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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Smithfield Township
The zoning officer accepts applications for new construction, changes of use, and variances. The building codes inspector reviews plans, inspects sites, and issues permits as required by law.
Note: No Smithfield Township-specific consolidated exempt-work list was found. Pennsylvania state residential UCC exemptions generally apply, but township zoning approval may still be required. Confirm with the zoning, codes, and sewage office before proceeding.
- Township permit application (varies by permit type)
- Plans and supporting materials as directed by the zoning, codes, and sewage office
- Building code
- Pennsylvania UCC; PA L&I election list shows OPT-IN with no pre-1999 amendments.
- Permit validity
- No township-specific validity rule clearly posted. Pennsylvania UCC default rules apply: permits expire if work is not commenced within 180 days of issuance or if no inspection is passed within 180 days; overall permit term is 5 years.
- Contractor requirements
- Home improvement contractors performing covered work must register under the Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA).
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact Zoning, Codes and Sewage to confirm whether the project requires zoning, sewage, or building-code approval.
- 02 Submit township applications for new construction, changes of use, or other local approvals.
- 03 Coordinate UCC building review with the current assigned building inspector.
- 04 Pay township and code review fees.
- 05 Complete inspections and obtain final approval.
Source: Zoning, Codes and Sewage ↗
Fee schedule
Effective October 8, 2025
Verify current payable parties with the township and current inspector.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective October 8, 2025) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Township: 570-223-5082 (phone)
- Building inspector: 610-437-0978 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Verify with township office.
Typical sequence: Local review, code review, field inspections, and final approval.
Source: Zoning, Codes and Sewage ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Smithfield Township permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Smithfield Township, PA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Smithfield Township, PA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Smithfield Township, PA? ▸
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Smithfield Township, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Zoning, Codes and Sewage before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.