Lehigh County does not set building setbacks; municipalities do. Allentown's form-based code sets front build-to zones and side/rear setbacks by building type. Minor features like eaves and chimneys may encroach up to 1.5 feet into a yard, no closer than 1 foot to the lot line.
Under the PA Municipalities Planning Code (53 P.S. §10601 et seq.), setbacks are municipal. Allentown's 2026 form-based Zoning Ordinance sets dimensional standards per building type in Article 4 rather than one citywide number: examples include a 5-foot minimum side setback and 15-foot-plus rear setbacks for some house/rowhouse types, and accessory outbuildings kept 3 feet minimum from side and rear lot lines (§660-27.E). Setbacks are measured from the lot line toward the center of the lot (§660-131.H). Corner lots must provide the front or side-street setback along each street frontage. Because the exact numbers vary by zone and building type, confirm your parcel's standards with the Allentown Zoning Office or your borough.
A structure built inside a required setback is a zoning violation; the zoning officer can deny occupancy, require removal, or the owner must seek a variance from the Zoning Hearing Board.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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