered by Code editor. Deleted, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015).
727 | Amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).
728 | Amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
729 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021); amended, Bill No. 250525 (approved June 13, 2025).
730 | Amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
731 | Amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018).
732 | Added, Bill No. 180169 (approved May 2, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
733 | Amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
734 | Added, Bill No. 180169 (approved May 2, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
735 | Added, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).
735.1 | Added, Bill No. 250525 (approved June 13, 2025).
736 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130804 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017); amended, Bill No. 180169 (approved May 2, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021); amended, Bill No. 250525 (approved June 13, 2025).
737 | Amended, Bill No. 150264 (approved June 16, 2015).
738 | Amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
739 | Amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
740 | Amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
741 | Amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
742 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
743 | Amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
744 | Amended, Bill No. 130764 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018). Bill No. 180346-A did not take into account the amendments of Bill No. 130764; the amendments have been harmonized by the Code editor.
745 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130764 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130804 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210449 (approved July 1, 2021).
(3) Commercial Districts Dimensional Table.
(a) Notes for Table 14-701-3. 746
[1] Except with respect to front yard depths, as provided in Table Note [3], below, all buildings in any CMX-1 district shall be governed by the dimensional standards of the most restrictive adjacent district; provided, however, that when that building is attached to another building that is in another district, the dimensional standards (other than front setback requirements) of the other district shall apply. 747
[2] The maximum floor area ratio for lots zoned CMX-5 located within the boundaries of the Center City/University City Floor Area Ratio Map is increased to one thousand six hundred percent (1,600%) of lot area.
[image omitted; see the official code] 748
{For printable PDF version of image, click HERE}
[3] In the CMX-1 district, front yard depths shall comply with the following: 749
(.a) On any given street, the front yard depth shall be no deeper than the front yard depth of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the deepest front yard depth; and shall be no shallower than the front yard depth of the principal building on the immediately adjacent lot on such street with the shallowest front yard depth.
(.b) On any given street, if there is no principal building on an immediately adjacent lot, then the front yard depth shall match the front yard depth on the closest building to the subject property that is on the same blockface. If there is no such building, the minimum front yard depth shall be zero.
(.c) If the property is bounded by two or more streets, only the primary frontages as designated in § 14-701(1)(d)(.4) (Primary Frontage) shall be subject to the front yard depth requirements of (.a) and (.b) above.
[4] In the CMX-2.5 district, buildings must be built to the lot line of any primary frontage, as designated in § 14-701(1)(d)(.4) (Primary Frontage). 750
Table 14-701-3: Dimensional Standards for Commercial Districts 751
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
Previous District Name | C1 | C2/RC2 | Commercial Corridor Overlays | C3/RC3 | C4 C5 | C7/NSC | ASC
District Name | CMX-1 | CMX-2 | CMX-2.5 | CMX-3 | CMX-4/CMX-5 | CA-1 | CA-2
See § 14-701(3)(a) (Notes for Table 14-701-3) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
Previous District Name | C1 | C2/RC2 | Commercial Corridor Overlays | C3/RC3 | C4 C5 | C7/NSC | ASC
District Name | CMX-1 | CMX-2 | CMX-2.5 | CMX-3 | CMX-4/CMX-5 | CA-1 | CA-2
See § 14-701(3)(a) (Notes for Table 14-701-3) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes zoning requirements not applicable
District and Lot Dimensions
Min. District Area (sq. ft.) | | | | | | | 80,000
Min. Street Frontage as taken from the front lot line (ft.) | [1] | | | | | 50 | 100
Min. Lot Width (ft.) | [1] | | | | | |
Min. Lot Area (sq. ft.) | [1] | | | | | 5,000 | 15,000
Max. Occupied Area (% of lot) | [1] | Intermediate: 75 Corner: 80 | Intermediate: 75 Corner: 80 | Intermediate: 75 Corner: 80 | Buildings 5 stories with 1 or more dwelling units: 90; Others: 100 | 60 | 100
Yards
Min. Front Yard Depth (ft.) | [1][3] | | [4] | | | |
Min. Side Yard Width, Each (ft.) | [1] | 5 if used | 5 if used | 8 if used for buildings containing dwelling units | If used: Buildings 4 stories with three or fewer dwelling units = 5; Others = 8 | 5 if used |
Min. Rear Yard Depth (ft.) | [1] | The greater of 9 ft. or 10% of lot depth | The greater of 9 ft. or 10% of lot depth | | | 5 if used |
Height
Max. Height (ft.) | [1] | 38 | 55 | | | 38 | 38
Min. Cornice Height (ft.) | [1] | | 25 | | | |
Floor Area Ratio
Max. Floor Area (% of lot area) | [1] | | | 500 | CMX-4: 500 CMX-5: 1,200 [2] See also § 14-701(5) (CMX-4 and CMX-5 Bulk and Massing Controls) | |
Notes
746 | Amended, Bill No. 130448 (approved January 8, 2014); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015).
