What are the required lot sizes and setbacks?

Required lot sizes and setbacks vary depending on the zoning district of the property. First, you will need to determine the zoning district for the property in question (see item #5 in this FAQ). Next, you can locate requirements for the applicable zoning district in Article VII of the Linn County Unified Development Code.  

A setback is defined by the Unified Development Code as “the minimum horizontal distance between a lot line and a building or structure located upon such lot required by the provisions of this chapter.” In order to know the distances from the proposed structure or addition to the lot lines, you will need to determine where the relevant property lines are located. If your property has been surveyed or is a platted lot, survey pins should be located at the corners of your property. If there are no property pins, or you are unsure of their location, these Tips for Locating Your Property Lines may be of assistance. There may also be easements located on the property that may have restrictions.


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1. What permits are required to build a house in Linn County?
2. What is the "farm exemption" and what qualifies for the exemption?
3. Is there a deadline for submitting my application for next month's agenda?
4. Where do I obtain agendas for Linn County zoning meetings?
5. How do I find out what the current zoning is for a certain property in Linn County?
6. Can I operate a business from my home in Linn County?
7. What are the required lot sizes and setbacks?
8. What is the status of my Linn County zoning case?
9. My property is subject to deed restrictions (covenants). What are they and does Linn County enforce them?
10. What do I need to do to divide my property in rural Linn County?
11. Can I separate the original farmhouse from the farm?
12. How can I find out if my property has a mapped FEMA floodplain on it?
13. How do I get an elevation certificate for my house or proof that my house is not located in a floodplain?