Zoning Guide

New Castle Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Official references and local checks

Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.

Official references

Population:
21,974
County:
Lawrence County
State building code:
PA Uniform Construction Code (based on 2018 IBC)(statewide default)
State ADU law:
No statewide override; local rules apply
FEMA flood map:
Search flood zones
Planning department:
City of New Castle Planning and Zoning Department
Municipal code:
View code online

Before you apply

  • Call the City of New Castle Planning and Zoning Department: (724) 656-3540
  • Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
  • Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
  • Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in New Castle and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.

Key Zoning Facts

Local Zoning / Building Office
City of New Castle Planning and Zoning Department(724) 656-3540
Building Code Edition
PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
ADU / Accessory Apartment
Verify by district

Regulatory Layers That Apply in New Castle

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Pennsylvania

  • Building Code: PA UCC (Act 45 of 1999)
View Pennsylvania zoning overview

County — Lawrence County

    City / Municipal

    The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.

    Overlay Districts

    No overlay districts identified.

    Private Restrictions

    • Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
    • Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.

    Statewide Context (Pennsylvania)

    Local data for New Castle is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Pennsylvania and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.

    State Building Code
    PA Uniform Construction Code (based on 2018 IBC)
    State ADU Preemption
    No statewide override
    Coastal Zone
    Yes
    Wildfire Zones
    No

    Permit Costs & Timelines

    Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines

    Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.

    Check current New Castle permit information →

    Official Sources

    City-specific

    City of New Castle Planning and Zoningnewcastlepa.orgOfficial sourceCity of New Castle Title 3 Zoning Ordinanceecode360.comOfficial source