Erie Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Erie Zoning Overview
Erie is the fourth-largest city in Pennsylvania, located on the shore of Lake Erie in the state's northwestern corner. The city is Pennsylvania's only Great Lakes port and the Presque Isle State Park peninsula is a major recreational and ecological asset. Erie's economy has transitioned from heavy manufacturing into healthcare, education, insurance, and tourism, though manufacturing remains significant.
The city's zoning is managed by the Department of Planning and Neighborhood Resources. Erie's waterfront and bayfront areas have been the focus of major redevelopment efforts, with new mixed-use and recreational development transforming formerly industrial lakefront areas. The Erie Refocused comprehensive plan guides the city's land use and revitalization strategies.
Key Zoning Districts
Erie's zoning code includes residential districts (R-1 through R-4), commercial districts (C-1 through C-3), industrial zones, and waterfront development zones. The bayfront area has specific zoning to support mixed-use redevelopment. Downtown Erie has commercial zoning encouraging office, retail, and residential investment.
ADU Regulations
Erie does not have specific ADU provisions. Pennsylvania has no statewide ADU mandate. Contact the Planning Department for guidance on accessory dwelling options.
Development Process
Development applications are reviewed by the Department of Planning and Neighborhood Resources. Zoning variances go before the Zoning Hearing Board. The Planning Commission reviews subdivisions and larger development plans.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Erie
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 — Erie 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
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 10 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 50 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Erie
- 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 Erie are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Erie permit fees →