Easton Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Easton Zoning Overview
Easton is a city in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, located at the confluence of the Lehigh and Delaware rivers. With a population of approximately 28,203, Easton forms the eastern anchor of the Lehigh Valley along with Allentown and Bethlehem. The city has deep historical significance -- the Declaration of Independence was publicly read in Easton's Centre Square in 1776, and the city is home to Lafayette College. Easton has experienced a notable downtown revitalization in recent years, with its Centre Square area becoming a regional dining and cultural destination.
The city's zoning is managed by the Planning and Codes Department. Easton's land use reflects its river-town geography, with a dense historic downtown, residential neighborhoods on surrounding hillsides, and former industrial sites along both rivers. The city's revitalization efforts focus on adaptive reuse of historic buildings and infill development.
Key Zoning Districts
Easton's zoning code includes residential districts R-1 (Low Density, 10,000 sq ft minimum lots), R-2 (Medium Density, 5,000 sq ft minimum lots), and R-3 (Multi-Family). The CBD (Central Business District) covers the historic downtown and allows mixed-use development with zero front and side setbacks. Commercial district C-1 serves neighborhood commercial needs, and the I (Industrial) district accommodates manufacturing and warehousing.
ADU Regulations
Easton 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 and Codes Department to discuss available options under the city's zoning ordinance.
Development Process
The Planning and Codes Department processes development applications. The Zoning Hearing Board handles variances and special exceptions. The Planning Commission reviews subdivisions and land development plans. Easton's historic districts may require additional review. All construction must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC).
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Easton and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of Easton at (610) 250-6700 before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Easton
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 — Northampton 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
- 10,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 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
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- Varies
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- Varies
- Front Setback
- Varies
- Side Setback
- Varies
- Rear Setback
- Varies
ADU Rules in Easton
- 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 Easton are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Easton permit fees →