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1. What is a plot plan?

A hand-drawn diagram of your property that shows:

• All Structures
• Any Proposed Structures
• Distances to the Property Lines (Include the Size of Property)
• The Driveway
• The Street

If you have questions about how to draw a plot plan, check out google and search "image of how to draw a plot plan." There are many examples available.

2. What is a setback?

A setback is the distance from your home or your shed or the added structure to your property lines on each side.

3. Do I need a permit to install a fence?

A Zoning Permit is required. You must attach a plot plan to the permit showing where you plan to install the fence, including the type of fence (privacy/open picket), and the height. It is suggested that in order to maintain the fence, you allow ample room (1 to 2 feet) from your property line.

Examples

If you have questions about how to draw a plot plan, check out google and search "image of how to draw a plot plan." There are many examples available.

4. I want to put a pool in my yard. Does it require a permit?

If it is over 24 inches high, then yes. Zoning (PDF), Stormwater (PDF) (if it's over 80 square feet) and Building Permits (PDF) are required (Swimming Pool Checklist).  A plot plan is required showing the exact location of the pool with footage.

5. Can I raise chickens?

A zoning permit is required to keep chickens on your property.  As of 2021, the Township’s Zoning Ordinance has been updated and can be reviewed here. 

6. How do I know where my property line is?

A great starting point is to check out the Dauphin County Recorder of Deeds site. You can also look up your parcel on the GIS Map.

7. Do I need a permit to add a shed on my property?

Yes. You need a zoning permit (PDF) and stormwater permit (PDF) (and a plot plan) if the structure is under 1,000 square feet. If the structure is over 1,000 square feet you will also need a building permit (PDF). The rear and sides of the shed should be a minimum of 5 feet from the property line.

8. Do I need a permit to build a deck on the back of my house?

A Zoning (PDF) and Stormwater permit (PDF) are required. If a deck is more than 30 inches off grade, then a Building Permit (PDF) is required as well. A plot plan is required with the submission.

• Deck Construction Guide (PDF)

9. What are the smoke detector requirements in Lower Paxton Township?

All residential dwellings are required to have hard-wired smoke detectors outside of all sleeping areas and battery-operated smoke detectors on each level that there is not a hard-wired detector. If selling your home, it is a requirement that realtors complete the certification form at the time of settlement.

10. How often does street sweeping occur in Lower Paxton Township?

• Street sweeping begins in April of each year and is completed in July depending on the weather. Street sweeping is necessary to pick up contaminants from the roadway and prevent stones, dirt, and other debris from collecting in storm sewers and drainage swales along the roadway.
• The Public Works Department does not possess a specific schedule for street sweeping.
• Street sweepers are also used to collect leaves in the early fall.

11. Where do I go to vote?

Please note, you must be registered to vote in the State of Pennsylvania. Upon registering, you will receive your voter registration card and it will list your voting precinct. Find precinct information and maps.

12. Where do I get a carry permit? Renew a carry permit?

Process

1. Stop by, fill out an application. Bring your Pennsylvania Drivers License with your current address and a second form of ID. 
2. No personal checks: $6 cash application fee and $14 balance when you pick up completed permit.

Locations

Dauphin County Courthouse
Front and Market Streets
1st Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17108

Hours
Monday through Friday
8 am to 4 pm

DJ Wenner's Office, Lower Paxton Township Field Office
5925 Stevenson Avenue
Suite B
Harrisburg, PA 17112

Hours
Monday and Wednesday Only
5 pm to 7 pm

13. Where do I pay my Income Taxes?

The Local Income Tax Office closed. Previously located on Vartan Way. Keystone Collections Group is responsible for collecting Local Income Tax. Taxpayers can call 888-328-0565 for assistance or visit the Keystone Collections Group website.

14. What is Recyclable?

Wondering what is recyclable in Lower Paxton? A complete list provided by the contracted hauler is available at Recyclable Collection.