Use and Occupancy
For All Changes in Commercial Occupancy
For commercial properties, use and occupancy permits are required for changes in ownership.
Applicants must complete and sign the Use and Occupancy Permit Application and submit it with the required fee. Fees are $75 for residential uses and $125 for commercial uses.
If proposing a change in commercial occupancy without any accompanying changes to the building or property submit the use and occupancy application and fee together with a labeled floor plan showing the use of all rooms and spaces. It is important to indicate the proposed use and the proposed total gross floor area. The brief description should include additional information about the use and occupancy, such as the proposed use and what area the office will occupy. The Building Inspector will review for compliance with the Township's Zoning Ordinance, Building and Fire Prevention Codes. An inspection of the property for code compliance will follow. Once that is successfully completed, a use and occupancy permit will be issued.
For commercial uses, a use and occupancy permit cannot be issued until approval is obtained from other departments, including:
- the Township Engineer (610-408-3620) for public improvements and stormwater management;
- the Township Municipal Authority (610-408-3610) for sewer connections and use;
- PA Department of Labor and Industry (717-787-3806);
- the Township Engineer and/or PA Department of Transportation for Highway Occupancy Permits;
- Chester County Health Department (610-344-6242) for private wells or on-site septic systems; and
- Chester County Health Department (610-344-6573) for any use involving food preparation, commercial kitchens and restaurants.
