Height in Zoning Regulations
Definitions
Architectural Embellishment – Not defined
Building
Building, height of - the vertical distance measured from the level of the curb opposite the
middle of the front of the building to the highest point of the roof or parapet. The term curb
shall refer to a curb at grade. In the case of a property fronting a bridge or a viaduct, the
height of the building shall be measured from the lower of the natural grade or the finished
grade at the middle of the front of the building to the highest point of the roof or parapet.
[ORDER No. 02-35; 11/07/03]
In those districts in which the height of building is limited to forty feet (40 ft.), the height of
the building may be measured from the finished grade level at the middle of the front of the
building to the ceiling of the top story.
In those districts in which the height of the building is limited to sixty feet (60 ft.), in the case
of a building located upon a terrace, the height of building may be measured from the top of
the terrace to the highest point of the roof or parapet, but the allowance for terrace height
shall not exceed five feet (5 ft.).
Where a building is removed from all lot lines by a distance equal to its proposed height
above grade, the height of building shall be measured from the natural grade at the middle of
the front of the building to the highest point of the roof or parapet.
If a building fronts on more than one (1) street, any front may be used to determine the
maximum height of the building; but the basis for the height of the building shall be
determined by the width of the street selected as the front of the building.
In those districts in which the height of building is permitted to be ninety feet (90 ft.) or
greater, the height of buildings shall be measured to the highest point of the roof excluding
parapets not exceeding three feet (3 ft.) in height. (33 DCR 3979)
Summary of definition:
General:
Point of Measurement: curb opposite the middle of the front of building
Spec. Zones and Heights
Zones of ≤ 40’: Finished grade (not defined) @ middle of front of bldg. to ceiling of top story
(defined)
Zones of ≤ 60’ above a terrace: if terrace≤ measure from top of terrace to highest point of roof
(not defined) or parapet (not def.)
Zones of ≥ 90’ – measure to highest point of roof, excluding parapets ≤ 3’
Measure of Setback 1:1 from all lot lines – from natural grade (not defined) @ middle of front of building
to highest point of roof or parapet
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If building Fronts on More than one street: may choose any front – usually the widest one – for purposes
of the height category – and then for measuring the elevation of the maximum height permitted within that
category, may use same street or another street (usually highest elevation) from which to measure.
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Antenna - a device used to transmit or receive communications signals. This term
encompasses transmitting and receiving elements, and any tower and immediately related
support and stabilizing elements, and rotating or other directional mechanism. (36 DCR 1509)
Antenna, commercial broadcast - antenna used for television and commercial radio
broadcasting by a profit or non-profit entity. The transmitting antenna may be affixed to a
tower or to the top of a building. In amplitude modulation (AM) radio service, the tower also
acts as the antenna. (36 DCR 1509) [plus 5 or 6 other antenna definitions]
Basement - that portion of a story partly below grade, the ceiling of which is four feet (4 ft.)
or more above the adjacent finished grade.
Cellar - that portion of a story, the ceiling of which is less than four feet (4 ft.) above the
adjacent finished grade
Clear Height, Floor to Ceiling - floor to ceiling height is a vertical distance measured from
the finished floor to the finished ceiling that is unobstructed by any of the following:
(a) Elements of the building structure, other than the columns and walls;
(b) Components of mechanical, plumbing, or fire suppression systems; or
(c) Components of electrical systems, except lighting fixtures.
If the ceiling is not finished, the distance shall be measured to the lowest point of any of the
structural elements of systems referenced in (a), (b) or (c) above. [ORDER No. 04-31;
10/28/05]
Curb – see def. of building height
Court, height of - the vertical distance from the lowest level of the court to the highest point
of any bounding wall.
Exterior Wall – not defined
Finished Grade – not defined
Ground floor – the floor that is nearest in grade elevation to the adjacent surface of the
public right-of-way. (48 DCR 9832)
Meaningful Connection – not defined (what section is term in?)
Mezzanine - a floor space within a story between its floor and the floor or roof next above it
and having an area of not more than one-third (1/3) of the area of the floor immediately
below. A mezzanine shall not be considered a story in determining the maximum number of
permitted stories.