747 | Amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
748 | Amended, Bill No. 130908-A (approved March 31, 2014); amended, Bill No. 250436-A (approved July 1, 2025).
749 | Added, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
750 | Added, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).
751 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130764 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130448 (approved January 8, 2014); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 180346-A (approved July 18, 2018); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).
(4) Industrial District Dimensional Table.
(a) Notes for Table 14-701-4.
[1] Reserved. 752
[2] Reserved. 753
[3] Where the lot abuts a residential district, front yards, side yards, and rear yards shall be provided on the lot on the sides abutting the residential districts. The minimum requirements for those yards shall be either those for the industrial district, or those for the residential district on the abutting side, whichever is larger.
[4] In the IRMX district, for any lot frontage facing a street 35 ft. or less in width, the first 8 ft. of lot depth shall have a maximum building height of 38 ft. and the second 8 ft. of lot depth shall have a maximum building height of 60 ft. 754
[5] In the IRMX district, if an industrial use accounts for a floor area equal to at least fifty percent (50%) of the ground floor area, the property may exceed the maximum occupied area set forth in the table or the maximum height set forth in the table, but not both, as follows: 755
(.a) The maximum occupied area as a percentage of the lot shall be eighty-five percent (85%) for intermediate lots and ninety percent (90%) for corner lots; or
(.b) The maximum height shall be 72 ft., subject to compliance with table note [4], above, and subject to a maximum occupied area as a percentage of the lot of fifty percent (50%) for intermediate lots and fifty-five percent (55%) for corner lots for those portions of the building above 60 ft. in height.
Table 14-701-4: Dimensional Standards for Industrial Districts 756
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
Previous District Name | New District | L4/L5 | L1/L2/L3 | G1/G2 | LR | PI
District Name | IRMX | ICMX | I-1 | I-2 | I-3 | I-P [2]
Previous District Name | New District | L4/L5 | L1/L2/L3 | G1/G2 | LR | PI
District Name | IRMX | ICMX | I-1 | I-2 | I-3 | I-P [2]
See § 14-701(4)(a) (Notes for Table 14-701-4) for information pertaining to bracketed numbers (e.g., "[2]") in table cells.
| | Denotes zoning requirements not applicable
Lot Dimensions
Max. Occupied Area (% of lot) | Intermediate: 75 Corner: 80 [5] | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100
Yards
Min. Front Yard Depth (ft.) | 0 [3] | 0 [3] | 0 [3] | 0 [3] | 0 [3] | 0 [3]
Min. Side Yard Width, Each (ft.) | 0 [3] | 8 if used [3] | 8 if used [3] | 6 if used [3] | If used: Buildings 4 stories = 6; Others = 8 [3] | 0 [3]
Min. Rear Yard Depth (ft.) | 0 [3] | 8 if used [3] | 8 if used [3] | 8 if used [3] | 8 if used [3] | 0 [3]
Height
Max. Height (ft.) | 60 [4] [5] | 60 | 60 if abutting a Residential or SP- PO district; otherwise no limit | 60 if abutting a Residential or SP- PO district; otherwise no limit | 60 if abutting a Residential or SP- PO district; otherwise no limit | 60 if abutting a Residential or SP- PO district; otherwise no limit
Floor Area Ratio
Max. Floor Area (% of lot area) | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 |
Notes
752 | Amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015).
