• Please be advised the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (Act 132 of 2008) and the International Building Code mandated by the Department of Labor and Industry of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and adopted by the Township of Abington are in effect.  Contractors who perform home improvements for which the total cash value is $5,000 or more per year are required to register with the Office of Attorney General by July 1. Click here for registration form and details.
• Within the regulations there will be more stringent requirements for plans that are submitted for permits, both commercial and residential;
• When requested, plans for residential applications must also be prepared by an architect, and include electrical, plumbing, energy and HVAC calculations.  Site plans, accurately drawn and calculated, must also be completed and submitted for review for both commercial and residential applications;
• Improperly preparing your application, as noted above, will automatically cause delays in your time schedule for most anticipated work; therefore, ample time should be factored in when preparing your plans. Due to the scope of work to be reviewed, additional time will be required by the Code Department to review the average submittal;
• Any application for a building permit that requires access to a highway falling under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation, will not be issued until a Highway Occupancy Permit is issued;
• The Township of Abington is now requiring that all commercial projects be reviewed entirely prior to permit submission to the Township.  An entire plan review would consist of Building, Electric, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Fire and Accessibility. Applicants must use a state approved third party agency.
• All projects/applications being submitted by anyone other than the property owner will be required to provide a Property Owner Authorization Form with the submittal.
• Questions regarding the process can be directed to 267-536-1000 ext. 4. 

Required to construct or install detached structures such as sheds, garages, carports, or similar non-habitable buildings on a property.

Accessory Structure Permit Application

Additional Information 

• This application is not for habitable spaces. 

Required Documentation

• Plot Plan
  • Sample Plot Plan
  • Calculation Sheet
• Stormwater Management Plan will be required - separate permit application for either Rain Barrels or Seepage Pit/Rain Garden/Infiltration Trench must be submitted 
• If you are building the garage or shed, construction drawings must be submitted

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • Shed:
    
    • Less than (144) square feet of floor space - $25.00
    • Over (144) square feet of floor space, for each additional (50) square feet or fraction thereof - $15.00
  • Detached Garage:
    • Each 100 square feet of floor space or fraction thereof $40.00

Required for expanding an existing structure by adding new square footage such as rooms, decks, or attached garages.

Addition Permit Application

Additional Information

• Residential Permit Application Requirements

Required Documentation 

• Site/Plot Plan - may be non-engineered;
  • Sample Plot Plan
• Construction Drawings of work to occus
  • Elevation - from the footer to roof peak;
  • Framing Plan of All Floors - include size, span, and spacing
• Structural Report if adding floors on top of existing structures (i.e. adding a second floor to an existing 1 story structure)
• Calculation sheet showing existing and new impervious surfaces
  • Calculation Sheet
• Stormwater Management Plan will be required if adding impervious coverage
  • Separate permit application for either Rain Barrels or Seepage Pit/Rain Garden/Infiltration Trench must be submitted at time of submittal
• Energy Code Compliance forms
  • If applicable per IRC
• Erosion control plan
  • Only if one of the following is applicable: 
    • Disturb 5,000 square feet or more of land.
    • It is part of a larger common plan of development that will ultimately disturb = 5,000 sq ft
    • Occurs near water resources (Streams, Wetlands, Stormwater basins, Floodplains)
    • It is associated with agricultural plowing/tilling involving more than 5,000 square feet of land.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  
  • Additions to residential structures
    • Per (100) square feet of added floor space or fraction thereof is $40.00
  • Subject to $4.50 state fee
  • Subject to $50.00 review fee

Required to partially or fully demolish any structure, including buildings, garages, or pools.

Demolition Permit Application

Additional Information 

• An NFPA 241 Plan will be required for any demolition project. This will outline the basic fire prevention steps that will be taken during the project. A template can be found here. 

Required Documentation 

• Site/Plot Plan - may be non-engineered 
  • Sample Plot Plan
• Erosion control plan
  • Only if one of the following is applicable: 
    • Disturb 5,000 square feet or more of land.
    • It is part of a larger common plan of development that will ultimately disturb = 5,000 sq ft
    • Occurs near water resources (Streams, Wetlands, Stormwater basins, Floodplains)
    • It is associated with agricultural plowing/tilling involving more than 5,000 square feet of land.
• Shut off notices
  • PECO: Gas and/or Electric
  • Aqua: Domestic Water
• Rodent Report- provided by exterminator that the structure has been treated and is free of rodents
• Sanitary Sewer Cap-Off Permit (submitted by Master Plumber only)
• NFPA 241 Fire Protection Program indicating what fire prevention procedures will take place

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • Demolition of residential structures:
    • Up to (1,000) square feet of building to be removed is $75.00
    • Each addition (1,000) square feet of building to be removed over (1,000) or fraction thereof is $20.00. 
  • Sanitary Sewer Cap-Off
    • $85.00
    • $4.50 State Fee

Required for installing, altering, or upgrading electrical systems, wiring, service panels, or devices.

