FAQs

General Questions

How do I pay my taxes?

View details on the county tax collectors.

How do I contact the township?

View our contact information.

Permit/Zoning Questions

I am considering subdividing my property. Is that allowed?

Subdividing a property can be a complex process with many regulations to consider. To understand what's possible and to get an idea of the costs involved, you should consult with a professional engineer who is familiar with Springfield Township's Codes. An engineer familiar with our codes will be able to:

• Assess feasibility: Determine if your property meets the Township's requirements for subdivision, considering factors like lot sizes, access and zoning.
• Identify Challenges: Help you to understand any potential hurdles or limitations you may encounter.
• Estimate Costs: Provide you with a realistic idea of the expenses associated with the subdivision process, which can include surveys, plans and various fees.

I want to add an in-law suite or accessory apartment. Is that allowed?

Generally, yes! Springfield Township's code Chapter 154.404.H.1 (Section H-1) permits these additions. The main thing you will need to sort out is whether your septic system is large enough. To figure that out, you will need to contact the Bucks County Health Department at 215-529-7000. They can help you determine if your current system can handle the additional capacity.

What permits do I need for my project?

Most projects in Springfield Township require at lease (1) type of permit, and often more! Here's how to help you determine:

• Zoning Permit: You will almost always need a zoning permit. This permit ensures your project complies with the Township's zoning regulations, which dictate things like how land can be used, building setbacks from property lines, and building height.
• Building Permit: Many projects will also require a building permit. This is for projects that involve construction, alterations, additions, or even demolition. It ensures your project meets safety and construction standards.
• Stormwater Permit: Stormwater permits are frequently necessary, especially for projects that involve disturbing the land or creating new impervious surfaces (like patios or driveways). These permits help manage rainwater runoff to prevent flooding and protect local water quality.

It is important to note that the specific permits you need will depend on the nature and scope of your project. It's always best to contact the Springfield Township Zoning and Permits group directly to discuss your plans and confirm all required permits.

What permits do I need for a fence?

To install a fence, you will need a zoning permit. Along with your permit application, you will need to submit a sketched plan of your proposed fence.

Important Rule: Your fence cannot be over 7 feet in height.

If I want to install solar panels, what permits do I need to complete?

Regardless of whether your solar panels will be mounted on the ground or on a structure (like your roof), you will need to obtain both a zoning AND a building permit.

If I am replacing my windows, which are the same size, do I need a permit?

No, a permit is not required if you are simply replacing your windows with new ones of the same size and are not making any alterations to the existing structure around the window opening.

Does an electric dog fence need a zoning permit?

No, an electric dog fence does not require a zoning permit.

I’d like to have a propane residential temporary generator, does that need a permit?

No, a permit is not required for a propane residential temporary generator. However, if you are planning a permanent installation of a generator, both a zoning permit and a building permit ARE required.

For an electrical replacement, with the same amps, do I need a permit?

No, you do not need a permit if you are simply replacing electrical components with now ones that have the same amperage. Permits are required in the following situations:

• Upgrading Amperage: If you plan to increase the amperage of your electrical service, a building permit is needed.
• Pool Electrical Replacement: If you are replacing any electrical components related to a pool, a building/electrical permit is necessary.

My HVAC/AC broke, is a permit needed to replace it?

Yes, if you are replacing your air conditioning (AC) unit or HVAC system (which includes AC), you will need a building permit.

However, if you are only replacing your furnace or boiler, a permit is not required.

I’d like new garage doors (8ft-10ft), can I install those without a permit?

No, you cannot install new garage doors (8ft-10ft) without a permit. You will need to obtain a building permit and submit a sketch of the proposed installation. An architectural seal on the plans is not required unless there are any structural changes being made to your garage opening.

Do I have to apply for permits to add on a deck or patio?

Yes, you will need to apply for permits to add a deck or patio.

Here is how you can determine what is required:

• Zoning Permit: A zoning permit is always necessary for both decks and patios. This ensures your addition complies with local zoning regulations regarding setbacks, impervious surface coverage, and other property-specific rules.
• Building Permit (for decks): A building permit will be needed for your deck in addition to the zoning permit IF:
  • The deck is over 30 inches above the highest grade (the ground level around the deck).
  • The deck is over 1,000 sqft in size.
• Guardrails (for decks): Guardrails are required for all decks 30 inches or more above grade. The guardrail height should be 36 inches down-stair.

I’m thinking about putting in a pond on my property. What applications need to be completed for a pond?

A zoning application and stormwater application need to be submitted. Note that no structure can be within 75 feet of the pond.

If the lot I purchased doesn’t have a mailing address, when can I obtain one?

If you're planning to install a pond on your property, you will need to submit (2) applications:

• A Zoning Permit
• A Stormwater Management Permit

Important Note: No Structure can be built within 75 feet of the pond.

Are chickens alright to have in Springfield Township?

Yes, chickens are generally allowed in Springfield Township. However there are a few important rules to follow:

• Enclosure Required: Chickens must be kept within an enclosure and are not permitted to free-range.
• Roosters Restricted: Roosters are NOT allowed in the Village Residential (VR) or Village Commercial (VC) districts.

Time for my roof to be replaced. Does a permit need to be obtained?

It depends on the scope of the work:

• Replacing Shingles Only: If you are only replacing the existing shingles, not permit is needed.
• Structural Repairs: If the replacement involves repairing or replacing plywood or any other structural components of the roof, then a building permit will be required.

Do I need a permit for a pole barn?

Yes, you will need to obtain permits for a pole barn. Here is how you can determine what is needed:

• A zoning permit must always be submitted.
• A building permit is also required UNLESS the pole barn meets one of the following criteria:
  • The structure is less than 1,000 sqft OR
  • It is used strictly for agricultural purposes

Can I cut down some trees on my land?

Yes, you are permitted to cut down some trees on your property, with certain limitations:

• You may harvest up to 5 trees per acre that are 6 inches (min) in diameter or greater.
• The total number of trees you can cut down per year is capped at 20 trees.

If I am looking to do work to my log cabin, what permits do I need?

If you own an ACTUAL log cabin, it is generally exempt from the Uniform Construction Code (UCC). This means that for most work on your log cabin, you will only need to complete a zoning permit.

When does a review by the County Conservation District need to be done?

A review by the County Conservation District is required for certain construction or development projects, specifically when:

• The project involves earth disturbance of 1,000 sqft or greater.
• This disturbance occurs within an identified floodplain area.

Here is the process:

1. Submission: You, as the applicant, must submit a copy of all applications and plans for your proposed construction or development tot he County Conservation District for their review and comments. This must be done BEFORE the township can consider issuing a floodplain permit.
2. Incorporation of Requirements: Any requirements or comments from the County Conservation District must be incorporated into your proposed plan.
3. Letter of Adequacy: Before the township issues a floodplain permit (if applicable), you must receive a letter of adequacy from the County Conservation District. This letter signifies that they have reviewed your plans and found them acceptable.

Building a new home on a lot? The following items are needed:

• Building permit application along with architectural seal (ideally digital or three physical copies)
• Zoning application along with plot plan
• Driveway application
• Stormwater application
• Well/Septic approval from Upper Bucks County of Health
• Erosion/Sediment approval study completed from Bucks County Conservation District.