Rear Additions To Washington DC Homes
The District of Columbia restricts attached and semi-detached rear additions to residential property to a maximum of 10 feet beyond an adjoining neighbor’s farthese rear wall in order to prevent blocking of natural light, air and privacy.
§§ 306.3 and 306.4
These code updates were implemented to address concerns about excessively disproportionate rear extensions adjoining attached and semi-detached buildings in the R-2, R-3, R-13, R-17, R-20, and RF zones.
The rule(s) was adopted by the DC Zoning Commission (effective April 2017) and applies to most residential zones with attached or semi-attached housing.
What Types Of Properties Are Not Affected?
The restrictions do not apply to detached buildings because a detached building, including any rear addition, would be subject to side yard requirements that provide separation from adjacent buildings.
Are Special Exceptions Allowed?
Going beyond the 10-foot limit on an attached home requires a special exception process through the DC Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA).
Other Notes:
Constructing a rear addition requires a building permit processed via the DC Department of Buildings (DOB), and may require historic preservation review if your property is located in a historic district.
Disclaimer
We are not attorneys, legal experts, investment counselors, or CPAs. The content on this channel is presented for informational purposes only and derived from reliable sources, but should not be considered legal, financial, investment, transaction or real estate practice advice. Susan Isaacs and Compass, their principals and/or representatives, do not guarantee or warrant its accuracy, completeness, or applicability to any specific real estate transaction. Homebuyers should read applicable D.C. law and code as part of their due diligence, and seek help from licensed, qualified professionals for interpretation and application to their specific transaction.