Brookhaven Borough Enforces the PA Uniform Construction Code.
As of Jan 1, 2026 we are using the 2021 I codes and 2020 NEC as amended by the PA UCC.
The following are guidelines to assist you in the application process and specific situations may alter these requirements. These Guidelines may change as processes and or codes are updated. Requirement for commercial projects may be more demanding than the residential counterpart as the codes are different. to jump to a section click a link below.
CONTRACTOR LICENSE AND REGISTRATION
All contractors performing work in Brookhaven Borough need to register with the Borough and obtain the appropriate license. All contractors performing work on any residential property must have a Home Improvement contractor license issued by the PA attorney general. Residential Contractors performing work other than Plumbing, Mechanical, or Electrical are exempt from the License fee.
With each License and Registration application a Certificate of insurance naming Brookhaven Borough as certificate holder must be provided showing General Liability and Workers Compensation insurance. Any contractor who is exempt under the workers Compensation Act must include a notarized affidavit of exemption. Failure to maintain insurance or a valid HICPA license when required voids any license until the necessary coverages are reinstated or renewed. No permit can be issued without a valid Contractor registration or License.
Homeowners working on their own home do not need a contractor license. Permits are still required and all work must meet the applicable code.
RESIDENTIAL SWIMMING POOLS
All new swimming pools exceeding 2′ in depth need approval by borough officials. A zoning permit and appropriate building permits must be obtained from the Borough prior to construction. If the area of the pool exceeds the limits outlined in chapter 1230 of Borough code the applicant must provide a storm water management plan and obtain the appropriate permit.
Approval for a swimming pool will be based on many variables including the amount of open land, drainage and runoff considerations, and safety. Your zoning application should clearly show all structures, patios, decks, driveways, etc, and have dimensions showing the size and location of the proposed pool. If you plan to put a deck or patio with your pool indicate the size and location at this time. Zoning applications not including the fence required by code will not be accepted. Once approved by the zoning official you will need to obtain the appropriate building permits for the pool and any accessory structures.
Swimming pools must meet the requirements of the International Residential Code and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as well as Brookhaven Borough Code of Ordinances. Temporary (storable) pools still require a permit and must adhere to the codes applicable to onground storable residential swimming pools. Borough Ordinance 1444.01 requires a 6’ artificial fence completely surrounding the pool, the fence must be included on the zoning application and must be constructed before the pool can be approved for use.
Electrical provisions for all residential pools must meet the requirements of International Residential Code. Extension cords are not allowed for permanent or long term use. Installation of a new electric branch circuit requires an electrical permit
RESIDENTIAL SHEDS
Residential storage sheds require a zoning permit and a building permit. Sheds regulations can be found in chapter 1456 of Borough Code and must meet all provisions of Borough Zoning code. No shed can be over 140 square feet, door openings are limited to 6′ and height is limited to 10′. All sheds must be no closer than 4′ from the side and rear property lines and cannot be located in the front yard.
PATIOS & DECKS
All new concrete or paver patios, walkways, or decks, or changes in size or location to any existing concrete or paver patios, walkways, or decks need approval by borough officials. A zoning permit and appropriate building permits must be obtained from the Borough prior to construction. If the increase in area of the patio or deck exceeds the limits outlined in chapter 1230 of Borough code the applicant must provide a storm water management plan and obtain the appropriate permit.
Existing patios, walkways, or decks being replaced in the same location with no change in size do not require a zoning permit but still require the appropriate building permit be applied for and issued.
FENCES
All new fences, or changes in type or location to any existing fence need approval by borough officials. A zoning permit and appropriate building permits must be obtained from the Borough prior to construction. Fences are not permitted to extend past the front of the House, and are to be no taller than 6′ in height.
Existing fences being replaced in the same location with no change in type do not require a zoning permit but still require the appropriate building permit be applied for and issued. Fences can be erected on or near the property line provided no part of the fence or excavation for its installation intrudes on the neighboring property. Property owners are responsible for verifying property boundaries.
ADDITIONS
Additions require a zoning permit and a combination of Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical permits. Additions exceeding the limits outlined in chapter 1230 of Borough code must include a storm water management plan and obtain the appropriate permit. Architectural, structural and mechanical drawings may be required. Sealed plans and specifications may now be submitted electronically by email. Separate permit applications are required for each trade. Building permits can be applied for with Zoning, but no building permits will be processed until Zoning Permit approval is returned.
SIDEWALK AND CURB
All sidewalk is to be maintained by the adjacent property owner. Repairs and replacement of sidewalk and curb are to adhere to PennDOT standards for pedestrian facilities with the following exceptions and revisions.
- Curb may be reduced above grade to as low as 6″ to match existing.
- Sidewalks are to be 4′ wide or as wide as currently installed.
- Sidewalks are to be 4″ of aggregate and 4″ of concrete.
- Driveway aprons are to be 6″ of aggregate and 6″ of concrete with wire mesh.
All new sidewalk within a PennDOT ROW must obtain a PennDOT highway occupancy permit prior to applying for a Brookhaven building permit
PERMITS NOT REQUIRED
Permits are not required for the following on residential properties only.
- Window replacement provided there is no change to the structure
- Siding
- Gutters
- Flooring
- Painting
- screening of an existing porch
ROOFS
All roof replacements require a permit.
ALL OTHER PERMITS
Any work not outlined above requires a permit. Along with the permit application, drawings, specifications, and a contract must be submitted. Application must be approved and a permit issued prior to any work starting. Work without a permit is a violation of Borough code Chapter 1408.01.