R-5-A Zone in Washington DC, DC
R-5-A zoning district rules in Washington DC, DC. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-5-A zone in Washington DC, DC is a residential district (Multi-Family High Density). Permits multi-family housing at high density. Designed for urban cores and transit corridors where tall residential buildings are appropriate. Maximum building height is 50 feet (4 stories).
Common Permitted Uses
- High-rise apartments
- Condominiums
- Mixed residential
Permits multi-family housing at high density. Designed for urban cores and transit corridors where tall residential buildings are appropriate.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 50 feet
- Max Stories
- 4
11 DCMR — R-5-A low-density apartment residential.
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