Auburn Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Auburn Zoning Overview
Auburn, home to Auburn University, balances university-driven growth with neighborhood preservation. The citys planning department manages development pressures from one of the nations fastest-growing metropolitan areas. Auburns zoning has evolved to address student housing demand while maintaining the character of established residential areas.
Key Zoning Districts
Auburns zoning code features residential districts (R-1 through R-4), campus influence districts, commercial districts (C-1 through C-3), and mixed-use districts. The Comprehensive Development District allows flexible planned developments.
ADU Regulations
Auburn permits ADUs in certain residential zones. The university presence creates significant demand for secondary housing units. Local regulations govern all ADU standards.
Development Process
Permits are processed through the Planning Department and Building Inspections. The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment review discretionary applications.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Auburn
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Lee County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 10,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 30 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Auburn
- Max Size
- 800 sq ft
- Max Height
- 25 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- 1 off-street space required
- Owner Occupancy
- Required
- Permit Timeline
- 30-60 days
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Auburn are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Auburn permit fees →