R-5 Zone in Savannah, GA
R-5 zoning district rules in Savannah, GA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-5 zone in Savannah, GA 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. This zone requires a Per historic streetwall front setback, 3 ft side setback, and 3 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is Per historic streetwall context feet (3 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 70%.
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.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | Per historic streetwall |
| Side Setback | 3 feet |
| Rear Setback | 3 feet |
Savannah Zoning Ordinance — R-5 Historic District Residential. Front setback aligns with historic streetwall. Lane access from rear — minimal rear setback. Design standards supersede dimensional standards for street-facing facades.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- Per historic streetwall context
- Max Stories
- 3
Savannah Zoning Ordinance — R-5 Historic District. Height contextually governed by MPC review to maintain historic streetwall character. New construction typically limited to adjacent historic building heights.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 70%
Savannah Zoning Ordinance — R-5 Historic District. Higher coverage reflects urban pattern of Savannah's historic squares.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 spaces per dwelling unit. Off-street driveway may satisfy requirement. Savannah Zoning Ordinance Chapter 8. Multi-family: 1.5 spaces per unit in R-4 and R-5 zones. Historic District has reduced parking requirements — many ward square properties have no off-street parking and historically relied on street parking. Savannah Zoning Ordinance.
Source: City of Savannah Zoning Ordinance Title 8; Metropolitan Planning Commission Historic District Guidelines. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source