101. PURPOSE AND INTENT

101 PURPOSE AND INTENT 101.1 The Residential Apartment (RA) zones are residential zones, designed to provide for residential areas suitable for multiple dwelling unit development and supporting uses. 101.2 The RA zones are intended to: (a) Permit flexibility by allowing all types of residential development; (b) Promote stable residential areas while permitting a variety of types of urban residential neighborhoods; (c) Promote a walkable living environment; (d) Allow limited non-residential uses that are compatible with adjoining residential uses; (e) Encourage compatibility between the location of new buildings or construction and the existing neighborhood; and (f) Ensure that buildings and developments around fixed rail stations, transit hubs, and streetcar lines are oriented to support active use of public transportation and safety of public spaces. 101.3 The purposes of the RA-1, RA-2, RA-3, RA-4, and RA-5 zones are to: (a) Permit flexibility of design by permitting all types of urban residential development if they conform to the height, density, and area requirements established for these districts; and (b) Permit the construction of those institutional and semi-public buildings that would be compatible with adjoining residential uses and that are excluded from the more restrictive residential zones. 101.4 The RA-1 zone provides for areas predominantly developed with low- to moderate-density development, including detached houses, row houses, and low-rise apartments. 101.5 The RA-2 zone provides for areas developed with predominantly moderate-density residential development. 101.6 The RA-3 zone provides for areas developed with predominantly medium-density residential development. 101.7 The RA-4 zone provides for areas developed with predominantly medium- to high-density residential development. 101.8 The RA-5 zone provides for areas developed with predominantly high-density residential development. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 63 DCR 2447, 2915 (March 4, 2016 – Part 2); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 63 DCR 10932 (August 26, 2016); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 70 DCR 011297 (August 25, 2023); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 73 DCR 009981 (July 10, 2026). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Zoning Regulations of 2016: Residential Apartment (RA) Zones 11-F DCMR § 101