Natural grade – the undisturbed level formed without human intervention or, where the
undisturbed ground level cannot be determined because of an existing building or structure,
the undisturbed existing grade. [ORDER No. 02-35; 11/07/03]
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Open arcade - a continuous area, located along the perimeter of a building, designed for
pedestrian uses, and which adjoins a street for its entire length; and, except for structural
piers, columns, or arches, is open to the street. (24 DCR 10787)
Parapet --not defined
Roof – not defined
Story - the space between the surface of two (2) successive floors in a building or between
the top floor and the ceiling or underside of the roof framing. The number of stories shall be
counted at the point from which the height of the building is measured.
For the purpose of determining the maximum number of permitted stories, the term “story”
shall not include cellars, stairway or elevator penthouses, or other roof structures; provided,
that the total area of all roof structures located above the top story shall not exceed one-third
(1/3) of the total roof area.
Story, top - the uppermost portion of any building or structure that is used for purposes other
than housing for mechanical equipment or stairway or elevator penthouses. The term “top
story” shall exclude architectural embellishment.
Street - a public highway designated as a street
Street frontage - the property line where a lot abuts upon a street. When a lot abuts upon
more than one (1) street, the owner shall have the option of selecting which is to be the front
for purposes of determining street frontage.
101.3 The provisions of this title shall govern whenever they:
(a) Require larger yards, courts, or other open spaces;
(b) Require a lower height or bulk of buildings or a smaller number of stories;
101.4 The provisions of any statute or other municipal regulations shall govern whenever
they:
(a) Require larger yards, courts, or other open spaces;
(b) Require a lower height or bulk of buildings or a smaller number of stories;
106.5 Properties of the District of Columbia Government shall be subject to zoning;
provided:
(c) District of Columbia public buildings in the Central Area shall be exempt from zoning but
shall continue to require approval of the National Capital Planning Commission, pursuant to
§ 5(c) of the National Capital Planning Act of 1952, approved July 10, 1952 (66 Stat. 781,
788; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1004(c) (formerly codified at D.C. Code § 1-2004(c) (1999
Repl.))).
106.6 Properties acquired by the Government of the United States and properties in the
Central Area acquired by the Government of the District of Columbia that are intended to be
used for public building or use shall become automatically unzoned.
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107.4 Whenever a portion of any district is indicated as a strip paralleling an opened or
unopened street, the width of this strip, unless delimited by lot lines or otherwise
dimensioned, shall be assumed to be one hundred feet (100 ft.) measured at a right angle
from the nearest street to which it is parallel and adjacent.
107.5 In all other cases, the zone district boundary lines shall be intended to follow existing
lot lines, the center lines of streets, alleys (including any closed streets or alleys not
previously zoned), and natural water courses.
211.8 No height of an antenna tower in excess of that permitted by the Act to Regulate the
Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as
amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01 to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))), shall be permitted, unless the height is approved
by the Mayor.
211.9 Before taking final action on an application for use as an antenna tower, the Board
shall submit the application to the D.C. Office of Planning for review and report.
211.10 The applicant shall have the burden of demonstrating the need for the proposed
height, and that full compliance with the matter-of-right standards would be unduly
restrictive, prohibitively costly, or unreasonable.
SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 36 DCR 1509, 1514 (February 24, 1989); and as amended by
the Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text
of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8350 (October 20, 2000).
211.8 No height of an antenna tower in excess of that permitted by the Act to Regulate the
Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as
amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01 to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))), shall be permitted, unless the height is approved
by the Mayor.
211.9 Before taking final action on an application for use as an antenna tower, the Board
shall submit the application to the D.C. Office of Planning for review and report.
211.10 The applicant shall have the burden of demonstrating the need for the proposed
height, and that full compliance with the matter-of-right standards would be unduly
restrictive, prohibitively costly, or unreasonable.
SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 36 DCR 1509, 1514 (February 24, 1989); and as amended by
the Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text
of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8350 (October 20, 2000).
411 ROOF STRUCTURES (R)
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411.1 To exercise a reasonable degree of architectural control upon roof structures in all
districts, housing for mechanical equipment, stairway and elevator penthouses, and, when not
in conflict with An Act To Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia,
approved June 10, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01 to 6601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))) on
apartment building roofs, penthouses for (a) storage, showers, and lavatories incidental and
accessory to roof swimming pools or communal recreation space located on that roof; and (b)
other enclosed areas, within the area permitted as a roof structure, used for recreational uses
accessory to communal rooftop recreation space, shall be subject to conditions and variable
floor area ratio credit specified in this section.
