Do I Need A Permit For.....?

A FENCE: YES

A zoning permit is required before installing a new fence or replacing an existing fence.

Fences must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including the following maximum height restrictions:

• Residential and Agricultural Zones (A, C, R, R-1, R-2, R-3, MHP, and VO): Maximum height of 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards.
• Commercial and Industrial Zones (C-1, C-2, I-1, and I-2): Maximum height of 10 feet in any yard.
• Visibility & Safety: Fences must not obstruct required clear sight triangles at intersections or interfere with sight distance for vehicles entering or exiting driveways onto roadways.

Certain types of fences, including livestock, tennis court, and required junkyard fencing, may be subject to different requirements.

Reference:

• East Cocalico Township Zoning Ordinance § 220-31A – Fences and Walls

A SHED: YES

A permit is required before installing or constructing a shed. The type of permit depends on the size of the structure.

• Under 400 Square Feet: A zoning permit is required for sheds without utilities.
• 400 Square Feet or Larger: A building permit is required.
• Utilities: Additional permits may be required if electrical, plumbing, or other utilities are installed.
• Location: Sheds must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setback, height, and lot coverage requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code § 84-2 – Permit Requirements

A DECK: YES

A permit is required for constructing a new deck or expanding an existing deck. The type of permit depends on the scope of work.

• New Decks / Expansions: A Residential Building Permit may be required depending on the deck's height, attachment to the home, and construction. Projects not requiring a building permit still require zoning approval.
• Complete Deck Replacements: Permit requirements depend on whether the existing structure is being reconstructed or only repaired.
• Routine Repairs: Replacing deck boards, railings, or other nonstructural components generally does not require a permit when the deck's dimensions remain unchanged.

All decks must comply with applicable zoning regulations, including setback and lot coverage requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

A PATIO: YES

A zoning permit is required for installing a new patio or expanding an existing patio.

• New Patios / Expansions: A zoning permit is required for new construction or increases in patio size.
• Repairs / Replacements: Routine repairs generally do not require a zoning permit. Complete replacements within the same dimensions should be confirmed with the Township.
• Raised or Covered Patios: A Residential Building Permit may be required depending on the construction.

Patios may count toward the property's impervious surface coverage and may be subject to stormwater management requirements.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits

REPLACEMENT ROOF: Maybe

Permit requirements depend on the type of building and the scope of work.

• Residential Roof Replacement: No permit is generally required when replacing existing roofing materials, such as shingles or metal roofing, without making structural modifications.
• Structural Modifications: A Residential Building Permit is required when altering the roof's structure, height, or dimensions.
• Commercial Roof Replacement: A Commercial Building Permit is generally required, even when replacing existing roofing materials without structural modifications.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

A RETAINING WALL: YES

A permit is required before constructing a new retaining wall. The type of permit depends on the wall's height and construction.

• Under 4 Feet High: A Zoning Permit is required.
• 4 Feet or Higher: A Residential or Commercial Building Permit may be required, depending on the project.
• Additional Requirements: Taller retaining walls may require engineered plans and additional approvals.

All retaining walls must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable height, location, and safety requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-31A – Fences and Walls
• Construction Code Chapter 84

FINSIHING A BASEMENT: YES

A Residential Building Permit is generally required to finish an existing basement.

• Basement Finishing: A Residential Building Permit is required when constructing walls, creating finished living areas, or making other regulated alterations.
• Electrical / Plumbing / Mechanical Work: Additional permits or inspections may be required depending on the scope of work.
• Change of Use: Creating a separate dwelling unit or changing the use of the basement may require additional zoning approval.

Zoning review is included in the Residential Building Permit Application packet, so a separate Zoning Permit Application is not typically necessary.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

SWIMMING POOL: Yes

You will need a Pool, Spa & Hot Tub Permit is required before installing a new above-ground or in-ground swimming pool.

