RSA-5 Zone in Philadelphia, PA
RSA-5 zoning district rules in Philadelphia, PA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The RSA-5 zone in Philadelphia, PA is a residential district (Suburban Residential). Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions. This zone requires a 0 ft front setback, 0 ft side setback, and 9 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 38 feet (3 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 80%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
Lower-density residential with larger setbacks and lot sizes than standard residential zones. Common in outer suburban areas and early-generation subdivisions.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 0 feet |
| Side Setback | 0 feet |
| Rear Setback | 9 feet |
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSA-5 Rowhouse zone (most common residential zone in Philadelphia). Rowhouses are built to lot line at front and sides — zero setback typical. Rear yard setback 9 ft minimum. RSA-5 is the classic Philadelphia rowhouse zone.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 38 feet
- Max Stories
- 3
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSA-5 Rowhouse. 38 ft allows 3-story rowhouses consistent with historic urban fabric. Many existing Philadelphia rowhouses are 2-3 stories within this limit.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 80%
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSA-5 Rowhouse zone. High coverage reflects dense urban rowhouse character. Rear yard open space minimum (20% of lot area) required.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 1 space per dwelling in RSD zones; 0 required in RSA rowhouse zones. Philadelphia rowhouses typically lack garages — street parking is the norm in dense neighborhoods. Multi-family: 0.5–1 space per unit. RM zones in Center City and inner neighborhoods often have reduced or zero minimums due to transit access.
Source: Philadelphia Code Title 14 (Zoning and Planning) — Accessory Residential Units; Philadelphia Construction Code. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source