Permits:

Building Permits: As of January 1, 2007 East Hempfield Township follows the 2006 International Building Codes for all residential and non-residential permits. .

Zoning Permits: Zoning is used to regulate the use of the land and structures using community development objectives to establish uniform standards for everyone. The purpose of a zoning permit is to ensure that a building structure is permitted in the zoning district in which it is located, that it is built the required distance from property lines, and meets other requirements such as height, lot coverage, etc. Some activities require a zoning permit and not a building permit.

Permit Application Process: Applications for permits must be obtained from the Township Municipal Office during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is closed from 11:30 - 12:30 daily. Payment is required at the time an application is submitted.

A simple sight plan is required with submittal of a building permit application. This site plan shows the project in question and where it exists in relation to property lines and other existing structures.

In accordance with the Workers' Compensation Act, building permits cannot be issued without proof of workers compensation insurance coverage for workers on that project. If a homeowner is doing the work himself, then a Non-Contractor Affidavit form must be completed with the permit application. Or, if a contractor has an exempt status from the Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Act, then an Affidavit of Exemption must be completed.

Stormwater-Earth Disturbance Permits: This permit is required to show grading and the management of stormwater runoff as it relates to the existing site and surrounding conditions.

Driveway Permit: A permit must be obtained for any new driveway, alteration, or improvement to a driveway or entrance located within the township road right-of-way.

Demolition Permit: If a building is demolished in part or entirely, a demolition permit is required in order to remove the building from the tax records. Otherwise, the owner will continue to pay real estate taxes on the demolished structure.

Subdivision and Land Development: The township's Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance governs the subdivision of land or development of property to provide adequate sites for development and public use, maintain reasonable and acceptable design standards, and to coordinate public improvements with private development interests. Subdivision is the creation of new property lines. Land development involves construction of public or private improvements. Applications for subdivision or land development are handled by the Township's Director of Planning and Development.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is a seven member advisory board. Members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors to serve a four year term. They review all land development plans, subdivision plans, and rezoning requests. Recommendations are made to the Board of Supervisors for the approval or rejection of plans.

• Keith Falco
• F. James Fullerton
• Michael Lehr
• Dwight Rohrer
• Dan Steinbacher
• Andrew Weaver

Zoning Hearing Board

The Zoning Hearing Board consists of five members appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Members serve a five year term. The Board conducts hearings for variances, special exceptions, and appeals of determination of the Zoning Officer. Applications for appeals are obtained from the Zoning Officer.

Zoning Hearing Board Members

• Kenneth Beard
• Noel Dorwart
• Mark Hansen
• Elam Herr
• Andrew Loose

Industrial Development Authority

The Industrial Development Authority assists with acquiring tax - free, low - interest financing for approved industrial development projects. The five member authority meets, as needed, to review projects requests. Members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and serve for five years.

Industrial Development Authority Members

• Dennis J. Gehringer
• Holly A. Hartman
• Ellis Payne
• Thomas Zimmerman
• Ronald C. Fink, Jr.

Building Code Board of Appeals
Residents have the right to appeal a decision of the Building Code Official when the resident feels it has been incorrectly interpreted. The Board of Appeals, consisting of qualified professionals, including five members and two alternate members appointed by the Board of Supervisors serve for a five-year term.

Board of Appeals Members

• Jack Bidding
• G. Patrick Devery
• Jerry McClune
• Ernest Rojahn
• John Spear