Sketch your courtyard buildable area
What can I build in my courtyard?
Side yard, rear yard, or courtyard — see how setbacks shape your buildable envelope with an interactive pencil sketch. A quick visual test, not a permit decision.
Pencil test
Sketch your buildable area
Setback-aware
Envelope inside setback lines
The interactive calculator opens on Claude in a new tab. Embedded preview is only available on production ( www.buckybuild.com).
Open the courtyard pencil calculatorHow the courtyard pencil test works
Courtyard and infill projects live in the margins of the lot — the strips between the main house and the side or rear property lines. Setbacks define how far any new structure must sit from those lines. The calculator lets you sketch the lot and setbacks so you can see the remaining buildable area before you invest in design or drawings.
For setback numbers by address, see what are the setbacks of my property. When you need zoning, height, coverage, and fee detail in one report, create a feasibility report.
What is a courtyard pencil test?
It is a quick sketch of how setbacks shrink the area where you can place a building on side or rear yards — often called a courtyard build. You draw or adjust the lot outline and see the buildable envelope inside setback lines.
Is this the same as a zoning permit?
No. This tool helps you visualize buildable area from setbacks. Permits, variances, overlays, and site-specific conditions still require official review.
How do setbacks affect my courtyard?
Front, side, and rear setback distances push the buildable zone away from property lines. Tighter setbacks mean a smaller courtyard envelope; corner lots and flag lots can have different rules.
When should I get a full feasibility report?
Use the pencil test for early sizing. When you are ready to price a project, check servicing, height, coverage, and overlays, order a full feasibility report for your address.