Navigating Deck Permits in East Hempfield Township, PA
TL;DR — Deck Permits in East Hempfield Township, PA
- Permits are almost always required for decks in East Hempfield Township, especially if attached to your home or more than 30 inches above the ground.
- The application involves submitting plans, insurance, and stormwater documentation.
- Expect multiple inspections—from footings to the final touches—to ensure your deck meets all safety standards.
Now, let's dive deeper into what you need to know.
Building a deck is an exciting prospect—it promises an outdoor space for for relaxation, entertaining, and making cherished memories with family and friends.
But before you envision those summer barbecues or peaceful morning coffees on your brand-new deck, there’s an essential step to cover: local permits.
At Keystone Outdoor Living, we understand that building regulations and permit paperwork can feel overwhelming. You might even be thinking, "Why does a deck need permits?" The truth is, building codes and zoning laws are in place for everyone's safety and to maintain the integrity of our communities. These regulations ensure everything from the structural soundness of your deck to preventing drainage issues that could impact your neighbors.
Skipping the permit process isn't just about red tape; it can lead to unexpected expenses, neighborhood disputes, and significant safety risks in the long run. We're here to walk you through it, so you can confidently enjoy your deck without a single worry.
Do You Need a Permit to Build a Deck in East Hempfield Township?
The short answer is yes, in most cases. East Hempfield Township, like other municipalities, enforces the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and has its own local ordinances.
Here's where it gets specific:
- Zoning Permit: A zoning permit is required for all new decks, whether they are attached to your house or freestanding.
- Building Permit: A building permit is required if your deck is more than 30 inches above the surrounding ground or if it includes a roof or cover.
- Stormwater Documentation: Any new impervious surface, like a deck, requires stormwater documentation, typically a Stormwater Exception Form. This helps manage runoff and protect local water systems.
The good news is that East Hempfield Township has combined these three items into one application form.
Even smaller decks will likely need a zoning permit and stormwater paperwork, while larger or elevated decks will require both zoning and building permits.
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Deck Permit in East Hempfield Township
Navigating the permit process doesn't have to be a headache. Here’s a general overview of what you'll need and what to expect:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you submit anything, prepare the following:
- Building & Zoning Permit Application: East Hempfield Township utilizes a combined application form for residential building, zoning, and stormwater exemption.
- Applicable Plans: You'll need to submit detailed construction drawings, typically in PDF format. While the township's general application doesn't list specific requirements for decks, these plans usually include:
- Site plan: Showing the location of your proposed deck on your property, including distances to property lines and other structures.
- Framing plans: Detailing the deck's structural elements, dimensions, and materials.
- Deck cross-sections: Illustrating the various layers and connections.
- Stairway, guardrail, and handrail details: Ensuring they meet safety requirements.
- Stormwater Exception Form: Required for all new impervious surfaces. This is included on East Hempfield’s combined application form.
- Contractor General Liability Insurance Certificate: If you're working with a contractor, they'll need to provide proof of insurance.
- Workers' Compensation Affidavit: If a building permit is required, contractors must provide this (or a notarized waiver if they are a sole proprietor with no employees).
Step 2: Submit to the Township
You should submit all forms and plans to the East Hempfield Township Development Services Department. You can typically submit digital plans as PDFs.
East Hempfield Township Contact Information: 1700 Nissley Rd, Landisville, PA 17538 Email: [email protected] Phone: (717) 898-3100
Step 3: Understand the Costs
You’ll find permit fees outlined in the East Hempfield Township Fee Schedule. Please note that these fees contribute to the review and inspection process, ensuring your deck is safe and compliant. As of the 2025 fee schedule:
- Building Permit (Deck/Porch/Patio with roof, or > 30" above ground): $0.30 per square foot (minimum $75.00)
- Zoning Permit (for any Deck/Porch/Patio): $60.00
- PA UCC Mandated Fee: $4.50 (applied to all UCC-regulated permits)
- Residential Plan Review Deposit: $50.00 (non-refundable, credited towards total permit cost)
- Stormwater Management Small Project - Residential: $100.00
- Reinspections: A fee of $75.00 may be charged for re-inspections if the initial inspection fails.
Step 4: Permit Review and Issuance
Once submitted, the Township's Building Code Official and Zoning Department will review your application and plans. While they don’t always post a specific timeline for review, once approved, you must visibly post your permit at the job site throughout construction.
Local Zoning, Design, & Code Requirements for Decks
Here's where being detail-oriented pays off! Understanding these specifics upfront can save you headaches and delays.
Setbacks & Lot Placement
Setback requirements can vary based on your property's zoning district within East Hempfield Township. Generally, setbacks dictate how close your deck can be to property lines and rights-of-way. It's crucial to refer to the East Hempfield Township Zoning Ordinance for the exact setbacks applicable to your property.
Deck Height & Guardrails
For safety, the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), adopted by East Hempfield Township, requires:
- Guardrails: Decks, porches, or raised floor surfaces located more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below must have guardrails at least 36 inches in height.
