District Of Columbia § 9-204.02 - System of designations.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 9-204.02 — System of designations., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-204.02. System of designations.
9-204.02In naming any street or circle the following system shall be adhered to:
The broad diagonal highways shall be designated as avenues, and shall be named after states and territories of the United States.
Streets running north and south shall be designated with numbers consecutively in each direction from the meridian of the United States Capitol. Any street not in exact alignment with those streets to its north and south shall be given the same designation as the street which is most nearly in line with its alignment.
Streets running east and west shall be designated with the letters of the alphabet until these letters are exhausted. Beyond this they shall have names of 1 syllable, then names of 2 and 3 syllables, all arranged in alphabetical order. Any street not in exact alignment with those streets to its east and west shall be given the same designation as the street most nearly in line with its alignment.
Streets which do not form an essential part of the rectangular system of streets shall be designated as roads, drives, or places and shall be named after a prominent local feature in their vicinity, or by such other distinguishing designation as the Council may determine to be appropriate.
Circles shall be named after distinguished persons who have been prominent in the service of this country.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 9-204.02
What does D.C. Code § 9-204.02 cover?
Section 9-204.02 ("System of designations.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 9-204.02?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 9-204.02" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 9-204.02 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.