411.2 When located below, at the same roof level with, or above the top story of any building
or structure, penthouses (as outlined in § 411.1) shall be subject to the provisions of §§ 400.7,
530.4, 630.4, 770.6, 840.3, or 930.3 when applicable, and to the conditions and variable floor
area ratio specified in this section.
411.3 All penthouses and mechanical equipment shall be placed in one (1) enclosure, and
shall harmonize with the main structure in architectural character, material, and color.
411.4 When roof levels vary by one (1) floor or more or when separate elevator cores are
required, there may be one (1) enclosure for each elevator core at each roof level.
411.5 Enclosing walls from roof level shall be of equal height, and shall rise vertically to a
roof, except as provided in § 411.6.
411.6 When consisting solely of mechanical equipment, the equipment shall be enclosed
fully as prescribed in §§ 411.3 and 411.5, except that louvers may be provided. A roof over a
cooling tower need not be provided when the tower is located at or totally below the top of
enclosing walls.
411.7 Solely for the uses designated in this section, an increase of allowable floor area ratio
of not more than thirty-seven hundredths (0.37) shall be permitted.
411.8 Roof structures shall not exceed one-third (1/3) of the total roof area for those districts
where there is a limitation on the number of stories.
411.9 In addition to the floor area ratio allowed by § 411.7, mechanical equipment owned
and operated as a roof structure by a fixed right-of-way public mass transit system shall be
permitted in addition to roof structures permitted in this section.
411.10 Before taking final action on a roof structure plan, the Zoning Administrator shall
submit the plan to the D. C. Office of Planning for review and report. The report shall be
returned within fifteen (15) days of the date of submission unless a different period has been
provided by mutual agreement of all parties involved.
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411.11 Where impracticable because of operating difficulties, size of building lot, or other
conditions relating to the building or surrounding area that would tend to make full
compliance unduly restrictive, prohibitively costly, or unreasonable, the Board of Zoning
Adjustment shall be empowered to approve, as a special exception under § 3104, the
location, design, number, and all other aspects of such structure regulated under §§ 411.3
through 411.6, even if such structures do not meet the normal setback requirements of §§
400.7, 530.4, 630.4, 770.6, 840.3, or 930.3, when applicable, and to approve the material of
enclosing construction used if not in accordance with §§ 411.3 and 411.5; provided, that the
intent and purpose of this chapter and this title shall not be materially impaired by the
structure, and the light and air of adjacent buildings shall not be affected adversely.
411.12 For purposes of this section, the rules of interpretation provided in §§ 411.13 through
411.17 shall be applicable.
411.13 In computing the floor area ratio of a roof structure, the aggregate square footage of
all levels or floors contained within a roof structure measuring six and one-half feet (6½ ft.)
or more in height shall be included in the total floor area ratio permitted.
411.14 Areas within curtain walls without a roof used where needed to give the appearance
of one (1) structure shall not be counted in floor area ratio, but shall be computed as a roof
structure to determine if they comply with § 411.8.
411.15 For purposes of this section, mechanical equipment shall not include telephone
equipment, radio, television, or electronic equipment of a type not necessary to the operation
of the building or structure.
411.16 For purposes of this section, skylights, gooseneck exhaust ducts serving kitchen and
toilet ventilating systems, and plumbing vent stacks shall not be considered as roof structures.
411.17 Roof structures less than four feet (4 ft.) in height above a roof or parapet wall shall
not be subject to the requirements of this section.
SOURCE: § 3308 of the Zoning Regulations effective May 12, 1958; as amended by: Final Rulemaking
published at 33 DCR 3975 (July 4, 1986); by Final Rulemaking, 33 DCR 4682 (August 1, 1986); and by
Final Rulemaking published at 33 DCR 7308 (November 21, 1986); and Final Rulemaking published at 47
DCR 9741-43 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published
at 47 DCR 8335, 8370 (October 20, 2000).
530 HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES (SP)
530.1 Except as specified in §§ 530 through 537 and in chapters 20 through 25 of this title,
the height of buildings or structures in an SP District shall not exceed the height set forth in
the following table:
ZONE DISTRICT
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Feet)
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Stories)
65
90
No Limit
No Limit
SP-1
SP-2
530.3 The height of buildings or structures as specified in §§ 530.1 and 530.2 may be
exceeded in the instances provided in §§ 530.4 through 530.6.