753 | Amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
754 | Added, Bill No. 150168 (approved April 21, 2015).
755 | Added, Bill No. 150168 (approved April 21, 2015).
756 | Amended, Bill No. 150168 (approved April 21, 2015); amended, Bill No. 150264 (approved June 16, 2015); amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
(5) CMX-4 and CMX-5 Bulk and Massing Controls.
(a) Applicability.
(.1) Buildings on CMX-4 and CMX-5 lots shall demonstrate compliance with this § 14-701(5) (CMX-4 and CMX-5 Bulk and Massing Controls) using either Option A (Sky Plane Controls), as provided in § 14-701(5)(b), or Option B (Open Area, Building Width, Spacing, and Height Controls), as provided in § 14-701(5)(c).
(.2) If a building is subject to the provisions of both § 14-701(5)(b) and § 14-701(5)(c), the applicant may choose to demonstrate compliance in accordance with either option.
(.3) If a building is subject to the provisions of § 14-701(5)(c) only, then the building shall comply with § 14-701(5)(c).
(.4) When the bulk and massing standards of this § 14-701(5) conflict with the floor area ratio standards of § 14-701(3) (Commercial Districts Dimensional Table), the stricter standard shall govern.
(b) Option A: Sky Plane Controls.
The bulk and massing provisions of this § 14-701(5)(b) apply to any lot frontage facing a street 50 ft. or more in width, except for lots that are located across a street from a public park and where the distance from the lot frontage to the furthest boundary of the public park is greater than 200 ft. The street width shall be the width of the right-of-way as confirmed on the City Plan of streets.
(.1) Sky Plane Standards.
(.a) For the purposes of this § 14-701(5)(b) (Option A: Sky Plane Controls), the term "sky plane" shall mean the set of building bulk and massing that allows visibility of the sky from sidewalk level.
(.b) Buildings may occupy one hundred percent (100%) of the lot area below the height threshold for that street as shown in Column B of Table 14-701-5.
(.c) Any portion of a building above the height thresholds listed in Column B of Table 14-701-5 is subject to form controls that limit its massing and bulk in relation to its context so that specific amounts of sky visibility are retained.
(.d) Within each interval of building height shown in Column C of Table 14-701-5, the building may not block more than the percentage of sky plane shown in Column D of Table 14-701-5.
(.e) Sky plane is calculated in relation to a viewing line located at grade at the center of the relevant street and a vertical plotting plane located at the building line. The regulations of the Commission shall contain the method for calculating percentage block of the sky plane, as well as detailed information on materials to be submitted to demonstrate compliance with sky plane requirements (which shall include a signed and sealed statement from a licensed architect certifying compliance with sky plane requirements).
(.f) If two or more building frontages are subject to the provisions of this § 14-701(5) (CMX-4 and CMX-5 Bulk and Massing Controls), then the sky plane limits in Table 14-701-5 of the widest street fronting the lot shall apply to each facade. For example, if a lot has frontage on one street that is 70 ft. wide and a second street that is 60 ft. wide, both frontages must comply with the sky plane requirements applicable for a street 70 ft. wide.
