Township of Derry (Hershey)

Derry states permits are required for most construction activities including new construction, additions, sheds, swimming pools, and fences.

Note: Derry does not publish a stand-alone local exemption list on the main permit pages. Building and codes pages instead state permits are required for most construction activities and direct applicants to call Community Development if uncertain. Routine UCC exemptions should be cross-checked against the Pennsylvania UCC where the township page is silent.

Building code

Derry publishes a list of adopted UCC building codes and states Community Development administers the Uniform Construction Code. Pennsylvania's UCC triennial update took effect January 1, 2026.

Permit validity

Permit may expire if work has not begun within 6 months after issuance or if work lapses with no activity for 6 months.

Owner-builder

Application allows owner, lessee, contractor, or design professional contacts; workers compensation exemption form is published for applicants who qualify.

Contractor requirements

Township application requests the contractor's Pennsylvania registration number and workers compensation information. Pennsylvania home improvement registration applies where threshold is met.

Source: Township of Derry Community Development Department ↗

1. 01
   Call Community Development if permit need is unclear.
2. 02
   Download the correct township application and checklist package for building, deck, pool, zoning, sign, demolition, or amendment work.
3. 03
   Assemble the completed application, site plan, plan set, and any project-specific checklist items; electrical work uses approved third-party electrical agencies.
4. 04
   Submit the package and fees to Community Development for township review and zoning/UCC coordination.
5. 05
   Complete inspections, including third-party electrical where applicable, and obtain the required use and occupancy permit before use or occupancy.

Typical processing time: Derry Township does not publish a page-specific turnaround estimate on the main permit page; applicants are directed to call Community Development for project questions.

Source: Township of Derry Community Development Department ↗

Checks should be payable to "Derry Township" for township fees; third-party electrical fees are paid under the selected agency's current fee schedule.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2026) before budgeting.

• Community Development (phone)

Inspection hours

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Typical sequence: Inspections are coordinated through Community Development, with third-party electrical inspections through the selected approved agency. Application packets and checklists govern project-specific inspections; a use and occupancy permit is required upon completion before use or occupancy.

Source: Township of Derry Community Development Department ↗