530. 4 Spires, towers, domes, pinnacles or minarets serving as architectural embellishments,
penthouses over elevator shaft, ventilator shafts, antennas, chimneys, smokestacks, or fire
sprinkler tanks may be erected to a height in excess of that which this section otherwise
authorizes.
530. 5 If housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse is provided
on the roof of a building or structure, it shall be erected or enlarged as follows:
(a) It shall meet the requirements of § 411;
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(b) It shall be set back from all exterior walls a distance at least equal to its height above the
roof upon which it is located; and
(c) It shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), in height above the roof upon
which it is located. Mechanical equipment shall not extend above the permitted eighteen foot,
six inch (18 ft., 6 in.), height of the housing.
530. 6 Housing for mechanical equipment and a stairway or elevator penthouse may be
erected to a height in excess of that authorized in the district in which it is located.
530. 7 Where required by the Act to Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of
Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as amended; D.C. Official Code Ed. §§ 6601.01 to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999
Supp.))), a height in excess of that permitted shall be authorized by the Mayor.
SOURCE: §§ 4201.1, 4201.2, and 4201.3 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; as amended
by: Final Rulemaking published at 33 DCR 3975, 3976 (July 4, 1986); Final Rulemaking published at 36
DCR 1509, 1523 (February 24, 1989); and Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8,
2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8376
(October 20, 2000).
537 ROOF STRUCTURES (SP)
537.1 The provisions of § 411 shall also regulate roof structures in SP Districts.
630 HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES (CR)
630.1 Except as provided in this section, the height of buildings and structures shall not
exceed ninety feet (90 ft.).
630.2 Free-standing, primarily ground-supported signs shall not exceed twenty feet (20 ft.) in
height.
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630.3 Spires, towers, domes, pinnacles or minarets serving as architectural embellishments,
penthouses over elevator shafts, ventilator shafts, antennas, chimneys, smokestacks, or fire
sprinkler tanks may be erected to a height in excess of that which this section otherwise
authorizes.
630.4 If housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse is provided on
the roof of a building or structure, it shall be erected or enlarged as follows:
(a) It shall meet the requirements of § 411;
(b) It shall be set back from all exterior walls a distance at least equal to its height above the
roof upon which it is located; and
(c) It shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), in height above the roof upon
which it is located. Mechanical equipment shall not extend above the permitted eighteen foot,
six inch (18 ft., 6 in.), height of the housing.
630.5 Housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse may be erected
to a height in excess of that authorized in the district in which located.
630.6 A public recreation and community center shall not exceed a height of forty-five feet
(45 ft.).
SOURCE: §§ 4503.1 through 4503.5 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; as amended by:
Final Rulemaking published at 33 DCR 3975, 3977 (July 4, 1986); Final Rulemaking published at 35 DCR
179, 192 (January 8, 1988); and Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8, 2000),
incorporating by
633 REQUIRED PUBLIC SPACE AT GROUND LEVEL (CR)
633.3 The area for new development shall be open to the sky or have a minimum vertical
clearance of one (1) story or ten feet (10 ft.).
639 ROOF STRUCTURES (CR)
639.1 The provisions of § 411 shall apply to roof structures in CR Districts.
639.2 The gross floor area of roof structures permitted under this section shall not be counted
in determining the required number of off-street parking spaces or loading berths as required
elsewhere in this chapter.
SOURCE: § 4506.7 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; as amended by: Final Rulemaking
published at 27 DCR 2066, 2070 (May 16, 1980); by Final Rulemaking published 28 DCR 3482, 3503
(August 7, 1981); and by Final Rulemaking published at 28 DCR 4192, 4196 (September 25, 1981); and
Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of
Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8397 (October 20, 2000).
701.8 Subject to the procedure of § 701.9, one roof-mounted antenna shall be permitted as a
matter of right in a C-1 District; provided:
(a) Each part of the antenna is removed from all edges of the roof a minimum distance equal
at least to its height above the roof;
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(b) The antenna, to the maximum practical extent, shall be of black mesh construction or of
materials and colors that blend with the surroundings;
(c) The installation shall be located and screened so as to minimize the view of the antenna
from the ground;
(d) If the antenna is located on the roof of a building that has a height of sixty-five feet (65
ft.) or less, the antenna shall not be visible from the ground;
(e) If the height of the roof is ninety feet (90 ft.) or less, the mounted height of the antenna at
its highest point shall not exceed twelve feet (12 ft.) above the roof; and
(f) If the height of the roof exceeds ninety feet (90 ft.), the mounted height of the antenna at
its highest point shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), above the roof.