(.g) If three or more building frontages are subject to the provisions of this § 14-701(5) (CMX-4 and CMX-5 Bulk and Massing Controls) then as an alternative to subsection (.d), above, the building's average of sky plane blockage at each regulated height level of all frontages subject to the sky plane provisions may be used to demonstrate compliance with the allowed blockage of sky plane in Column D of Table 14-701-5. 757
(.h) L&I shall not issue a zoning permit unless the Commission has determined compliance with this § 14-701(5)(b) (Option A: Sky Plane Controls). 758
Table 14-701-5: Sky Plane Requirements by Street 759
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
A. Regulated Street Frontage | B. Height Threshold (ft. above sidewalk) | C. Regulated Height Interval (ft. above sidewalk) | D. Allowed Blockage of Sky Plane
A. Regulated Street Frontage | B. Height Threshold (ft. above sidewalk) | C. Regulated Height Interval (ft. above sidewalk) | D. Allowed Blockage of Sky Plane
50 - 59 ft. wide streets | 65 | >575 | 0%
285 - 575 | 60%
150 - 285 | 70%
90 - 150 | 80%
65 - 90 | 85%
<65 | 100%
60 - 69 ft. wide streets | 80 | >690 | 0%
340 - 690 | 60%
175 - 340 | 70%
115 - 175 | 80%
80 - 115 | 85%
<80 | 100%
70 - 79 ft. wide streets | 100 | >825 | 0%
415 - 825 | 60%
200 - 415 | 70%
135 - 200 | 80%
100 - 135 | 85%
<100 | 100%
80 - 89 ft. wide streets | 110 | >920 | 0%
460 - 920 | 60%
225 - 460 | 70%
150 - 225 | 80%
110 - 150 | 85%
<110 | 100%
90 - 99 ft. wide streets | 120 | >1030 | 0%
510 - 1030 | 60%
255 - 510 | 70%
170 - 255 | 80%
120 - 170 | 85%
<120 | 100%
100 ft. and wider streets | 125 | >1145 | 0%
570 - 1145 | 60%
285 - 570 | 70%
190 - 285 | 80%
125 - 190 | 85%
<125 | 100%
(.2) Chestnut Street and Walnut Street Regulations. 760
The maximum width of a building frontage located along Walnut Street or Chestnut Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(c) Option B: Open Area, Building Width, Spacing, Height Controls.
(.1) Open Area Above Ground Level. 761
The following standards apply to all CMX-4 and CMX-5 lots. All height measurements shall include mechanical space:
(.a) The maximum lot coverage of buildings for the first 65 ft. of building height shall be one hundred percent (100%).
(.b) The maximum lot coverage for portions of buildings above 65 ft. and up to 300 ft. in height shall be seventy-five percent (75%) of the lot.
(.c) The maximum lot coverage for portions of buildings above 300 ft. and up to 500 ft. in height shall be fifty percent (50%) of the lot. As an alternative, buildings over 300 ft. and up to 500 ft. in height may be constructed so that the average lot coverage of the building above 65 ft. shall not exceed sixty percent (60%) of the lot.
(.d) The maximum lot coverage for portions of buildings above 500 ft. and up to 700 ft. in height shall be forty percent (40%) of the lot. As an alternative, buildings over 500 ft. and up to 700 ft. in height may be constructed so that the average lot coverage of the building above 65 ft. shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the lot.
(.e) The maximum lot coverage for portions of buildings, including mechanical space, above 700 ft. in height shall be thirty percent (30%) of the lot. As an alternative, buildings over 700 ft. in height may be constructed so that the average lot coverage of the building above 65 ft. shall not exceed forty percent (40%) of the lot.
(.2) John F. Kennedy Boulevard Regulations.
(.a) For buildings located within 90 ft. south of the south side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard between 15th Street and 24th Street:
(i) The minimum distance between buildings, from a height 65 ft. or greater, shall be 75 ft.
(ii) Along any lot line which is not a street line and which is parallel to any numbered street, the minimum distance between the building, from a height of 65 ft. or greater, and that lot line shall be 37.5 ft.
(.b) For buildings located within 90 ft. south of the south side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard between 15th Street and the Schuylkill River, the maximum width of the building frontage along John F. Kennedy Boulevard for portions of buildings above 65 ft. in height shall be the lesser of 250 ft. or sixty-six percent (66%) of the block frontage along John F. Kennedy Boulevard.
(.c) For lots fronting on the south side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard between 15th Street and the Schuylkill River with a second frontage along a numbered street or Juniper Street, the maximum building height along the second frontage for the first 15 ft. of building closest to that street frontage shall be 65 ft.
(.3) Market Street Regulations.
(.a) For buildings located within 90 ft. south of the south side of Market Street between 15th Street and 24th Street:
(i) The minimum distance between buildings, from a height 65 ft. or greater, shall be 75 ft.
(ii) Along any lot line which is not a street line and which is parallel to any numbered street, the minimum distance between the building, from a height of 65 ft. or greater, and that lot line shall be 37.5 ft.
