Building
Department

Rich Tussel

Building Code Official
Building/Plumbing/Energy Inspector (Residential/Commercial)
Phone: 570-685-2990 Ext: 17
Fax: 570-685-2550
Email: building@lackawaxentownshippa.gov

Hours:
By appointment only.

When Do I need A Building Permit?

*Building permits are required for ALL buildings.

Residential building permits are needed prior to construction of any of the following:

  • New Homes

  • Additions to Existing Homes

  • New Decks to Existing Homes

  • Deck Replacements

  • Stair Replacements

  • Porches

  • Roof – (Over existing decks, patios, dormers, ora change from a flat roof to a pitched)

  • Finished Basements

  • Detached Garages (over 400 sq ft)

  • Sheds (over 400 sq ft)

  • Remodeling (If it involves structural changes)

  • Conversion of Non- habitable space to habitable space Or converting rooms to bedrooms

What do I need to get my building permit?

The following items are required if applicable in order for the permit process to begin:

  • Highway Occupancy Permit (If you live on a State road and plan any construction. You must have this permit.)

  • Township Driveway Permit (If you live on a Township road)

  • Copy of Active Sewage Permit (If you live on a Township road)

  • Contractors Information – PA Registration Number (Attorney General Insurance & Workers Compensation Information)

  • Active Zoning Permit (See Zoning Application Process)

  • Two (2) Sets of Construction Drawings

  • Completed Building Permit Application

  • 911 Sign in place on the property

Construction Drawing Requirements

Effective February 14, 2022

Pennsylvania will be using the 2018 I- codes for design and construction.

Where a design or construction contract is signed before this effective date.  Applications may be made under the code that was In effect at the time of contact as long as the application is made August 14, 2022, or Before

Permit Process

  • The applicant submits a completed application to the township along with all the required information as detailed in the previous pages.

  • Township reviews plans for code compliance.

  • The applicant is notified when plans are either approved or denied. If plans are not approved, the applicant will receive a plan deficiency notice.

  • Applicants must come to the township to pay for the permit and obtain paperwork.

  • Applicant must post a permit on the property.

General Information

The laminated permit must be posted so it is visible from the street.

A list of required inspections is provided on the laminated permit. All applicable inspections must be checked off as passed before moving on to the next phase of construction.

Inspections must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. To schedule building, plumbing, or insulation inspections, call (570) 685-2990 Ex. 17

To schedule electric or mechanical inspections call (570) 493-1229. Information needed when scheduling inspections is as follows:

  • Permit Number

  • Site Address

  • Type of Inspection

  • Day and Date When Inspection is Needed

  • Phone Number of Person Requesting Inspection.

One set of township-approved plans must be on-site and accessible to the building inspector.

Please Note:
It is the applicant’s responsibility to call for final inspections. New homes, additions, and decks can not be used or occupied until all final inspections are completed and a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Failure to follow these instructions could result in legal action and possible fines.