City of Easton

Easton requires zoning approval before most new construction, locating a business, fences, signs, decks, patios, pools, retaining walls, accessory structures, driveways, and changes of use or occupancy. UCC permits are required for building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, demolition, roofing, pools, and similar regulated work.

Note: Easton's public city materials reviewed do not publish a consolidated city-specific exemption list. Common PA UCC residential exemptions still may apply, but applicants should confirm with Easton Codes because zoning review may still be required for exempt construction work.

Building code

Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code under Act 45. Easton fee code references UCC permit fees and adds the state UCC training fee.

Permit validity

Public-facing Easton materials reviewed do not publish a single general permit expiration rule. Easton fee code does impose an investigation fee if a certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, or certificate of approval is not obtained within one year after completion.

Owner-builder

No city-specific owner-builder handout was located. Owner applicants can file directly, but regulated work still must comply with the UCC and inspection requirements.

Contractor requirements

Easton requires contractor registration or licensing through the Department of Planning and Codes. Contractor license instructions list residential, building, plumbing, electrical, fire alarm, fire suppression, framing, insulation, masonry, mechanical/fuel gas, roofing, tree surgeon, and general trades.

1. 01
   Contact the Zoning Office or Codes Office first to confirm zoning and permit triggers; Easton states zoning is the first step for most projects.
2. 02
   Prepare the application package. For zoning, Easton requires a zoning permit application and supporting site information. For UCC permits, use the online OpenGov application and upload plans and project details.
3. 03
   If a contractor will pull the permit, confirm contractor registration or license status with the City before filing.
4. 04
   Submit the application online through OpenGov or through the Codes office and pay the applicable filing or permit fees.
5. 05
   Respond to review comments. Easton notes zoning review may take up to 90 days.
6. 06
   After approval, obtain the issued permit, keep approved documents available on site, and schedule required inspections.

Typical processing time: Easton's zoning brochure says to allow up to 90 days for zoning review. No separate public UCC review turnaround was located in the City sources reviewed.

Source: City of Easton Department of Planning and Codes, Bureau of Codes and Inspections ↗

Easton adds the state UCC fee of $4.50 to each listed UCC permit.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• Through the City after permit issuance (phone)

Typical sequence: Varies by scope; Easton fee tables indicate multiple inspection visits are built into decks, roofs, pools, plumbing, electrical, and new construction permits.