Washington DC Zoning

R-4 Zone in Washington DC, DC

R-4 zoning district rules in Washington DC, DC. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Residential DistrictMulti-Family Medium Density

The R-4 zone in Washington DC, DC is a residential district (Multi-Family Medium Density). Permits multi-family housing at medium density. Allows small to mid-size apartment buildings and condominiums. This zone requires a 0 ft front setback, 0 ft side setback, and 12 ft rear setback. Maximum lot coverage is 75%.

Common Permitted Uses

  • Apartments
  • Condominiums
  • Townhomes

Permits multi-family housing at medium density. Allows small to mid-size apartment buildings and condominiums.

Setback Requirements

Setback TypeRequirement
Front Setback0 feet
Side Setback0 feet
Rear Setback12 feet

11 DCMR — R-4 Row Residential higher density. Similar to R-3 but allows more density. Common in denser inner neighborhoods.

Lot Coverage

Max Coverage
75%

11 DCMR — R-4 Row residential higher density.

Parking Requirements

Single-family: 0 spaces required in most R-3 and R-4 row house zones. 1 space per dwelling in R-1 and R-2 zones. DC's transit access and walkability reduce car dependency in most neighborhoods. Multi-family: 0–0.5 spaces per unit. R-5 zones in transit-rich areas have zero parking minimums. DC's Metro system, Circulator bus, Capital BikeShare, and extensive bike lanes support minimal car ownership.

Source: 11 DCMR (DC Municipal Regulations, Title 11 — Zoning) — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions; DC Home Rule Charter. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
R-4 Zone in Washington DC, DC — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned