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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Emmaus
Change of use or occupancy, new buildings, structural alterations or repairs, additions or new structures, fences, sheds, pools, patios, parking lots, driveways, plumbing fixture installation or replacement, and moving or razing a building.
Note: The borough guideline does not publish a separate exemption list in the reviewed PDF. Because Emmaus publishes permit-trigger guidance rather than a dedicated exemption table, applicants should confirm UCC exemptions with the borough before starting small in-kind work.
- Application
- Plot plan to scale
- Two sets of plans
- Structural details
- Plumbing fixture information
- Contractor insurance certificate
- State approvals where applicable
- Building code
- Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code, as amended by the Borough of Emmaus, with 2021 ICC-series based PA UCC in effect January 1, 2026.
- Permit validity
- Construction must commence within 6 months after permit issuance.
- Owner-builder
- Zoning and building permits may be obtained by the owner, contractor, or an authorized agent. The borough prefers the contractor for major construction.
- Contractor requirements
- Plumbing permit applications must be submitted by a master plumber licensed by the Borough of Emmaus. Contractor insurance certificates are required. Pennsylvania HICPA registration still applies where required.
Application process
Typical processing: Generally reviewed within 10 working days of submission.
- 01 Determine permit type and assemble a zoning and building permit application.
- 02 Include project description, estimated cost, present and proposed occupancy, owner and contractor contact information, and a plot plan drawn to scale.
- 03 Submit two sets of plans where required, including structural details and plumbing fixture information.
- 04 Provide PennDOT highway occupancy approval first if the site fronts a state road, and PA Labor and Industry approval where required.
- 05 Borough staff reviews the package and issues comments or approval.
- 06 Pay fees before starting work, post the permit card, and call for inspections.
Typical processing time: Generally reviewed within 10 working days of submission.
Source: Borough of Emmaus Codes, Planning, Zoning, and Health Inspector Department ↗
Fee schedule
Effective 2026
Credit card payments use the current pass-through rate from the card company; e-check convenience fee is $1.00.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective 2026) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (610) 967-1322 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- At least 24 hours notice required
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Footing, foundation, framing, and final.
Source: Borough of Emmaus Codes, Planning, Zoning, and Health Inspector Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Emmaus permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Emmaus, PA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Emmaus, PA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Emmaus, PA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Emmaus, PA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Emmaus, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Borough of Emmaus Codes, Planning, Zoning, and Health Inspector Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.