Zoning
Why Is There Zoning?
The Allen Township Zoning Ordinance and Map regulates the use, intensity of use, size and location of buildings, and other structures, as well as establishing regulations for land use by trades, industry, recreation, and public activities. Essentially, the Zoning Ordinance guides property uses, development, and redevelopment in order to protect the Township’s neighborhoods and character.
Zoning regulations help ensure that land is used reasonably, while also allowing the Township to administer and, when necessary, enforce these regulations.
All properties in the Township are classified into zoning districts. Within each district, land uses fall into different categories:
- Permitted by Right – allowed without further approvals.
- Nonconforming (Use/Structure/Lot) – Use predates zoning ordinance. Zoning standards are not met, but use has a right to stay. Think of it as being "grandfathered" in.
- Conditional Use – permitted but subject to specific standards and additional review.
If a land use does not fall into one of these categories, then it is not permissible within that zoning district, unless a variance is granted.
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When Do I Need a Zoning Permit?
Zoning permits are required for, but not limited to, the following:
- Accessory buildings or structures
- Fences and gates
- New homes
- Home offices and home occupations
- Pools and hot tubs
- Signs
- Commercial projects
In addition, Building Permits may also be required depending on the size, use, and type of construction. For example:
- New homes
- Additions
- Decks (over 30" above grade or with a roof)
- Pools and hot tubs
- Retaining walls over 48" high
Projects that entail a building permit will require inspections from a third-party inspection service that the Township has appointed.
Always check with the Township first.
Can I Pick an Inspection Service of My Choosing? No. You can only choose a third-party inspection listed that the Township has appointed. Each of the third-party agencies have their own fee schedules. Residents are able to select from the following agencies:
- Bureau Veritas [Fee Schedule]
- Keller Zoning and Inspection Services, Inc. [Fee Schedule]
- Keycodes Inspection Services [Fee Schedule]
- Lehigh Valley Inspection Services [Fee Schedule]
Zoning & Building Permit Process
- Complete Application & Submit Necessary Plans
- Application Review
- Application Approval or Denial
- Approved Applicant Schedules Inspection with Third Party of Their Choosing (from the list above)
Can I Apply During or After the Project?
No. Permits must be obtained before starting any work.
This ensures the Township can:
- Confirm the use is permitted in your zoning district
- Verify required setbacks
- Ensure, when applicable, that a third-party inspection service receives the building permit application.
How Long is The Process?
It can take up to two (2) weeks for the Zoning Permit to be issued. The Township is not able to give turnaround times for the third-party agencies. Once the third-party agency completes their review and the plans have been approved, they will return both the Municipal Copy and the Job Site Copy to the Township Office. Then the Township will release both the Zoning Permit and Building Permit together.
No work can commence until both permits have been received.
Permits will be available for pick up during Township office hours (Monday - Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, excluding holidays), after hours from the outdoor public pickup box (if arranged), or by mail (if self-addressed prepaid envelope is provided with initial application(s) submission).
When Do I Need a Certificate of Occupancy Permit?
A Certificate of Occupancy Permit is not required when an existing dwelling is sold. However, it is required for a new single-family dwelling, and for any construction related to a Building Permit.
When Would I Need a Driveway Permit?
Driveway Permits are required anytime you reconstruct your driveway or add a driveway access from a road.
Do I Need a Permit for My Landscaping?
No, typically you do not need a permit for landscaping. However, if your landscaping includes a retaining wall or fencing, you may be required to secure a permit.
Administration
