What is a setback?

A setback is the minimum distance a building must be kept from property lines, streets, or other features, set by local zoning rules.

Setbacks control how close you can build to the front, sides, and rear of a lot. They're a zoning requirement — separate from the building code — enforced by the local jurisdiction.

Always check setbacks (and easements) before siting a structure or addition; they can limit where and how big you can build.