Factors in the Zoning of Cities: A Symposium: Building Line Zoning

For many years, the establishment of building lines has been a subject of consideration by those who have dealt with the problem of the orderly development of growing cities. This study has been prompted by a desire to promote proper living conditions as well as to provide for the future street requirement of the city by arranging for a uniform distance back from the street line, in front of which buildings should not be erected. The open space adjacent to the street which is so necessary for light, air, and the general well-being in residence sections is thereby secured, and opportunity is afforded for landscape treatment and otherwise adding to the beauty of the home and neighborhood. This has been the real purpose of a building line in most cases where residence districts were involved. Where, however, in the growth of the city, it has become evident that the original width of the street is no longer adequate for the increased traffic, and that it is desirable and necessary to widen the street at a future time, building lines have been established to forestall the erection of buildings over the strip of ground adjacent to the street that may be necessary for the proposed widening.