Zoning and Code FAQ's

What information do I need to obtain a deck permit?

To obtain a deck permit, please let us know the following:

What type of house is deck being attached to? Single Twin MOD?
How high is the deck above Grade?
\What is the size of the proposed deck?

Sheds: If I want to erect a shed, does it require a permit?

All sheds require Zoning permits. Some may require building permits. The difference is whether the shed is pre-built or built on site. Most pre-built sheds do not require building permits unless placed on a new concrete slab at which point then a building permit is required for the concrete slab. The Borough does require plans as to the hold down building anchors of how is the shed secure to ground. Most of the time it's done with a screw type anchor, the kind they use in RV parks. Some restrictions mandated by the Codes will be applied.

Can I concrete my entire backyard?

Cementing your backyard requires a zoning permit. Furthermore, you may not concrete the entire back yard since zoning code restrictions would apply to impervious surface requirements, and stormwater.

How do I file a zoning or code concern?

For detailed instructions on submitting a request or concern, please CLICK HERE

I filed a concern a while ago. Why is it taking so long to resolve?

The Borough is required to follow a legal process, determined by civil and criminal procedures, to establish Municipal Code applicability in relation to an alleged violation. The process involves providing notice to the property owner and allowing the owner an opportunity to work with the Borough toward the goal of compliance. This can be followed by legal action that may include recording a Notice of Violation against the property owner, the filing of a citation, and possible criminal charges depending on the nature of the violation. These processes may take weeks or months to culminate. Since the goal is voluntary compliance, legal actions are a last resort once informal measures are exhausted.

Some issues that often affect resolving compliance matters:

There may be difficulties finding or contacting the owner since there are a high number of absentee property owners and rentals in town.
The owner may dispute the violation.
The owner may have difficulty abating the violations due to the complexities of the case.
The owner may choose to pursue the judicial resolution.
The judicial resolution is time-intensive and may result in multiple continuations.

I recently received a Notice of Violation for a Code violation. Is this the same thing as getting a ticket?

No, a Notice of Violation is a written warning to the owner/resident that there is a violation of one or more town ordinances. If the violation has not been corrected after 7 to 14 days, the owner/resident may then be issued a summons into Municipal Court

I recently received a ticket for a Code violation. What do I do now?

The Borough of Lansdowne instituted an Instant Ticket program where certain violations of the code can be issued an Instant Ticket, The violations so noted, come with an instant fine of $25.00 per violation, payable within 30 days. The violations must be corrected within 10 days of the ticket issue date. Failure to pay or correct the violation will be just cause for citations being issued against the violator, owner, or legal representative.

Can I remain anonymous when reporting a Code Enforcement violation?

Yes. We do not require that you provide any personal information. However, having more information at hand will often assist us in conducting a more thorough investigation. Remember that all information you choose to provide is subject to Public Record laws.

I bought a property from a bank, auction or sheriff sale and need a U & O?

Look under Property Sold "As Is" for the correct path to follow to obtain a U & 0 for properties Bought ’As is" without a U & 0.

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