Licenses & Permits

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Licenses & Permits

Included below is some helpful information for residents in relation to licenses, permits and zoning.

Work that does not require a permit:

Building

  • One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses that are 120 square feet or less only require a $40 zoning permit.
  • Replacement of existing windows or doors.
  • Painting, flashing or replacement of downspouts.
  • Fences do not require permits; they must comply with the fence ordinance.
  • Retaining walls that are not over 4ft in height, unless they are supporting a surcharge. Please be aware that retaining walls must also comply with the fence ordinance requirements.
  • Replacing private sidewalks, or replacing/repaving private driveways or patios as long as their size in not being increased.
  • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
  • Prefabricated swimming pools that that are less than 24in deep.
  • Swings and other playground equipment.
  • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54in from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
  • Repairing less than 50% of a roof, siding, or stucco.

Electric:

  • Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.
  • Residential burglar or fire alarm systems.

Mechanical/Plumbing

  • Portable heating appliances.
  • Portable ventilation appliances.
  • Portable cooling units.
  • Steam, hot or chilled piping within any heating or cooling equipment.
  • Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
  • Self contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds or less of refrigerant, or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower or less.
  • Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.
  • The stopping of leaks, or clearing of drains unless the work requires the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.

Gas:

  • Portable heating, cooking, or clothes drying appliances
  • Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
  • Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Zoning Information

The zoning classification for your property can be found on the Zoning Map. Once you know how your property is zoned, you can than find the applicable regulations in our Zoning Code.

Trailer Permit

A permit is required for the parking of trailers used as offices, contractors trailer or similar uses.

Loud Speaker Permit

A permit is required for the outside operation of radios, loudspeakers, amplifiers, mechanical or electrical instruments or devices within the Township

Dumpster Permit

A permit is required for the placement all dumpsters, open-top containers and compaction containers maintained and located on a public street within the Township.

Resale Certificate

Any person who owns real property within the Township and desires to sell said property must first obtain a resale certificate.

Block Party Information

If you wish to have a block party you will need a street closing permit. Listed below are the guidelines, you may find the petition for getting the permit itself on here.

  • A Petition signed by at least ninety (90) percent of the households of the block represented must be forwarded to the Upper Darby Township Council office at least three (3) weeks prior to the scheduled day of party.
  • Time permitted for street closure is 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. on the day of closure. At all times the street must be accessible to emergency vehicles.
  • The petition will name an individual or individuals to be contacted in the event any problems occurring concerning the time the street is closed.
  • Councils office will recommend to the Mayors Office, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date, whether or not a permit to close the street should be notified accordingly.
  • A SPECIAL PERMIT will be necessary if live bands or amplified music are used during the time the street is closed.
  • State highways and/or bus routes may not be closed. Vehicles of any type may not be used to block off any street. Wooden barricades or trash containers are permitted for this purpose. (All trash must be cleared from the street at conclusion of the event).
  • The Laws of the State of Pennsylvania and the ordinances of the Township of Upper Darby concerning excessive noise, alcoholic beverage consumption, disorderly conduct, etc. must be adhered to at all times. Fireworks are not permitted at any time. If while the street is closed it is determined that underage drinking was allowed or if the police are called to the street and file a disturbance report, future permits may not be allowed.
  • If and when complaints are received regarding the street closure, the Police Department will act accordingly.
  • The Township will permit the closure of any street only once during the calendar year.
  • Whenever possible the Township will provide barricades for the closing of the street.

Permits

New Business or Takeover of Business Permits

Download Business Permit Package

Any new business or takeover of an existing business is required to apply for a use and occupancy permit. Businesses will be required to comply with all pertinent requirements of the Township's zoning, building, fire and property maintenance code requirements. Businesses are also required to apply to the Township Tax Office for the appropriate business/mercantile license and pay the appropriate tax.

Home Based Business

Download Home Based Permit Application

Residents can operate a business from their home if it complies with Section 1003 of the Township zoning code.

Construction Permits

Depending on the type of work being done, a permit may be required. Permits are divided into reviewable and non-reviewable permits.

Non-reviewable permits can be issued directly from the counter as long as the proper paperwork is presented. Reviewable permits require further review performed by a certified Township plan reviewer. Below is a listing of required construction permits.

Non-REVIEWABLE PERMITS:

REVIEWABLE PERMITS:

Building/Demo/Change of Use Permits

Download General Building Permit Application

This application covers but is not limited to the following

  • Installation of decks, porches, patios or greenhouses
  • Installation of above or below ground pools or other accessory structures such as spas, or hot tubs
  • Installation of sheds or garages
  • Installation or expansion of driveways or parking lots
  • Additions to properties
  • Alterations to buildings, particularly work that includes the removal or installation of walls and structural members
  • Conversion of basements, garages or attics to a family room, bathroom, bedroom or similar use
  • Major structural repairs to buildings including replacement of joists, headers or columns
  • Construction of new residential or commercial buildings
  • Demolition or movement of a structure
  • Installation or removal of above or below ground fuel tanks
  • Changes in use as regulated by the Building Code
  • Improvements related to site development
  • Construction of retaining walls over four (4) feet above grade
  • Installation or alteration of any equipment which is regulated by the building code including but not limited to electrical, plumbing, heating or air condition systems including installation of new chimney liners.
  • Permits at the discretion of the Director and as regulated by the Township Building Code
  • Parking of trailers used as offices, contractor's trailer or similar uses.