(.b) For buildings located within 90 ft. south of the south side of Market Street between 15th Street and the Schuylkill River, the maximum width of the building frontage along John F. Kennedy Boulevard for portions of buildings above 65 ft. in height shall be the lesser of 250 ft. or sixty-six percent (66%) of the block frontage along Market Street.
(.c) For lots fronting on the south side of Market Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River with a second frontage along a numbered street or Juniper Street, the maximum building height along the second frontage for the first 15 ft. of building depth shall be 65 ft.
(.4) Chestnut Street Regulations.
The following standards apply to lots fronting on the south side of Chestnut Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River:
(.a) The maximum width of a building frontage along Chestnut Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(.b) Except within 130 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 130 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 50 ft. This height limit may be increased to a maximum height of 320 ft. by increasing the height one foot for each foot the building sets back (i.e. along a 45 degree recession plane) from the street line. 762
(.5) Sansom Street Regulations. 763
The following standards apply to lots with frontage on Sansom Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River, except within 130 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 130 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street.
(.a) The maximum building height shall be 320 ft. including mechanical space.
(.b) The maximum width of a building frontage along Sansom Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(.c) The first 10 ft. of lot depth from the Sansom Street frontage shall have a maximum height of 55 ft.
(.6) Walnut Street Regulations.
The following standards apply to lots fronting on Walnut Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River:
(.a) The maximum width of a building frontage along Walnut Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(.b) On the north side of Walnut Street, except within 130 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 230 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 320 ft. 764
(.c) On the south side of Walnut Street, except within 130 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 230 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 50 ft. This height limit may be increased to a maximum height of 260 ft. by increasing the height one foot for each foot the building sets back (i.e. along a 45 degree recession plane) from the street line. 765
(.7) Locust Street Regulations.
The following standards apply to lots fronting on Locust Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River:
(.a) The maximum width of a building frontage along Locust Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(.b) On the north side of Locust Street, except within 100 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 230 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 260 ft.
(.c) On the south side of Locust Street, except within 100 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 230 ft. west of the west side of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 50 ft. This height limit may be increased to a maximum height of 260 ft. by increasing the height one foot for each foot the building sets back (i.e., along a 45 degree recession plane) from the street line.
(.8) Spruce Street Regulations.
The following standards apply to lots fronting on Spruce Street between Front Street and the Schuylkill River:
(.a) The maximum width of a building frontage along Spruce Street shall be 100 ft. for corner lots and 60 ft. for intermediate lots.
(.b) On the north side of Spruce Street, except within 100 ft. east of the east side of Broad Street or within 230 ft. west of the west side 766 of Broad Street, the maximum building height shall be 260 ft.
Notes
757 | Added, Bill No. 140009 (approved March 31, 2014).
758 | Renumbered, Bill No. 140009 (approved March 31, 2014); renumbered, Bill No. 190443 (approved July 24, 2019). See note 351 for sunset provision. Former subsection (.h) deleted and former subsection (i) renumbered, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021).
759 | Amended, Bill No. 220418 (approved November 30, 2022).
760 | Added, Bill No. 200118 (approved August 31, 2022).
761 | Amended, Bill No. 200118 (approved August 31, 2022); amended, Bill No. 230626 (approved November 13, 2023).
762 | Amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
763 | Amended, Bill No. 200118 (approved August 31, 2022); amended, Bill No. 230626 (approved November 13, 2023).
764 | Amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
765 | Amended, Bill No. 150766 (approved December 8, 2015); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017).
766 | Enrolled bill read "west wide".
(6) Exceptions to Dimensional Standards.
The items listed in Table 14-701-6 are exceptions to the dimensional standards otherwise applicable under this § 14-701 (Dimensional Standards). In the case of exceptions to yard, setback, and open space requirements, the areas occupied by the encroachments will not be considered to reduce the amount of open space provided.
Table 14-701-6: Exceptions to Dimensional Standards 767
{For printable PDF version, click HERE}
Exceptions to Height Limits
Type of District | Permitted Encroachment
Exceptions to Height Limits
Type of District | Permitted Encroachment
All Districts | Balustrades and parapet walls may extend above the height limits up to 42 in.
