Bentonville R-C3 Central Residential High Density Setback Requirements
In the Bentonville R-C3: Central Residential - High Density district, front setbacks are generally established at 0 feet for most residential types, with the exception of townhome structures which require 10 feet. Interior side setbacks are also frequently 0 feet, while rear setbacks typically range between 7 and 10 feet depending on the specific building type. Special regulations in the Bentonville code require significantly deeper setbacks for garages, ranging from 20 to 30 feet to ensure adequate vehicle maneuvering and aesthetic preservation.
Minimum Setback Standards for the R-C3 District
The City of Bentonville establishes specific setback standards for the R-C3: Central Residential - High Density district based on the type of building being constructed. These measurements represent the required horizontal distance between a structure's foundation and the property or right-of-way line [Section 401.03(d)].
| Building Type | Front Setback | Interior Side Setback | Exterior Side Setback | Rear Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-family | 0 feet | 0 feet | 5 feet | 7 feet |
| Two-family | 0 feet | 0 feet | 5 feet | 7 feet |
| Townhome structure | 10 feet | 0 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
| Multi-family | 0 feet | 0 feet | 10 feet | 7 feet |
| All others not listed | 0 feet | 7 feet | 5 feet | 7 feet |
[Section 401.07(c)(1)]
Garage Setback Requirements
The City of Bentonville applies additional, more restrictive setback requirements for garages within the R-C3: Central Residential - High Density district to manage the visual impact and safety of vehicle storage.
- Street-Facing Garages: These must maintain a minimum front setback of 30 feet from the property line the garage faces [Section 401.07(c)(3)(a)].
- Side or Rear-Loading Garages: These require a minimum front setback of 20 feet from the front property line [Section 401.07(c)(3)(b)].
- Alley Access: Within the Bentonville R-C3 district, if a rear alley or private drive is platted or exists, a rear-loading garage is mandatory.
- Recessing Requirements: If no alley exists and a front-loading garage is used, it must be pushed toward the rear lot line and recessed at least 6 feet from the front façade of the building [Section 401.07(c)(3)(c)].
Permitted Setback Encroachments
Bentonville allows certain architectural features to extend into the required setbacks for the R-C3: Central Residential - High Density district. These features are subject to specific limitations to prevent obstructions [Section 401.04(h)].
| Feature | Allowed Encroachment |
|---|---|
| Eaves, sills, or cornices | Up to 18 inches into any required setback. |
| Bay windows or chimneys | Up to 2 feet into any required setback (must remain 3 feet from side/rear lines). |
| Steps (at grade) | Up to 2 feet into any required setback (must remain 3 feet from side/rear lines). |
| Open porches or decks | Up to 12 feet from the front line; up to 5 feet from side/rear lines (if 30" or less above grade). |
[Section 401.04(h)]
Additional Location and Buffer Rules
The Bentonville Zoning Code specifies that if a utility easement extends beyond a required setback, the edge of that easement effectively becomes the minimum setback line [Section 401.07(c)(4)]. Furthermore, in the R-C3: Central Residential - High Density district, off-street parking lots are required to be located at the rear or side of the primary building rather than in the front yard [Section 501.03(c)].
Sections Cited
- Section 401.03 Calculations And Measurements
- Section 401.04 Application Of Zoning District Regulations
- Section 401.07 Residential (R) Districts Regulations
- Section 501.03 Location Of Off-Street Parking