Frequently Asked Questions

A hand-drawn diagram of your property that shows:

• All Structures
• Any Proposed Structures
• Distances to the Property Lines (Include the Size of Property)
• The Driveway
• The Street

If you have questions about how to draw a plot plan, use Google and search "image of how to draw a plot plan." There are many examples available.

A setback is the distance from your home or your shed or the added structure to your property lines on each side.

A Zoning Permit is required. You must attach a plot plan to the permit showing where you plan to install the fence, including the type of fence (privacy/open picket), and the height. It is suggested that in order to maintain the fence, you allow ample room (1 to 2 feet) from your property line.

Examples

If you have questions about how to draw a plot plan, check out google and search "image of how to draw a plot plan." There are many examples available.

If it is over 24 inches high, then yes. Zoning (PDF), Stormwater (PDF) (if it's over 80 square feet) and Building Permits (PDF) are required (Swimming Pool Checklist).  A plot plan is required showing the exact location of the pool with footage.

A zoning permit is required to keep chickens on your property.  As of 2021, the Township’s Zoning Ordinance has been updated and can be reviewed here. 

A great starting point is to check out the Dauphin County Recorder of Deeds site. You can also look up your parcel on the GIS Map.

Yes. You need a zoning permit (PDF) and stormwater permit (PDF) (and a plot plan) if the structure is under 1,000 square feet. If the structure is over 1,000 square feet you will also need a building permit (PDF). The rear and sides of the shed should be a minimum of 5 feet from the property line.

A Zoning (PDF) and Stormwater permit (PDF) are required. If a deck is more than 30 inches off grade, then a Building Permit (PDF) is required as well. A plot plan is required with the submission.

• Deck Construction Guide (PDF)

All residential dwellings are required to have hard-wired smoke detectors outside of all sleeping areas and battery-operated smoke detectors on each level that there is not a hard-wired detector. If selling your home, it is a requirement that realtors complete the certification form at the time of settlement.