763 OPEN ARCADE CRITERIA (C-5 (PAD))
763.3 An open arcade shall also be open to the street it adjoins, except for structural piers,
columns, or arches.
764 ENCLOSED PEDESTRIAN SPACE CRITERIA (C-5 (PAD))
764.3 The ceiling height shall be a minimum of twenty feet (20 ft.) above any floor level of
the enclosed pedestrian space.
765 THROUGH SQUARE CONNECTION CRITERIA (C-5 (PAD))
765.4 A through square connection shall have a minimum height of twenty feet (20 ft.).
770 HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES (C)
770.1 Except as provided in this section and in chapters 20 through 25 of this title, the height
of a building or structure in a Commercial District shall not exceed that set forth in the
following table:
ZONE DISTRICT
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Feet)
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Stories)
40
50
3
No Limit
C-1
C-2-A
C-2-B, C-3-A
C-3-B
C-2-C, C-3-C
C-4
C-5 (PAD)
65
70
90
110
130
No Limit
6
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
770.2 The height of buildings or structures specified in § 770.1 may be exceeded in the
instances provided in §§ 770.3 through 770.8.
770.3 Spires, towers, domes, pinnacles or minarets serving as architectural embellishments,
penthouses over an elevator shafts, ventilator shafts, antennas, chimneys, smokestacks, or fire
sprinkler tanks may be erected to a height in excess of that which this section otherwise
authorizes.
770.4 In the C-4 District, a building or other structure may be erected to a height not
exceeding one hundred thirty feet (130 ft.); provided, that the building or other structure shall
face or abut a street not less than one hundred ten feet (110 ft.) wide between building lines.
770.5 In the C-5 (PAD) District, a building or other structure may be erected to a height not
exceeding one hundred sixty feet (160 ft.); provided:
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(a) The height of the building or structure shall be measured only from the
Pennsylvania Avenue curb at the middle of the front of the building or other structure to the
highest point of the roof or parapet exclusive of any structure on the roof; and
(b) That portion of the building or other structure that exceeds one hundred thirty-five feet
(135 ft.) in height shall be set back a minimum of fifty feet (50 ft.) from the building line
along Pennsylvania Avenue.
770.6 If housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse is provided on
the roof of a building or structure, it shall be erected or enlarged as follows:
(a) It shall meet the requirements of § 411;
(b) It shall be set back from all exterior walls a distance at least equal to its height above the
roof upon which it is located;
(c) In the C-5 (PAD) District, it shall be set back from that portion of the perimeter of the
roof fronting on a street a minimum distance equal to twice the height of the roof structure
above the roof upon which it is located; and
(d) It shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), in height above the roof upon
which it is located. Mechanical equipment shall not extend above the permitted eighteen foot,
six inch (18 ft., 6 in.), height of the housing.
770.7 Housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse may be erected
to a height in excess of that authorized in the district in which it is located.
770.8 Where required by the Act to Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of
Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01
to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))),
a height in excess of that permitted shall be authorized by the Mayor.
SOURCE: §§ 5201.1, 5201.2, and 5201.3 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; as amended
by: Final Rulemaking published at 27 DCR 2226, 2227 (May 23, 1980); Final Rulemaking published at 33
DCR 3975, 3978 (July 4, 1986); Final Rulemaking published at 36 DCR 1509, 1523 (February 24, 1989);
and Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the
text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8409-10 (October 20, 2000).
771.5 In the C-4 District, a building or structure that is erected to a height in excess of one
hundred ten feet (110 ft.) as permitted in § 770.4 may have a floor area ratio not exceeding
ten (10.0), except as provided in § 2405.2.
777 ROOF STRUCTURES (C)
777.1 The provisions of § 411 shall also regulate roof structures in the Commercial Districts.
840 HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES (C-M, M)
840.1 Except as provided in § 840.2 and in chapters 20 through 25 of this title, the height of
buildings or structures in an Industrial District shall not exceed that given in the following
table:
ZONE DISTRICT
C-M-1
C-M-2
C-M-3
M
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Feet)
40
60
90
90
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MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Stories)
3
No Limit
No Limit
No Limit
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840.2 Spires, towers, domes, pinnacles or minarets serving as architectural embellishments,
penthouses over elevator shafts, ventilator shafts, antennas, chimneys, smokestacks, or fire
sprinkler tanks may be erected to a height in excess of that which this section otherwise
authorizes.
