On this page 5
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Forks Township
Pennsylvania UCC permit triggers generally apply to new construction, additions, many decks and pools, structural alterations, demolition, change of occupancy, and regulated electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or gas work.
Note: No municipality-specific exempt-work handout was identified. Use Pennsylvania UCC baseline exemptions only after confirming them with building code official Frank Tourscher at (570) 928-9208 before proceeding.
- Permit application
- Parcel information
- Construction plans
- Contractor details
- Any triggered zoning, sewage, floodplain, driveway, utility, or planning approvals
- Building code
- Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), OPT-IN with no amendments. The statewide triennial update became effective January 1, 2026.
- Permit validity
- Verify directly with the active permit issuer. Pennsylvania UCC default commencement and abandonment rules generally apply unless local procedures state otherwise.
- Owner-builder
- Owners may typically apply directly or through an authorized agent, but the permit holder remains responsible for compliance and inspections.
- Contractor requirements
- Pennsylvania home improvement contractors performing covered work over $5,000 must confirm HICPA registration requirements. Some municipalities or code officials may also require local contractor information or registration.
Source: Forks Township — Building Code Official: Frank Tourscher ↗
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Confirm the exact parcel location is within Forks Township and determine whether local zoning, floodplain, sewage, driveway, subdivision, or similar approvals are required before UCC permit issuance.
- 02 Contact building code official Frank Tourscher at (570) 928-9208 to obtain the active application path, current forms, and any local signoff requirements.
- 03 Submit the permit application with parcel information, plans, contractor details, and any triggered supporting approvals.
- 04 Pay the quoted fee and wait for permit issuance before beginning regulated work.
- 05 Schedule required inspections and obtain final approval before occupancy or closeout.
Source: Forks Township — Building Code Official: Frank Tourscher ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (570) 928-9208 — Frank Tourscher, Building Code Official (phone)
Typical sequence: Typical sequence: permit issuance, required phase inspections, then final inspection or certificate closeout as applicable. Confirm specific requirements with the code official.
Source: Forks Township — Building Code Official: Frank Tourscher ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Forks Township permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Forks Township, PA? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Forks Township, PA? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in Forks Township, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Forks Township — Building Code Official: Frank Tourscher before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.