Height Limit

The maximum allowable height for buildings or structures in a zoning district, measured from grade to the highest point of the roof or structure.

What is a Height Limit?

A height limit is a zoning regulation that establishes the maximum vertical dimension allowed for buildings and structures within a zoning district. Height limits are one of the primary tools used to control the scale of development and protect views, light access, and neighborhood character.

How Height Is Measured

Height measurement methods vary significantly between jurisdictions. Some measure from average natural grade to the midpoint of the roof, others from finished grade to the highest point of the structure. Mechanical penthouses, elevator overruns, rooftop equipment, parapets, and architectural features may be exempt from height limits or subject to separate standards. Understanding how a specific jurisdiction measures height is critical to maximizing buildable area.

Height Limits and Development

Height limits directly constrain the number of stories and therefore the total floor area achievable on a site. In combination with FAR and lot coverage, height limits define the building envelope. For developers, height limits often represent the binding constraint — the factor that most limits what can be built. Projects that exceed the height limit must obtain a variance or pursue a zoning change.

Height Bonuses and Exceptions

Some zoning codes provide height bonuses for projects that include public amenities, incorporate stepbacks at upper floors, or are located in designated growth areas. Height exceptions may also exist for structures like flagpoles, chimneys, rooftop gardens, and solar panels.