Allentown may require property owners to maintain vegetation for fire safety. Pennsylvania does not have a statewide defensible space mandate like western states.
Pennsylvania does not have a statewide defensible space mandate comparable to California’s PRC §4291. However, Allentown may require property owners to maintain vegetation and remove fire hazards under local property maintenance codes. PA DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) manages wildfire risk in state forests. The International Property Maintenance Code, adopted by many PA municipalities, addresses overgrown vegetation as a hazard. Spring wildfire season (March to May) is the highest risk period.
Property maintenance violation: notice to comply, then fines $100 to $500. Abatement at owner’s expense. Negligent fire: criminal charges.
Allentown, PA
Allentown prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towe...
Allentown, PA
Allentown regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new co...
Allentown, PA
Allentown regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Allentown, PA
Allentown requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Allentown, PA
Allentown requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Allentown, PA
Allentown restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisa...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Lehigh County.
See how other cities in Lehigh County handle brush clearance.
See how Allentown's brush clearance rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.