ᐅ Roof Structure – Dormer – What’s the Difference?

Hello!
We have decided to use the roof space in the construction of our new house. For this purpose, we planned to add a dormer with two roof windows on the back side of the house. However, the design shows that the rear wall of the house would be extended upwards, and the two windows integrated into this wall. So, it is not a “dormer” in the usual sense, as it does not protrude out of the roof. The rear wall would therefore be higher than the front wall.
I hope I have explained myself clearly.

Now, the building authority has rejected this plan because it is not considered a dormer, but rather a full roof extension or additional storey, which would trigger setback requirements.

I understand what setback requirements are, but I would appreciate it if someone could explain the difference to me as a layperson.

Whether the windows are set back half a meter (20 inches) into the roof or aligned with the existing wall... what is the major difference in how this is evaluated?

Thank you very much!

Best regards

Hello, just read the respective definition in your national building code,

Setback distances are measured differently in front of external walls than in front of roofs. For roofs, an additional setback distance for the roof overhang is also calculated. However, this can vary from country to country. The only common rule is that a wall is not a roof and, therefore, a different measurement method applies.

Best regards

That almost raises the question: who is actually planning this?
A planner should definitely know something like this.
Besides, you can easily "circumvent" something like that,...