Code Enforcement

Lower Paxton Township’s Code Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing the 2009 International Property Maintenance Code and local Codified Township Ordinances to help ensure safety, cleanliness, and quality of life in our communities. Inspectors respond to complaints about potential code violations by conducting property inspections.

Please visit our Township website Ordinances section for a complete list of current Codified Ordinances.

How to report a concern:

To report a property maintenance concern within Lower Paxton Township, please use one of the following methods:

Online: Submit through SmartGov link on Lower Paxton Township website
By phone: (717) 657-5600 ext. 1129
By email: Dhighducheck@lowerpaxton-pa.gov
In person: Lower Paxton Municipal Center
425 Prince St., Harrisburg, PA 17109
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Complaints may be submitted anonymously; however, if no contact information is provided, we cannot provide updates or follow-up details. Information regarding case status will only be shared with the original complainant.

What occurs after a complaint is filed

Once a complaint is received:

A Code Enforcement Officer will conduct an inspection of the property within 24 to 72 hours.
A notice is sent by mail to the property owner on file, detailing any violations.
If violations are not corrected within the designated timeframe, a non-traffic citation may be issued through the Magisterial District Judge.
Each unresolved code violation may result in a separate citation.

Requesting an Extension

If you are unable to correct a violation by the due date due to financial hardship, a family emergency, medical issues, or other reasons, you may request additional information subject to approval.

Download the Extension Request form

Completed forms can be:

Emailed to address listed on the form, or
Dropped off in person at the Township Municipal Center
425 Prince St., Harrisburg, PA 17109

Common residential code violations

Overgrown grass and weeds: Grass and weeds must be cut and maintained at 10 inches or less across the entire property.
Debris and rubbish: Yards must be kept free of junk, wood debris, car parts, appliances, and bulk items like furniture, mattresses, or tires. Items cannot be stored outside.
- Schedule bulk item pickup: (717) 657-5617 or by email utilities@lowerpaxton-pa.gov.
Waste storage: garbage bags and waste must be stored in closed lidded containers.
- Yard waste must comply with Township Collection Guidelines.
Motor vehicles: All vehicles on the property must:
- Be operable
- Have visible valid inspection and registration
- Be parked on a hardened surface
- Inoperable or unregistered vehicles parked on public streets should be reported to the Lower Paxton Police Department Non-emergency 717-558-6900
Swimming pools: Pools must be maintained in a clean, sanitary condition. Pools not in use must be drained and/or covered.
Accessory structures: Sheds, fences, and other detached structures on the property must be maintained in good repair.
- Most pools and accessory structures require building permits. Please check requirements before installation.