Torrington Zoning Overview

Torrington is a city in Litchfield County, Connecticut with a population of approximately 35,515 (2020 Census). The city manages land use through Chapter 200 (Zoning) of its Code of Ordinances, administered by the Land Use Department and the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Torrington's zoning code includes a range of residential zones from watershed protection (R-WP) to general residence (R-6), along with commercial, industrial, and special districts like the Downtown District and Incentive Housing Zone.

Key Zoning Districts

Residential Districts

• R-WP — Watershed Protection Zone (very low density)
• R-60 — Outlying Residence Zone (60,000 sq ft minimum lot)
• R-40 — Outlying Residence Zone (40,000 sq ft minimum lot)
• R-25 — Residence Zone (25,000 sq ft minimum lot)
• R-15 / R-15s — Residence Zone / Single Family Residence Zone (15,000 sq ft)
• R-10 / R-10s — Residence Zone / Single Family Residence Zone (10,000 sq ft)
• R-6 — General Residence Zone (6,000 sq ft, higher density)
• RRC — Restricted Residential Community

Commercial and Industrial Districts

• LB — Local Business Zone
• CIR — Restricted Commercial & Industrial Zone
• I — Industrial Zone
• IP — Industrial Park Zone
• DD — Downtown District Zone (mixed-use downtown)

Special Districts

• IH — Incentive Housing Zone (overlay encouraging housing development)

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Under Connecticut PA 21-29, Torrington is required to allow accessory dwelling units. Contact the Land Use Department at (860) 489-2221 for specific local ADU regulations.

Development Process

1. Zoning Verification — Check your property's zoning using the GIS interactive map or contact Land Use at (860) 489-2221
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

• Torrington updated its Zone Map effective December 23, 2025 — downloadable from the city's map page
• The Incentive Housing Zone (IH) provides density bonuses for housing development
• The R-WP (Watershed Protection) zone has strict development limitations to protect water resources
• Verify flood zone status using FEMA's Flood Map Service

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Torrington and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Torrington Land Use Department at (860) 489-2221 before making development decisions.