Falls Township Code Enforcement Department

Code Enforcement Department

Purpose:

The Falls Township Code Enforcement Department is dedicated to the health, safety, and welfare of the residents and visitors of the Township.

The Code Enforcement Department administers the International Codes, PA. Dept. of Labor And Industry Codes, and Township ordinances and regulations as adopted by the governing body. Codes, regulations, and ordinances are created to protect citizens, and property, keeping Falls Township a safe place to live, work, play, and visit.

Residential Shed Requirements

1. A permit is required for all sheds and garages.
2. The maximum allowable size of a shed is 160 square feet, and 10 feet high.
3. A site plan must be submitted indicating all setbacks of the shed, to the property lines and the distances to other structures on the property including swimming pools and decks.
4. The locations, and distances of all overhead wires in relation to the shed must be indicated on the site plan.
5. The locations of all easements must be indicated on the site plan.
6. The width, length, and height of the shed must be indicated on the plans.
7. An impervious surface calculation sheet must be completed and submitted. Click HERE

Residential Building Permits

When is a permit required?
A permit is required prior to starting any construction or alterations. If the project encompasses other work, additional permits may be required for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work. A separate permit will be required for each trade. Permit applications must be signed by the homeowner and the contractor, accompanied by a copy of the contract.

BUILDING PERMITS ARE REQUIRED FOR, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• New Buildings
• Additions
• Renovations
• Alterations
• Demolition
• Accessory Structures
• Prefabricated Structures
• Fireplaces
• Decks
• Swimming Pools and Fences
• Garages
• Mobil Home Installation
• Oil Tank Removal
• LP Gas Tank Installation
• Driveways
• Alternative Energy Sources
• Windows, when changing the size of the opening

BUILDING PERMITS ARE NOT REQUIRED FOR THE FOLLOWING:

• Painting
• Carpeting
• Interior Decorating
• Routine Maintenance
• Retaining walls that are not over 4' in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge

How to apply for permits:
Building permit applications are accepted by the Falls Township Codes Department at 188 Lincoln Highway, Fairless Hills, PA. From 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday thru Friday. The applicant for a permit must be the homeowner or an authorized agent of the homeowner. The homeowner is ultimately responsible to make sure all necessary permits are acquired, and all inspections are completed. All contractors must be registered with Falls Township

REQUIRED SUBMISSIONS, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

1. Two sets of all construction documents drawn to scale with sufficient clarity and detail to show the nature and character of the work to be performed.
2. Two detailed copies of a site plan indicating the locations and setbacks of all structures, sheds, pools, decks, etc.
3. Electrical Line diagram indicating the placement of all electrical devices.
4. A detailed plumbing diagram indicating the sizes, length of runs, and terminations of all water feeds, drains, and vents.
5. A detailed gas line diagram indicating sizes, length of runs, termination, and BTU demand.
6. HVAC specifications.
7. Energy specifications.
8. Manufacturer's specifications.

Time limit of Applications:
A permit application shall be deemed to have been abandoned six months after the date of filing, unless such application has been renewed or permit has been issued. Upon written request the Code Official may grand one or more extensions for additional periods not to exceed 180 days, if there is reasonable cause.

Time limit of Permits:
Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The Official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.