Guide to the R-7.5(A) Single Family District in Dallas
The R-7.5(A) Single Family District is a primary residential classification in Dallas intended for single-family homes on lots of at least 7,500 square feet. This district maintains the environmental quality of Dallas neighborhoods by limiting development to low-density housing supported by essential community services like schools, churches, and public parks [Section 51A-4.112].
Purpose and District Character
The Dallas Development Code establishes the R-7.5(A) Single Family District to preserve and protect existing single-family residential developments while providing a proper zoning classification for large areas of undeveloped land suitable for residential use [Section 51A-4.112]. The district is characterized by mid-sized lots and is intended to function as a basic neighborhood unit, integrating residential living with necessary institutional and community services [Section 51A-4.112].
The Dallas Development Code specifically limits the R-7.5(A) Single Family District to single-family dwellings, prohibiting denser residential types like duplexes or multifamily units to ensure the neighborhood's low-density character [Section 51A-4.112].
Permitted Main Land Uses
Land use in the R-7.5(A) Single Family District is strictly regulated by the Municipality of Dallas. Uses are categorized as permitted by right or requiring a Specific Use Permit (SUP).
Residential and Institutional Uses
- Residential: Single-family living is the primary use permitted by right. Handicapped group dwelling units are also permitted under specific conditions [Section 51A-4.209].
- Institutional: Churches and public parks are permitted by right. Many other community services, such as private schools, libraries, museums, and foster homes, require an SUP [Section 51A-4.112].
- Utilities: Local utilities are permitted by right, but large-scale installations like electrical substations or radio towers require an SUP [Section 51A-4.212].
Prohibited and Restricted Uses
The R-7.5(A) Single Family District prohibits nearly all commercial, retail, lodging, and industrial uses. Limited exceptions, such as crop production, are permitted to maintain the character of fringe or undeveloped areas [Section 51A-4.112].
Development Standards
The R-7.5(A) Single Family District must adhere to specific yard, lot, and space regulations to maintain uniform density and open space across Dallas neighborhoods.
| Category | R-7.5(A) Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Lot Area | 7,500 square feet |
| Minimum Front Yard | 30 feet |
| Minimum Side Yard (Single Family) | 5 feet |
| Minimum Side Yard (Other Structures) | 10 feet |
| Minimum Rear Yard (Single Family) | 5 feet |
| Minimum Rear Yard (Other Structures) | 15 feet |
| Maximum Structure Height | 30 feet |
| Maximum Lot Coverage (Residential) | 45 percent |
| Maximum Lot Coverage (Non-residential) | 25 percent |
[Source: Section 51A-4.112 and Section 51A-4.410]
Accessory Use Restrictions
In the R-7.5(A) Single Family District, accessory uses must be customarily incidental to the main residential use and are subject to the following Dallas-specific prohibitions:
- Accessory helistops are prohibited.
- Accessory medical/infectious waste incinerators and pathological waste incinerators are prohibited.
- Accessory outside display or sales of merchandise are prohibited.
- Private accessory community centers require a Specific Use Permit [Section 51A-4.112].
Parking and Utility Requirements
Dallas requires the R-7.5(A) Single Family District to provide off-street parking for residents.
| Use Category | Required Parking Spaces |
|---|---|
| Single-Family Living | 1 space per dwelling unit |
[Source: Section 51A-4.301, Table 1.0.1]
Additionally, residential lots in this district are generally limited to one electrical utility service and one electrical meter. The Dallas Board of Adjustment may grant a special exception for additional service if it finds the request is not contrary to the public interest and does not adversely affect neighboring properties [Section 51A-4.112].
Sections Cited
- Sec. 51A-4.101. New zoning districts established.
- Sec. 51A-4.112. Single family districts.
- Sec. 51A-4.204. Institutional and community service uses.
- Sec. 51A-4.209. Residential uses.
- Sec. 51A-4.211. Transportation uses.
- Sec. 51A-4.212. Utility and public service uses.
- Sec. 51A-4.301. Off-street parking regulations.
- Sec. 51A-4.410. Schedule of yard, lot, and space regulations.