State College Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
State College Zoning Overview
State College is a borough in Centre County, Pennsylvania, best known as the home of Pennsylvania State University's main campus (University Park). With a population of approximately 42,034 -- which swells significantly during the academic year -- State College is the cultural and economic center of the Happy Valley region. The borough's economy is driven by the university, healthcare (Mount Nittany Medical Center), technology companies, and the service sector that supports the student and university community.
The borough's zoning is managed by the Planning Department. State College's land use is fundamentally shaped by its relationship with Penn State, with the university campus occupying a large portion of the borough. Surrounding areas include single-family residential neighborhoods, student rental housing, a walkable downtown commercial district, and commercial corridors along major routes. The borough faces ongoing challenges in balancing student housing demand, neighborhood character preservation, and sustainable growth.
Key Zoning Districts
State College's zoning code includes residential districts R-1 (Low Density, 8,000 sq ft minimum lots), R-2 (Medium Density, 6,000 sq ft minimum lots), and R-3 (Multi-Family). The R-3 district accommodates much of the borough's student housing. The CBD (Central Business District) covers the downtown area centered on College Avenue. The C (Commercial) district serves general commercial needs, and the I (Industrial) district accommodates limited industrial uses. Student housing and rental regulations are significant factors in State College's zoning landscape.
ADU Regulations
State College 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 Planning Department to discuss available options under the borough's zoning ordinance. Note that student rental regulations may affect accessory dwelling options.
Development Process
The Planning 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. The borough has design standards for the downtown area and specific regulations regarding student housing. All construction must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC).
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in State College and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Borough of State College at (814) 234-7100 before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in State College
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 — Centre 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
- 8,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 6,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
- Min Lot
- Varies
- 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
ADU Rules in State College
- 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 State College are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check State College permit fees →