ADU rules in Philadelphia County, PA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Philadelphia County allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in certain residential zoning districts under the Zoning Code. Some RSA (single-family) districts permit them by right or special exception. Building permits required. No PA state ADU mandate exists.
Philadelphia Zoning Code (Title 14) does not use the term ADU but allows accessory units in various forms. RSA-5 and other residential districts permit secondary dwelling units subject to use regulations in Section 14-601. Units must meet minimum size, parking, and owner-occupancy requirements. Building permit required under the Philadelphia Building Code. Must comply with egress, ventilation, and fire separation standards. Unlike California, Pennsylvania has no statewide ADU requirement; Philadelphia approach is district-specific.
Unpermitted ADU: stop work order, fines $500-$2,000, and requirement to legalize or remove. Occupied illegal unit: additional violations for each occupant-day.
Philadelphia County, PA
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See how Philadelphia County's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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