Electrical Permit Application 

Additional Information

• Inspections must be conducted by an approved third party agency found on the application. Reports are to be submitted to the Township.
• We do not accept Fire Alarm Plans combined with Electrical Permit Submittals. Fire Alarm Plans require a separate permit from the Fire Marshal’s Office.

Required Documentation

• Electrical Plans and Manufacturers Specifications may be required depending on scope of job.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  •  Subject to $4.50 state fee

  • Project Cost	Fees
    $1 - $500	$15
    $501 - $1,000	$30
    $1,001 - $1,500	$45
    $1,501 - $2,000	$60
    Each $1,000 over $2,000 or fraction thereof	$15

Required to install or replace a fence on residential or commercial property.

Fence Permit Application

Additional Information

• Fencing must be installed with the finished side of the fence facing the abutting property or properties. 
• Solid board fences are required to be installed leaving 3” clearance between the ground and bottom of the fence so storm water can flow unobstructed. 
• Survey markers must be visible.
• Fencing is not permitted to be installed within any township right-of-way or within any recorded easement. 

Required Documentation

• Site Plan
  • Sample Plot Plan
  • Include all relevant landmarks, structures, and property lines
  • Identify if you are a corner property

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • For fencing (fee schedule #11)
    • $.30 per linear foot

Please click here to view Fire Protection Permits. 

All Fire Protection Plans & Permits are submitted through the Fire Marshal’s Office.

Required to install or replace a fireplace, wood-burning stove, or similar heating appliance.

Fireplace/Woodstove Permit Application 

Additional Information 

• Not required for recreational fire pit

Required Documentation

• Site Plan indicating location where fireplace/woodstove will be installed on property.
• Plans/Diagram/Sketch of installation
• Manufacturers Specifications for unit being installed
• Gas line diagram, if applicable
  • If gas run to structure, PECO Adequacy Report must be submitted to the Township

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • $4.50 state fee
  • $50 review fee

Required to construct the foundation of a building or structure before the full building permit is issued.

Foundation Permit Application

Required Documentation

• Site Plan indicating location where foundation will be installed on property.
• Construction Drawings: Should include a cover sheet, site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details with all drawings clearly labeled and scaled.
• Calculation Sheet: The calculation sheet is to determine existing impervious coverage and then new impervious coverage.
• Erosion Control Plan: If your project meets any of the following benchmarks:
  • Disturb 5,000 square feet or more of land;
  • Is part of a larger common plan of development that will ultimately disturb = 5,000 sq ft;
  • Occurs near water resources (Streams, Wetlands, Stormwater basins, Floodplains);
  • Is associated with agricultural plowing/tilling involving more than 5,000 square feet of land.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • Subject to $4.50 state fee
  • Subject to $50.00 review fee

  • Project Cost	Fees
    $1 - $500	$25
    $501 - $1,000	$40
    $1,001 - $2,000	$75
    $2,001 - $3,000	$110
    $3,001 - $4,000	$145
    $4,001 - $5,000	$180
    Each $1,000 over $5,000 or fraction thereof	$35

Required to install a permanent standby generator, including associated fuel and electrical connections.

Generator Permit Application

Additional Information 

• Separate Electrical Permit application will be required 
• Generator Flyer
• Generator Requirements
• PECO Form

Required Documentation 

• Plot Plan:
  • Sample Plot Plan
  • Fee Schedule
• PECO Adequacy Form or PECO Approval letter/e-mail if attached to building electrical system
• Construction Drawings which may include: Concrete pad or prefabricated base, dimensions and anchoring details, load bearing capacity if on a roof or platform, manufacturer’s mounting/clearance specs, side view showing clearance to openings, exhaust routing, etc., ventilation if in an enclosure or interior room, and screening or fencing.
• Manufacturer’s Specifications for unit being installed

 Associated Fees

• State fee of $4.50
• Review fee $50

• Project Cost	Fees
  $1 - $500	$25
  $501 - $1,000	$40
  $1,001 - $2,000	$75
  $2,001 - $3,000	$110
  $3,001 - $4,000	$145
  $4,001 - $5,000	$180
  Each $1,000 over $5,000 or fraction thereof	$35

Required to install or modify HVAC systems including furnaces, air conditioners, ductwork, and ventilation.