840.3 If housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse is provided on
the roof of a building or structure, it shall be erected or enlarged as follows:
(a) It shall meet the requirements of § 411;
(b) It shall be set back from all exterior walls a distance at least equal to its height above the
roof upon which it is located; and
(c) It shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), in height above the roof upon
which it is located. Mechanical equipment shall not extend above the permitted eighteen foot,
six inch (18 ft., 6 in.), height of the housing.
840.4 Housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse may be erected
to a height in excess of that authorized in the District in which it is located.
840.5 Where required by the Act to Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of
Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01
to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))),
a height in excess of that permitted in that Act shall be authorized by the Council of the
District of Columbia.
SOURCE: §§ 6201.1, 6201.2 and 6201.3 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; as amended
by Final Rulemaking published at 33 DCR 3975, 3979 (July 4, 1986); and by Final Rulemaking published
at 36 DCR 1509, 1523 (February 24, 1989); and as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR
9741-43 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47
DCR 8335, 8422-23 (October 20, 2000).
845 ROOF STRUCTURES (C-M, M)
845.1 Section 411 shall be applicable to roof structures in the Industrial Districts.
845.2 The gross floor area of roof structures permitted under § 411 shall not be counted in
determining the amount of off-street parking required elsewhere in this title.
SOURCE: §§ 6305.1 and 6305.2 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958; Final Rulemaking
published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed
Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8425 (October 20, 2000).
930 HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES (W)
930.1 Except as provided in this section, the height of buildings and structures shall not
exceed the maximum height in the following table:
9-23
MAXIMUM
HEIGHT
(Feet)
ZONE DISTRICT
W-0
40 feet
[ORDER No. 02-42; 04/02/04]
W-1
45 feet
[ORDER No. 02-15B; 11/28/03]
[ORDER No. 02-42A; 07/08/05]
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W-2
60 feet, except that public recreation and community
centers shall not exceed 45 feet.
[ORDER No. 02-15B; 11/28/03]
W-3
90 feet, except that public recreation and community
centers shall not exceed 45 feet.
[ORDER No. 02-15B; 11/28/03]
Notwithstanding the above, the maximum height of a building or structure located on, in, or
over the water within the W-0 District, including a floating home, shall be twenty-five (25)
feet, measured from the mean high water level along the shore directly in front of the
building or structure to the highest point of the building or structure, not including sailboat
masts.]
930.2 Spires, towers, domes, pinnacles or minarets serving as architectural embellishments,
penthouses over elevator shafts, ventilator shafts, antennas, chimneys, smokestacks, or fire
sprinkler tanks may be erected to a height in excess of that which this section otherwise
authorizes.
930.3 If housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse is provided on
the roof of a building or structure, it shall be erected or enlarged as follows:
(a) It shall meet the requirements of § 411;
(b) It shall be set back from all exterior walls a distance at least equal to its height above the
roof upon which it is located; and
(c) It shall not exceed eighteen feet, six inches (18 ft., 6 in.), in height above the roof upon
which it is located. Mechanical equipment shall not extend above the permitted eighteen foot,
six inch (18 ft., 6 in.), height of the housing.
930.4 Housing for mechanical equipment or a stairway or elevator penthouse may be erected
to a height in excess of that authorized in the district in which it is located.
1101.5 Where the underlying zone district does not permit a hotel as a matter of right or as a
special exception, the height and floor area ratio incentives provided in §§ 1101.6 and 1101.7
shall apply only to an apartment house.
1101.6 In the HR Overlay District, a building containing a hotel or an apartment house may
be erected to a height in excess of that permitted in the underlying zone; provided:
(a) The maximum height shall be no more than that permitted by the Act to Regulate the
Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia, approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as
amended; D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §§ 6-601.01 to 6-601.09 (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§
5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.)));
(b) The building shall contain a minimum floor area ratio of two (2.0) devoted to hotel or
apartment house use; and
(c) No part of the building shall project above a plane drawn at a forty-five degree (45o) angle
from a line located one hundred ten feet (110 ft.) directly above the right-of-way line of a
street.
1203 HEIGHT, AREA, AND BULK REGULATIONS
1203.1 Except as specified in § 1203.2 and in chapters 20 through 25 of this title, the height
of buildings or structures in the CAP Overlay District shall not exceed forty feet (40 ft.) or
three (3) stories in height.
