Bristol, PA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)

Use 7P in Section 27-320 of the Bristol Borough zoning chapter governs residential accessory buildings. Under Subsection 7P(3)(a), structures such as garages, greenhouses, boathouses, carports, canopies and storage sheds cannot exceed 15 feet in height and a total of 500 square feet in area. They cannot be located within two feet of a side lot line or within two feet of a rear lot line. Where a building on an adjacent lot abuts the property line nearest to the proposed structure, the new structure can be placed on the property line next to that building. Structures can only be located to the rear of the principal building, and the code sets a 10 foot distance measured from the rear of the principal building.

A drainage rule applies close to the line. When a residential detached accessory structure is placed three feet or closer from a property line, an impervious surface such as concrete, asphalt or impervious pavers must run between the property line and the structure so vegetation cannot grow.

Subsection 7P(3)(b) treats a tennis court as a separate accessory use: it goes to the rear of the principal building, stays out of the required minimum yard areas, and no lighting can shine directly beyond the lot boundary.

Permit steps come from Section 27-802. No person can erect, alter or convert any structure until the Zoning Officer issues a zoning permit. The application is in writing on a form from the Zoning Officer and includes a plot plan drawn to scale showing the lot dimensions plus the dimensions and setbacks of existing structures and the proposed construction. The Zoning Officer issues or refuses a residential application within 15 days, and a permit is voided unless construction starts within 180 days of issuance. Normal maintenance and repairs need no zoning permit.