R-3 Zone in Wilmington, NC
R-3 zoning district rules in Wilmington, NC. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-3 zone in Wilmington, NC is a residential district (Multi-Family Low Density). Permits multi-family housing at low density, typically up to 4 units. Allows triplexes and fourplexes in addition to single-family and duplex uses. This zone requires a 20 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 20 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 40 feet (3 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 50%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
- Duplexes
- Triplexes
- Fourplexes
Permits multi-family housing at low density, typically up to 4 units. Allows triplexes and fourplexes in addition to single-family and duplex uses.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 20 feet |
Wilmington UDO — R-3 Residential. Urban residential zone.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 40 feet
- Max Stories
- 3
Wilmington UDO — R-3 Residential.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 50%
Wilmington UDO — R-3 Residential.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 spaces per dwelling unit. Off-street parking required. Wilmington UDO. Multi-family: 1.5 spaces per unit. Reduced requirements within 1/4 mile of Wave Transit routes. Wilmington UDO.
Source: Wilmington Unified Development Ordinance; NC HB 488 (Session Law 2023-87). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source