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1203.2 The height of buildings or structures as specified in § 1203.1 may be exceeded in the
following instances:
(a) A spire, tower, dome, minaret, pinnacle, or penthouse over elevator shaft may be erected
to a height in excess of that authorized in § 1203.1; and
(b) If erected or enlarged as provided in § 411, housing for mechanical equipment or a
stairway or elevator penthouse may be erected to a height in excess of that authorized in the
zone district in which located; provided, that the housing is set back from all lot lines of the
lot upon which the structure is located a distance equal to its height above the roof of the top
story. In any case, a roof structure shall not exceed ten feet (10 ft.) in height above the roof
upon which it is located.
1534 HEIGHT, AREA, AND BULK REGULATIONS (NO)
1534.1 The maximum permitted building height in the NO Overlay District shall not exceed
forty feet (40 ft.).
1534.2 For purposes of this chapter, the height of a building shall be measured as follows:
(a) The height of a building shall be the vertical distance measured from the level of the curb
opposite the middle of the front of the building to the highest point of the roof or parapet; and
(b) The curb elevation opposition the middle of the front of the building shall be determined
as the average elevation of the lot from its front line to its rear lot line.
1534.3 The provisions of Chapter 24 of this title shall not operate to permit a planned unit
development in the NO Overlay District to exceed either the limits of § 1534.1, or the area,
bulk, and yard standards that apply as a matter of right in any underlying district within the
NO Overlay District.
1534.4 All provisions of § 411 shall also apply to roof structures in the NO Overlay District.
2405.3 The Commission may authorize an increase of not more than five percent (5%) in the
maximum height or floor area ratio; provided, that the increase is essential to the successful
functioning of the project and consistent with the purpose and evaluation standards of this
chapter
2510 CONGRESSIONAL LIMITATION ON BUILDING HEIGHTS
2510.1 In addition to any controls established in this title, all buildings or other structures
shall comply with the Act to Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia,
approved June 1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, as amended; D.C. Official Code §§ 6-601.01 to 6601.09 (2001) (formerly codified at D.C. Code §§ 5-401 to 5-409 (1994 Repl. and 1999
Supp.))).
SOURCE: § 7610.1 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958 (renumbered § 7608.1 in the April
1981 edition of the Zoning Regulations); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43
(December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR
8335, 8528 (October 20, 2000).
2511 DESIGNATED BUSINESS STREETS
2511.1 For the purpose of administering this title, that portion of the Act referred to in §
2510.1 that designates certain streets as “business streets” shall be interpreted to mean those
sides and portions of any street located in a Special Purpose, Waterfront, Mixed Use,
Commercial, or Industrial District.
SOURCE: § 7611.1 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958 (renumbered § 7610.1 in the April
1981 edition of the Zoning Regulations); Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43 (December 8,
2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 8335, 8528
(October 20, 2000).
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2512 HEIGHTS OF BUILDINGS ADJACENT TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS
2512.1 In addition to the requirements of this title, buildings or structures adjacent to public
buildings shall be subject to the “Schedule of Heights of Buildings Adjacent to Public
Buildings” as adopted by the Commissioners of the District of Columbia in conformity with
§ 5 of the Act to Regulate the Height of Buildings in the District of Columbia, approved June
1, 1910 (36 Stat. 452, 453, as amended; D.C. Official Code § 6-601.05(f) (2001) (formerly
codified at D.C. Code § 5-405(f) (1994 Repl. & 1999 Supp.))), and published as Appendix G
in the Zoning Regulation, effective May 12, 1958, as amended by the Schedule of Heights of
Building Amendment Act of 1998, effective April 20, 1999 (D.C. Law 12-234, 46 DCR 4147
(May 7, 1999)), reprinted as amended in the appendix of this chapter. [cf. Appendix G]
SOURCE: § 7512.1 of the Zoning Regulations, effective May 12, 1958 (renumbered § 7611.1 in the April
1981 edition of the Zoning Regulations); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 47 DCR 9741-43
(December 8, 2000), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 47 DCR
8335, 8529 (October 20, 2000).
2520 REGULATION OF ANTENNAS
3104 SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS
Roof structures - location, design, number, and all
other regulated aspects
Any District
§§ 411.11, 537.1, 639.1, 777.1, 845.1, and 936.1
SLC Dec. 20, 2007
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