Memphis Setback and Sideyard Rules for Permits

Land Use and Zoning Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Memphis, Tennessee, setbacks and sideyard rules shape where you can build on a lot and are enforced as part of the citys zoning and permitting system. Before applying for a building permit, property owners and contractors must verify zoning district standards, minimum front/rear/side setbacks, and any overlay or historic-district conditions that change where structures may be located. Setback rules are contained in the local Unified Development Code and enforced by city planning and code enforcement staff; read the controlling code and follow permit steps closely to avoid stop-work orders or fines. This guidance reflects official sources current as of February 2026.

Check your lots zoning and exact lot lines before designing additions or fences.

Basic setback and sideyard principles

Setbacks are minimum distances between buildings and property lines. Sideyards are the setbacks measured along side property lines and often differ from front and rear setbacks. Typical rules address:

  • Building placement and envelope limits that control where the main structure can be sited.
  • Separate standards for accessory structures, porches, and carports.
  • Different standards in residential, commercial, and historic overlay zones.

Find the detailed zoning tables and measurement diagrams in the Unified Development Code (UDC). Unified Development Code (UDC)[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement typically falls to the City of Memphis Division of Planning & Development and the Office of Construction Code Enforcement; they may inspect, issue notices of violation, and require corrective action. Exact monetary fines, escalation amounts, and schedules are not specified on the cited UDC page and are not itemized on the cited enforcement overview page, so specific dollar amounts should be confirmed with the enforcing office.

If you receive a notice of violation, follow appeal and correction instructions immediately to avoid escalation.
  • Enforcers: Division of Planning & Development and Code Enforcement with inspection authority.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited pages; refer to the enforcing office for current penalty amounts and schedules.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited pages and may vary by case.
  • Complaint and inspection requests: contact the city Planning or Code Enforcement office directly for site investigation and case opening.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to remove or relocate structures, court actions, and liens are possible remedies.

Applications & Forms

Variances, special exceptions, and permit applications are processed through city permitting and the Board of Adjustment or equivalent review body. Specific form names, numbers, and fees are not consistently published in a single place on the cited pages; applicants should use the official permit portal and Planning Division contacts to obtain current forms and fee schedules. See the Building Permits guidance and Planning Division contacts for application procedures and submission methods. Building Permits & Code Enforcement[2] Division of Planning & Development[3]

Common violations

  • Building or addition constructed inside required sideyard setback without a variance.
  • Accessory structures (sheds, garages) located too close to side property lines.
  • Fences or walls exceeding allowable height in required setback areas.

FAQ

What is a sideyard setback?
A sideyard setback is the required minimum horizontal distance between a building and a side property line.
Do I need a permit for a small shed?
Many accessory structures require permits if they exceed size or height thresholds; check the UDC and the Building Permits guidance for thresholds and exemptions.
How do I apply for a variance?
Apply through the Planning Division or Board of Adjustment procedures; contact the Division of Planning & Development for the current variance application and filing deadlines.

How-To

  1. Confirm your parcel zoning and applicable overlays in the UDC and local zoning maps.
  2. Measure existing buildings and property lines to determine required setbacks.
  3. Use the city permit portal or Planning Division to submit a permit application or variance request with required plans and fees.
  4. If you receive a notice of violation, follow instructions, pay fines (if any), or file an appeal within the stated time limits provided on the enforcement notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Setbacks and sideyards are zoning requirements documented in the UDC that affect building placement.
  • Obtain permits and, if necessary, variances before starting work to avoid enforcement actions.
  • Contact Planning or Code Enforcement early for forms, fees, and official guidance.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Unified Development Code (City of Memphis / Municode)
  2. [2] City of Memphis Code Enforcement  Building Permits
  3. [3] City of Memphis Division of Planning & Development

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