• Above-Ground & In-Ground Pools: A Pool, Spa & Hot Tub Permit is required for installation.
• Setbacks: Swimming pools must be located at least 10 feet from all property lines.
• Fencing & Safety: Pools must comply with applicable fencing, barrier, and safety requirements, including self-closing and lockable gates where required.
• Impervious Coverage: The pool's water surface area, along with all associated impervious surfaces, such as concrete decking, patios, and walkways, counts toward the property's maximum permitted impervious coverage percentage.
• Electrical: Electrical inspections are required for pool installations.

All swimming pools must comply with the Township's applicable zoning and construction regulations. Zoning review is included in the permit process.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-31B – Swimming Pools

A PERGOLA / GAZEBO / PAVILION: YES

A permit is required before constructing or installing a pergola, gazebo, or pavilion. The type of permit depends on the size and construction of the structure.

• Detached Structures Under 400 Square Feet: A Zoning Permit is generally required when no utilities are installed.
• Detached Structures 400 Square Feet or Larger: A Residential Building Permit is generally required.
• Attached Structures: A Residential Building Permit may be required regardless of size.
• Utilities: Additional electrical or plumbing permits may be required.

All structures must comply with applicable zoning regulations, including setback, height, and lot coverage requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

A GARAGE / CARPORT: YES

A permit is required before constructing or installing a new garage or carport. The type of permit depends on the size and construction of the structure.

• Under 400 Square Feet: A zoning permit is generally required for detached structures without utilities. Additional permits may be required if utilities are installed.

• 400 Square Feet or Larger: A building permit is required.

• Attached Garages / Carports: A building permit is generally required, regardless of size.

• Expansions: Permit requirements depend on the size and scope of the proposed work.

• Repairs / Maintenance: Routine repairs that do not change the structure's use or exterior dimensions generally do not require a zoning permit.

All garages and carports must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setback, height, lot coverage, and parking requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits

• Construction Code § 84-2 – Permit Requirements

A DRIVEWAY: YES

Permits are required for new driveways and certain driveway modifications.

• New Driveways / Expansions: A Zoning Permit may be required for new driveways or widening an existing driveway.
• Driveway Access: A separate Driveway Permit is required for new connections to Township roads, while connections to state-owned roads require PennDOT approval.
• Repairs / Resurfacing: Routine repairs or resurfacing within the existing driveway dimensions generally do not require a zoning permit.
• Stormwater Management: New or expanded driveways may be subject to additional stormwater management requirements.

Contact the Township before beginning work to confirm which applications and approvals are necessary.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-40 – Driveway Requirements

A WALKWAY: YES

A zoning permit is required for installing a new walkway or expanding an existing walkway.

• New Walkways / Expansions: A zoning permit is required for new construction or increases in walkway size.
• Repairs / Replacements: Routine repairs generally do not require a zoning permit. Complete replacements within the same dimensions should be confirmed with the Township.
• Stormwater Management: New or expanded walkways may count toward impervious surface coverage and may be subject to stormwater management requirements.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits

SIGNAGE: YES

A zoning permit is required for certain types of signage. Most commercial and nonresidential signs require a Commercial Building Permit.

Signs must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable size, height, location, and illumination requirements.

• Residential Signs: Certain signs may require a Zoning Permit, depending on the type, size, and location.
• Commercial / Nonresidential Signs: Most require a Commercial Building Permit, which includes zoning review.
• Sign Replacements or Alterations: A permit may be required when changing the size, location, structure, or type of an existing sign.
• Temporary Signs: Permit requirements vary depending on the type, size, and purpose of the sign.
• Sign Maintenance: Routine repairs and maintenance generally do not require a permit, provided the sign's dimensions and structure remain unchanged.

Residents and businesses should contact the Township before installing or modifying signage to confirm applicable requirements.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-45 – Outdoor Signs

HOT TUB / SPA: Yes

You will need a Pool, Spa & Hot Tub Permit is required before installing a new outdoor hot tub or spa.