Signs

Download Sign Permit Applications

A permit is required for construction, placement, installation, or face change of the majority of signs. Go to Artcile IX of the Township Zoning Code for more information on regulations pertaining to signs.

Fire Protection Permits & Forms

Fair/Carnivals

Download Fair Permit Application

A permit is required for any organized charity, religious organization or business person's association who wishes to hold a fair/carnival within the Township.

Loudspeakers

Download Loudspeaker Permit Application

A permit is required for the outside operation of radios, loudspeakers, amplifiers, mechanical or electrical instruments or devices within the Township

Off-Street Sales

Download Off-Street Sales Permit Application

A permit is required for any individual or entity who sells any goods, wares or merchandise at a site located on private property and rented from or owned by any other individual or entity when the goods, wares or merchandise are not being sold or exhibited by the proprietor in connection with the proprietor's existing business.

Use of Upper Darby Township Recreation facilities

Download Use of Upper Darby Township Recreation facilities Permit

Applications for permits to use the Upper Darby Township Recreation facilities

Special Events Permit

Parking Lots

Download Parking Lot Permit Application

A permit is required for any person, firm or corporation desiring to operate a privately owned parking lot.

Trailers

A permit is required for the parking of trailers used as offices, contractor's trailer or similar uses.

Peddlers or Solicitors

Download Solicitation License Application

A permit is required for any individual who peddles or solicits upon and of the streets or sidewalks or from house to house within the Township.

Street Closing Petition (Block Parties)

Download Street Closing Petition

If you wish to have a block party you will need a street closing permit. You can find the guidelines, for a block party on the Permit Guidelines Page. A Petition signed by at least ninety (90) percent of the households of the block represented must be forwarded to the Upper Darby Township Council office at least three (3) weeks prior to the scheduled day of party.

Health

All of the below paid health services are to be renewed on an annual basis. All food establishments and rental properties are subjected to an annual inspection from a health officer.

Rental License

Download Rental License

Multi-Unit Rental License

Download Dog Park Access Pass

Food Establishment License

Download Food Establishment License

Dog License

Dog License (Through the County)

L&I

Amusement Devices

Download Device Application

A yearly tax is imposed on all jukeboxes, mechanical or electronic amusement devices within the Township.

Billiard Rooms

Download Device Application

A license is required for the operation of any billiard/pool rooms within the Township.

Cigarette Machines

Download Device Application

Any mechanical, electrical or electronic self-service device which upon insertion of money, tokens or any other form of payment dispenses tobacco products is required to apply for a yearly license.

Contractors

Contractor License Application

A license is required for all contractors performing work within the Township with the exception of Home Improvement Contractors who are licensed by the state.

A current list of licensed Home Improvement Contractors can be accessed at the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General

Contractors-Renewal

Contractor License Renewal Application

Junkers

Download Junkers License

A license is required for those persons who engage in the business of picking over rubbish and refuse in the Township.

Resale Certificates

Residential Resale Application

Commercial Resale Application

Any person who owns real property within the Township and desires to sell said property must first obtain a resale certificate.

Installation of decks, porches, patios or greenhouses

Typical Deck Worksheet (Example)

Typical Deck Worksheet
View larger image

Installation of above or below ground pools or other accessory structures such as spas, or hot tubs

Above Ground Pools

  • They are not permitted in front yards.
  • They must be 5' from side and rear of property lines, 8' from house.
  • 4' fence with self locking gate or decking with railing and self-closing ladder also a door alarm might be required.
  • Electric is a sperarate permit. Also verify there are no overheard electric lines in the path of the pool.

You must Submit:

  • A complete and accurate plot plan, showing the size and location of pool with distances. Also fencing and/or special items.
  • A drawing or accurate brochure of pool.
  • You must submit THREE (3) copies of both A and B.

In-Ground Swimming Pools

All of the above requirements plus:

  • Sealed drawings prepared by a professional engineer including topographic drawing, and diving board if there is one. Building coverage is part of this and make sure plot plan is complete and accurate.

Installation of sheds or garages

You Must Submit:

  • A complete and accurate plot plan showing the size of the shed and the distance from both property lines and other structures.
  • Construction detail drawing or accurate brochure
  • You must submit THREE (3) copies of both A and B.

