Building Code Information

Mission

Our mission is to assure, through proper plan reviews and inspections, compliance with the applicable standards adopted by the Board of Commissioners, which provide a reasonable degree of protection to the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens and visitors.

Code Adherence

All construction in West Norriton Township must follow the International Residential Code (IRC) or International Building Code (IBC) current adopted year code book. All projects must have two copies of sealed plans along with an electronic copy when submitted for review. The township has up to 30 days for review of commercial plans and 15 days for residential plans. Once the plans have been reviewed, one set will be returned to the applicant along with any changes that need to be made to ensure the plan is compliant with the current code. Payment is due when the permit and plan are ready for pickup. No work may start until the permit has been issued and paid.

Plot Plan Information

A plot plan (or site plan) is an accurate drawing or map of your property that shows the size and configuration of your property and precise location of all man-made structures (i.e., buildings, walls, driveways, walks, fences, etc.) and all bodies of water and water channels (ponds, streams, swales, etc.).

Plot plans are required to accompany most applications submitted to the West Norriton Township Building and Zoning Department. The rare occasion when one would not be required might be for a residential interior alteration permit, where no exterior changes are being proposed.

A plot plan is also very helpful when you have questions about what you can and cannot do with your property. It will help the zoning officer to see specific and unique conditions of your site. It will also allow for you to receive more reliable, rather than general, information about your site. This is particularly important when you are applying for a zoning or building permit.

Creating a Plot Plan

A plot plan should show:

  • The name and address of the property owner
  • The address and tax parcel number of the property
  • The location and name of all adjacent streets
  • Property lines, dimensions, and total acreage
  • The location and dimensions of all existing structures, driveways, and parking areas
    • This includes the distance from at least two adjacent property lines
  • The location and dimensions of all proposed improvements
  • All easements, flood plains, and other pertinent legal information
  • All stormwater facilities, including: ponds, swales, streams, etc.

Sample Plot Plan & Instructions

For additional information about creating a plot plan, please read How to Draw a Plot Plan (PDF). You can also view plot plan samples (PDF) to gain a better understanding of the details and layout.

Measurements & Application

When measuring from a street line, it is important that you indicate where your dimensions are from (i.e., “center of road," “edge of paving," “edge of right of way," etc.).

Note About Thoroughness

In reviewing your application or plot plan, there is the possibility that the codes enforcement officer may ask you for more detailed, specific, or additional information. There may be occasions when you will be required to have your plan prepared by a surveyor or professional engineer. It is important to be as accurate and complete as possible. Building permits issued and approved that are based upon incorrect or incomplete information may be revoked.