Chester Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Chester Zoning Overview
Chester is one of the oldest cities in Pennsylvania, located along the Delaware River in Delaware County. With a population of approximately 33,429, Chester has a rich history predating the founding of Philadelphia -- William Penn first landed in Chester in 1682. The city experienced significant industrial growth in the 19th and 20th centuries, driven by shipbuilding, manufacturing, and its strategic waterfront location. Chester has faced economic challenges in recent decades but continues to pursue revitalization, particularly along its waterfront where Subaru Park (home of the Philadelphia Union) anchors new development.
The city's zoning is managed by the Planning Department. Chester's compact urban fabric features dense residential neighborhoods with small lots, commercial corridors, and industrial areas along the Delaware River. The city operates under a state-appointed receiver, which impacts governance and development processes.
Key Zoning Districts
Chester's zoning code includes residential districts R-1 (Single-Family, 5,000 sq ft minimum lots), R-2 (Medium Density, 3,000 sq ft minimum lots), and R-3 (Multi-Family). The small minimum lot sizes reflect Chester's dense, historic urban grid. Commercial districts include C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) and C-2 (General Commercial). The I (Industrial) district serves the city's waterfront and industrial areas.
ADU Regulations
Chester does not currently have confirmed ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) provisions. Pennsylvania has no statewide ADU mandate. Property owners interested in adding a secondary dwelling unit should contact the Planning Department to discuss available options under the city's zoning ordinance.
Development Process
The Planning Department processes development applications. The Zoning Hearing Board handles variances and special exceptions. The Planning Commission reviews subdivisions and land development plans. All construction must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Given Chester's receivership status, some development processes may involve additional oversight.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Chester and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of Chester at (610) 447-7700 before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Chester
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Delaware County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
- Min Lot
- 3,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 3 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
- Min Lot
- Varies
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
ADU Rules in Chester
- Max Size
- N/A
- Max Height
- N/A
- Rear Setback
- N/A
- Side Setback
- N/A
- Parking
- N/A
- Owner Occupancy
- N/A
- Permit Timeline
- N/A
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Chester are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Chester permit fees →