Southaven Zoning Overview

Southaven (population 55,026 — 2020 Census) is the largest city in DeSoto County, Mississippi, and the third-largest city in the state. Located directly south of Memphis, Tennessee, Southaven serves as a major suburb in the Memphis metropolitan area. The city manages land use through its zoning ordinance found in the Code of Ordinances on Municode. The Planning Department administers the zoning code.

Key Zoning Districts

Southaven's zoning code establishes residential districts including R-1 (Single-Family Residential, 10,000 sq ft minimum lots), R-2 (Two-Family, 7,500 sq ft minimum), and R-3 (Multi-Family, 6,000 sq ft minimum). Commercial districts include C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial), C-2 (General Commercial), and C-3 (Highway Commercial). Industrial districts include I-1 (Light Industrial) and I-2 (Heavy Industrial).

Setbacks in residential zones range from 25–30 ft (front), 7–10 ft (side), and 20–25 ft (rear), depending on the district. Maximum building height is 35 ft in the R-1 and R-2 districts and 45 ft in the R-3 multi-family district.

Note: Specific dimensional standards should be verified directly in the Southaven Code of Ordinances on Municode, as amendments may have occurred.

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Rules

Southaven does not appear to have a dedicated ADU ordinance. Mississippi has no state-level ADU mandate. The zoning code addresses accessory buildings and accessory uses, but a specific provision for independent accessory dwelling units has not been confirmed. Contact the Planning Department at (662) 393-5002 for current policy.

Development Process

1. Zoning Verification — Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
2. Site Plan Review — For commercial and multi-family projects, submit a site plan for review
3. Building Permit — Apply for a building permit with construction documents
4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction
5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

Key Considerations

• Verify the zoning classification by contacting the Planning Department
• Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements in the municipal code
• Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
• Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
• Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
• Contact the Planning Department at (662) 393-5002 for pre-application guidance

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