How Quakertown Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Quakertown maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Quakertown falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Carport Rules

Quakertown Borough Zoning (Chapter 27) treats a carport as an accessory structure. A detached garage or carport may be located within a side or rear yard to conform to the typical setbacks of garages on the lots within the same block, as determined by the Zoning Officer. Coverage by carport counts toward the lot building coverage ratio, and a building permit under the PA UCC is required.

Key details: Zoning Code: Borough Code Ch. 27. Carport Setback: Typical-setback rule (block). Counts Toward Coverage: Yes. Parking Space Min: 10 ft x 20 ft. Building Permit: Required (PA UCC).

Erecting a carport without a UCC building permit, or in a location that violates the Zoning Officer's typical-setback determination, violates Chapter 27 and the PA UCC. The Borough Code Enforcement Officer can issue stop-work orders, require after-the-fact permits or removal, and pursue summary penalties through the magisterial district court.

Shed Rules

Quakertown Borough Ch. 27 defines structures as anything on the ground including sheds. Building permits required under PA UCC. Must meet zoning district setbacks. Buffer yards (20 ft min) must be free of accessory buildings. Contact Code and Zoning for specifics.

Key details: Permit: Required under PA UCC. Setbacks: Per zoning district. Buffer Yards: No accessory buildings allowed. Phone: 215-536-5001.

Shed without permit: building code violation. Non-compliant placement: zoning violation.

Garage Conversions

Quakertown Borough limits lots to one principal use (except POMU district). Converting garage to dwelling unit would create second principal use, likely not permitted. Non-dwelling conversions require PA UCC permits. Must maintain parking per Table 6.1.

Key details: Dwelling Conversion: Likely not permitted (one use per lot). Non-Dwelling: PA UCC permits required. Parking: Must maintain Table 6.1 requirements. Exception: POMU district may differ.

Second dwelling unit: zoning violation. Conversion without permit: building code violation.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Quakertown actively enforces its garage conversions requirements.

ADU Rules

Quakertown Borough Ch. 27 zoning does not appear to have specific ADU provisions. Uses regulated by district. No more than one principal use per lot (except POMU). PA MPC allows municipalities to zone for ADUs. Contact Code and Zoning for guidance.

Key details: ADU Provisions: Not specifically found. Principal Use: One per lot (except POMU). State Law: PA MPC allows, does not mandate. Contact: 215-536-5001.

Unpermitted second dwelling unit: zoning violation.

The Bottom Line

Quakertown'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 Quakertown is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Quakertown's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.