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Zoning Guide

Wilkes-Barre Zoning & Land Use Guide

Data-only stub — facts unverified locally. Confirm with the planning department before relying on details.
Last updated: Verified:

What we have on file vs. what to verify locally

We don't have editor-verified zoning prose for Wilkes-Barreyet. Here's the structured data we do have, and the highest-leverage steps to confirm specifics for your parcel.

What we have on file

Population:
44,328
County:
Luzerne 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 Wilkes-Barre Office of Community Development
Zoning map:
View city zoning map

Verify these locally

  • Call the City of Wilkes-Barre Office of Community Development: (570) 208-4100
  • Use the city zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
  • 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 Wilkes-Barre and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.

Key Zoning Facts

Building Code Edition
PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
ADUs Allowed
No

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Wilkes-Barre

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 — Luzerne County

    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.

    Statewide Context (Pennsylvania)

    Local data for Wilkes-Barre 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

    ADU Rules in Wilkes-Barre

    ADUs:Not Allowed
    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 Wilkes-Barre are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

    Check Wilkes-Barre permit fees →

    Official Sources

    City-specific

    City of Wilkes-Barrewilkes-barre.cityOfficial source