R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District: Dallas Zoning Overview

The R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District in Dallas is designed for low-density residential areas with a minimum lot size requirement of one-half acre (21,780 square feet). This Dallas development zone limits structure heights to 36 feet and requires a substantial 40-foot front yard setback to maintain the character of estate-style building sites [Section 51A-4.112(b)].

Purpose and General Character

The primary purpose of the R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District is to conserve the character and value of buildings and building sites in areas of Dallas currently featuring estate-type densities. The Dallas Development Code intends for this district to provide a gradual expansion of residential development in accordance with a comprehensive plan, ensuring that these sections remain limited in area and are not subject to major future alterations. The general character is defined by single-family dwellings accompanied by supporting community infrastructure such as public and private schools, churches, and park areas [Section 51A-4.112(b)(1)].

Permitted Land Uses

Land uses in the R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District are primarily restricted to residential and institutional activities. Many non-residential uses require a Specific Use Permit (SUP) to ensure compatibility with the surrounding Dallas neighborhood.

Residential and Recreation Uses

Single-Family Living: Permitted by right as the primary use.
Handicapped Group Dwelling Unit: Permitted by right [Section 51A-4.209(3.1)].
Public Parks and Open Space: Public parks, playgrounds, and golf courses are permitted by right.
Private Clubs/Recreation: Country clubs and private recreation centers require an SUP [Section 51A-4.112(b)(2)].

Institutional and Community Service Uses

Churches: Permitted by right.
Child Care: Child or adult care facilities are permitted by right if they meet specific criteria or by SUP [Section 51A-4.204(3)].
Schools: Public or private schools require an SUP.
Other Institutional: Libraries, museums, hospitals, and foster homes require an SUP [Section 51A-4.112(b)(2)].

Utility and Transportation Uses

Local Utilities: Permitted by right, though some configurations may require an SUP or Residential Adjacency Review (RAR).
Transit: Transit passenger shelters are permitted by right; stations or transfer centers require an SUP.
Emergency Services: Police or fire stations require an SUP [Section 51A-4.112(b)(2)].

Development Standards

The R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District enforces specific "Yard, Lot, and Space" regulations to maintain low-density standards across the City of Dallas.

Standard	Requirement
Minimum Lot Area	One-half acre (21,780 sq. ft.)
Maximum Structure Height	36 feet
Minimum Front Yard Setback	40 feet
Minimum Side Yard Setback	10 feet (Residential) / 20 feet (Other)
Minimum Rear Yard Setback	10 feet (Residential) / 20 feet (Other)
Maximum Lot Coverage	40% (Residential) / 25% (Non-residential)
Maximum Number of Stories	No maximum (subject to height limit)

[Section 51A-4.112(b)(4)]

Parking and Accessory Use Regulations

The Dallas Development Code requires at least one off-street parking space for each single-family dwelling in the R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District [Section 51A-4.301, Table 1.0.1]. All off-street parking must be provided at or below ground level [Section 51A-4.112(b)(5)].

Regarding accessory uses, the R-1/2ac(A) Single Family District allows for those customarily incidental to the main use, with the following notable restrictions:

Not Permitted: Accessory helistops, medical/infectious waste incinerators, and outside sales or display of merchandise are strictly prohibited.
SUP Required: Private accessory community centers require a Specific Use Permit.
Utility Restrictions: Single-family lots in this district are generally limited to one electrical utility service and one electrical meter [Section 51A-4.112(b)(3) and (8)].

Sections Cited

Sec. 51A-4.112. Single Family Districts
Sec. 51A-4.101. New Zoning Districts Established
Sec. 51A-4.204. Institutional and Community Service Uses
Sec. 51A-4.209. Residential Uses
Sec. 51A-4.301. Off-Street Parking Regulations