Definition and Examples of Zero Lot Line Homes
Do I need a zero lot line home?
Alternatives to Zero Lot Line Homes
Advantages and Disadvantages of Zero Lot Line Homes
Definition and Examples of Zero Lot Line Homes
A zero lot line home is a house that efficiently utilizes land space by placing it directly on the edge of its property boundaries. This type of home can be built for a variety of reasons, the most significant of which is that it allows for more homes to be built on a given piece of land. Depending on local regulations, your home may even be built over more than one property boundary.
Alternative name: Single-family home, Cluster home, Patio home
Do I need a zero lot line home?
There are many things to consider when moving to a new home. Space, location, and size are all important, especially when you have a family.
Let’s say you and your spouse and your two children are looking for a new place to live. You already live in a big city, but your growing family needs more space to expand. Unfortunately, your job can’t accommodate your needs elsewhere – you still have to come to work and can’t be relocated. A zero lot line home might be a good option for you; these homes focus on maximizing space in areas where land is scarce and can be more expensive than traditional family homes.
Note: Zero lot line homes come in various forms, including single-family homes, townhouses, duplexes, and “patio homes.”
Alternatives to Zero Lot Line Homes
While a zero lot line home may be a good option in some cases, it may not be right for you. Fortunately, there is a wide range of other homes that can meet your needs.
If cost is an issue, you might want to consider choosing an apartment or condominium instead of a zero lot line home, although you will face less privacy when sharing walls.
If you are looking for outdoor space, searching for a single-family home may be a good choice. Most homes come with a certain amount of yard space, and depending on the location, zoning laws may limit lot sizes without a minimum.
Note: In San Diego, California, zoning boxes are designated, which dictate not only permitted uses but also lot size, density, height, building types, animal regulations, and other requirements.
Regardless of your needs, there are many alternatives to homes – whether you are looking in urban or rural areas.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Zero Lot Line Homes
Advantages:
– Provide affordable housing in expensive areas
– Provide home space, both interior and exterior
Disadvantages:
– Offer less privacy compared to traditional homes
– Not available everywhere
Advantages of zero lot line homes explained:
– Provide affordable housing in expensive areas: Zero lot line homes are built for various reasons, but the main one is usually cost. Small lot sizes allow for less expensive homes to be built.
– Provide home space, both interior and exterior: Allowing the home to be built to the property line means your home can be larger than a home that has deeper setbacks on the same size lot. Also, placing the home on the edge of one property can increase the usable outdoor space; having 10 feet of yard on one side of the property is often more usable than 5 feet on both sides.
Disadvantages of zero lot line homes explained:
– Offer less privacy compared to traditional homes: Because zero lot line homes are located very close to property lines, you may experience a lack of privacy when living in them. This could be due to shared walls between homes or simply having exterior walls very close to other homes.
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Not available everywhere: Zero lot line homes may not be available everywhere. Local regulations will determine that. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is the maximum square footage your home can have based on your land size; local regulations may restrict the FAR of your home.
Key takeaway:
– Zero lot line homes are built on one boundary of the land or close to it.
– Homes built on or near the boundaries can provide access to affordable housing when land space is scarce.
– Homeowners in developments built on land boundaries may not enjoy the same level of privacy due to the lack of space between structures.
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Sources:
– Ron A. Brown. “Zero Lot Line Housing: The Right Direction?” Journal of Architectural and Planning Research, Vol. 8, No. 1. Accessed Aug. 3, 2021.
– County of San Diego, Planning & Development Services. “Zoning Ordinance Summary,” Pages 2-3. Accessed Aug. 3, 2021.
– Spokane Municipal Code. “Land Use Standards.” Accessed Aug. 3, 2021.
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/what-is-a-zero-lot-line-house-5195683
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