Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

What is NYC ZR § 24-521?

Quick Answer

This section regulates the maximum height of front walls and required front setbacks in specified residential zoning districts (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) where front yards are mandated. The statute outlines the sky exposure plane requirements for buildings in these districts. Applies to building owners in designated residential areas.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

§ 24-521 Front setbacks in districts where front yards are required

ZR § 24-521

R1 R2 R3 R4 R5

In the districts indicated, except R5D Districts, where front yards are required, the front wall or any other portion of a building or other structure shall not penetrate the sky exposure plane set forth in the following table:

MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF FRONT WALL AND REQUIRED FRONT SETBACKS

Height above Front Yard Line(in feet)

Sky Exposure Plane

District

Slope over Zoning Lot (expressed as a ratio of vertical distance to horizontal distance)

On Narrow Street

On Wide Street

Vertical Distance

Horizontal Distance

25

1 to

1

R1 R2 R3

35

R4 R5

SKY EXPOSURE PLANER1, R2, R3, R4, R5 Districts

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 24-521?

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

[email protected]

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters