Upper Darby Township requires demolition permits to ensure that the demolition, removal, or partial dismantling of buildings and structures is performed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as adopted under Act 45, and applicable Township ordinances.

It is unlawful to perform regulated demolition work without first obtaining all required permits and approvals.

Demolition permits help protect workers, neighboring properties, utilities, and the public by ensuring that structures are removed safely and in compliance with applicable codes and regulations.

Permit Requirements (Per State Law, Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code)

In accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as adopted under Act 45 and enforced by Upper Darby Township, permits are required prior to the commencement of regulated demolition work.

Commercial Buildings (All buildings other than single-family and two-family dwellings):
Pursuant to 34 Pa. Code § 403.42(a), an owner or authorized agent who intends to demolish or remove a commercial building, structure, or facility regulated by the Uniform Construction Code—shall first apply to the Building Code Official and obtain the required permit.

Residential Buildings (Single-Family Dwellings and Two-Family Dwellings):
Pursuant to 34 Pa. Code § 403.62(a), an owner or authorized agent who intends to demolish or remove a residential building or structure regulated by the Uniform Construction Code—shall first apply to the Building Code Official and obtain the required permit.

Local Amendments and Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Approvals (2005)

As part of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code adoption process, Upper Darby Township completed the required municipal election and approval process with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry in 2005.

As a result of that process, the Township has adopted the following requirements:

Residential Accessory Structures (120 sq. ft. or more):
A UCC permit is required for demolition of all residential utility and miscellaneous use structures with a building area of 120 square feet or greater.

Residential Accessory Structures (Less than 120 sq. ft.):
A permit is required for demolition of residential utility and miscellaneous use structures less than 120 square feet when such structures contain utilities.

Residential Alterations and Structural Removal:
A permit is required for demolition work involving structural components, including partial demolition, removal of load-bearing elements, or any work affecting structural integrity.

These requirements are enforced in addition to all applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code and Township ordinances.

Who May Apply for and Perform Work Under a Demolition Permit

Demolition permits may only be applied for and work may only be performed by individuals or entities who are properly authorized, qualified, and licensed in accordance with State law and Township regulations.

Permits may be obtained by:

Demolition Contractors who are properly licensed and meet all Township requirements and are experienced and qualified in demolition and structural removal work.

Licensing Requirements (State and Township Law)

In accordance with State law and Township regulations:

Any individual or entity performing demolition work as a contractor must obtain and maintain all required licenses, registrations, and approvals from both the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Upper Darby Township.

Failure to comply with licensing requirements may result in:

• Permit denial or revocation
• Stop work orders
• Citations and fines
• Legal enforcement action

When a Demolition Permit is Required

A demolition permit is required for, but not limited to, the following:

• Full demolition of a building or structure
• Partial demolition involving structural components
• Interior demolition affecting structural elements
• Removal of load-bearing walls or structural systems
• Demolition of accessory structures (garages, sheds, etc.)

Any work involving the dismantling or removal of a structure regulated by the UCC requires a permit.

Work That May Not Require a Demolition Permit

Certain minor work may not require a permit; however, such exemptions are limited, narrowly defined, and subject to determination by the Township.

Examples may include:

• Non-structural interior removal that does not affect building systems or structural integrity

Even if a permit is not required, all work must still comply with applicable codes and safety standards.

The Township reserves the sole authority to determine whether a permit is required. Applicants are strongly encouraged to verify requirements prior to starting any work.

Before You Apply

Before submitting a demolition permit application, applicants must:

• Identify all utilities connected to the property
• Coordinate disconnection of gas, electric, water, sewer, and other services
• Obtain required approvals from utility providers
• Ensure the structure is safe to demolish
• Confirm demolition contractor licensing and registration requirements
• Determine whether additional permits or approvals are required

Demolition work may not proceed until all required clearances are obtained.

Utility Disconnection Requirements

All utilities must be properly disconnected and verified prior to demolition.

This includes:

• Electrical service
• Gas service
• Water service
• Sewer connections

Applicants may be required to provide written confirmation or certifications from utility companies prior to permit issuance.

Application Requirements

A complete demolition permit application typically includes:

• Completed permit application form
• Description of the structure to be demolished
• Site plan identifying the structure
• Proof of utility disconnections
• Demolition contractor information
• Demolition method or scope of work
• Site safety plan
• Any required supporting documentation

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope and location of the project.

Plan Review and Approval

Demolition permit applications are reviewed to ensure:

• Compliance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
• Safe demolition practices
• Proper coordination with utilities
• Protection of adjacent properties and public areas

Once the application is approved, the permit will be issued.

Work may not begin until the permit has been issued.

Safety and Site Requirements

During demolition, the site must be maintained in a safe condition at all times.

Requirements may include:

• Proper barricading and securing of the site
• Dust control and debris management
• Protection of adjacent properties and structures
• Safe removal and disposal of materials
• Compliance with all applicable safety regulations

Unauthorized or unsafe demolition practices are strictly prohibited.

Inspections

Inspections may be required during and after demolition to verify compliance.

Inspections may include:

• Pre-demolition verification
• Site safety inspection
• Final inspection to confirm removal and site condition

All required inspections must be completed prior to final approval.

Debris Removal and Site Restoration

All demolition debris must be properly removed and disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations.

The site must be:

• Cleared of all debris
• Graded as required
• Left in a safe and stable condition

Failure to properly restore the site may result in enforcement action.

Additional Requirements

Depending on the property and location, additional approvals may be required, including:

• Zoning approval
• Right-of-way permits
• Compliance with environmental or hazardous material regulations

Applicants are responsible for obtaining all required approvals.

Permit Expiration

Demolition permits are valid for a limited time.

Failure to commence or complete work within the required timeframe may result in permit expiration.

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.

Important Reminders

• A demolition permit is required before any demolition work begins
• All utilities must be disconnected prior to demolition
• Work must comply with all safety and code requirements
• Inspections are required throughout the process
• The Township reserves the right to require permits, inspections, or additional documentation as necessary to ensure compliance
• Failure to obtain a permit may result in stop work orders, fines, and enforcement action

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to demolish a garage or shed?
Yes, in most cases demolition of structures requires a permit.

Do utilities need to be disconnected before demolition?
Yes. All utilities must be properly disconnected and verified.

Can I start demolition after submitting an application?
No. Work may only begin after the permit has been issued.

Will the site be inspected during and after demolition?
Yes. Inspections are required to ensure the site is safe and properly cleared.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding demolition permits, please contact the Buildings Division.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also submit inquiries or 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.