UPDATE: On August 22, 2012, the City of Philadelphia enacted a New Philadelphia Zoning Code. R-1 districts are now called “RSD-1.” Click here for our RSD-1 Zoning Guide. R-1A districts are now called “RSD-2.” Click here for our RSD-2 Zoning Guide.
If you filed a zoning application before August 22, 2012, information about the old zoning code is below:
Generally, R-1 districts allow for detached single family dwellings (and places of worship). Some uses require a Use Registration Permit; some do not. Other uses require a Variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
The uses allowed in R-1 districts are listed below. Also listed below are the restrictions for building sizes and signs. If you have any questions or would like to speak with an attorney, visit our contact page. Otherwise, once you have determined which documentation you need for your proposed use, please proceed to step 3.
Uses Allowed Without a Use Registration Permit
The following uses do not require a Use Registration Permit or Certificate or Variance:
- Detached single family dwelling
- Detached place of worship
Uses Allowed With a Use Registration Permit
The following uses require a Use Registration Permit from the Department of Licenses and Inspection:
- Garage. Garage as an accessory to a single family residence.
- Stable. Stable must be an accessory to a single family residence.
Uses Which Require a Variance
Any use not listed above requires a Variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Those uses include:
- Semi-detached property
- Attached property
- Duplex dwelling
- Multi-family dwelling
- Multiple buildings per lot
- Non-residential use
Size Restrictions
- Minimum lot width: 75 feet wide
- Minimum lot area: 10,000 sq. feet
- Minimum open area of lot: 65 percent
- Minimum set-back (minimum front yard depth): 35 feet deep
- Minimum side yard: 15 feet wide on each side
- Minimum side yard on corner lots: 15 feet wide
- Minimum rear yard depth: 30 feet deep
- Maximum height: 35 feet tall
- Maximum number of stories for residential buildings: 3
Signs
- “For sale” or “for rent” signs can only be displayed for one year. The total area of “for sale” or “for rent” signs cannot exceed 12 square feet for each 50 feet of street lines of the lot. No matter how large the lot, the total area of “for sale” or “for rent” signs cannot exceed 300 square feet.
- Signs cannot be above the roof line or in the yard.
- Signs can be illuminated by interior lighting or lighting directed toward the sign if there is no glare on adjacent lots. Signs cannot be illuminated by flashing, animated or intermittent illumination.
If you have any questions or would like to speak with an attorney, visit our contact page. Otherwise, once you have determined which documentation you need for your proposed use, please proceed to step 3.