Solar collectors and related support structures may extend above the height limits up to 9 ft.; see § 14-604(7) (Solar Collectors).
Residential Districts | Monuments, belfries, cupolas, minarets, pinnacles, gables, spires, chimneys, radio or television antennas, fire walls, or ornamental towers not for human occupancy.
Towers of mechanical or structural necessity where the cross-section area of the tower at no point exceeds 20% of the gross floor area of the ground floor of the building.
Vegetated roof structures (e.g. containers and other permanent infrastructure) that do not extend more than 30 in. above the height limit.
Wind energy conversion systems: see § 14-604(6) (Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems).
A roof deck and associated railings, fencing, and access structures: see § 14-604(5) (Roof Decks).
Commercial, Industrial, and Special Purpose districts, when attached to principal building | Chimneys.
Fire escape towers.
Penthouses or roof structures for the housing of elevators, stairways, tanks, ventilating fans, heating and cooling towers, or similar equipment required to operate and maintain the building.
Fire walls.
Radio, wireless, and television aerials.
Flagpoles.
Airplane beacons.
Wind energy conversion systems; see § 14-604(6) (Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems).
Vegetated roofs structures (e.g. containers and other permanent infrastructure) that do not extend more than 5 ft. above the height limit.
Exceptions to Yard, Setback, and Open Area Requirements
Type of District | Permitted Encroachment
Residential Districts | Fences are permitted in required front yard areas, but any fence located within a required front setback area shall be no more than 4 ft. tall and no more than 50% opaque. Fence posts and gate posts that are included as architectural features are permitted up to 6 ft. in height. This standard shall also apply to any side of a corner lot facing a street.
Fences are permitted in the required rear yard area and in any portion of the required side yard area behind the front wall of the principal structure, but may not be more than 6 ft. tall. This standard shall also apply to any side of a corner lot that does not face a street.
Retaining walls are subject to the restrictions on fence heights to the extent that those walls protrude above the actual ground level at the highest point of the wall, but shall not apply to any retaining wall required by the provisions of any section of The Philadelphia Code or related regulations.
Entranceway covers, canopies, and awnings may project into required front or rear yard areas up to 5 ft., and may project into required side yard areas up to 3 ft.
Porches may encroach into the required front setback in RSA-5, RSA-6, and RM-1 districts.
Balustrades, chimneys, cornices, and vents may project into required front, side, or rear yard or setback areas up to 24 in.
Pilasters may project into required front, side, or rear yard or setback areas up to 18 in.
Moldings and belt courses may project into required front, side, or rear yard or setback areas up to 12 in.
Solar energy collectors: see § 14-604(7) (Solar Collectors).
Wind energy conversion systems; see § 14-604(6) (Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems).
Geothermal energy equipment, rainwater harvesting barrels, and odorless composting equipment shall be allowed to encroach into required side yards that are at least 5 ft. wide, and into required rear yards, but not within 2 ft. of any side or rear lot line.
Commercial, Industrial, and Special Purpose districts | In all Commercial districts, areas not included in required occupied areas may not be used for permanent storage purposes, but may be used for temporary storage for up to 30 days in each calendar year. Use of areas not included in required occupied areas for storage for more than 30 days in any calendar year shall require approval of the Zoning Board through the special exception procedures of § 14-303(7) (Special Exception Approval).
Solar energy collectors: see § 14-604(7) (Solar Collectors).
Wind energy conversion systems; see § 14-604(6) (Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems).
Geothermal energy equipment, rainwater harvesting barrels, and odorless composting equipment shall be allowed to encroach into required side and rear yard areas in the Commercial, Industrial, and Special Purpose districts, but not within 2 ft. of any side or rear lot line.
Notes
767 | Amended, Bill No. 120774-A (approved January 14, 2013); amended, Bill No. 130764 (approved December 18, 2013); amended, Bill No. 161003-A (approved May 8, 2017); amended, Bill No. 190784-A (approved December 30, 2019); amended, Bill No. 210075 (approved March 29, 2021); amended, Bill No. 210078-A (approved April 28, 2021).