Pittsburgh Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Pittsburgh, PA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
302,971
Total Zone Types
26
Planning Department
Pittsburgh Department of City Planning
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Allegheny County
Metro Area
Pittsburgh-New Castle-Weirton
Pittsburgh Zoning System
The Pittsburgh zoning system includes 26 total zone classifications: 11 residential zones (R1A, R1B, R1C, R1D, R2, and others) and 4 commercial zones (C1, C2, C3, GT), as well as 3 mixed-use zones (GT, UNC, UR) and 5 industrial zones (LNC, HC, NDI). Pittsburgh's zoning is governed by Title 9, Article 1 of the Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances, administered by the Department of City Planning. Pittsburgh sits at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers — its dramatic topography of hills and river valleys creates distinct neighborhood character across 90 neighborhoods. Pennsylvania has no statewide ADU law, so Pittsburgh's ADU allowances are purely local. Pittsburgh underwent major deindustrialization from the 1970s-1990s and now has a diversified economy anchored by healthcare, education, and technology. Population decline created housing vacancy and demolition needs alongside a recent resurgence driven by university research and tech sector growth. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Pittsburgh Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Pittsburgh Building Department (Pittsburgh Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI)) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (412) 255-2175 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Pittsburgh Department of City Planning at (412) 255-2200. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Pittsburgh property?
Yes — Pittsburgh allows accessory dwelling units on residential lots. You can build a detached ADU up to 800 sqft in the rear or side yard, or convert a portion of your house into an attached ADU. No owner-occupancy requirement, no additional parking needed, and no impact fees. Pittsburgh's PLI issues building permits, typically taking 4-8 weeks for review.
What are Pittsburgh's short-term rental rules?
Pittsburgh requires a Short-Term Rental License ($175/year) from the Bureau of Building Inspection. A property inspection is required before the license is issued. Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom and you must provide a 24/7 responsible party contact. Pennsylvania's 6% Hotel Occupancy Tax plus Allegheny County's hotel tax apply — STR platforms handle tax collection.
Is my Pittsburgh property at risk for landslides?
Potentially, depending on your neighborhood. Pittsburgh's steep hillsides in Mt. Washington, Duquesne Heights, Knoxville, and similar areas have known landslide risk. The Pennsylvania Geological Survey and Allegheny County maintain slope stability maps. For new construction on steep slopes (over 15% grade), a geotechnical study is typically required by Pittsburgh's Department of City Planning. Hillside development regulations (Pittsburgh Zoning Code Chapter 902) govern construction on slopes.
How do historic district rules affect my Pittsburgh home?
Pittsburgh has 14 local historic districts, including Mexican War Streets, Allegheny West, and parts of Lawrenceville and Shadyside. If your home is a contributing structure in a Pittsburgh Historic Review Commission (PHRC) district, exterior changes require a Certificate of Appropriateness before a building permit is issued. Interior changes don't require PHRC review. The PHRC reviews windows, doors, siding, roofing materials, and additions for compatibility with historic character.
What should I know about permits for Pittsburgh's older housing stock?
Pittsburgh's housing stock is notably older — many homes date to the early 20th century or late 19th century. Pre-1978 homes have lead paint — lead paint disclosure required for renovation. Pre-1980 structures require asbestos surveys before demolition. Pittsburgh's older homes may have knob-and-tube wiring, cast iron plumbing, and masonry construction that require specialized contractors familiar with historic rehabilitation techniques.
Does Pittsburgh allow solar panels?
Yes — Pittsburgh allows solar installations with an electrical permit from PLI. Duquesne Light interconnection is required for grid-tied systems and Pennsylvania's net metering law requires utility credits for excess generation. Pittsburgh's hilly topography means solar potential varies significantly by property — south-facing slopes have excellent exposure while north-facing or heavily shaded lots may have limited viability. Historic districts have additional review requirements.
Source: Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances Title 9, Article 1 — Zoning; PLI Permit Division. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source