Pennsylvania UCC Building Height and Construction Standards

While zoning-based height limits are set by Pennsylvania municipalities under the Municipalities Planning Code (53 P.S. 10101 et seq.), the structural and fire-safety height limits in the International Building Code are adopted statewide through the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (Act 45 of 1999, 35 P.S. 7210.101 et seq.) and 34 Pa. Code Chapter 403. Maximum allowable heights and stories by construction type, sprinkler requirements, and fire-resistance ratings are uniform statewide. Municipalities cannot weaken these IBC standards but may impose stricter zoning height caps.

Pennsylvania UCC violations are punishable by fines up to $1,000 per offense under 35 P.S. 7210.903, stop-work orders, and orders to demolish or modify nonconforming construction. Each day of violation may be a separate offense.