Building & Zoning

When planning a project and you are unsure if you need a permit, contact the Township.   

It is essential to obtain all required permits. Any work performed without the necessary permits will be subject to double permit fees or a failed re-sale use and occupancy certificate. 

Any construction, cumulative since 2002 of 1,000 square feet or more, changes to grading and/or change to stormwater flow is subject to stormwater regulations.

Issued building permits become void if work is not in progress within 180 days after issuance, there is no activity for 180 days or if work is not completed within one year. Permit extensions are available upon written request. 

Map of Zoning Districts & Tax Parcels     

 Zoning Ordinance   

Representation of Property    

ZONING PERMITS are required for:

• All building permits
• Demolition  
• Sign
• Paver patio
• Fence or Wall including replacement 
• Shed or Accessory Building
• Home Occupation
• Accessory Family Apartment
• Change in Use or an added use
• Chickens and Livestock 
• Change in non-residential tenant or ownership
• Non-conforming use registration
• New impervious surface

BUILDING PERMITS are required for:

• New home construction
• Addition
• Roofing
• Deck, Porch or Patio with footings
• Structural alterations interior or exterior to an existing building 
• Swimming Pools
• Accessory Buildings of 201sf or greater
• Interior renovations
• Mechanical Application:  Fireplace, wood stove, or gas fireplace installations
• Electric Application:  Generator, electric upgrade, electric work only
• Plumbing Application:  Sewer, plumbing work only 

BUILDING PERMITS are not required for:

• Exterior replacement windows, doors and siding which are materials in kind

Right of Way Permits see Public Works

Subdivision and Land Development

Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances regulate growth, building and expansion to protect and provide for the public health, safety and general welfare of East Rockhill Township. All Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances are posted to Chapter 22.  Questions about whether or not a Subdivision or Land Development Application is required can be directed to the Zoning Officer or Township Manager. 

Subdivision and Land Applications are required for, the improvement of 1 lot, or 2 or more contiguous lots, tracts, or parcels of land for any purpose involving a group of two or more residential or non-residential buildings; or a single non-residential building on a lot.  The division or allocation of land or space including lot line adjustments.

Zoning and Code Enforcement

The Township’s laws are written and adopted as Ordinances and are codified into the Township Code.   Residents with questions or concerns about a particular activity or wishing to report a possible violation may do so by reporting an informal complaint via e-mail or report a concern.  Should any legal action be required a formal complaint must be received in writing with photographs and cannot be anonymous. 

Selling or Buying a Home?

Re-sale Use and Occupancy is required prior to settlement. Any work done without permits or violations determined by the township will need to be corrected before East Rockhill Township will issue an approved Re-Sale Use & Occupancy.

Building Something Out of the Ordinary?

Lawful, non-conforming uses or structures must be registered by the township. Contact the Zoning Department to determine what permits you will need.

Landlords—Register Your Tenants

Landlords are required to register tenants with the township annually.

Telephone & Email Directory