Dallas R-5(A) Single Family District (5,000 Square Feet) Regulations
The Dallas R-5(A) District is a residential zoning classification that requires a minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet and limits structure height to 30 feet. This district is primarily characterized by single-family dwellings with a maximum lot coverage of 45 percent and a 20-foot front yard setback. While primarily residential, the Dallas R-5(A) District permits various institutional and utility uses, often requiring a Specific Use Permit (SUP).
Purpose of the Dallas R-5(A) District
The Dallas R-5(A) District is intended to create single-family dwelling areas appropriate for moderate-value housing development. The municipality designed this classification to ensure a reasonable standard of light, air, and similar living amenities for its residents [Section 51A-4.112(g)(1)]. This district is typically implemented through amendments in specific areas where higher density single-family residence development is suitable due to existing infrastructure or where the redevelopment of substandard areas is desired at an increased density [Section 51A-4.112(g)(1)].
Permitted Land Uses
Uses in the Dallas R-5(A) District are categorized by their level of permission: those allowed by right, those requiring a Specific Use Permit (SUP), and those requiring Residential Adjacency Review (RAR).
Residential and Recreational Uses
- By Right: Single-family dwellings and public parks, playgrounds, or golf courses [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
- By SUP: College dormitories, fraternities, or sorority houses; handicapped group dwelling units; private recreation centers, clubs, or areas; and country clubs with private membership [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
Institutional and Community Service Uses
- By Right: Child or adult care facilities and churches [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
- By SUP: Cemeteries or mausoleums; colleges, universities, or seminaries; community service centers; convalescent and nursing homes; convents or monasteries; foster homes; hospitals; libraries, art galleries, or museums; and public or private schools [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
Utility and Transportation Uses
- By Right: Transit passenger shelters and certain tower/antenna for cellular communication [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
- By SUP: Electrical substations; police or fire stations; radio, television, or microwave towers; refuse transfer stations; sanitary landfills; sewage treatment plants; and water treatment plants [Section 51A-4.112(g)(2)].
Yard, Lot, and Space Regulations
The Dallas municipality enforces specific dimensional requirements to maintain the "moderate density" character of the R-5(A) District.
| Regulation Type | Requirement for Single Family | Requirement for Other Permitted Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Front Yard | 20 feet | 20 feet |
| Minimum Side Yard | 5 feet | 10 feet |
| Minimum Rear Yard | 5 feet | 10 feet |
| Maximum Height | 30 feet | 30 feet |
| Maximum Lot Coverage | 45 percent | 25 percent |
| Minimum Lot Size | 5,000 square feet | No minimum |
| Maximum Stories | No maximum | No maximum |
[Section 51A-4.112(g)(4)]
General Character and Additional Provisions
The Dallas R-5(A) District is strictly regulated to remain a quiet, low-rise residential environment.
Electrical Service Limits
To preserve the single-family nature of the neighborhood, a lot for a single-family use in the Dallas R-5(A) District may be supplied by no more than one electrical utility service and metered by no more than one electrical meter. The board of adjustment may grant a special exception for additional meters only if it finds the exception is not contrary to the public interest and will not adversely affect neighboring properties [Section 51A-4.112(g)(8)(A)].
Parking Requirements
The Dallas municipality mandates minimum off-street parking to prevent street congestion within the R-5(A) District.
| Use Category | Required Number of Spaces |
|---|---|
| Single-Family Dwelling | 1 space per unit |
| Handicapped Group Dwelling | No minimum listed |
| Institutional Uses | Generally no parking required unless specifically listed |
[Section 51A-4.301, Table 1.0.1]
Accessory Structures
Accessory uses are generally permitted in the Dallas R-5(A) District if they are customarily incidental to the main use. However, certain structures like accessory helistops, medical waste incinerators, or outside display/sales of merchandise are expressly prohibited in this district [Section 51A-4.112(g)(3)].
Sections Cited
- Section 51A-4.112
- Section 51A-4.212
- Section 51A-4.301
- Section 51A-7.403