Pittsburgh Zoning & Land Use Guide
Editor-verified· 2026-05-24
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Pittsburgh
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 — Allegheny 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
R1D-HSingle-Unit Detached Residential High
- Min Lot
- 3,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 3 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
RM-MMulti-Unit Residential Moderate
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 10 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
LNCLocal Neighborhood Commercial
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 40 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
ADU Rules in Pittsburgh
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
- 6-10 weeks
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Pittsburgh are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Pittsburgh permit fees →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
What zones allow multi-family housing in Pittsburgh?
Multi-family housing is allowed in RM (Residential Multi-Unit) districts and mixed-use zones including LNC, GC, and downtown districts.
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.