- Stair Guards: Open sides of stairs with a total rise of more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below require guardrails that are not less than 34 inches in height, measured vertically from the nosing of the treads.
- Stair Width: Stairways must have a clear width of at least 36 inches.
- Treads and Risers: The maximum riser height is typically 8.25 inches, and the minimum tread depth is 9 inches plus a 1-inch nosing.
Approved Materials & Fasteners
Quality materials and proper fastening are vital for a durable and safe deck.
- Lumber: All decks must generally use a minimum of Southern Pine Grade #2 or better, and all treated lumber should be pressure-treated ACQ or CA-B.
- Flashing: Ledger boards (where the deck attaches to your house) must be properly flashed with corrosion-resistant materials to prevent water damage to your home.
- Fasteners: Use hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel fasteners for all framing hardware. This is essential to prevent rot and rust, especially with Pennsylvania's changing seasons. Lag screws, bolts, and washers should be hot-dipped. Placement of lag screws or bolts in deck ledgers has specific requirements, typically 2 inches from the top or bottom and between 2 and 5 inches from the ends.
- Structural Connections: Decks must be securely anchored to the primary structure of your house and designed to withstand both vertical and lateral loads. Toenailing or nails subject to withdrawal are not acceptable for these critical connections. If it is not securely connected to the home, the deck must be self-supporting. Cantilevered framing members require specific uplift-resistant connections.
- Posts and Footings: Posts must be anchored to concrete footings at least 36 inches deep, extending below the frost line. If your deck's walking surface is five feet or more above grade, it generally needs to be supported by 6" x 6" columns or a design for lateral displacement.
- Load Bearing: Decks are typically designed to provide a live load factor of 40 pounds per square foot.
Stormwater Considerations
Since your deck is an impervious surface, it contributes to stormwater runoff. The required Stormwater Exception Form ensures proper management and helps prevent issues like flooding or erosion. East Hempfield Township has a detailed Stormwater Management Ordinance.
Inspections: What to Expect
Once your permit is approved, the construction process involves mandatory inspections to ensure everything is built to code. East Hempfield Township provides in-house inspection services, performed by a Building Code Official.
You are responsible for scheduling these inspections with at least 24 hours' notice. They can often be scheduled online or by calling the Township Office at (717) 898-3100. You can also schedule inspections online via the Building/Zoning Department page. You cannot use or occupy a structure that requires a permit until a final inspection has passed and you have a Certificate of Use and Occupancy.
Typical inspection stages include:
- Footing Inspection: Scheduled before concrete is poured, this ensures your deck's footings are dug to the correct depth (typically 36 inches to below the frost line), properly spaced, and set on solid ground for a stable foundation.
- Framing Inspection: Conducted after the deck frame is built but before decking is installed, this inspection verifies that joists, beams, ledger boards, and all hardware are correctly installed and meet code requirements for strength and safety.
- Final Inspection: Once your deck is fully complete, including railings, stairs, and all other details, the inspector will perform a final check. This ensures your deck is safe, up to code, and ready for you to enjoy. Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Use and Occupancy.
What Happens If You Build Without a Permit?
Thinking about skipping the permit process? We strongly advise against it. Building without a permit in East Hempfield Township can lead to significant complications and costs:
- Double Fees & Fines: You may face double permit fees and additional fines ranging from $50 to $500 for initial violations, with increasing penalties for repeat offenses. Each day a violation continues can be considered a separate offense.
- Stop Work Orders: The Township can issue a legal "Stop Work Order," requiring you to halt all construction until you resolve the issues and obtain the necessary permits.
- Alterations or Demolition: In severe cases, the Township could require you to alter or even entirely remove the unpermitted structure.
- Resale Issues: When it comes time to sell your home, an unpermitted deck can cause delays in closing, reduce your property's value, or create legal liabilities.
- Insurance Complications: Many homeowners' insurance policies may not cover damages or injuries related to unpermitted construction.
In short, it's always better to be safe and ensure you have the necessary permits. If you're unsure, contact the Township.
Why Work with Keystone Outdoor Living?
Most homeowners aren't looking to become building code experts—and you shouldn't have to be! That's where Keystone Outdoor Living comes in.
- Local Code Expertise: We are familiar with East Hempfield Township's codes, ensuring your project complies with all local requirements.
- Seamless Process: We handle the paperwork, submit the correct forms, and coordinate with the Township on your behalf, streamlining the permit application process.
- Quality & Safety: Beyond just meeting code, we build beautiful, safe, and durable decks that exceed expectations and stand the test of time.
If you want more clarity on the deck permitting process in East Hempfield Township or advice on starting your deck, give us a call today!
Conclusion
If you're dreaming of a new outdoor space—a place to unwind, entertain, or simply enjoy your home—but feel daunted by the regulations, Keystone Outdoor Living is here to help. We combine local code compliance with thoughtful planning and quality craftsmanship, so you can focus on making memories on your new deck.
Remember, following local codes isn't just "red tape"—it protects your investment, your home's future value, and most importantly, your family's safety.
At Keystone, we offer a variety of turnkey services, including:
Contact us today to get your deck project started the right way—with confidence and peace of mind.