Philadelphia Zoning & Land Use Guide
Editor-verified· 2026-03-22
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Philadelphia
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
State — Pennsylvania
- Building Code: PA Uniform Construction Code (2018 IBC)
County — Philadelphia 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
RSA-5Residential Single-Family Attached
- Min Lot
- 1,440 sq ft
- Max Height
- 38 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 9 ft
RM-1Residential Multi-Family
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
CMX-2Commercial Mixed-Use 2
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 38 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 0 ft
ADU Rules in Philadelphia
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 800 sq ft
- Max Height
- 20 ft
- Rear Setback
- 3 ft
- Side Setback
- 3 ft
- Parking
- None required
- Owner Occupancy
- Required
- Permit Timeline
- 6-12 weeks
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Philadelphia are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Philadelphia permit fees →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Philadelphia?
Yes, Philadelphia allows accessory dwelling units on lots with single-family homes in most residential zones, subject to size, setback, and owner-occupancy requirements established by the zoning code.
What zones allow multi-family housing in Philadelphia?
Multi-family housing is permitted in RM-1 through RM-4 zones, as well as in CMX (commercial mixed-use) districts at various scales.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.