Code Enforcement
The Code Enforcement Division of the Upper Darby Township Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) is responsible for administering and enforcing Township ordinances that protect public health, safety, and the overall quality of life within the community.
Code Enforcement Officers conduct inspections, investigate complaints, and ensure that properties are maintained in compliance with applicable Township codes. These efforts help prevent unsafe conditions, eliminate blight, and promote clean, safe, and well-maintained neighborhoods throughout Upper Darby Township.
What Code Enforcement Regulates
The Code Enforcement Division enforces a wide range of Township regulations, including but not limited to:
• Property maintenance and exterior conditions• Trash, garbage, and recycling requirements
• High grass and weeds
• Snow and ice removal
• Sidewalk maintenance and trip hazards
• Graffiti
• Dumpsters and storage of materials
• Nuisances and unsafe conditions
• Vacant and abandoned properties
These regulations are primarily established under the Upper Darby Township Property Maintenance Code (Chapter 417) and other applicable Township ordinances.
Common Property Maintenance Violations
The following are the most common violations observed within the Township. Property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance at all times.
Grass and Weeds
Grass, weeds, and similar vegetation must not exceed 10 inches in height.Overgrown vegetation can harbor rodents, create fire hazards, and negatively impact neighborhood appearance.
Property owners are responsible for maintaining all areas of their property, including yards, alleys, and areas adjacent to sidewalk
Trash, Garbage, and Debris
All properties must be maintained free of:• Loose trash and debris
• Accumulated garbage
• Bulk waste stored outside for extended periods
• Improperly stored or overflowing trash containers
Trash must be properly stored in approved containers and placed out for collection in accordance with Township requirements.
Mattresses must be properly wrapped or enclosed when placed out for disposal.
Snow and Ice Removal
Property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property.Requirements include:
• Snow and ice must be removed within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall
• A minimum 36-inch clear path must be maintained
• Snow and ice may not be pushed or placed into the street or roadway
Failure to remove snow and ice creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians and may result in enforcement action.
Sidewalk and Walkway Maintenance
Sidewalks must be maintained in a safe condition and free of hazards.Violations may include:
• Cracked or uneven sidewalks
• Trip hazards caused by uplift or deterioration
• Missing or damaged sidewalk sections
Property owners are responsible for repairing and maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their property.
Graffiti
Graffiti is prohibited on all properties within the Township.Property owners are responsible for removing graffiti from buildings, fences, and other structures in a timely manner.
Dumpsters and Exterior Storage
Dumpsters must be properly maintained and used in accordance with Township regulations.Improper conditions include:
• Overflowing dumpsters
• Uncovered or leaking containers
• Storage of household items, furniture, or appliances outdoors
Exterior storage of indoor furniture or household items is not permitted.
Nuisances and General Property Conditions
Properties must not create nuisance conditions that negatively impact neighboring properties or the community.Examples include:
• Accumulation of junk or discarded materials
• Unsafe or deteriorated structures
• Conditions that attract rodents or pests
• Improper drainage or standing water
Property Owner Responsibilities
All property owners are responsible for maintaining their property in compliance with Township regulations.
This includes:
- • Keeping structures and exterior property in good repair
• Maintaining sanitary conditions
• Ensuring safe access and walkways
• Properly storing and disposing of trash and debris
• Maintaining landscaping and vegetation
• Preventing nuisance conditions
These responsibilities apply to all residential, commercial, and vacant properties.
Notice of Violation and Compliance Process
When a violation is identified, the following process typically occurs:
1. Inspection
A Code Enforcement Officer conducts an inspection based on a complaint or proactive enforcement.
2. Notice of Violation Issued
The property owner receives written notice describing:
• The violation(s)
• Applicable code section(s)
• Required corrective action
• Compliance deadline
3. Compliance Period
Property owners are given a specified timeframe to correct the violation.
4. Reinspection
The property is reinspected to verify compliance.
5. Enforcement Action (if necessary)
If violations are not corrected, additional enforcement may occur.
Enforcement Actions
Failure to correct violations may result in:
• Issuance of citations• Summary criminal proceedings before a District Judge
• Fines and penalties
• Abatement of hazardous conditions by the Township
• Additional enforcement actions as permitted by law
The goal of enforcement is to achieve compliance while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the community.
How to Correct Violations
Property owners are encouraged to correct violations as soon as possible.
Steps to resolve violations:
• Review the Notice of Violation carefully• Identify the issue(s) listed
• Complete necessary repairs or cleanup
• Ensure the property meets compliance standards
• Contact the Department if clarification is needed
If additional time is needed, property owners should contact the Department prior to the compliance deadline.
Vacant Property Requirements
Vacant properties must be properly registered and maintained in accordance with Chapter 419 – Vacant Properties.
Property owners must ensure that vacant structures are:
• Secured against unauthorized access• Maintained free of debris and hazards
• Monitored and maintained to prevent deterioration
More information is available on the Vacant Property Registration page.
How to Report a Property Maintenance Concern
Residents may report property maintenance concerns through the Township One Center.
Common issues to report include:
• High grass and weeds• Trash and debris
• Snow and ice violations
• Unsafe structures
• Graffiti
• Dumping
To submit a concern:
Email: One@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7625
Please provide the property address and a brief description of the issue.
Applicable Codes and Regulations
The Code Enforcement Division enforces several Township code chapters, including:
• Chapter 417 – Property Maintenance
• Chapter 235 – Blight Reclamation
• Chapter 243 – Unfit Buildings
• Chapter 321 – Graffiti
• Chapter 358 – Littering
• Chapter 376 – Nuisances
• Chapter 461 – Solid Waste
• Chapter 472 – Streets & Sidewalks
For the full Township Code, visit: https://ecode360.com/UP3641
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a violation notice?
Review the notice carefully and correct the issue within the timeframe provided.
Can I contact the Township for clarification?
Yes. Property owners are encouraged to contact the Department with any questions.
What happens if I ignore a violation notice?
Failure to comply may result in citations, fines, and legal action.
Can I report a violation anonymously?
Yes, exterior property maintenance concerns may be reported through the Township One Center. Providing contact information is encouraged in case additional details are needed, but it is not required for exterior issues.
For concerns involving the interior of a property, such as conditions inside a commercial business or a rental unit, complaints cannot be submitted anonymously. Township staff must be able to follow up with the complainant to gather additional information, coordinate inspections, and properly investigate the reported conditions.
How long do I have to fix a violation?
Timeframes vary depending on the type and severity of the violation.
Contact Code Enforcement
For property maintenance concerns or questions, please contact the Code Enforcement Division.
Email: LI@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7613
Residents may also report concerns through the Township One Center.
To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.
