Building Regulations

In November 1999, Act 45, the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) was signed into law creating the first comprehensive statewide building code for the Commonwealth.  This legislation established minimum construction standards for virtually all residential and commercial construction activity within Pennsylvania. 

The purpose of the law is to provide nationally recognized codes and standards for the protection of life, health, property, and environment, as well as the safety and welfare of the consumer, general public and the owners and occupants of buildings and structures.

The Borough of Conway enforces the UCC through employment of a Certified private code enforcement agency.

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Building and Zoning Permits

In general, building and/or zoning permits are required for any change of use, or prior to any  construction activity that involves rebuilding , moving, enlarging, or physically altering a building or other structure, including but not limited to:

Major remodeling
Changes to roofline
Additions including garages / carports
Storage Buildings
Signs
Porches 
Deck or Patio (if elevated)
Swimming Pool
Fencing
New plumbing and electrical
Demolition

Maintenance work, minor repairs, or alterations that do not affect the basic structure of an existing building or increase the lot area coverage such as painting, landscaping, re-roofing, new siding, replacement doors or windows (unless of a different size than the original) do not require a permit.

This is not a complete list. Please contact the Borough Zoning Officer at (724) 869-5550 for specific answers to questions regarding your project.

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Home Improvement Contract Registry

In 2008, the Pennsylvania Legislature passed the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act which requires that all contractors who perform $5,000 or more in home improvements in a year must register with the PA Attorney General's Office.  Beginning July 1, 2009, PA consumers will be able to verify a contractor's registration with the Attorney General's Office by visiting www.attorneygeneral.gov/hiccon.aspx?id=4502  or by calling 1-888-520-6680.

The Attorney General's office is encouraging consumers to use only registered contractors when making home improvements.  Contractors can download forms and register online at www.attorneygeneral.gov  Home improvement contractors will pay a non-refundable application fee which is renewable every two years.  Upon approval of the application by the Office of the Attorney General, a contractor will receive a certificate and a registration number that must be displayed in all advertisements, contracts, estimates, and proposals with consumers in the Commonwealth.

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COMING SOON - Links to instructions & printable versions of our various permit applications & packages (Building & signs)