RU-5 Zone in Durham, NC
RU-5 zoning district rules in Durham, NC. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The RU-5 zone in Durham, NC is a residential district (Single-Family Residential). Permits one dwelling unit per lot. Typically the most restrictive residential zone. Designed to preserve the character of established single-family neighborhoods. This zone requires a 15 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 10 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 40 feet (3 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 55%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
Permits one dwelling unit per lot. Typically the most restrictive residential zone. Designed to preserve the character of established single-family neighborhoods.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 15 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 10 feet |
Durham UDO — RU-5 Residential Urban (5,000 sqft min lot). Urban residential zone — typical of older, denser Durham neighborhoods like Trinity Park, Watts-Hillandale, and Old West Durham.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 40 feet
- Max Stories
- 3
Durham UDO — RU-5 Urban Residential.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 55%
Durham UDO — RU-5 Urban Residential.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 spaces per dwelling unit. Off-street parking required. Durham UDO. Multi-family: 1.5 spaces per unit. Reduced requirements near GoDurham high-frequency transit routes. Durham UDO.
Source: Durham Unified Development Ordinance; NC HB 488 (Session Law 2023-87). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source