Medina residential height rules
How Medina measures residential building height
Medina height depends on the zone, overlay and grade measurement. Test the original-grade and finished-grade limits separately. The Medina Heights Overlay is more restrictive, and shoreline properties need an additional check.
On this page6 sections
Official starting point: Medina planning and zoning. Verify the current code and parcel-specific rules before fixing a design.
Confirm the base zone and every overlay
Start with the zoning map and MMC 16.23.050, then use the measuring method in 16.23.060. The base R-16 row tests 25 feet from original grade and 28 feet from finished grade at its specified high and low points. R-20/R-30 and SR-30 use the corresponding low-point tests. Medina Heights uses 20 feet from original grade and 23 feet from finished grade at the low point. These are paired tests, not a choice of the larger allowance.
Do not rely on the former height bonus
Older code text describes extra height in exchange for lower structural coverage. Interim Ordinance 1059 continues the removal of that bonus established by Ordinance 1052. A bonus shown in an older table is not a dependable design allowance. Ask Development Services which interim or permanent rules apply to your application before developing a taller concept.
Use a base-compliant concept for the initial budget. Show the original-grade and finished-grade height tests on building sections, then identify any question that needs a written city interpretation. Shoreline standards and private restrictions remain separate checks.
Do not separate height from grade
A reliable height study needs the city's measurement definition, existing grade, proposed grading, and roof form. Sloped lots and daylight basements need sections through the critical points, not just a front elevation.
Private restrictions can be stricter
Recorded covenants, architectural-control documents, or easements may impose a lower height or design restriction than the city. City permit approval does not remove those private obligations.
Our take
Use Medina's pre-application process when a lot is in an overlay, near the shoreline, or shaped by unusual grade. Confirm the measurement method before paying for a finished design.
Practical worksheet
Put this guide to work
Worksheet updated . This is a planning example. Regulatory sources and data have their own dates.
Ask for a height drawing that can be checked
An illustrative roof elevation of 130 feet is 28 feet above a controlling grade elevation of 102 feet. Whether that complies depends on the applicable local limit and the legal grade-measurement method. Raising the finished yard does not automatically raise the allowed roof.
- Identify the rule
- Write the zone, overlay, applicable height row, grade definition, roof measurement and any separate wall or facade limit.
- Show the inputs
- Use the survey datum and labeled measurement points. Show existing or original grade and proposed finished grade separately, with roof elevations and sections on the downhill side.
- Test design changes
- Recalculate after changing the footprint, floor elevations, roof form or grading. Check chimneys, equipment and other features under their own rules.
- Leave a verification path
- Ask what survey certification or field check is required, at what stage and who will arrange it.
The useful deliverable is a calculation tied to a plan and survey, not ‘two stories are allowed.’ If the concept uses an exception or bonus, show both the base-compliant option and the conditions required for the alternative.
Action plan
What to do next
- 1
Confirm the zoning district and Medina Heights or shoreline overlay.
- 2
Order a boundary and topographic survey.
- 3
Review title for covenants and easements.
- 4
Show height calculations and critical building sections.
- 5
Ask Development Services to confirm the parcel-specific path.
Official resources