Zoning & Permits

ZONING AND BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS

PLEASE CONTACT THE ZONING OFFICE PRIOR TO ENGAGING IN ANY PROJECT TO FIND OUT WHAT TYPE OF PERMITS ARE REQUIRED!

            In July 2004, the statewide building code, formally known as Act 45 or the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), went into effect.  This law requires a separate building permit process, plan reviews, and inspections for a wide variety of improvements and construction activities to residential and commercial structures.

            Now, in addition to the zoning permit process, applicants will need to follow a separate building permit process.  This process involves a separate application with plans that specify layout and structural components of the proposed activity.  How this law affects you varies by the type of project you wish to embark on.  We have created a brief outline of what types of activity will require the building permit. 

Please contact the Municipal Office prior to starting any activity. 

 UCC Permits Required (list is NOT all inclusive)

1. New dwellings, additions, swimming pools, sheds, gazebos
2. Structural alterations to existing dwellings (includes moving walls, changing roof lines, etc.)
3. Detached accessory buildings 1,000 square feet or larger
4. Decks 30 inches or more above grade
5. Demolition of a building 1,000 square feet or larger
6. Electrical changes or new service
7. Plumbing changes or new service
8. Roof installed over a patio/deck
9. Nearly all non-residential work

       Under State law, if a permit was required and not secured, the person and/or property owner in violation will be subject to a fine of $1000/day.  It may also be necessary to remove part or all of the work done to conduct the proper inspections.  The Township has little or no control over the requirements of the State law.

TOWNSHIP PERMITS

The following is a list of the most commonly used permits in the Township.  This list is not all inclusive.  Fees are subject to change on a yearly basis to be determined at the Board of Supervisors Reorganization Meeting which is held the first Monday in January.  Permit applications can be obtained by visiting the Municipal Office Monday through Friday from 8:30am – 3:30pm or by visiting the website www.eastallentwp.org.  Payment is expected at the time of submittal.  Cash or checks are accepted and there is a $30 fee for any returned checks.  We do not accept credit/debit cards.

Annual Permits – These permits are good only for the calendar year in which they are purchased. 

1. Brush Permit Application – Brush and leaves can be taken to the East Allen Township drop-off site.  Brush cannot be more than 4 inches in diameter or 6 feet long.  Leaves are to be left loose at the site or left in biodegradable paper bags.  Cost is $20.
2. Burn Permit – Everyone who wishes to burn needs a permit.  Burning anything considered recyclable (e.g. brush and leaves) is not permissible.  Cost is $25.

Occupancy Permits – These permits are only needed when moving in and do not expire.

1. Residential Use Permit – When moving into the Township, this permit is required.  Permit is also required if moving from one residence to another within the Township.  All adults can be listed on one permit and the cost is $35/permit.
2. Business Use Occupancy – When a business opens in the Township, this permit is required prior to occupying a building.  Cost is $35.  Must be accompanied by Zoning permit (cost $75) and Knox Box application.