Use and Occupancy

For All New Construction (Commercial and Residential)

For residential properties, use and occupancy permits are not required for changes in ownership or tenancy.
For commercial properties, use and occupancy permits are required for changes in ownership. (see Commercial Occupancy Page)

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 the erection, alteration, addition, removal or demolition of any building or structure, then submit the use and occupancy application and fee should in conjunction with a building permit application. After the building permit is approved and all inspections are successfully completed, a use and occupancy permit will be issued. This process verifies the structure was completed according to the approved building plans and applicable building and fire prevention codes.

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.

For residential uses, a use and occupancy permit cannot be issued until approval is obtained from:

• the Township Engineer (610-408-3620) for public improvements and stormwater management;
• the Township's Municipal Authority (610-408-3610) for sewer;
• the Township Engineer and/or PA Department of Transportation for Highway Occupancy Permits; and
• Chester County Health Department (610-344-6242) for an on-site septic systems and/or private wells.