Do I Need A Permit?
A Guide to Permits for Construction Projects and Changes in Use
Types of Permits
West Hempfield Township issues two types of permits related to building and construction.
Zoning Permit
A Zoning Permit is required whenever your project involves placing, constructing, expanding or altering a physical structure on your property (including driveways) or changing the use of your property. This permit confirms that the work or change in use that you are proposing is allowed by the Zoning Ordinance.
Construction Code Permit
A Construction Code Permit is required whenever your construction project will need to be inspected to insure that it meets the standards of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC). The UCC covers all aspects of construction: framing, electric, plumbing, and mechanical. Any project that will affect any of these systems must have a Construction Code Permit. The UCC uses the following codes as its standards
- International Residential Code 2009 - For residential construction.
- International Building Code 2009 - For commercial construction.
Many projects, such as house additions, decks, and swimming pools will require both a Zoning Permit and a Construction Code Permit.
Construction Exempt From Permits
Repair and replacement projects which do not involve structural changes or changes to the plumbing or electrical systems do not require a permit. The following do not require a permit:
Replacement windows and doors of the same size.
Replacement of plumbing fixtures, such as sinks and toilets.
Replacement of switches, receptacles, and lighting fixtures rated at 20 amps or less.
Landscaping fences (single section). Must meet all fence requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. All other fences require a permit.
Construction Code Inspections
All inspections are performed by third-party inspectors that have been approved by West Hempfield Township. These inspectors have provided the Township with their credentials verifying the types of inspections they may perform.
Contact an inspector early in the planning stages to ensure that your project will be up to code. The list of inspectors is available at the township office and on the township website.
Permit Process
- The property owner or contractor will complete the Zoning Permit Application and/or Construction Code Permit Application. Any necessary drawings, including a plot plan of the property and a floor plan of the structure must be included.
- If applying for a Construction Code Permit, an approved inspector must be contacted to perform required inspections. The Township will require the submission of stamped, signed and approved construction documents/plans by the inspector.
- When the completed applications are returned to the Township they should include stamped, signed, and approved plans by the inspector. They will be reviewed for completeness and compliance with Township regulations. Most reviews are completed in less than 5 business days.
- Based on the review, the Zoning Officer/Building Code Official will either issue or deny the permits.
- Construction may begin when the permits have been paid for and picked up.
- Inspections of the ongoing work must be coordinated with the Construction Code inspector.
- The inspector will notify the Township when the project is completed and meets all Construction Codes.
- When the Township receives the inspector’s notification of completion, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued. The newly constructed area may only be occupied or used after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
Building Demolition or Removal of Mobile Homes
Before any building is demolished or any mobile home is removed, a Zoning Permit is required. This permit creates a record of the demolition or removal for tax assessment purposes and for township records.When a mobile home is removed, a permit is also required from the County Treasurer’s Office. Contact the County at 717-299-8000.
Storm Water Plans for New Construction
All new homes constructed in West Hempfield Township must have an approved storm water management plan. New subdivisions must contain storm water plans that are designed at the time of subdivision plan processing. Lots which are not a part of a new subdivision will be required to provide an individual plan for roof and driveway runoff. A grading and storm water management plan must be submitted with the Zoning Permit Application. If the individual plan requires review by the Township Engineer, the applicant pays for this review.
Requirements for Common Projects
Storage Shed
Zoning Permit required. Construction Code Permit required if larger than 200 square feet or if electricity is provided. Must be located in rear yard. Setbacks are 10' from all other structures, 3' from side and rear property lines.
Detached Garage/Accessory Building
Zoning and Construction Code Permit required. Must be located in side or rear yard. Setbacks vary by zoning district.
Fences (other than a single section)
Zoning permit required.
Patio
Zoning Permit required. Construction Code Permit required if patio will ever be enclosed or placed under roof. Setbacks are the same as for the house and vary by zoning district.
Deck
Zoning Permit required. Construction Code Permit required if over 30 inches above grade. Setbacks are the same as for the house and vary by zoning district.
Above Ground Pool
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required for all pools over 24" deep. A fence or locking ladder is required to limit access to the pool. Must be located in the rear yard. Setbacks are 10' from all other structures and property lines.
In-Ground Pool
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required. Must be located in the rear yard. Setbacks are 10' from all other structures and property lines.
Hot Tub/Spa
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required. Must be located in the rear yard.
Screened Porch
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required. Setbacks are the same as for the house and vary by zoning district.
Sunroom/Three Season Room
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required. Smoke detectors in the entire house must be upgraded. Setbacks vary by zoning district.
House Addition
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required. Smoke detectors in the entire house must be upgraded. Setbacks vary by zoning district.
Finishing Basement
Zoning Permit required. Direct access to the outside must be provided by an emergency escape and rescue opening.
Interior Remodel (No outside work)
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required if walls are moved or changed, or if plumbing or electrical system is modified.
Replacement Windows and Doors
Zoning and Construction Code Permits required if new window or door will be larger than the old.
Agricultural Buildings
Zoning Permit required. Construction Code Permit required if electricity is provided to the building, if the building contains spaces that are used for processing, treating, or packaging of agricultural products, or if it contains areas of occupancy by the general public.
Additional Information
For further information regarding permits, contact the West Hempfield Township staff.
3401 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17601
Office Hours 8:00am-4:30pm
Phone 717-285-5554
Fax 717-285-2879
Remember to Call Before You Dig
PA One Call
1-800-242-1776
West Hempfield Township