Homeowner guide

The rules homeowners ask about most, for each jurisdiction we cover in the Washington, DC area: what needs no permit, how tall a fence can be, where an AC unit or pool can go, whether you can keep hens, run a business or rent your basement, and what changes in a floodplain, Resource Protection Area or historic district.

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.