Virginia Beach Zoning

R-20 Zone in Virginia Beach, VA

R-20 zoning district rules in Virginia Beach, VA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Residential DistrictTwo-Family Residential

The R-20 zone in Virginia Beach, VA is a residential district (Two-Family Residential). Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character. This zone requires a 35 ft front setback, 10 ft side setback, and 30 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 35 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 30%.

Common Permitted Uses

  • Single-family homes
  • Duplexes

Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character.

Setback Requirements

Setback TypeRequirement
Front Setback35 feet
Side Setback10 feet
Rear Setback30 feet

Virginia Beach Zoning Ordinance. R-20 requires 20,000 sqft lots.

Height Limits

Max Height
35 feet
Max Stories
2

Virginia Beach Zoning Ordinance.

Lot Coverage

Max Coverage
30%

Virginia Beach Zoning Ordinance.

Parking Requirements

Single-family: 2 off-street parking spaces per single-family dwelling. Oceanfront Resort area may have different standards for resort properties. Multi-family: 1.5–2 spaces per unit. Reduced requirements for affordable housing developments.

Source: Virginia Beach City Code Chapter 11 — Zoning Ordinance; Virginia Code Section 15.2-2291. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
R-20 Zone in Virginia Beach, VA — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned