Ordinances and Regulations


Click here for the most up-to-date version of Swarthmore Borough's Ordinances
 

Listed below is a summary of some of the most commonly asked rules and regulations in the Borough. 

As a Borough resident, you are responsible for the following:

  • Clearing a pathway of not less than 30'' on the sidewalk in front of your property within 24 hours after the end of a snowstorm (after the snow has stopped falling).
  • Trees trimmed so that no branch is less than eight feet above the sidewalk or roadway.  The fine for failure to comply with the regulation is $50 for the first notice and $150 for each subsequent notice.
  • Shrubbery trimmed at least six inches back from the public sidewalk or roadway. The fine for failure to comply with the regulation is $50 for the first notice and $150 for each subsequent notice.
  • Grass may not be more than 12 inches.
  • Keeping a clear sight triangle at intersections. 
    The fine for failure to comply with the regulation is $50 for the first notice and $150 for each subsequent notice.
  • Dogs licensed in compliance with Pennsylvania law and vaccinated against rabies and leashed at all times while on public property.
  • Cleaning up after your dog!
  • House numbers clearly visible from the street.
  • Lights and reflectors used on bicycles at night.
  • Removal of invasive bamboo

What's not allowed?

  • Removal of street trees (those located within 25 feet of the center of the adjacent street) without written permission from the Borough.
  • Fences within 50 feet of the center line of the street except in certain locations (call the Borough office before installation!)
  • Parking commercial trucks in residential areas.
  • Parking on posted snow emergency routes until 24 hours after the end of a snowfall.
  • Sump pumps, roof downspouts, and floor, patio, or yard drains connected to the sanitary sewer system.
  • Septic tanks.
  • Unkempt properties, uncut lawns, and high weeds.
  • Burning trash or leaves.
  • Discharging any firearm, spring, or air gun, or the propelling of any object with a sling shot, bow, or blowgun.
  • Littering, including abandoned automobiles.
  • Loud noise or music.
  • Signs or flyers on utility poles, posts, trees, or between the sidewalk and the curb.
  • Rooms or garages in residential districts converted into apartments by installation of cooking facilities.
  • Operating a bed and breakfast without a permit.
  • Operating a bed and breakfast in an accessory structure. 
  • Planting of bamboo