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Permits

Zoning & Building Permits

Do you want to build a sunroom or deck? Are you going to finish the basement or order that storage shed so you can finally park the car in the garage? If so, you should know that West Earl Township has adopted a zoning ordinance and a building code which requires a permit before you begin to tackle those projects.

A permit is required whenever you add to, construct or locate a building or make any structural changes to an existing building. You also are required to have a permit if you upgrade your electrical service or modify your plumbing or mechanical systems.

The Zoning and Building Permit Process

The process of obtaining a zoning and/or building permit begins by filling out either the building permit application or the zoning permit application. You can download the applications below.

Applications are also available to pick up at the Township office.

The Zoning Officer will determine whether you need a zoning or building permit, or both. If your project requires building inspections, the Township offers the choice of four building inspection agencies. Associated Building Inspections, Commonwealth Code Inspection Service, Code Administrators and Technicon Enterprises.

All building inspectors can perform residential and commercial inspections.

The Zoning Inspection Process

Zoning inspections are required for all permits, except mechanical, electrical, equipment or interior remodeling projects.

  1. Homeowner or contractor submits the completed Zoning Permit Application.
  2. Stake-off (or mark using white construction paint) the area where the structure will be constructed or installed.
  3. Once the area is staked-off (or marked using white construction paint), contact the Zoning Officer to schedule an inspection at 717-859-3201 or email sservice@westearltwp.org. Please provide at least 24-hours’ notice. Inspections will be scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  4. The Zoning officer will visit the property at the scheduled times to:
  • Confirm the size is as stated on the permit application.
  • Confirm the placement is as stated on the permit application.
  • Take photograph of completed construction
  • Confirm the structure will not be in a stormwater easement, floodplain, or utility easement.

5. When the project passes the first inspection the zoning permit will be issued. The applicant must start the project within 6 months. The zoning permit is valid for two years.

6. When the project is complete, contact the Zoning Officer for the final inspection. The Zoning Officer will verify that the size and placement of the structure matches the approved plans submitted with the application.

7. After the final inspection, a Certificate of Compliance will be issued and mailed to the Applicant.

Please note that zoning inspections are separate from building inspections and are performed by the Zoning Officer before permit issuance and after the project is complete.

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