R-2 Zoning in Atlanta

The City of Atlanta has 10 residential zoning districts ranging from R-1 to R-5. This chart highlights the R-2 zoning district alongside the setbacks and lot requirements. Below the chart is Frequently Asked Questions relating to R-2 Zoning in Atlanta. This information can be helpful when purchasing a home, considering a renovation to your home, the addition of a pool or secondary building to your property, or the construction of a new home. Please consult your Dorsey Alston agent with questions about the zoning of your property.

City of Atlanta Residential Zoning Guidelines

		R-1	R-2	R-2A	R-2B	R-3	R-3A	R-4	R-4A	R-4B	R-5
MINIMUM SETBACKS	FRONT	60 ft.	60 ft.	60 ft.	50 ft.	50 ft.	50 ft.	35 ft.	30 ft.	20 ft.	30 ft.
	SIDE^a	25 ft.	15 ft.	15 ft.	10 ft.	10 ft.	10 ft.	7 ft.	7 ft.	5 ft.	7 ft.
	REAR	35 ft.	30 ft.	30 ft.	20 ft.	20 ft.	15 ft.	15 ft.	15 ft.	5 ft.	7 ft.
LOT REQUIREMENTS	MINIMUM LOT AREA	2 acres	1 acre	30,000 sq.ft.	28,000 sq.ft.	18,000 sq.ft.	13,500 sq.ft.	9,000 sq.ft.	7,500 sq.ft.	2,800 sq.ft.	7,500 sq.ft.
	MINIMUM STREET FRONTAGE^b	200 ft.	150 ft.	100 ft.	100 ft.	100 ft.	85 ft.	70 ft.	50 ft.	40 ft.	50 ft.
	MAXIMUM LOT COVERAGE	25%	35%	35%	40%	40%	45%	50%	55%	85%	55%
	MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA RATIO	0.25	0.30	0.35	0.40	0.40	0.45	0.50	0.50^d	0.75^e	see section 16-07.010
	MINIMUM REQUIRED CAR PARKING SPACES	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	see section 16-07.010

DEFINITIONS

Setback: Distance from the property line to the nearest part of the applicable building, structure, or sign, measured perpendicularly to the property line.
Frontage: Length of the shortest property line that adjoins a public street. Also known as the width of the lot.
Floor area ratio (FAR): A number which, when multiplied by the gross square footage of a lot, results in the total amount of heated or air conditioned square footage or “livable area” which may be built on a lot, excluding finished or unfinished basement space, attic space, and accessory structures, including garages.
Lot coverage: Total area of the lot that is covered by the footprints of main and accessory structures including houses, guest houses, garages, and swimming pools, as well as all pervious or impervious driveways, turnarounds, walkways, patios, decks, tennis courts, and parking spaces.

FAQs About R2 Zoning in Atlanta

What is R2 zoning in Atlanta?

R2 zoning in Atlanta is primarily designated for two-family residential homes, like duplexes. This zoning category allows for a slightly higher density compared to R1 zoning but still focuses on residential use.

What are the minimum lot size requirements in R2 zones?

R2 zones typically have minimum lot size requirements that are designed to accommodate two-family structures. For instance, the minimum lot size might be around 12,000 square feet, but this can vary based on the specific area within Atlanta.

Can I build a single-family home in an R2 zone?

Yes, single-family homes are generally permitted in R2 zones. The zoning is more about the maximum number of dwelling units allowed rather than a minimum.

Are there restrictions on building height in R2 zones?

Yes, like R1 zones, R2 zones also have building height restrictions. These might be slightly more lenient than R1 zones but are still in place to maintain neighborhood character.

What are the setback requirements in R2 zones?

Setback requirements in R2 zones, which dictate the distance structures must be from property lines, might be similar to R1 zones but can vary. For example, front yard setbacks could be 20 feet, side yards 10 feet, and rear yards 20 feet.

Is multi-family housing, like apartment buildings, allowed in R2 zones?

R2 zoning typically does not permit larger multi-family housing units like apartment buildings. The focus is mainly on duplexes or similar two-family structures.

Can I operate a business from my home in an R2 zone?

Home businesses in R2 zones are usually subject to the same restrictions as in R1 zones. These restrictions are in place to ensure the primary residential nature of the neighborhood is not disrupted.

Are there specific architectural or design standards in R2 zones?

Some R2 zones may have design standards or guidelines to ensure architectural consistency and neighborhood aesthetics. These can include rules about exterior materials, roof styles, or porch designs.

How do I apply for a variance if my building plans don’t comply with R2 zoning?

If your plans don’t comply with R2 zoning, you’ll need to apply for a variance through the city’s planning department. This process usually involves submitting detailed plans and may require a hearing.

What should I consider before purchasing a property in an R2 zone?

Before purchasing, consider the zoning implications for rental possibilities, property value, and neighborhood dynamics. Also, assess how the R2 zoning regulations align with your intended use of the property.

MINIMUM RESIDENTIAL LOT REQUIREMENTS

These diagrams are intended for reference only.

For complete regulations, please consult the Atlanta zoning ordinance online at www.municode.com.

FOOTNOTES

For corner lots, the required yard along the secondary (side) street must be half the depth indicated above for the front yard.
Plus 10% if corner lot.
Except for zero-lot-line development.
Unless the lot is less than the minimum lot area of 7,500 sq. ft. See ordinance Section 16-06A.008.
Unless the lot is less than the minimum lot area of 2,800 sq. ft. See ordinance Section 16-06B.008.

The specific requirements for R2 zoning in Atlanta, Georgia, may vary depending on the neighborhood and local zoning regulations. R2 zoning is typically designated for medium-density residential areas, allowing for a mix of single-family and two-family dwellings. Here are some common requirements and regulations associated with R2 zoning:

Dwelling Types:

R2 zoning typically permits single-family dwellings (detached houses) and two-family dwellings (duplexes). This means that properties in R2 zones can accommodate either single households or two separate households in a single building.

Minimum Lot Size:

There are often minimum lot size requirements for properties within R2 zones. These requirements aim to maintain the appropriate density and character of medium-density residential neighborhoods.

Setback Regulations:

R2 zoning includes setback regulations, specifying how far a structure must be set back from the property line. These setbacks are designed to provide adequate space between buildings, maintain privacy, and ensure a consistent streetscape.

Building Height Restrictions:

To maintain the aesthetics and character of medium-density residential neighborhoods, R2 zoning often imposes height restrictions on structures. These restrictions prevent excessively tall buildings that might not fit the neighborhood’s scale.

Land Use Restrictions:

R2 zoning typically restricts commercial and industrial activities. The primary focus is on maintaining a predominantly residential environment.

Accessory Structures:

Regulations regarding accessory structures such as detached garages, sheds, or fences may be outlined in R2 zoning codes. These rules ensure that accessory structures are in harmony with the surrounding properties.

Parking Requirements:

R2 zoning may specify parking requirements, including the number of parking spaces required for each dwelling unit. Parking regulations are often based on the number of bedrooms or dwelling units in the structure.

Landscaping and Green Space:

Some R2 zoning codes may have landscaping requirements to promote greenery and aesthetics within the neighborhood.

Frontage and Lot Width:

R2 zoning requirements may include specifications related to the width of the lot and the frontage of properties within R2 zones.

Density Limits:

R2 zoning often includes density limits, specifying the maximum number of dwelling units allowed per acre or per lot.

Design Standards:

Some R2 zoning districts may have specific design standards or guidelines to ensure that new construction and renovations are in harmony with the existing neighborhood.

Additional Information:

Main Content