Upper Darby Township requires mechanical permits to ensure that all heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and related systems are installed and maintained in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as adopted under Act 45, and applicable Township ordinances.

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

Mechanical permits help protect property owners, occupants, and the public by ensuring that systems are safely installed, properly vented, energy-efficient, and compliant with applicable codes.

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 mechanical 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 erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any mechanical system 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 erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any mechanical system 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 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 building permit is required for residential utility and miscellaneous use structures less than 120 square feet when such structures contain utilities, including mechanical systems.

Residential Alterations and Repairs:
A UCC permit is required for all residential alterations and repairs, including mechanical system work, except for those specifically excluded under Chapter 1 of the International Residential Code (IRC), as adopted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

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 Mechanical Permit

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

Permits may be obtained by:

• Residential Contractors who are properly registered with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General (Home Improvement Contractor Registration), and verified with Upper Darby Township, including possession of a valid Township Business Privilege License
• Mechanical contractors who are properly licensed and meet all Township and State requirements
• Property owners (limited circumstances only), as outlined below

Property Owners Performing Mechanical Work

A property owner may apply for a mechanical permit only for their primary residence and only if they are personally performing the work.

Property owners acting as their own contractor must comply with all applicable State and Township requirements, including:

• Compliance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code
• Compliance with all Township ordinances and permitting requirements
• Completion of all required inspections
• Submission of any required affidavits or documentation

Property owners may not perform work under a homeowner permit for rental properties, investment properties, or any property that is not owner-occupied. If a property owner is acting as a contractor, they must obtain all required State and Township licenses.

Licensing Requirements (State and Township Law)

In accordance with State law and Township regulations:

Any individual or entity performing mechanical 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 Mechanical Permit is Required

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

• Installation of new heating or air conditioning systems
• Replacement of furnaces, boilers, or HVAC units
• Installation or modification of ductwork
• Installation or replacement of ventilation systems
• Installation of gas-fired appliances or equipment
• Installation or replacement of water heaters
• Install or modify exhaust systems, including kitchen and bathroom ventilation
• Installation of exhaust systems or ventilation equipment
• Installation of mini-split or split HVAC systems
• Installation of chimney liners or venting systems

Any work involving mechanical systems regulated by the UCC requires a permit.

Work That May Not Require a Mechanical Permit

Certain minor work may not require a permit, including:

• Portable heating or cooling appliances
• Minor repairs that do not alter the system or affect safety
• Replacement of small components that do not impact system performance

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 permit application, applicants should:

• Determine the full scope of work
• Confirm whether zoning approval is required
• Determine whether the property is located in a floodplain
• Confirm contractor licensing and registration requirements
• Ensure that all required plans and documents are prepared

Incomplete applications will delay processing.

Application Requirements

A complete mechanical permit application typically includes:

• Completed permit application form
• Description of the work being performed
• Equipment specifications (manufacturer cut sheets, if applicable)
• Location of equipment within the structure
• Any required supporting documentation

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of work.

Plan Review and Approval

Mechanical permit applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with:

• Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
• International Mechanical Code (as adopted by PA)
• International Fuel Gas Code (as adopted by PA)
• Applicable Township regulations

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

Work may not begin until the permit has been issued.

Inspections

Mechanical inspections are required to verify that work complies with approved permits and applicable codes.

Inspections may include:

• Equipment installation verification
• Ductwork and ventilation inspection
• Combustion air and venting inspection
• Gas connections and safety checks
• Final inspection

All required inspections must be approved prior to final completion.

Permit Expiration

Mechanical permits are valid for a limited time.

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

Extensions may be requested in accordance with Township regulations.

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 permit is required before starting work
• All work must comply with applicable codes
• Inspections are required prior to completion
• Additional permits (electrical, plumbing, or building) may be required depending on the project
• Working without a permit may result in double fees, stop work orders, and enforcement action

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to replace my furnace or AC unit?
Yes. Replacement of heating or cooling equipment requires a mechanical permit.

Will my system need to be inspected?
Yes. Inspections are required to ensure compliance with code requirements.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding mechanical 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.