FAQs • East Whiteland Township, PA • CivicEngage

What if I want to do something that the zoning doesn't allow?: In Pennsylvania, the Zoning Officer only has the authority to enforce the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance; they do not have the authority to grant any relief from those provisions. If you are in a situation where, for example, your property is so narrow that you can’t build an addition on the side of your house that will still provide for the minimum distance required between the house and the property line, you will need to apply for a variance. In East Whiteland, the variance process includes an informal presentation to the Board of Supervisors followed by a formal hearing before the Zoning Hearing Board. The Zoning Hearing Board makes the ultimate decision on whether or not to grant a request for a variance. The process is explained fully in the Zoning Ordinance. If you are considering applying for a variance, you may wish to discuss it with the Zoning Officer to be sure of how your particular circumstances may affect the process.

▼
Zoning

1. What is my zoning district?: You will need to look at the Zoning Map to answer this question.
Complete hard copies of the Zoning Ordinance and Map are also available for purchase at the Township Building. Staff can assist you in finding your property on the map if you are unsure of where it is.

2. What kinds of things does the Zoning Ordinance regulate?: The Zoning Ordinance establishes what activities are permitted in the Township as well as how buildings are placed on the land. Since not all land uses are appropriate in all areas, the Ordinance divides the Township into zoning districts. There are many different kinds of zoning districts in the Township. For each district, the Ordinance specifies what uses are permitted as well as how large the lots must be, the minimum distance required between buildings and the property lines, how much of the property must remain unbuilt and unpaved, and how tall buildings may be. Our Zoning Ordinance also includes extensive provisions for the protection and preservation of our historic resources.

3. What if I want to do something that the zoning doesn't allow?: In Pennsylvania, the Zoning Officer only has the authority to enforce the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance; they do not have the authority to grant any relief from those provisions. If you are in a situation where, for example, your property is so narrow that you can’t build an addition on the side of your house that will still provide for the minimum distance required between the house and the property line, you will need to apply for a variance. In East Whiteland, the variance process includes an informal presentation to the Board of Supervisors followed by a formal hearing before the Zoning Hearing Board. The Zoning Hearing Board makes the ultimate decision on whether or not to grant a request for a variance. The process is explained fully in the Zoning Ordinance. If you are considering applying for a variance, you may wish to discuss it with the Zoning Officer to be sure of how your particular circumstances may affect the process.

4. What permits do I need for my project?: That depends on exactly what you’re doing. Even if you don’t need land development approval, all construction activities, including do-it-yourself projects, will require a Building Permit and a Zoning Permit. It’s best to contact the Township office for complete information. Few homeowner projects require permits issued by the Planning and Zoning Department (other than the Zoning Permit); most require permits from the Codes & Life Safety Department.

5. Do I need a permit to build a fence?: Yes, a Building Permit is needed for fences that enclose swimming pools. A Zoning Permit is needed for all other fences.