On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Springhill Township
Pennsylvania UCC rules require permits for new construction, additions, many structural alterations, demolition, change of occupancy, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work unless an exemption applies. In opt-out municipalities, commercial permits go to L&I and residential UCC enforcement goes to a certified third-party agency retained by the owner or contractor.
- 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 the responsible enforcing agency before proceeding.
- Completed permit application
- Plans and specifications
- Site plan
- Parcel and project information
- All other required permits or approvals related to the construction
- Building code
- Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code. The triennial update approved October 2025 became effective January 1, 2026. The 2021 accessibility updates remain enjoined and 2018 accessibility requirements still apply.
- Permit validity
- A permit becomes invalid if work does not begin within 180 days after issuance or if work is suspended or abandoned for 180 days after commencement. A permit may not remain valid more than 5 years from issue date without extensions.
- Owner-builder
- For residential work in opt-out municipalities, the property owner or contractor must retain a certified third-party agency for UCC enforcement.
- Contractor requirements
- Pennsylvania home improvement contractors performing work over $5,000 must confirm HICPA registration.
Application process
Typical processing: Expedited plan review is available within 7 days for an added charge. Incomplete submissions may be returned if requested information is not supplied within 10 calendar days.
- 01 Confirm that the project is in Springhill Township, which the Commonwealth UCC municipality table lists as OPT-OUT.
- 02 For commercial construction, signs, or demolitions, prepare the L&I package and submit it to the Buildings Section using the Commonwealth's UCC instructions.
- 03 For residential UCC work, hire a certified third-party agency — the Commonwealth UCC page states residential enforcement in opt-out municipalities is performed by certified third-party agencies retained by the property owner or contractor.
- 04 Obtain any separate local zoning, sewage, driveway, floodplain, or other non-UCC approvals before permit issuance where required.
- 05 Respond to review comments, secure the permit, and schedule inspections through the responsible state or third-party reviewer before proceeding to occupancy or closeout.
Typical processing time: Expedited plan review is available within 7 days for an added charge. Incomplete submissions may be returned if requested information is not supplied within 10 calendar days.
Fee schedule
Springhill Township building permit fees
Confirm directly with L&I for commercial work or with the selected certified third-party agency for residential work before filing.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Call the assigned inspector shown on the inspection log (state-handled projects); contact chosen third-party agency for residential (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding holidays. Inspections outside normal hours are available on written request for added cost.
Typical sequence: Typical UCC phases include footing or foundation, systems, framing or masonry, wallboard where applicable, and final inspection. The exact sequence depends on project type and reviewer.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Springhill Township permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Springhill Township, PA? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Springhill Township, PA? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Springhill Township, PA? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Springhill Township, PA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Springhill Township, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, Buildings Section (commercial); certified third-party agency retained by property owner or contractor (residential) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.