What Is A Building Setback Line?

Looking to build your dream home on an empty lot but it’s near some other houses? Did you know there’s actually a specific distance you need to stay away from the property line?

This distance is referred to as the setback line and keeping it in mind now can save you a lot of hassle in the future. Let’s dig into exactly what a building setback line is, why it’s important and how it differs from other building requirements.

Setback Lines Explained

A building setback line marks the minimum distance a house, building or other accessory structure must be from your property lines. Setback requirements are determined by local governments, which means land use restrictions can vary from state to state, even city to city. These requirements pertain to existing buildings, additions and land where you intend to build a house.

The oversimplified way of thinking about it is that setbacks are the rules that prevent people from building a home too close to their neighbors. As previously mentioned, this varies on the rules for your specific local municipality, so be sure to research the setback lines for the city or town you are looking to build in. This can be done on your own, or by the architecture or building company you are using to design and build your new home or addition to your current home.

Why Do Property Setbacks Matter?

Beyond making sure you don't live on top of your neighbors, setback rules matter for a number of other reasons. For example, setbacks allow access to underground utilities, which requires space in between houses. This space also prevents the spread of house fires and improves airflow and natural lighting.

Setback Requirements

Setback rules include minimum distances for the front, rear and sides of a structure in relation to the property lines. Again, these restrictions vary by location, so you’ll need to research the guidelines in your area. It’s also important to note any setback restrictions related to bodies of water if your property is on a lake, stream or floodplain.

How Far Is A Setback From A Property Line?

To get more specific, setbacks are measured from an owner’s side, rear and front property lines. So how far is it?

As an example, you may be required to build no closer than 15 feet from the front property line, 5 feet from the property lines on each side of the house, and 10 feet from the rear property line. These are just examples, of course, and you will need to find out the exact setback lines for your specific property.

Setback Vs. Other Property Regulations

As you may suspect, setbacks are not the only rules when it comes to building regulations and restrictions on your property. Let’s take a look at a few more and how they relate to setback lines.

Setback Lines Vs. Easements

An easement gives people or organizations the limited right to access and use your property for specific purposes. Like setbacks, you are not able to build over an easement, even if the setback restrictions are being met. 

Setback Lines Vs. Property Lines

Since setback lines are a function of property lines (the legal boundary of your property), understanding exactly where the property lines are is critical. If you are unsure about the boundaries of your property, it is a good idea to request a property survey.

Setback Lines Vs. Zoning

In most cases, setback line distances are regulated by zoning laws and restrictions maintained by local municipal governments. This can vary right down to the specific neighborhood you live in.

Property Setback Exceptions

While setback rules in terms of distance from property lines are clear, there are some exceptions. A few examples include fire exits that cross the setback line as well as temporary structures like tents, volleyball nets, etc.

In addition, in unique circumstances, property owners may request a setback variance, which pardons them from a setback violation.

The Bottom Line

Understanding setback lines is critical for homeowners who are considering building a new home or who are contemplating additions to their current home including decks, pools, sheds, garages, etc. The first step is understanding how close you can build to your property lines and then you can design and build to your heart's content!