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Height limits in Alexandria, VA

Building codes decide when you need a permit; zoning decides how tall you can go. Both are below, measured the way Alexandria measures them.

Rules last checked by a person on October 20, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Alexandria before you build.

Citywide

Shed: Front yardNot allowed
Garage: Side and rear setback1 ft (3 ft if the facing wall has windows or doors)
ADU: Detached height20 ft or the house's height, whichever is less
Fence: Front yard4 ft max, open fences only
Fence: Side and rear yards6 ft max (10 ft next to a nonresidential use)

Check your lot

What are you building?

Sources

  1. Virginia USBC, 13VAC5-63-80 Section 108.2, Exemptions from application for permit. Checked 2026-10-20.
    2. One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet... 5. Fences of any height unless required for pedestrian safety as provided for by Section 3306 or used…
  2. 44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
    Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
  3. 44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
    Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...
  4. City of Alexandria Zoning Ordinance § 7-103, accessory building limitations (Municode, Supp. 103). Checked 2026-10-20.
    (B) No accessory building, use or structure shall be located in a required front, rear, or side yard, except as provided in section 7-202... (E) Outside of the Old and Historic Alexandria and the Parker-Gray Districts, if a principal dwelling on an abutting…
  5. 2024 IRC R105.2, Work exempt from permit (text published by the City of Benson, AZ). Checked 2026-10-19.
    One-story detached accessory structures, provided that the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet. Fences not over 7 feet high. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, that are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a…