Scranton Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Scranton Zoning Overview
Scranton is the county seat of Lackawanna County and the largest city in northeastern Pennsylvania. With a population of approximately 76,997, Scranton serves as the cultural and economic center of the Lackawanna Valley and the broader northeastern Pennsylvania region. The city has a rich industrial heritage rooted in anthracite coal mining and iron production, earning it the nickname "The Electric City" for being one of the first cities in the nation to have electric-powered streetcars. Today, Scranton's economy is driven by healthcare, education (home to the University of Scranton and other institutions), logistics, and a growing technology sector.
The city's zoning is managed by the Office of Economic and Community Development. Scranton's land use reflects its industrial-era development, with dense neighborhoods of single-family homes, duplexes, and rowhouses, a walkable downtown, and former industrial sites throughout the valley. The city has invested in downtown revitalization and adaptive reuse of historic industrial buildings.
Key Zoning Districts
Scranton's zoning code includes residential districts R-1 (Low Density, 7,000 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 downtown core and allows mixed-use development. Commercial districts include C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) and C-2 (General Commercial). Industrial districts are split between I-1 (Light Industrial) and I-2 (Heavy Industrial).
ADU Regulations
Scranton 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 Office of Economic and Community Development to discuss available options under the city's zoning ordinance.
Development Process
The Office of Economic and Community Development processes development applications and building permits. The Zoning Hearing Board handles variances and special exceptions. The Planning Commission reviews subdivisions and land development plans. Scranton has several historic districts that may require additional review. All construction must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC).
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Scranton and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the City of Scranton at (570) 348-4100 or through the municipal code before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Scranton
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 — Lackawanna 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
- 7,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 5,000 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
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- 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 Scranton
- 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 Scranton are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Scranton permit fees →