Code Enforcement
***PURSUANT TO RESOLUTION 2012-03, THE UPDATED FEE SCHEDULE WILL BE EFFECTIVE ON FEBRUARY 2, 2012 ****
Thomas Yuhas, Borough Engineer, Codes & Zoning Officer |
Ext. 210 |
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Kevin Gore, Housing & Code Enforcement |
Ext. 207 |
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Ernie Jameson, Housing Inspector |
Ext. 208 |
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Carolyn Whitelock, Administrative Assistant |
Ext. 208 |
The Borough of Downingtown Code Enforcement Office administers Downingtown's building and maintenance codes as well as all zoning matters, property complaints, plan reviews and issues building permits. The office is responsible for new construction, including site plan development of both commercial and residential properties. Code Enforcement works hand in hand with the Downingtown Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board on issues relating to building, renovating, and changing the use of a property/dwelling. See Fee Schedule for administration fees associated with subdivisions, land development, and building and zoning permits.
PLANNING COMMISSION
The Downingtown Planning Commission reviews plans for subdivisions and land developments and recommends to Borough Council the approval/disapproval of those plans. This commission is also actively involved in the development of the borough's comprehensive plans and changes to zoning, subdivision and land development ordinances. (view Commission Members and meeting schedule)
ZONING HEARING BOARD
The Zoning Hearing Board reviews all requests for zoning variances, special exceptions or interpretations of law. (view Board Members and meeting schedule)
Documents, Forms & Permits (view) |
Do I need a permit?
A permit is necessary if you are going to erect any type of building that includes a shed, garage or gazebo. A permit is necessary even if the structure is prefabricated and brought to your property.
Any changes to your electrical system, plumbing, or heating ventilating and air conditioning systems require a permit. Normal repairs to these systems do not require a permit, only when you are changing these systems to something different or are enlarging them.
Around the house, renovations, additions, fireplaces, wood burning stoves, decks, pools, and finishing your basement all require building permits.
A permit is required before situating a dumpster or storage pod.
What are the applicable permit fees? - Call the Codes Enforcement Office at 610-269-0344 ext. 210 or refer to the fee schedule posted on the Code Enforcement section of the website at www.downingtown.org
How do I acquire a permit?
You will need to get an application form (you can download the form from the website or obtain it from the Borough Codes office). Upon completion of the application, return it with the necessary information requested and the application fee. The information you receive with your building permit lists the inspections that are necessary for your project. You must follow that list and secure the inspections before moving onto the next phase of your project. When an inspection is made, the Codes Officer will provide a list of incorrect or incomplete items and instructions on how to proceed.

VISA/MC/DISCOVER now accepted for Code Enforcement payments