5 rules for unincorporated Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Verified from official government sources
Delaware County does not regulate accessory dwelling units. Under Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code, zoning (including whether an ADU or in-law suite is allowed) is set by your borough, township, or city. Check your local zoning ordinance.
53 P.S. §10603(b)(2)
Zoning ordinances may permit, prohibit, regulate, restrict and determine ... Size, height, bulk, location, erection, construction, repair, maintenance, alteration, razing, removal and use of structures.
Delaware County sets no shed rule. Sheds are governed by your municipality's zoning ordinance, which fixes height and how close to the property line a shed may sit. Radnor Township, for example, limits accessory buildings to 20 feet and a 3-foot setback.
Radnor Township Code Ch. 280 (R-4 Residence District)
No accessory building shall exceed 20 feet in height. ... Accessory buildings in the rear yard and side yard of a lot shall not be closer than three feet from a side or rear property line.
Delaware County has no rule on converting a garage to living space. Because it changes the use of a structure, a garage conversion is governed by your municipality's zoning ordinance and the state building code (UCC), enforced by your local code office.
Delaware County does not regulate carports. As accessory structures, carports fall under your municipality's zoning ordinance, which sets height limits and setbacks. In Radnor Township, carports are treated as accessory structures subject to the same rules.
Delaware County sets no tiny-home rule. Whether a tiny house on a foundation is allowed is decided by your municipality's zoning ordinance, and it must meet the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code. Movable tiny homes on wheels are usually treated as RVs.
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