Contractor Licensing:

Upper Darby Township enforces the PA state mandated Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Currently, the UCC requires the Township to enforce the 2015 ICC family of codes with amendments. The following link to the PA Labor & Industry website will give more information on the UCC: https://www.dli.pa.gov/ucc/Pages/default.aspx

The codebook is copyrighted material; therefore, it can be purchased online at: http://www.iccsafe.org/e/category.html

The question better asked is what does not require a permit. The following work does not require permits:

Building:

  • One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses that are 120 square feet or less only require a $40 zoning permit.
  • Replacement of existing windows or doors.
  • Painting, flashing or replacement of downspouts.
  • Fences do not require permits; they must comply with Section 1001 - Fences in the zoning code.
  • Retaining walls that are not over 4' in height, unless they are supporting a surcharge. Please be aware that retaining walls must also comply with the fence ordinance requirements.
  • Replacing private sidewalks, or replacing/repaving private driveways or patios as long as their size in not being increased.
  • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
  • Prefabricated swimming pools that that are less than 24" deep.
  • Swings and other playground equipment.
  • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54" from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
  • Repairing less than 50% of a roof, siding, or stucco.

Electric:

  • Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.
  • Residential burglar or fire alarm systems.

Gas:

  • Portable heating, cooking, or clothes drying appliances
  • Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
  • Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.

Mechanical/Plumbing:

  • Portable heating appliances.
  • Portable ventilation appliances.
  • Portable cooling units.
  • Steam, hot or chilled piping within any heating or cooling equipment
  • Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
  • Self contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds or less of refrigerant, or that are actuated by motors of 1 horsepower or less.
  • Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected to a power grid.
  • The stopping of leaks, or clearing of drains unless the work requires the replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes, or fixtures.

The zoning classification for your property can be found on the zoning map

First, you must find out how your property is classified (see above.) Once you know how your property is zoned, you can then find the applicable regulations in our zoning code.

A design professional will be required for additions that are greater than 1 story, or if the design you are proposing is not in accordance with standard engineering practices.

The frost line in this area is 36".

Footings for these walls are required to protect against warping and twisting and framing from frost heave. For a definition of frost heave see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frost_heaving

The most common design for this wall is 2"x6" studs spaced 16" on center with 5/8" Type X gypsum wall board (or equivalent) on the interior side, and 5/8" Type X gypsum exterior sheathing board (or equivalent) on the exterior side. Each side must have the wall board applied horizontally and secured with 2 1/4" #6 Type S drywall screws @ 7" O.C.

The bottom sill of an egress window must be 44" or less above the floor. The minimum height is 24", and the minimum width is 20" inches; however, one or both of those dimensions will have to be bigger to meet the total minimum opening area of 5.7 square feet. The opening is measured with only the bottom sash open. The minimum opening size for an egress window at grade or below grade is 5 square feet.

The prescriptive requirements are R-19 for floors, R-13 for walls, and R-38 for roofs/ceilings.

The ground snow load for this area is 30 psf.

Yes.

Yes, as long as the truss drawing bears the seal of a PA registered engineer.

Yes, an ice barrier must be provided from the eave to a point 2' inside the wall line.

The existing roof covering(s) must be removed when any of the following occur: Where the existing roof or roof covering is water-soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for additional roofing. Where the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate, clay, and cement or asbestos-cement tile. Where the existing roof has two or more applications of any type of roof covering.

No. All contaminants must be exhausted directly to the outdoors.

No. These vents do not meet flame spread requirements.

Yes, as long as they meet the testing standards for these specific products.

The homeowner is responsible for maintenance of their entire sewer lateral pipe, and any curb, sidewalk, or street that must be excavated to make repairs. The Township is only responsible for the sewer mains throughout the Township.

No.

Yes.

Yes, as long as it is accessible and at least one stack vent or vent stack extends to the open air.

Yes, as long as it is run through the floor/ceiling joists. If the cable must be run up or along a wall, then it must be installed in a listed conduit or tubing.

No, unless you are going to rewire to provide an equipment grounding system; however, there are three options to address this situation:

  • You may replace the receptacle with another non-grounding receptacle.
  • You may install a GFCI type receptacle that is marked "No Equipment Ground."
  • You may install grounded type receptacles supplied a GFCI protected circuit that is marked "GFCI Protected" and "No Equipment Ground."

In order to accurately determine where your property lines are, we recommend you enlist the services of a registered land surveyor.

In order to obtain information that is not public record on a property that you are not the owner of, you must submit a Right to Know Request with the Townships Right to Know Officer.

  • A site plan.
  • Floor plans.
  • Elevation view drawings.
  • Sectional drawings providing all construction details.

The barrier must be a extend from a maximum of 2" above grade to a minimum of 48" above grade Openings in the barrier may not allow the passage of a 4" sphere. The barrier may not be designed in any way that facilitates climbing. A self closing and latching gate that swings outward away from the pool must be provided. If any door(s) from the house provide direct access to the pool, then a UL 2017 listed pool alarm(s) will be required for this door(s). Above ground pools 48" or greater in height are allowed to be protected by providing a barrier meeting the above requirements may be provide around the ladder or steps. Above ground pools 48" or greater in height may also be protected by providing a self folding and latching ladder or steps. Hot tubs are not required to comply with these barrier requirements, if they are provided with a safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346.