NYC Zoning Handbook:
Residential Districts: R9A

R9A districts differ from R9 districts primarily in greater lot coverage, and modified height and setback regulations that are designed to be compatible with existing older neighborhoods. Bulky, 13-story apartment buildings are typical of this district which is mapped only in Manhattan. Areas that conform to R9A district regulations are mapped along Amsterdam Avenue on the Upper West Side.

The FAR in R9A districts is 7.52. On wide streets, the first two stories of the front wall of a new building must abut the street line and occupy the full width of the lot. On narrow streets, the front wall of a new building must not be farther from the street than the front wall of an adjacent building. The maximum building height and setbacks are determined by the building envelope which may not be penetrated by the building. The building envelope is controlled by the intersection of front and rear sky exposure planes that rise according to a specific ratio. The Quality Housing Program is mandatory in R9A districts.

• Schematic Illustration (13-story R9A Quality Housing building)

• Typical R9A Development (photo)

Basic Data

R9A: General residence district

Maximum FAR: 7.52

Maximum lot coverage:

Corner lot 80%

Interior or through-lot 70%

Maximum street wall height 102 feet

Minimum lot area per DU: 98 square feet

Maximum DUs per acre: 445

Required parking: 40% of dwelling units

Quality Housing Program: Mandatory