Permits

Building Permits:
In 2004 the township adopted the Universal Construction Code for all new construction. A building permit and inspections are required for all new construction, including renovations, remodeling, and additions. Certain renovations and remodeling are exempt, but it is best to contact the Zoning Officer before beginning any construction project.
Building Permit Exemptions
Building Permit Requirements

Building Inspections:
The township uses the services of a third party inspector, HMT and Associates, to do all residential and commercial inspections. Details will be provided when an application for a building permit is filed.
Building Inspection Checklist

Zoning Permits:
Zoning Permits and Building Permits are commonly confused. Zoning Permits are generally issued for construction of unattached garages, gazebos, storage sheds, agricultural buildings and the like. These most often do not require inspections, but the dimensional set back distances must be checked to assure that the structure is properly placed from property lines.
Building-Zoning Permit Exclusions

Additional Points Concerning Building/Zoning Permits:
Please be aware that a Building/Zoning Permit may also be required for construction of retaining walls, decorative fences (does not include normal fences used on agricultural land), all in ground swimming pools, all above ground pools 2 feet deep or more, spas, and hot tubs. Check with the Zoning Officer before starting any construction.

Other Permits:

Before demolition of any building is started, a demolition permit must be issued. Upon issuance of a demolition permit, the county is notified and at some point the county will remove the building from the tax roles thereby reducing the taxes on the property. Note that burning of construction debris is prohibited by DEP regulations and by township ordinance.

Mobile Home Removal Permit
A permit is needed to remove a mobile home. The County will be notified so that the tax roles can be adjusted.

Fireworks Permits
By PA State Law, anyone wishing to purchase or display fireworks must first obtain a permit from the local municipality.
Fireworks Permit Form
Fireworks Permit Procedure

Sign Permits – Certain types of signs are prohibited and others are permitted. Some signs are exempt, such as political signs, and certain types of real-estate signs. Before erecting any sign, check with the Zoning Officer.

Ordinances

View a full E-Code Ordinance Listing Here.

New Township Zoning Ordinance
The Township adopted a new Zoning Ordinance on October 25, 2006. There were many changes made to bring the township into compliance with the PA Municipalities Planning Code. Two of the main changes were:

1. Establish a 1000’ corridor along Route 18 from Smith Township to Chartiers Township to allow for commercial development. Route 18 and other selected areas are designated as “B-1 Highway Commercial Districts”.
2. Establish “Residential Districts” where specific types of construction will be permitted:
a. R-1 Rural Residential District
b. R-2 Suburban Residential District
c. R-3 Neighborhood Residential District
d. R-4 Neighborhood Corel District

The official Zoning Map and the new Zoning Ordinance are available for public view or purchase at the Mount Pleasant Township Office. Printed copies are available for $25.00 each if picked up at the office, or can be mailed for $30.00. CD ROM versions are available for $15.00 each if picked up, or can be mailed for $17.00.

Burning Ordinance
Please note that the it is illegal to burn anything other than tree limbs, branches, leaves, papers, and boxes. Burning may be conducted under safe conditions between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, except Sundays and Legal Holidays.

Non-Operating Vehicle Ordinance
Storage of an unlicensed, not currently inspected, abandoned, or disabled vehicle, or large vehicle component for more than 15 days is not permitted. Any such vehicle or component may be stored inside an enclosed building. If such vehicle is reported to a township official, the owner of the vehicle or the owner of the land on which the vehicle is located shall be given 15 days in which to remove it or face prosecution and fines of up to $300.00.

Animal Control Ordinance
It is unlawful to allow an animal to run at large, attack other animals or people, create excessive noise, or trespass on private property. The animal’s owner must keep it under control at all times. No animal shall be allowed to run at large. The ordinance also covers cruelty to animals, confinement of dangerous animals, seizure and detention of animals at large, inoculation against rabies, and other important items.

Dangerous/Nuisance Structure Ordinance
The Township has an ordinance allowing for the removal of dangerous/nuisance structures. When such a building or structure is reported to the Zoning Officer the owner of such structure is given the opportunity to either remove it or bring the building up to current construction code standards. Failing to do so may result in substantial fines.

House Number Ordinance
All structures are assigned street numbers and the owner of the property is responsible for displaying the address numbers in an easily readable form. This is important to assist ambulance and police when responding to emergency situations.

Off-road Vehicle Ordinance
Property owners must give written permission for the operation of off-road vehicles on their property. No vehicle shall emit loud noises or create unreasonable amounts of dust or dirt. No vehicle shall be operated in such a manner as to endanger any person or property.

The full text of each ordinance is available for view or purchase at the Township Office during normal business hours.

The Zoning Officer is available to answer any question concerning the new Zoning Ordinance, Building/Zoning Permits, or any other township ordinance. Please call in advance to schedule an appointment.