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1. When do I need a residential building permit?

The following Residential projects (not all-inclusive) require a permit, either an over-the-counter permit or a plan review permit.

Over-the-Counter Permit

An over-the-counter permit does not require drawings to be submitted for a plan review. Some examples are:

• Electrical Service
• Furnace Replacement
• Gas Fireplace
• Gas Line to Patio
• Fuel-Fired Water Heater Replacement
• Water/Sewer Line Repair/Replacement

An application is required for an over-the-counter permit. You will need to know the total value of the work to be performed to complete the application.

Plan Review Permit

Various projects will require you to submit drawings for a plan review. Some examples are: 

• New Homes and Additions
• Structural Alterations/Remodel
• Basement Finish
• Carport
• Deck
• Fences over 6 feet in height
• Patio Cover/Pergola
• Pool/Hot Tub

Plan review permits require two identical drawings. Drawings must show all structural components and be to scale. A site plan is required for any addition or structure that will be added to the home, or property.

2. What is a site plan?

A site plan is a scaled drawing of your property. You must show the placement of all additions to the property. Give dimensions of the house, dimensions of any other structures on the property, and dimensions from each structure to all property lines.

3. Where do I get a permit application?

Permit applications are available online at the Permit Information and Applications page or at the Township offices.

4. Why are plumbing and electrical contractors required to be licensed in the Township?

Licensed contractors have provided proof of competency and proof of insurance to the city. This protects the homeowner from incurring costs due to damage by uninsured contractors, and it protects the homeowner from contractors who do not have adequate knowledge of the State adopted building codes. A permit will not be issued until the plumbing and electrical contractors being used to complete the project are licensed. Homeowners doing their own work do not need to be licensed.

5. What does a permit cost?

Please see the Lower Macungie Township Fee Schedule (PDF) on our website or call the permit department at 610-966-4343 for more information.

6. What forms of payment do you take?

We accept cash, checks, or credit card. Credit card transactions incur a $1.50 service charge plus a 3% fee for credit card usage.

7. May I mail my permit application, plans (if applicable), and check to the Township?

Certainly! Call the Permit Department at 610-966-4343 and we will calculate the fees. Mail the permit application and check to the Township, and we will immediately issue the over-the-counter permit applications and mail the permit to you.

8. What is the time frame for the permit process?

Over-the-counter permits are issued once the application has been processed and the fees have been paid in full. Typically, within 24 hours. Permits with plans will have to go through a plan review prior to issuing the permit. All residential plans will be in review for up to 10 days. All commercial plans will be in review for up to 30 days. Please contact the Building Department if you have further questions.

9. How do I schedule an inspection?

Call the Permit Department at 610-966-4343, ext. 134 before noon for a next business day inspection.

10. May I request a specific time for an inspection?

You may request an am or pm inspection time and we will do our best to accommodate that for you, but there are no guarantees. Unfortunately, we cannot give a specific time for your inspection.

11. How do I contact an inspector during the day if I need clarification on his requirements?

Call the Permit Department at 610-966-4343 between 8 am and 4:30 pm and we will contact the inspector to have them call you.

12. Do permits expire?

Permits are valid for 180 days after issuance. Call to renew if you will not complete the project in that timeframe.