Wilkes-Barre Zoning & Land Use Guide
Official references and local checks
Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.
Official references
- 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 local zoning map
Before you apply
- Call the City of Wilkes-Barre Office of Community Development: (570) 208-4100
- Use the local 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
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
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Luzerne County
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- 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
- 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
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Wilkes-Barre permit information →Official Sources
City-specific