Upper Makefield Township

Running Fence

Planning and Zoning

Upper Makefield Township Planning and Zoning department processes about 500 permits and development applications a year. Everything from new development to home improvements starts with this department. In addition, the department regulates maintenance of on-lot sewage systems and new well digging.


Dave Kuhns, Code Enforcement Officer

Dave Kuhns, Director of Planning and Zoning

Wendy Mecke, Planning & Zoning Assistant/GIS Coordinator 
Phyllis Mehler, Planning & Zoning Secretary

While professional developers and contractors are usually familiar with these forms, we’re here to answer questions. For the Do-it-Yourselfers out there, be sure to thoroughly review our permit information packet, and download the document packet relevant to your project. If you still have questions, our capable staff can help you.

On-Lot Sewage System Requirements

To ensure that on-lot systems function properly, all owners of on-lot sewage disposal systems are required to have their tanks emptied by a licensed hauler at least every 3 years. After pumping the tank, the property owner is required to submit a copy of the hauler’s receipt to the Planning and Zoning Office.

Sub-division and Land Development Information

If you wish to subdivide your property, please submit a Subdivision Application and plans. The completed application is reviewed by the Planning Commission and forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for their review and final approval. The Zoning Hearing Board meets the 4th Monday of each month as needed.

Conditional Use

Certain property uses listed in the Zoning Ordinance require a Conditional Use Application. The application pertains only to the use of the property, although the review process with the Planning Commission followed by the Board of Supervisors is the same as the Subdivision process.

What Code?

The Planning and Zoning Department reviews permit applications to comply with township ordinances as well as:

  • 2006 International Building Code
  • 2006 International Plumbing Code
  • 2008 National Electric Code (NEC)

Inspections

All electrical work must be inspected at rough and final stages and a cut card sent to the township. Neither the final inspection of a project nor the permanent certificate of occupancy will be issued until an underwriter completes the final inspection of the electrical work and a sticker is on the electrical box. At that time, the township must be notified for a final inspection.