Mechanical Permit Application 

Additional Information

• Separate Electrical permit applications are required for HVAC installations. Job cost needs to be broken out on both applications between the cost for the HVAC and Electrical.  

Required Documentation

• Construction Plans: Should include floor plans and construction details as relevant
• Manufacturer’s Specifications for equipment being installed

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:

• Project Cost	Fee
  $1 - $500	$25
  $501- $1,000	$35
  Each $1,000 over $1,000 cost	$10

Required to construct a brand-new structure such as a house.

Click here to view the "New Single Family Dwelling Construction Checklist."

For more information regarding new construction, please contact Engineering and Code Services at 267-536-1000 ext. 4. 

Additional Information

• Separate Electrical permit applications are required for HVAC installations. Job cost needs to be broken out on both applications between the cost for the HVAC and Electrical.  

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Plot plan and any additional documentation relating to the new structure
• CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS: Should include a cover sheet, site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details. It should also show structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing layouts, energy code compliance, and zoning information, with all drawings clearly labeled and scaled.           
• MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS: Spec sheet or product information sheet for installed equipment          
• CALCULATION SHEET: The calculation sheet is to determine existing impervious coverage and then new impervious coverage.
• STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN: Copy of plan of the storm water management system that will be installed           
• Erosion Control Plan: If your project meets any of the following benchmarks:
  • Disturb 5,000 square feet or more of land;
  • Is part of a larger common plan of development that will ultimately disturb = 5,000 sq ft;
  • Occurs near water resources (Streams, Wetlands, Stormwater basins, Floodplains);
  • Is associated with agricultural plowing/tilling involving more than 5,000 square feet of land.
• NFPA 241 FIRE PROTECTION PROGRAM
  • An NFPA 241 Fire Protection Program Plan outlines the procedures and responsibilities for preventing fires and ensuring life safety during construction, alteration, or demolition activities. It includes elements such as fire watch assignments, hot work permitting, temporary fire protection systems, and emergency access planning, and must be implemented under the supervision of a designated fire prevention program manager.
• ENERGY CODE COMPLIANCE FORMS: REScheck if not demonstrating prescriptive compliance via plans and details.           
• PA ACT 537 DEP APPROVAL LETTER: A PA Act 537 letter is required when a proposed project involves sewage disposal or has the potential to impact a municipality’s sewage facilities plan. Specifically, it's required under when there was never a structure present previously or the change in structure will impact water consumption/sewage generation.
• PECO SERVICE AVAILABILITY LETTER: Formal confirmation from PECO that electric and/or natural gas service is available to a specific property for connection.
• AQUA SERVICE AVAILABILITY LETTER: Written statement from Aqua Pennsylvania verifying that public water service is accessible at a project location and can be extended if needed.

Associated Fees

• For up to (1,000) square feet -$360.00.
• For each additional (1,000) square feet or fraction thereof - $180.00.
• State fee of $4.50
• Review fee $50

Required for installing or replacing driveways, patios, or other impervious surfaces. This includes paving utilizing pervious materials.

Paving Permit Application

Additional Information 

• Permits are required for all paving work, that includes new, replacement, expansions, etc.

Required Documentation

• PLOT PLAN - Plot plan, sketches and documents related to permit application.
  • Sample Plot Plan
• CALCULATION SHEET - The calculation sheet is to determine existing impervious coverage and then new impervious coverage.
  • Calculation Sheet
•  COPY OF STORMWATER MANAGEMENT APPLICATION – A  copy of the plan for the storm water management system that will be installed, when impervious area increases.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • Impervious Surfaces Coverage: $50.00
    • Up to (250) square feet of surface is $50.00;
    • Over (250) square feet, for each additional (100) square feet or fraction thereof is $10.00. 

Required for installation, replacement, or modification of plumbing systems including pipes, fixtures, and drains.

Plumbing Permit Application

Additional Information

• Applications must be submitted by and inspections must be scheduled by a master plumber or journeyman that is registered with the Township
• Someone may submit a permit on behalf of a registers plumber only when accompanied by a letter from the registered plumbing approving the application under their name.

Required Documentation

• Construction Plans: Should include floor plans and construction details as relevant
• Elevation Showing Pipe Sizes: Drawing to include new and existing (required when new or modifications are made)

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule
  • $85 for 1- 6 fixtures
  • $15 for each additional fixture
  • $4.50 state fee

Required to construct or replace a retaining wall, particularly those over a certain height or impacting drainage.

