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Zoning Guide

Derby Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Derby Planning & Zoning Commission(203) 736-1450
Building Code Edition
2022 Connecticut State Building Code (based on 2021 IBC as amended)
ADUs Allowed
No
Primary District
R-1 — Residential
Max Height
35 ft

Derby Zoning Overview

Derby is a city in New Haven County, Connecticut with a population of approximately 12,325 (2020 Census). The city manages land use through its zoning regulations, available on eCode360 and administered by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Derby's zoning code includes residential districts (R-1 through R-6, R-M), business districts (B-1, B-2), industrial zones (I-1, I-C), and several special districts for downtown redevelopment and institutional uses.

Key Zoning Districts

Residential Districts

  • R-1 — Large lot residential (private sewage capable)
  • R-2 — Residential
  • R-3 — Urban residential (single/two-family)
  • R-4 / R-5 / R-6 — Higher-density residential
  • R-M — Residential Multiple (multi-family)
  • CR — Center Residence

Business Districts

  • B-1 — Business
  • B-2 — Business
  • CDD — Center Design Development (downtown redevelopment)

Industrial and Special Districts

  • I-1 — Industrial (moderate intensity, non-nuisance)
  • I-C — Industrial Campus
  • MDD — Mill Design District
  • HC — Hospital/Campus
  • OS — Open Space
  • P — Public and Semi-Public

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Under Connecticut PA 21-29, Derby is required to allow accessory dwelling units. Contact the Planning & Zoning Commission at (203) 736-1450 for specific local ADU regulations.

Development Process

  1. Zoning Verification — Review the zoning map or contact City Hall at (203) 736-1450
  2. Application Submission — Submit required applications to the Planning & Zoning Commission
  3. Public Hearing — Required for special permits, variances, and zone changes
  4. Building Permit — Obtain from the Building Department
  5. Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction

Key Considerations

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Derby and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Derby Planning & Zoning Commission at (203) 736-1450 before making development decisions.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Derby

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Connecticut

  • Building Code: 2022 Connecticut State Building Code (based on 2021 IBC as amended)
  • State ADU Override: Yes (Connecticut PA 21-29)
View Connecticut zoning overview

County — New Haven County

  • Role: County-level geographic reference; Connecticut has no county government.

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 and deed restrictions for additional requirements.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Residential
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
R-2Residential
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
R-3Residential
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
R-MResidential Multiple
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
Varies
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
B-1Business
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
Varies
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
CDDCenter Design Development
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
Varies
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies
I-1Industrial
Min Lot
Varies
Max Height
Varies
Front Setback
Varies
Side Setback
Varies
Rear Setback
Varies

ADU Rules in Derby

ADUs:Not Allowed

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Derby are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Derby permit fees →

Official Sources

City of Derby Planning & Zoningderbyct.govOfficial sourceDerby Zoning Regulations (eCode360)ecode360.comOfficial sourceDerby Zoning Map (2021 PDF)derbyct.govOfficial source

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the zoning for my property in Derby?
Review the Derby zoning map (PDF) on the city website at derbyct.gov/planning-zoning or contact City Hall at (203) 736-1450.
What building code does Derby follow?
Derby follows the Connecticut State Building Code, based on the International Building Code as amended by the state.
Can I build an ADU in Derby?
Under Connecticut PA 21-29, municipalities must allow accessory dwelling units. Contact the Planning & Zoning Commission at (203) 736-1450 for local requirements.