Mandatory limits of density, height, distance between buildings and urban standards

In forceEdilizia & TitoliLegge/DecretoCogente● In review

Summary

TAV. 00

Sets the mandatory limits that municipal planning instruments must respect: building density, heights, distances between buildings and minimum public-space provision (urban standards). It divides the territory into homogeneous zones (A–F).

Scope of application

TAV. 01

Applies to municipal urban planning and new building works. It remains in force through the Building Act (D.P.R. 380/2001). Municipalities and Regions cannot derogate below its minimum limits (e.g. distance between buildings), but may set stricter requirements.

In depth

TAV. A

If the Building Act sets "which permit" to build with, D.M. 1444/1968 sets "within which limits". A 1968 decree, yet still a daily reference, especially for two things: the division of territory into zones and the minimum distances between buildings (notably the 10-metre rule of art. 9).

Key points

TAV. K

Divides the territory into homogeneous zones A (historic centres), B, C, D, E, F
Absolute minimum distance of 10 m between windowed walls of facing buildings (art. 9)
Still in force under art. 136 of the Building Act; non-derogable limits

Frequently asked questions

TAV. Q

Is the 10-metre distance always mandatory?

It applies to new constructions with facing windowed walls, outside zone A. Case law treats it as non-derogable: local rules may require greater but not smaller distances. Specific cases (e.g. zone A) must be assessed individually.

What are urban standards?

They are the minimum provisions of public spaces (green areas, parking, schools, services) the decree requires in proportion to the population. They ensure a minimum settlement quality and bind municipal planning.

Is a 1968 rule still valid?

Yes. It remains in force under art. 136 of the Building Act and is applied daily, especially for zones and distances. It has been the subject of extensive case law clarifying its scope.

Glossary

TAV. G

Zona territoriale omogenea (ZTO): Category into which the decree divides the territory (A–F) by characteristics and intended use.
Standard urbanistici: Minimum provisions of public spaces in proportion to population, required by the decree.
Distanza tra fabbricati: Minimum distance between buildings; for facing windowed walls, art. 9 sets 10 metres.
Inderogabile: A limit local instruments cannot reduce; they may only make it stricter.