New York City Zoning R5B

Zoning R5B typically allows for a mix of low-rise residential buildings such as single-family homes, townhouses, and some multi-family buildings. The specific regulations may include restrictions on building height, lot coverage, floor area ratio (FAR), yard requirements, and other factors. These regulations are intended to control the scale and density of development, preserve neighborhood character, and provide adequate access to light, air, and open space.

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

ZONING R5B (contextual)

New York City Residential zone R5B is a Contextual zone and gives you more options for design and zoning calculation

In New York City, a contextual zoning district, also known as a contextual zone, is a type of zoning designation that aims to preserve the character and scale of a neighborhood by regulating the physical form and design of buildings. Contextual zoning regulations focus on ensuring that new development aligns with the existing context and scale of the surrounding buildings and streetscape.

The contextual zoning regulations are typically applied in areas with a distinct architectural or historical character, such as brownstone neighborhoods or areas with low-rise buildings. The purpose is to maintain the neighborhood’s overall aesthetic, promote harmonious development, and prevent out-of-context structures that may be significantly taller or bulkier than the existing buildings.

These zoning regulations often include specific guidelines or requirements for building height, setbacks, building materials, street frontage, and other design elements. They may also address issues such as the spacing and rhythm of buildings, the use of front yards or stoops, the preservation of historic facades, and the provision of adequate light and air.

The idea behind contextual zoning is to create a more cohesive and visually appealing urban environment, where new buildings are sensitive to the established character and scale of the neighborhood. It helps to maintain neighborhood identity, preserve historic features, and encourage a sense of continuity and compatibility among buildings.

It’s important to note that the specific regulations and guidelines for contextual zoning can vary depending on the neighborhood and district. Therefore, if you’re interested in understanding the contextual zoning regulations for a particular area in New York City, it’s best to consult the official zoning code or reach out to the Department of City Planning for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Applicable Use:

Use group 1: Detached (single family)
Use group 2: Detached / Zero Lot Line/semi-detached / attached
(single and two-family)

Use group 2: All conditions (Multi-Family)
Use group 3: and 4 (community facility use)

Applicable bulk:

LOT

Minimum Lot area: Detached/zero lot line 2,375 sf
Other conditions: 1,700 sf

Minimum Lot width: Detached/zero lot line: 25 SF
Other conditions: 18 SF

YARD

Minimum Front yard: 5 ft
*Front yard has to be no deeper nor shallower than the adjacent front yard

but need not exceed 20 ft in depth

Minimum Side Yards (interior or Through lots)
Detached or zero lot line

(1 side yard/min. each: 0 / total 8 ft)

Semi-detached

(1 side yard/min. each: 4 / total 4 ft)

Multi-family

(0 side yards/min. each: 0 / total 0 ft)

Minimum Rear Yard: 30 ft
Maximum Lot Coverage: 55%
Open Space Ratio: N/A
FAR (floor area ratio) residential: 1.35 / with attic allowance N/A
Community facility: 2.0

Sky Exposure Plane: N/A
Maximum Street / Perimeter wall: 30 ft
Maximum Building Height: 33 ft.
Qualifying ground floor: N/A

Dwelling unit factor: detached and semi-detached: 900
Other conditions: 900