How Erie Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide
Erie maintains 110 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Erie falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
ADU Rules
Erie added accessory dwelling units to its zoning code by Ordinance No. 52-2024 (passed 9-18-2024), defining an ADU as a single dwelling unit secondary to the principal dwelling and recognizing interior, attached and detached types. The city's earlier zoning ordinance had no ADU category.
Key details: Enabling Ordinance: Ord. No. 52-2024 (passed 9-18-2024). ADU Types: Interior, attached, detached. Detached accessory cap: 720 sq ft / 15 ft in 'R' districts (Sec. 205.18).
Establishing an ADU without the required zoning and building permits is a zoning violation; under Zoning Ordinance Sec. 403, the city may bring a civil enforcement action carrying a judgment of up to $500 per day plus court costs and attorney fees. Verify current requirements with the Zoning Office at (814) 870-1265.
Garage Conversions
Erie defines a private garage as an accessory building used only to store the occupants' vehicles and personal effects, not for commercial use or outside auto repair. Converting a garage to living space changes its use and triggers zoning review and a building permit; a garage may also host an ADU under Ordinance No. 52-2024.
Key details: Definition Source: Zoning Ordinance - 'Garage, Private'. Compliance Section: Sec. 103 (conversion requires permits). ADU pathway: Interior/detached ADU (Ord. 52-2024).
Converting or using a garage in violation of the ordinance (for example, as unpermitted living quarters or for commercial repairs) is enforceable under Sec. 403 by a civil action with a judgment up to $500 per day plus court costs and attorney fees, with each day a separate violation.
Shed & Carport Rules
In Erie's 'R' districts a detached accessory building (shed) must sit in the side or rear yard, at least 6 ft from any dwelling or alley and 3 ft from side/rear lot lines, and may be no larger than 720 sq ft or 15 ft tall. Sheds 100 sq ft or smaller are exempt from setback and lot-coverage limits, and under PA state law a shed under 1,000 sq ft accessory to a one-family home needs no state building permit.
Key details: Code Section: Zoning Ordinance Sec. 205.18. Max size / height: 720 sq ft / 15 ft ('R' districts). Setbacks: 6 ft from dwelling/alley, 3 ft from side/rear line. Small-shed exemption: 100 sq ft or less (zoning); 1,000 sq ft (PA UCC).
A non-compliant shed must be relocated, reduced in size, or removed to meet the side/rear-yard and setback rules. Zoning violations are enforced under Sec. 403 by civil action with a judgment up to $500 per day plus costs and attorney fees.
The Bottom Line
Erie's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Erie is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Erie's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.