Erie, PA Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

The two-track permitting process for an Erie ADU works as follows. Zoning Track: The applicant first verifies that an ADU is permitted in the underlying district under the Erie Zoning Ordinance. If permitted by right (a so-called "as of right" use), a zoning permit is issued by the Department of Planning and Neighborhood Resources upon a showing of compliance with dimensional standards. If permitted by special exception or conditional use, the application goes to the Erie Zoning Hearing Board (under 53 P.S. §10901-10916) which holds a public hearing with notice under §10908 (10-day published notice, posted notice on the property). If a variance is needed, the applicant must show the five-prong hardship test from 53 P.S. §10910.2: unique physical conditions, no possibility of reasonable use without variance, hardship not created by appellant, no adverse effect on public health and safety, and minimum variance affording relief. Building Track: After zoning approval, the applicant submits stamped construction documents (typically by a PA-licensed architect for new dwelling units over a certain threshold) to the Erie Building Code Official under PA UCC 34 Pa Code §403.42a. Plan review confirms 2018 IRC compliance for one- and two-family dwellings (or IBC for townhouses or three-family-plus configurations) including structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and energy provisions. Inspections occur at footing, foundation, framing, rough-in, insulation, and final stages. Certificate of Occupancy is issued under §110 of the IRC/IBC before the ADU may be occupied.