When do I need a permit?

A permit is required for:

• Construction, enlargement, alteration, renovation, remodeling, demolishing or moving of a structure and for removal of asbestos and underground storage tanks.  A permit is not required for ordinary repairs, such as repainting, pointing, replacement of doors and windows within existing openings. 
  Download the form here.
• Roofing and siding. 
  Download the form here.
• Driveways, walkways, and accessory buildings under 200 square feet.
  Download the form here.
• All plumbing work, except that work that involves only the working parts of a faucet or valve or the clearance of stoppages. 
  Download the form here.

• All electrical work.

Download the form here.

• Installation of heating or air conditioning equipment except window air conditioners. 
  Download the form here.
• Installation of sprinkler systems.
  Download the form here.

• Installation of signs.  Information about the signage requirements in the Town Center, including a Signage Overview and a Detailed Drawing of a sample window and the Application Form may be found here.  For signs other than in the Town Center, please call the Borough Office.

• A Drainage Plan is required for any increase in impervious cover greater than 400 square feet.  The application can be found here.  Special rules apply if the proposed cover is less than 2,000 square feet.  Review the regulations here.

Permits and/or licenses are also required for:

• Operation of a Bed and Breakfast establishment
• Operation of a day-care center
• Installation of a sign outside of the Town Center
• Installation of a fence
• Transient retail business
• Restaurants
• Excavations between the curb lines of any street
• Subdivision, Land Development, or Stormwater Management Plans

Call the Borough office (610-543-4599) for more information on any of the above.

How much will it cost?

Fees for permits and licenses are set annually by Borough Council. Click here to download a fee schedule for 2008.

Is there a licensing requirement for contractors?

All contractors must pay an annual license fee to the Borough. Contractors must also provide proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance.

When does a resident need to go to the Zoning Hearing Board ?

All building permit applications are reviewed by the Borough's Zoning Officer. If the proposed project does not meet the requirements of the Borough Zoning Code, the applicant will be referred to the Zoning Hearing Board to apply for a variance. The most common requests for variances are when a proposed addition exceeds allowable lot coverage or sits too close to the property line. Click here for a printable copy of the Zoning Hearing Board Application and instructions.