What are the setback requirements in Ferndale's R-1 and R-2 districts?

R-1 and R-2 use identical numbers (Section 2.06):

• Front. 15 feet minimum, but a contextual averaging rule controls on built-out blocks and can require more or less, including less than 15 feet (Section 2.06 footnote D).
• Sides. 5 feet each.
• Rear. 30 feet for a one-unit dwelling, 20 feet for two- to four-unit and multiple-unit dwellings.

The contextual rule deserves attention. Where 50 percent or more of the block frontage is built, your front setback must land within plus or minus 5 feet of the average of the five adjacent lots in each direction, dropping the greatest and least. On Ferndale's older blocks, that average often sits near or below 15 feet.

Accessory structures follow their own setbacks: 5 feet side and rear, or 3 feet if fire-rated (Section 3.02). Porches and decks get projection allowances under Section 3.03. Confirm your block's averaged setback with the city at 248-336-4370.