Code Section: 261.1

Subject: Additional Height Limits for Narrow Streets and Alleys

Effective Date: 3/21

Interpretation:

   This Section regulates development patterns and setbacks for properties abutting narrow streets. The Code diagram represents a scenario where the street/alley is an improved right-of-way that is generally flat and running perpendicular to the subject property line. A question arose in a case where the street/alley is unimproved and sloped in multiple directions. This interpretation clarifies that:

-   Where the street or alley is unimproved, the base datum for measurement of the 45-degree angle will be taken literally directly opposite of the subject property line, at a distance that corresponds with where the opposite property line begins, but at the same elevation as the point taken from the subject property, as though it were a level, improved right-of-way;

-   Where a property subject to this provision has a laterally sloping frontage, the base datum measurement shall follow the same provisions for measuring height on laterally sloping lots as described in Section 260(a)(3), except that these provisions will apply even in height districts above 65 feet.