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March 10, 2026

Naked Sunbathing? Bonfires? What's Legal in a Pittsburgh Backyard

City Cast Pittsburgh

Naked Sunbathing? Bonfires? What's Legal in a Pittsburgh Backyard

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You might have a few pots of herbs and flowers in your backyard, but what if you want to dream bigger? Maybe you're thinking of raising some chickens and building a coop, or you've decided this is the year to install an in-ground pool and buy that sauna from Costco. But before you make a trip to Home Depot, we're here to help you review Pittsburgh's rules for how many animals you can keep, what you need a permit for, and more. We're bringing back an episode with Host Megan Harris, newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco, and prize-winning gardener Kaydi Gratzer, where they talk through what's allowed and what's off limits in your Pittsburgh backyard.

Need a refresh? We've put our do's and don'ts up on our website, and head over to OneStopPGH to apply for a permit for your next DIY. 

**This episode originally aired on August 4, 2025.

Still have a question about your backyard? Call or text the HELP ME hotline at 412-212-8893.

Learn more about the sponsors of this March 10th episode:

AIDS Free Pittsburgh

Heinz History Center

Liberty Magic

The Westmoreland

Carnegie Library

Your City Could Be Better

Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm.

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