Hazleton Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Hazleton Zoning Overview
Hazleton is a city in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, situated on a plateau above the Wyoming Valley in the anthracite coal region of northeastern Pennsylvania. With a population of approximately 27,673, Hazleton has undergone a significant demographic transformation in recent decades, becoming one of the most diverse small cities in Pennsylvania. The city's economy has shifted from its coal mining origins to distribution, warehousing, and logistics, driven by its location along Interstate 81 and proximity to major northeastern markets.
The city's zoning is managed by the Codes and Zoning Department. Hazleton's land use reflects its mining-era urban grid with dense residential neighborhoods, a traditional downtown commercial district along Broad Street, and newer industrial and commercial development along highway corridors on the city's periphery.
Key Zoning Districts
Hazleton's zoning code includes residential districts R-1 (Low Density, 6,000 sq ft minimum lots), R-2 (Medium Density, 4,500 sq ft minimum lots), and R-3 (Multi-Family). Commercial districts include C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) and C-2 (General Commercial). The I (Industrial) district accommodates the city's growing warehouse and distribution sector. All residential districts maintain a 35-foot height limit.
ADU Regulations
Hazleton 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 Codes and Zoning Department to discuss available options under the city's zoning ordinance.
Development Process
The Codes and Zoning Department processes development applications and building permits. 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).
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Hazleton and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of Hazleton at (570) 459-4910 before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Hazleton
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 — Luzerne 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
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 4,500 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 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 Hazleton
- 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 Hazleton are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Hazleton permit fees →