• New Installations: A Pool, Spa & Hot Tub Permit is required for outdoor hot tubs and spas, including permanent and portable installations.
• Location: Hot tubs and spas must comply with applicable zoning requirements, including placement and setbacks.
• Safety Requirements: Appropriate covers, barriers, or other safety measures may be required depending on the installation.
• Electrical: Electrical permits or inspections may be required for new installations or connections.

All hot tubs and spas must comply with applicable Township zoning and construction regulations.

Reference:

• East Cocalico Township Zoning Ordinance § 220-31B – Swimming Pools

A SUNROOM: YES

A Residential Building Permit is required before constructing a new sunroom or enclosing an existing porch or patio to create a sunroom.

• New Sunrooms: A Residential Building Permit is required for new construction, whether attached to or incorporated into the existing home.
• Porch / Patio Enclosures: Converting an existing porch, patio, or deck into an enclosed sunroom requires a Residential Building Permit.
• Electrical / Mechanical Work: Additional permits or inspections may be required depending on the scope of work.

Sunrooms must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setback and lot coverage requirements. Zoning review is included in the Residential Building Permit Application packet.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

INTERIOR HOME RENOVATION: YES

A Residential Building Permit is generally required for interior renovations involving structural changes, alterations to existing rooms, or construction of new living spaces.

• Structural Alterations: Removing or modifying walls, changing load-bearing components, or altering the home's layout generally requires a Residential Building Permit.
• Kitchen / Bathroom Remodels: Permits may be required when relocating plumbing, installing new electrical systems, or making structural changes.
• Electrical / Plumbing / Mechanical Work: A separate Mechanical / Electrical / Plumbing Permit may be required depending on the scope of work.
• Cosmetic Improvements: Painting, replacing flooring, installing cabinets, and similar cosmetic updates generally do not require a permit when no structural or regulated system changes are involved.

Residents should contact the Township before beginning renovations to confirm which permits are necessary.

References:

• Construction Code Chapter 84
• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS / DOORS: Maybe

Permit requirements depend on whether the work involves structural modifications or changes to existing openings.

• Standard Residential Replacements: No permit is generally required when replacing existing windows or doors within the same openings, without structural modifications.
• New or Enlarged Openings: A Residential Building Permit is generally required when creating new openings, enlarging existing openings, or modifying structural components.
• Commercial Buildings: A Commercial Building Permit may be required depending on the scope of work.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

A SMALL OUTBUILDING / ACCESSORY STRUCTURE: YES

A permit is required before constructing or placing a small outbuilding or accessory structure on your property. The type of permit depends on the size and construction of the structure.

• Under 400 Square Feet: A zoning permit is required for detached accessory structures without utilities.
• 400 Square Feet or Larger: A building permit is generally required.
• Utilities: Additional permits may be required if electrical, plumbing, or other utilities are installed.
• Location: Accessory structures must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setback, height, and lot coverage requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code § 84-2 – Permit Requirements

A GREENHOUSE: YES

A permit is required before installing or constructing a greenhouse. The type of permit depends on the size and intended use of the structure.

• Under 400 Square Feet: A zoning permit is required for greenhouses without utilities.
• 400 Square Feet or Larger: A building permit is generally required.
• Utilities: Additional permits may be required if electrical, plumbing, or other utilities are installed.
• Location: Greenhouses must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setback, height, and lot coverage requirements.

Commercial or agricultural greenhouses may be subject to different requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code § 84-2 – Permit Requirements

A DEMOLITION: YES

A Demolition Permit is required before demolishing or removing an existing building or structure.

• Residential Demolition: A Demolition Permit is required for removing a home, garage, shed, or other structure.
• Commercial Demolition: Demolition of commercial buildings or structures requires applicable demolition approval and may involve additional requirements.
• Utility Disconnections: Additional approvals or inspections may be required when disconnecting electrical, plumbing, sewer, or other utility services.