Retaining Wall Permit Application

Additional Information

• All retaining walls require a permit, but those over 4 feet in height measured from the lowest level of grade to the top of the wall, or walls that support a surcharge, may require supplemental information per PA UCC.
• Concrete or masonry foundation walls shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice where either of the following conditions exists:
  • Walls are subject to hydrostatic pressure from ground water.
  • Walls supporting more than 48 inches (1219 mm) of unbalanced backfill that do not have permanent lateral support at the top or bottom.

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Indicate the location of the retaining wall on the property. Please also indicate the height & length and include a construction detail of the wall. 

Associated Fees

•  For retaining walls (fee schedule #12)

  • $1.50 per linear foot

Required to install or replace roofing or siding on any building.

Roofing/Siding Permit Application

Additional Information 

• Abington has removed the 2018 IRC Exemption for roofing permits, and therefore requires roofing and siding permits for all roof/siding work.

Required Documentation

• Construction Drawings: Required for any new roof or modifications to an existing roof. Reroofs replaced in kind do not require construction drawings.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule: 

• Project Cost	Fees
  $1 - $500	$25
  $501 - $1,000	$40
  $1,001 - $2,000	$75
  $2,001 - $3,000	$110
  $3,001 - $4,000	$145
  $4,001 - $5,000	$180
  Each $1,000 over $5,000 or fraction thereof	$35

Required for connection, disconnection, or alteration of a property's sanitary sewer line.

Sanitary Sewer Permit Application

Additional Information

• Must conform to Abington Township sanitary sewer regulations and applicable codes.
• Properties in Abington Township in which sanitary sewer service is available, must connect to the system.

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Must indicate the location of the sanitary line on the property. Must include dimensions related to separation from property lines and other structures.
• SPECIFICATIONS FOR PROPOSED SEWER EQUIPMENT: Provide any documentation for equipment to be installed.

Associated Fees

• Sanitary Sewer Connection Fee - $3,500.00
• Sanitary Sewer Plumbing Fee - $250.00

Required for constructing, replacing, or repairing public or private sidewalks.

Sidewalk Permit Application

Additional Information

• This is only for new sidewalk installations. Private walkways and similar require a paving permit
• If making a new or modifying an existing curb cut, a separate Highway Permit will be required

Required Documentation

• PLOT PLAN: Basic diagram showing existing/replacement of sidewalk.

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule:
  • Impervious Surfaces Coverage: $50.00
    • Up to (250) square feet of surface is $50.00;
    • Over (250) square feet, for each additional (100) square feet or fraction thereof is $10.00.

Required for installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems.

Solar Panel Permit Application

Additional Information

• Separate Electrical Permit application will be required

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Plot plan with a sketch of proposed fencing.
• CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS: Drawings should show the layout, electrical connections, mounting system, site integration, etc.
• Must be reviewed by a PA UCC Approved Third Party Reviewer prior to submittal for permit.
• STRUCTURAL REPORT: Must be created by and signed by a PA Certified Structural Engineer if roof mounted.
• MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS: Spec sheet or product information sheet for installed equipment.
• PECO Authorization Letter

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule (Item #14)
  • Subject to $50.00 plan review fee and $4.50 state fee. 

  • Project Cost	Fees
    $1 - $500	$25
    $501 - $1,000	$40
    $1,001 - $2,000	$75
    $2,001 - $3,000	$110
    $3,001 - $4,000	$145
    $4,001 - $5,000	$180
    Each $1,000 over $5,000 or fraction thereof	$35

Required for installing an in-ground or above-ground swimming pool, including associated barriers and utilities.

Swimming Pool Permit Application

Additional Information 

• Swimming Pool Guidelines - PA Department of Environmental Resources
• Swimming Pool Requirements
• Separate applications will be needed for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work. 
  • Please note, the HVAC permit application only needs to be completed if a heating unit for the pool water is going to be installed as well. 

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Indicate the location of the swimming pool on the property. Must include dimensions related to separation from property lines and other structures.
• CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS: Drawings to include all relevant information and associated applicable code references.
  • Must be signed and stamped by a PA UCC Approved Third Party Review Agency prior to submittal. 
• MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS:  Spec sheet or product information sheet for pool to be installed.
• CALCULATION SHEET: The calculation sheet is to determine existing impervious coverage and then new impervious coverage.

