Backyards in the Burgh are like urban sanctuaries — if you’re lucky enough to have one. But just because it’s your property doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. We dug into the city, county, and state rules for growing, building, and entertaining so you can enjoy outdoor living while keeping the peace with your neighbors.
Can I Keep Animals?
Yes. There are limits, and it depends how big your yard is. For chickens, ducks, bees, and goats, you need at least 2,000 square feet. That can get you up to five chickens or ducks, two beehives, and two miniature goats — IF you don’t also have chickens and ducks. Full size goats are allowed on lots over 10,000 square feet. For other farm animals, you need at least two acres and an agriculture designation. Bees must also be registered with the state.
Can I Burn Things?
In small quantities, yes. City residents follow state law, so you can set off consumer grade fireworks as long as you’re 150 feet from a building or vehicle and have permission to be there. Large displays require fees, permits, and inspections. The county governs rules for burning other things, like in a campfire, burn barrel, homemade pit, Solo Stove, etc. Small fires under 3’×3’×2’ must be at least 15 feet from structures, and permits may be required. If you want to burn bigger things for “destruction,” you need an open burn permit.
Can I Work?
You can run a small business (like an Etsy shop) from home if there’s no customer traffic. No signs advertising your business are allowed. But living in a business or working from home may require a special license — check what your property is zoned for (residential, commercial, or both) to be sure.
Can I Be Naked?
Yes, according to the city, you’re safe as long as you’re out of public view. Pennsylvania law bans indecent exposure in public places, or if you are intentionally exposing yourself where others can see you. Maybe suss out the neighborhood vibe first.
Is There Anything I Can’t Plant?
Flower and vegetable gardens are allowed, no permission needed. However, growing plants that you’re knowingly cultivating to eventually process into scheduled drugs is a federal crime. This includes cannabis, poppies, and more. Trees or landscaping in a curbed area requires a city forestry department permit. Look for their Tree Planting Request Form and handy guides to which trees might be best for your space.
Can I Have a Really Big Party?
Yes! Pittsburgh zoning doesn’t cap household gatherings, but you may need a special event permit if you’re planning to play loud music, sell food or alcohol, or need to close a street. Noise and parking laws still apply.
Can I Bury Something?
Probably? (Note: The person who submitted this question didn’t explicitly ask about pets, but that’s what we’re choosing to believe they meant.) City code doesn’t explicitly address pet burial, since it’s generally a private, non-commercial activity — so we hear it’s OK to proceed.
Can I Build?
Yes. Sheds, lean-tos, garages, carports, pools, patios, decks, playhouses, and similar small buildings are all allowed as accessory structures under Pittsburgh’s zoning code. So are fences, chicken coops, and permanent saunas. There are a ton of sizing and placement rules, and you probably need a permit. Exceptions (no permit required!) include basic interior renovations, painting, swing sets and small playgrounds, small above-ground pools, and sheds less than 200 square feet.
Can I Park A Vehicle?
It depends on your space. Driveways are obviously fair game, and so is the area in front of your street as long as you follow relevant signage. City code doesn’t expressly prohibit parking on dirt or grass, but it does require any off-street parking be on an approved hard surface (for example, concrete or asphalt), and meet certain standards. Spoiler: grass probably won’t pass muster. If you choose to install a parking pad, you’ll need (wait for it…) a permit.
Still need help? The city recently launched OneStopPGH to help regular Pittsburghers interpret complicated zoning and permitting requirements. You can now apply online. They also have a Downtown office if you prefer in-person help.
