Pittsburg Ordinance: Parking Pads Section 922.02

Introduction

The City of Pittsburgh, like many urban areas, faces unique challenges in managing its infrastructure and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. One such challenge is the regulation of parking pads, which are addressed in Section 922.02 of the Pittsburgh City Code. This ordinance plays a crucial role in maintaining the city's aesthetic appeal, ensuring proper land use, and promoting safety in residential areas.

Parking pads, typically defined as off-street parking areas on residential properties, have become increasingly important as urban density rises and street parking becomes more limited. The regulation of these structures through Section 922.02 reflects the city's commitment to balancing the needs of homeowners with broader community interests.

Historical Context and Legal Background

While the specific history of Section 922.02 is not detailed in the available sources, it's important to understand that zoning and land use regulations have been a part of urban planning in the United States since the early 20th century. These regulations evolved to address issues of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as to manage the growth and development of cities.

In Pittsburgh, as in many other cities, the regulation of parking pads likely emerged as a response to increasing car ownership and the need to manage off-street parking in residential areas. The ordinance would have been developed and refined over time to address specific local concerns and to align with broader urban planning goals.

Current Legal Framework

The current legal framework for parking pads in Pittsburgh is primarily governed by Section 922.02 of the City Code. This section falls under the broader category of zoning and development regulations, which are crucial for maintaining order and consistency in urban development.

According to the City of Pittsburgh's official website, Section 922.02 specifically addresses parking pads and is listed among the top ten code violations in the city. The ordinance states:

"A Certificate of Occupancy shall be required for the lawful use or occupancy of a structure or land."

This requirement underscores the importance the city places on ensuring that parking pads are properly constructed and used in accordance with local regulations.

Key Components and Concepts

Certificate of Occupancy

The central component of Section 922.02 is the requirement for a Certificate of Occupancy. This document is essential for several reasons:

1. Legal Compliance: It ensures that the parking pad meets all relevant building codes and zoning regulations.
2. Safety: It verifies that the structure is safe for use and does not pose risks to occupants or neighbors.
3. Property Records: It provides an official record of the approved use of the property.

Record of Zoning Approval

In addition to the Certificate of Occupancy, the city also requires a Record of Zoning Approval for developments subject to the regulations of the code. According to the legislation details from the City of Pittsburgh:

"A Record of Zoning Approval shall be required for all Development subject to the regulations of this code as described in 922.02."

This requirement ensures that any development, including the installation or modification of parking pads, aligns with the city's zoning regulations.

Rights and Responsibilities

Property Owners' Rights

Property owners in Pittsburgh have the right to create parking pads on their property, provided they comply with all relevant regulations. This can include:

1. The right to apply for necessary permits and approvals.
2. The ability to use their property for off-street parking in accordance with local laws.
3. The opportunity to appeal decisions or seek variances if needed.

Property Owners' Responsibilities

With these rights come several responsibilities:

1. Obtaining proper permits and approvals before constructing or modifying a parking pad.
2. Ensuring the parking pad complies with all relevant size, location, and construction standards.
3. Maintaining the parking pad in good condition and using it only for its intended purpose.
4. Adhering to any specific requirements related to materials, drainage, or other factors outlined in the ordinance.

City's Role and Responsibilities

The City of Pittsburgh, through its various departments, is responsible for:

1. Reviewing and approving applications for parking pad construction or modification.
2. Issuing Certificates of Occupancy and Records of Zoning Approval.
3. Conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the ordinance.
4. Enforcing the regulations and addressing violations.

Common Issues and Challenges

Code Violations

Parking pad-related violations are common enough to be listed among the top ten code violations in Pittsburgh. This suggests that many property owners may struggle to fully comply with the regulations, either due to lack of awareness or challenges in meeting the requirements.

Enforcement Challenges

Like many cities, Pittsburgh faces challenges in consistently enforcing zoning and building codes. The Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI) is responsible for this enforcement, but limited resources and the sheer number of properties can make comprehensive enforcement difficult.

Balancing Needs

The city must balance the needs of property owners who want to create off-street parking with broader community concerns such as:

1. Preserving green space and managing stormwater runoff.
2. Maintaining the aesthetic character of neighborhoods.
3. Ensuring safe access for pedestrians and vehicles.

Recent Developments or Proposed Changes

While specific recent changes to Section 922.02 are not detailed in the available sources, it's worth noting that the City of Pittsburgh regularly reviews and updates its zoning and building codes. For example, a City Council meeting in December 2021 discussed amendments to Chapter 922, which includes the section on parking pads.

These ongoing reviews and amendments reflect the city's commitment to keeping its regulations up-to-date and responsive to changing urban needs and challenges.

Resources for Further Information

For those seeking more detailed information about parking pad regulations in Pittsburgh, several resources are available:

1. City of Pittsburgh Official Website: The city's website provides information on various ordinances, including those related to zoning and development.
2. Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances: This online resource contains the full text of Pittsburgh's municipal code, including Section 922.02.
3. Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections: This department can provide specific guidance on obtaining necessary approvals for parking pads.
4. Local legal resources: For complex cases or disputes, consulting with a local attorney specializing in zoning and land use law may be beneficial.

In conclusion, Section 922.02 of the Pittsburgh City Code plays a vital role in regulating parking pads within the city. By requiring Certificates of Occupancy and Records of Zoning Approval, the ordinance aims to ensure that off-street parking areas are safe, properly constructed, and in harmony with the broader urban environment. While challenges in compliance and enforcement persist, ongoing review and amendment of the regulations demonstrate the city's commitment to balancing individual property rights with community needs.