Newark Zoning Overview

Newark is a city in New Castle County, Delaware, with a population of approximately 30,600. It is home to the University of Delaware, which has a significant influence on the city's land use patterns, housing market, and zoning framework. Newark's zoning and land use regulations are administered by the City of Newark Planning & Development Department.

• Planning & Development Department: newarkde.gov/59/Planning-and-Development
• Phone: (302) 366-7000
• Address: 220 S Main Street, Newark, DE 19711
• Zoning Map: Interactive ArcGIS viewer
• Municipal Code (Chapter 32 — Zoning): Municode

Zoning Districts

Newark's zoning code (Chapter 32) divides the city into residential, business, industrial, and special-purpose districts. Key residential districts include RE (Residential Estate), RS (Residential Suburban), RD (Residential District), RH (Residential High), and RT (Residential Townhouse). Commercial districts range from BB (Business Block) and BN (Business Neighborhood) to BC (Business Community) and BL/BLR (Business Limited). Industrial land is designated MI (Manufacturing/Industrial), with a MOR (Mixed Office/Research) district for office and research uses.

Two districts reflect Newark's university character: the UN (University) district covers the University of Delaware campus, and the STC (Student Transition Corridor) manages the interface between campus and established neighborhoods. The PL (Parkland) and SFHA (Special Flood Hazard Area) designations apply to parks and flood-prone areas respectively.

Note on setbacks: Dimensional standards — including minimum lot sizes, setbacks, and height limits — for each district are set out in § 32-56 of the Newark Code of Ordinances. For the RS district, the rear yard minimum is 30 ft (§ 32-56.2(e)). Contact Planning & Development at (302) 366-7000 to confirm setback requirements for your property and district.

ADU Rules

No formal citywide by-right accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance has been confirmed for Newark. However, Delaware SB 23 (effective April 1, 2024) limits the ability of local governments to prohibit ADUs outright, which may affect how Newark's code is applied. Contact the Newark Planning & Development Department at (302) 366-7000 for the most current ADU rules in your specific zoning district before planning any ADU project.

Development Process

Development in Newark generally requires:

1. Zoning Verification — Confirm your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district using the interactive zoning map or by contacting Planning & Development at (302) 366-7000
2. Site Plan Review — Required for commercial, multi-family, and larger development projects
3. Building Permit — Submit construction documents to the Planning & Development Department
4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections at each phase of construction
5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

Variances, special use permits, and rezonings are reviewed by the Newark Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment.

Key Considerations

• Verify your property's zoning district using the ArcGIS zoning map before planning any project
• Properties in the SFHA (Special Flood Hazard Area) overlay are subject to additional floodplain development standards — check FEMA's flood map service
• The University of Delaware's presence creates unique zoning dynamics, particularly in the STC district near campus
• HOA covenants and deed restrictions may impose requirements beyond city zoning
• Delaware SB 23 (2024) may affect ADU eligibility — contact the planning department for current guidance

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Newark, Delaware and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations directly with the Newark Planning & Development Department or the municipal code before making development decisions.