Residents should contact the Township before beginning demolition to confirm applicable requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

A HOME ADDITION: YES

A Residential Building Permit is required before constructing an addition to an existing home.

• New Additions: A Residential Building Permit is required for projects that increase the size or enclosed living space of an existing home.
• Expansions: Enlarging existing rooms, adding a second story, or extending the home's footprint requires a Residential Building Permit.
• Electrical / Plumbing / Mechanical Work: Additional permits or inspections may be required depending on the scope of work.

All additions must comply with the Township's zoning regulations, including applicable setbacks, building height, and lot coverage requirements. Zoning review is included in the Residential Building Permit Application packet.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance § 220-148 – Permits
• Construction Code Chapter 84

Mobile Home / Manufactured Home: YES

A Mobile / Manufactured Home Permit is required before installing or placing a new manufactured home.

• New Installations: A Mobile / Manufactured Home Permit is required for the placement and installation of a new manufactured home.
• Additions / Renovations: A Residential Building Permit is required for expansions or improvements to an existing manufactured home when the work requires a permit.
• Location & Setbacks: Manufactured homes must comply with applicable Township zoning regulations, including permitted locations, setbacks, and lot coverage requirements.
• Utilities: Proper water, sewer, and electrical connections are required. Additional permits or inspections may apply.
• Stormwater Management: A stormwater management plan must be submitted with the application and approved by the Township Engineer before a permit can be issued.

Residents should contact the Township before purchasing or placing a manufactured home to confirm applicable zoning and installation requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance Chapter 220 – Zoning

• Mobile / Manufactured Home Permit Application Packet

Single-Family Dwelling / House: YES

A Residential Building Permit is required before constructing a new single-family home.

• New Construction: A Residential Building Permit is required for the construction of a new single-family dwelling.
• Zoning Requirements: The proposed home must comply with applicable zoning regulations, including permitted uses, setbacks, building height, and lot coverage.
• Utilities: Water, sewer, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems must meet applicable requirements. Additional permits or approvals may be necessary.
• Stormwater Management: New home construction may require stormwater management plans and approvals, depending on the project's impervious coverage and site conditions.

Zoning review is included in the Residential Building Permit Application packet, so a separate Zoning Permit Application is not generally required.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance Chapter 220 – Zoning
• Construction Code Chapter 84

Accessory Dwelling / ECHO Dwelling: Yes

A permit is required to establish or construct an accessory dwelling or ECHO dwelling. Zoning approval is also required to confirm that the proposed use is permitted.

• New Accessory Dwellings: A Residential Building Permit is generally required for constructing a new dwelling unit or converting existing space into a separate dwelling.
• ECHO Dwellings: These must comply with the Township's specific zoning requirements governing eligibility, location, occupancy, and use.
• Zoning Approval: Accessory and ECHO dwellings are subject to zoning district restrictions and may require additional approvals before a permit can be issued.
• Utilities: Additional permits or inspections may be required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, water, or sewer connections.

Residents should contact the Township before planning an accessory or ECHO dwelling to confirm whether the proposed use is permitted on their property.

Reference:

• Zoning Ordinance Chapter 220 – Zoning

New Commercial Building: Yes

A Commercial Building Permit is required before constructing a new commercial, industrial, or other nonresidential building.

• New Construction: A Commercial Building Permit is required for new commercial and nonresidential structures.
• Zoning Requirements: The proposed building and intended use must comply with the property's zoning district, including applicable setbacks, building height, lot coverage, and parking requirements.
• Land Development: Subdivision or land development plan approval may be required before a building permit can be issued.
• Utilities: Additional mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and other permits or inspections may be required.
• Stormwater Management: New construction may require stormwater management plans and approvals.

Applicants should contact the Township early in the planning process to confirm zoning, land development, and permitting requirements.

References:

• Zoning Ordinance Chapter 220
• Subdivision & Land Development Ordinance Chapter 194

• Construction Code Chapter 84