Pittsburgh encourages EV charging through zoning incentives and a city facilities make-ready ordinance. Residential charger installation requires an electrical permit but generally no zoning variance.
Pittsburgh adopted a make-ready ordinance requiring city-owned facilities undergoing substantial renovation to include electrical conduit capable of supporting future EV charger installation. Under the Zoning Code, installing a Level 1 or Level 2 residential EV charger on your own property generally does not require a zoning variance, though an electrical permit from the Department of Permits, Licenses and Inspections (PLI) is required. For new parking structures of 20 or more spaces, the code encourages 10 percent of spaces to include EV charging capability. Running charging cables across public sidewalks is prohibited under right-of-way regulations. The city was awarded federal NEVI formula funding to expand public charging in underserved areas, with site selection prioritizing environmental justice communities. Pennsylvania also offers an Alternative Fuel Vehicle tax credit. DOMI is developing specific policies for on-street EV charging in the public right-of-way.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Title 1003 Property Maintenance Code requires general property upkeep bu...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, lighting, and blower noise are governed by HOA and condo covenants...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed by HOA and condo covenant...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs. Trade permits are filed through P...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has no specific smoker ordinance, but the Allegheny County Health Department Article XXI (Air Pollution Control Regulations) prohibits visible emi...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh Fire Code under Title 1004 adopts the International Fire Code with Pennsylvania amendments. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devic...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Allegheny County.
See how other cities in Allegheny County handle ev charging.
See how Pittsburgh's ev charging 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.