United States • District of Columbia
Site analysis in Washington, D.C.
An introduction to site analysis in Washington, D.C., covering planning context, common constraints, climate, terrain and transport. Use this city overview to identify what needs checking at the specific site.
Use this overview to plan your research. Verify current requirements and site-specific conditions against the relevant primary sources. Read our data sources, coverage and limits guide.
Planning regime
DC Zoning Regulations 2016 + Comprehensive Plan + 1910 Height of Buildings Act
Key constraints
- Height of Buildings Act limits 130ft (1910)
- L'Enfant Plan vistas
- Historic districts (50+)
- Federal land restrictions
Climate context
Cfa humid subtropical. Hot humid summers, cool winters. 1010mm rainfall.
Topography
Rolling. Tenleytown highest at 125m. Anacostia and Potomac river valleys.
Transport spine
WMATA Metro 6 lines, MARC, VRE commuter, DC Streetcar, Capital Bikeshare.
Building height context
Height Act caps most of city at 130ft. Pennsylvania Avenue 160ft. Sets the city's distinctive low European character.
Notable recent projects
- The Wharf
- Union Market
- St Elizabeths
- Capitol Crossing
Questions
What planning policies apply in Washington, D.C.?
DC Zoning Regulations 2016 + Comprehensive Plan + 1910 Height of Buildings Act
What are the most common site constraints in Washington, D.C.?
Height of Buildings Act limits 130ft (1910). L'Enfant Plan vistas. Historic districts (50+). Federal land restrictions.
Can Atlasly run a site analysis in Washington, D.C.?
Available site information depends on the address and data source. Start with the site location and review the returned sources and coverage before using the results.
Run a site analysis in Washington, D.C.
Start with a site location, review the available evidence and identify the checks needed for your next design decision.
Open Atlas AIReview current plans and usage and source coverage for your project.