Associated Fees

In Ground Pool

• Fee Schedule:
  • In-ground pools shall be charged $35.00 per each $1,000 dollars of contract price, computed to the nearest thousand. 
  • Subject to $50.00 review fee
  • Subject to $4.50 state fee

Above Ground Pool

• Fee Schedule:
  • Above ground pools shall be charged $15.00 per each 1,000 gallons of water capacity
  • Subject to $50.00 review fee
  • Subject to $4.50 state fee

Required to install above-ground or underground storage tanks for fuel, oil, or chemicals.

Tank Installation Permit Application

Additional Information

• Tank removals require a separate permit, so a tank replacement requires both removal and installation permits.

Required Documentation

• SITE PLAN: Plot plan and any additional documentation relating to the exterior tank installation when installed outside.    
• CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS: Construction drawings for the installation indicating what is being installed where and how.
  • Must be signed and stamped by a PA UCC Approved Third Party Review Agency prior to submittal.
• MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS: Spec sheet or product information sheet for tank(s).

Associated Fees

• Fee Schedule
  • $30 for each 1,000 gallons or fraction thereof
  • State Fee: $4.50

Required to place a dumpster or temporary storage unit on private property or public right-of-way.

Temporary Dumpster or Storage Permit Application

Additional Information

• Dumpsters associated with an approved building permit do not need this permit so long as that building permit remains active
• May be present for a maximum of 90 days (initial application + 2 extensions)

 Required Documentation

• None

Associated Fees

• First 30 days free
• 1^st and 2^nd 30 day renewal = $25 each

As provided by Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds, "to change, add or remove a name on your deed a new deed needs to be recorded reflecting the change. Many people think they can come into the office and change the present recorded deed with a form, but that is not the case. Once a deed is recorded it cannot be changed. We recommend you consult a real estate attorney or title company to prepare a new deed.

If a married couple held the property jointly as tenants by entireties and one spouse dies, it is not necessary to remove that spouse’s name from the deed. If/when the survivor sells or mortgages the property, he/she simply explains in the new deed or mortgage that the other spouse is deceased. A special instance due to a particular legal situation could occur where the name should be deleted, therefore, we recommend consulting an attorney or title company for specific advice.

If someone marries, it is not required to change the name on the deed to the married name, but because of a particular legal situation it may be desirable, therefore we again recommend consulting an attorney or title company for specific advice.

Our office cannot recommend a real estate attorney or title company. The following organizations may be able to provide recommendations:

• Montgomery County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
• Pennsylvania Land Title Association
• Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania"

From Montgomery County's Recorder of Deeds web-page "How Do I Change/Add/Remove a Name on a Deed."

Deeds must be registered with Montgomery County. Please ensure that your title company and/or lawyer is handling deed registration. 

When registering a deed for Abington Township, the following requirements must be met:

1. Affidavit: "Affidavit for Display of Street Numbers and Installation of Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors" Ordinance No. 1894 must be presented, signed by either the sellers or the buyers and notarized. An exception is made to those who are registering deed that are for vacant lots. Click here to download the "Affidavit for Display of Street Numbers and Installation of Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors" form.
2. Corporate (or other business entity) Registry Information: When a corporation, partnership, or other entity other than an individual or individuals presents a deed for recording, the names and addresses of the corporate officers, general partners or such other officials, of the recording entity, as may be appropriate, must be identified. A copy of the Corporate Deed registration can be found here or in the Fire Marshal's Office located at the Township Building. To view Ordinance No. 2203, please click here.
3. Please note, a copy of the deed is not required, however, it would be helpful to send us a copy to update for the new owners. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 267-536-1057. 

All properties within Abington Township are required to have a minimum of three-inch numerals be placed on the street side of a structure and visible from the center of the street.

When selling a home the seller must certify the display of street address numbers by submitting the "Display of Street Address Numbers and Installation of Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Affidavit."

Smoke detectors must be placed on each level and in each bedroom or sleeping area of any dwelling. In dwellings with existing hard wire smoke detector systems not covering all areas, battery powered smoke detectors may be installed. Carbon Monoxide detectors are required; the detector should be installed no further than 40-feet from every sleeping area. 

When selling a home the seller must certify the presence of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors by submitting the "Display of Street Address Numbers and Installation of Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Affidavit."

Abington Township utilities are provided by the following:

• Public Water: Aqua America, Pennsylvania
• Electric: PECO
• Gas: PECO
• Sanitary Sewer: Abington Township

For more information such as trash day and voting district, residents can use our address look-up tool found next to "News" on the homepage.