New York City Zoning R2A

NYC zoning R2A is a contextual district that aims to preserve low-rise neighborhoods characterized by single-family detached homes on lots with a minimum width of 40 feet. It is mapped in sections of Bayside, Whitestone, and Cambria Heights in Queens. The R2A district is a sub-district of R2 zoning, and its regulations focus on maintaining the low-density residential character of the area.

Zoning R2A (contextual)

In R2A districts, residential development is limited to single-family detached houses. The regulations allow for a higher density compared to R1 districts, with smaller lot area and lot width requirements. The minimum lot width is 40 feet, and the maximum floor area ratio (FAR) is 0.5. The FAR includes all space within a building, including attic space, resulting in smaller homes compared to districts with similar FAR.

( if you want to know more about floor area and how is it calculated, you can read another blog post by clicking here)

R2A zoning also imposes limitations on lot coverage and yard requirements. The lot coverage of the house and any external garage is limited to 30% of the zoning lot. The two required side yards must total a minimum of 13 feet, with each being at least five feet wide, and the front yard must be at least 15 feet deep.

It is important to note that R2A zoning only permits single-family detached homes and does not allow for multi-family or other types of residential or commercial developments. Compliance with the regulations set forth by NYC zoning R2A is crucial to maintaining the intended character of the neighborhood and ensuring adherence to the city’s zoning laws.

If you require further specific information or details about NYC zoning R2A, it is recommended to consult the NYC Department of City Planning or seek professional advice to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.

Applicable Use:

Single-family Detached
Use group 1 (residential use)
Use group 3 and 4 (community facility use)

Applicable Bulk:

LOT
Minimum Lot area: 3,800 sf
Minimum Lot width: 40 sf

YARD (ZR 23-45)
Minimum Front yard: 15 ft
*Front yard has to be at least as deep as the adjacent front yard but
need not exceed 20 ft in depth, except that in R1-2A Districts,

Minimum Side Yards (interior or Through lots)
For detached or zero lot line ( 2 side yards / each 5 ft / total side yards 13 ft)

*semi-detached and multi-family are not applicable in this zone

Minimum Rear Yard: 30 ft
Maximum Lot Coverage: 30%
FAR (floor area ratio) residential: 0.50
Community facility: 1.0

Sky Exposure Plane: not applicable

Maximum Perimeter wall: 21 ft
Maximum Street wall: 21 ft
Maximum Building Height: 35 ft.
Dwelling unit factor: just for the detached and semi-detached 1,900

Required Parking:

1 per each dwelling unit

*According to Zoning Regulation (ZR 23-142), if you have a Detached garage on your property, you have the potential to receive a bonus of up to 300 sq. ft towards your total Floor Area Ratio (FAR). This means that you can expand your property’s allowable building size by an additional 300 sq. ft

(If you like to learn more about NYC Zones, you can read another blog post by clicking here)

To obtain precise and current information regarding NYC zoning R2A, please contact us. We understand the importance of addressing your specific inquiries and providing you with accurate details relevant to your project. By contacting us, you can ensure that you receive the necessary support to navigate the complexities of zoning regulations, ensuring that your project aligns with the latest guidelines.