setback line

[ˈsetˌbæk ˌlaɪn]
nounpl: setback lines
linha de recuo
1. A line established by zoning or building regulations that requires buildings to be set back a certain distance from the property line or street edge
The setback line on this property requires the building to be at least 25 feet from the street.
A linha de recuo nesta propriedade exige que o edifício fique a pelo menos 25 metros da rua.
2. In urban planning, a mandatory distance that a structure must maintain from the street frontage or adjacent properties
New construction must comply with the setback line established by the city planning department.
Novas construções devem estar em conformidade com a linha de recuo estabelecida pelo departamento de planejamento urbano.
Setback lines are crucial in Brazilian and American urban planning to ensure adequate spacing between buildings, preserve streetscapes, and maintain public space. In Brazil, these regulations are typically defined in municipal zoning codes (códigos de zoneamento) and are strictly enforced during building permit approval processes. The setback line concept reflects urban development priorities: in the USA, it often aims to preserve green space and pedestrian access; in Brazil, it's used to control urban density and ensure adequate ventilation and light in urban centers.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
building linesetback requirementoffset linebuilding restriction line
Antonyms / Antônimos
property linefront line

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
linha de recuo
Standard term used in urban planning and construction documentation
São Paulo
linha de recuo / afastamento obrigatório
Both terms are used interchangeably in municipal codes
Rio de Janeiro
linha de recuo
Commonly used in zoning ordinances and real estate transactions
Portugal
linha de afastamento
Preferred term in Portuguese building regulations

Related Words

zoning regulationbuilding codeeasementfront setbackside setbackrear setbackbuilding envelopelot coverage

Related Idioms & Phrases

comply with the setback line
maintain the setback line
enforce the setback line
setback line variance
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