RSD-1 Zone in Philadelphia, PA
RSD-1 zoning district rules in Philadelphia, PA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The RSD-1 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 30 ft front setback, 10 ft side setback, and 30 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 35 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 35%.
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 | 30 feet |
| Side Setback | 10 feet |
| Rear Setback | 30 feet |
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSD-1 Single-family detached residential. Largest lots, most open single-family zone. Found primarily in Chestnut Hill, Germantown, and far NE Philadelphia.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 35 feet
- Max Stories
- 2
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSD-1 Detached single-family.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 35%
Philadelphia Code Title 14 — RSD-1 Detached single-family. Large lot, low coverage.
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