Franklin Township

Franklin Township requires applications before permits can be issued for new buildings, alterations, additions, changes of use, demolition, occupancy permits, and zoning approvals.

• Exempt Fences no more than 6 feet high
• Exempt Retaining walls not over 4 feet high unless supporting a surcharge
• Exempt Water tanks on grade up to 5,000 gallons if the height-to-width ratio does not exceed 2 to 1
• Exempt Sidewalks and driveways 30 inches or less above adjacent grade and not over a basement or story below
• Exempt Prefabricated swimming pools less than 24 inches deep
• Exempt Swings and playground equipment accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling
• Exempt Window awnings that project no more than 54 inches and need no additional support
• Exempt Uncovered decks with floor no more than 30 inches above grade
• Exempt Installation or rearrangement of communications wiring
• Exempt Ordinary repairs, except work that removes load-bearing elements, affects required egress, or rearranges regulated plumbing, gas, mechanical, or electrical systems

Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements. Confirm with Franklin Township before proceeding.

Building code

Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code in an OPT-IN municipality, with local pre-July 1, 1999 amendments flagged by the Commonwealth UCC table.

Permit validity

Franklin Township's public packet did not state a separate local expiration rule. Pennsylvania UCC default rules provide 180-day commencement and inactivity deadlines, with a maximum validity of 5 years from issue date unless extended.

Owner-builder

The form allows the owner or authorized agent to apply, but all work must comply with state law and local ordinances and the applicant must swear to the filing before a notary.

Contractor requirements

Franklin Township requires contractor and subcontractor registration numbers on every document and workers' compensation paperwork where contractors are used. Pennsylvania home improvement contractors performing work over $5,000 must also confirm HICPA registration.

Source: Franklin Township Building Code Official; K2 Engineering (Frank Monack) for commercial inspections ↗

1. 01
   Complete Franklin Township's checklist before permit issuance, including planning approval for subdivisions and land developments other than single-family dwellings.
2. 02
   Obtain sewage approval, potable water evidence, and driveway or road occupancy approval as applicable.
3. 03
   If using contractors or subcontractors, submit workers' compensation paperwork and include contractor registration numbers on every document.
4. 04
   Complete and notarize the building and zoning permit applications and attach the required plot plan and drawings; submit three blueprint copies if blueprints are required.
5. 05
   Wait for township review — allow 7 to 10 days for approval.
6. 06
   After approval, pay the fees identified by the township, receive the permit, and call the listed inspection contact before covering work.
7. 07
   After final inspection, contact the Franklin Township building code official for the occupancy permit before use.

Typical processing time: Allow 7 to 10 days for approval per the Franklin Township permit packet.

Source: Franklin Township Building Code Official; K2 Engineering (Frank Monack) for commercial inspections ↗

• Residential: Steve Coss, Franklin Township, 724-627-5473 (phone)
• Commercial: Frank Monack, K2 Engineering, 724-322-2166 (phone)

Typical sequence: Inspections must be approved before construction can continue. A final inspection is required before the occupancy permit is issued.

Source: Franklin Township Building Code Official; K2 Engineering (Frank Monack) for commercial inspections ↗