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1. What planning projects and plans are currently being reviewed by the Planning Department?

It is recommended for anyone interested in projects or plans being reviewed by the Township to attend the regular Planning Commission meetings. The meetings are always held on the first Thursday of the month at 7:00 PM. The entire 12-month meeting schedule is posted on the website at the beginning of the year. You may also contact the Land Planning & Development Manager at 717-766-0178 for information.

2. How do I know whether my project requires a subdivision and land development application to be submitted to the Township?

You should contact the Township Planning Department to arrange a pre-application meeting with the Planning and Zoning Manager. The Planning Department may be reached at 717-766-0178.

3. Who should I contact if I have questions or comments about development activities and procedures in the Township?

You should contact the Silver Spring Township Planning Department at 717-766-0178. The Department will gladly assist you with your questions.

4. What is the timeframe for a subdivision or land development application to be approved?

Each subdivision and land development plan is reviewed and acted upon within the statutory requirements of the Silver Spring Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, the Zoning Ordinance, and the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code permits up to 90 days for the Township to review each plan and the applicant may wish to grant time extensions if deemed necessary.

5. How do I know what I need to build a new home or an addition?

A Zoning Permit and Building Permit are required for both. Be sure to ask the Zoning Officer if a Stormwater Permit is also required. A site plan of the lot, with existing and/or proposed structures is required. It is important to include dimensions of the improvements and setbacks to all property lines, so that the Zoning Officer can determine compliance with the zoning regulations of that district. Additional Zoning data is required when completing the Zoning Permit Application.

6. How do I know what zone my property is in?

A Zoning Map is available on the Township website. Find your location and use the zoom to determine what zone your property is located in. Permitted Uses of each zone are listed in the Zoning Ordinance, also on-line. Please call the Zoning Officer for confirmation of your zone and please leave details of the property that you are inquiring about.

7. Who is responsible for applying for a Zoning Permit?

The property owner is responsible for obtaining a zoning permit. The property owner may authorize someone else to apply for the permit through an authorized agent letter.

8. How am I supposed to know I needed a Storm Water Permit?

ANY soil disturbance exceeding 1000 square feet requires a Storm Water permit.

9. Can I raise chickens or other noncommercial livestock in the Township?

The Township passed Ordinance 2017-03 on May 10, 2017, creating acceptable practices for keeping selected livestock (including chickens) on land zoned Residential. View the codes by clicking the button below. Type in chickens to the search bar. 

10. What is needed for blasting in the Township?

Blasting requirements:

(1) When blasting methods will be used or when blasting is anticipated, a detailed plan of excavating, shoring, blasting and backfilling procedures shall be submitted at least 15 days prior to blasting.

(2) No predrilling or blasting may be performed within the right-of-way unless authorized by the permit and until the permittee provides insurance for property damage and public liability.

(3) The blaster’s license number shall be furnished.

Construction will be a violation of the noise ordinance if completed during 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Operating or permitting the operation of any tools or equipment used in construction operations, drilling or demolition in a manner as to cause a noise disturbance across a property boundary.