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1. Where is the Township Administration building located?

The Township Administration Building is located at 8 Flowers Drive in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (17050). Map of Township Administration Building

2. Which departmental offices are housed in the Administration building?

The Township Administration Building (8 Flowers Drive, Mechanicsburg) is home to the Administration, Building & Codes, Parks & Recreation, and Planning & Zoning departments.

The Police Department and Sewer Authority are located at 5 Willow Mill Park Road and the Public Works facility is located at 6471 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (17050).

3. How do I contact a member of the Board of Supervisors?

Contact information for the Board of Supervisors, is available via their webpage under 'Our Township', or via the Staff Directory .

4. Who do I contact if I have a question about the website?

Please email the Township at sstinfo@sstwp.org should you have any questions, comments or concerns in regard to the website.

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1. Who is responsible for applying for a Building Permit?

The property owner is responsible for obtaining a building permit. The property owner may authorize someone else to apply for the permit through an authorized agent letter which is part of the building permit packet.

2. What is the difference between a Building Permit and a Zoning Permit?

The Zoning Permit is required to place the dwelling (Structure) on the lot.
The Building Permit is required to ensure the structure itself is built in a safe manor.

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

ANY soil disturbance exceeding 1000 square feet requires a Storm Water permit. The storm water permit must be reviewed and approved before the Building Permit is approved.

4. Will I require a building permit to finish my basement?

You will require a building permit if you are making structural changes (cutting, notching, drilling or relocating exterior foundation wall or load bearing walls/beams), adding a bedroom and/or changing the means of egress. Please complete a Building Permit Exemption form for all other projects.

5. Where can I find more information on Pool Safety?

Visit our Safety Information page for a full list of links in regard to general home safety including information for pool owners.

6. Can I use my pool while my temporary fence is in place?

No. Your pool shall not be used until the Final Inspection has been completed and a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued by the Township.

7. How do I start the building permit process?

Please see the building permit packet - Forms & Applications

8. How can I arrange time to meet with an inspector to go over my code questions?

Our hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8:00 to 4:00. Because of our busy schedule we ask that you email us with your questions or request a meeting in our office. Each inspector has an email address on our web site under Township Services, Building & Codes Staff Directory to email any code questions or issues.

9. What does the Building Permit process entail?

Many times, despite having a checklist, important documents are omitted from the submission which hold up plan review. Also, if there are non-compliant elements in the plan, we cannot approve until remedied by the property owner or authorized agent.

10. Can I get a Temporary C/O?

The Township does NOT grant Temp C/O’s. Temporary C/O’s will not be permitted for Residential or Commercial permits.

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1. How can my family prepare for an emergency?

There are several websites on the Internet that you can visit to learn how to prepare your family for a disaster, whether it be weather-related, such as a tornado or blizzard, or human-caused, such as a chemical spill on the highway. The links to PEMA (Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency), FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and Ready.gov are located on the Township’s

2. What is CodeRED?

CodeRED is an emergency notification service by which public safety can notify residents and businesses by telephone or cellular phone about emergency situations. The system is capable of sending messages only to specific neighborhoods or the entire community.

3. What is a Functional Needs Registry?

A Functional Needs Registry (FNR) is a database comprising information on all Silver Spring Township residents with functional needs. We collect this information so that if there is a disaster, we can locate anyone who is listed in the FNR and provide such assistance as medical and transportation.

4. What are examples of Functional Needs?

Type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin dependency, mobility disability, hemophilia, stroke, pacemaker, sleep apnea. These are just a few examples. There are many more. If you are uncertain if you have a functional need, contact the Silver Spring Township Emergency Management Agency at 717-766-0178, ext. 3507.

5. Is there a charge to be included in the Functional Needs Registry?

Not only is there NO charge to be included in the registry, but also there is NO charge if we need to provide you with service (e.g., medication, evacuation) if there is a catastrophic weather-related incident or a disaster.

6. What information is included in the Functional Needs Registry?

The information we collect includes the resident’s name, address, telephone number, an emergency contact name and telephone number, and the functional need, e.g., Type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic or mobility disability.

7. Is the information in the Functional Needs Registry shared with anyone?

The information contained in the Functional Needs Registry is completely confidential and is never shared with the public. The only department with access to the Functional Needs Registry is the Silver Spring Township Emergency Management Agency.

8. How do I register myself, or a loved one, to be included in the Function Needs Registry?

Simply click on this Functional Needs Registry link to go to the page. Provide the information that is requested and click “Submit.” Your information will then be entered into the registry.

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1. Where is the Township building located?

The Township Administration Building is located at 8 Flowers Drive. Map of Township Administration Building

2. How do I report a street light outage?

Contact the Township Administration Office at 717-766-0178, ext. 3001 and we will collect the necessary information and report the problem to PPL. Please note that we will need the following information: 1) Pole number, 2) Description of the issue (on/off all the time/flickering, etc.), 3) Street name, and 4) Nearest cross street.

3. Does the Township have a noise ordinance?

Enter noise into the search bar after clicking the button below for rules regulating activities between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department. 

4. Am I required to purchase a dog license?

Cumberland County requires that you obtain a dog license for all dogs 3 months and older. Dogs must be properly licensed each year. Please visit Cumberland County online for more information. You may also contact the Willow Mill Veterinary Hospital at 717-766-7981 for dog license information.

5. Does the Township have a burning ordinance?

Except for campfires and approved bonfires, burning is only allowed in association with agricultural uses on properties of 10 acres or larger. For more information click this link:

6. Does the Township have a dog/animal ordinance?

The Township
does have ordinances regulating animal control and noise issues. Please click this link for more information:

7. Does the Township have a curfew ordinance?

Click the below link to learn more about curfews for persons under the age of 18. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

8. Can I be exempt from paying the Local Service Tax?

Contact the West Shore Tax Bureau at 717-590-7997 or visit their website at www.westab.org for questions in regard to the Local Service Tax.

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. Please click the button above and search for the topic. 

10. What can I do about stray cats on my property?

Contact Silver Spring Township for a Trap/Neuter/Release voucher for feral cats. This voucher must be redeemed within 90 days of the date it was issued. An appointment is required to redeem the voucher.

You can also trap the cat yourself and contact local animal rescue organizations (i.e., Find Toby in PA findtobypa.org or Nobody's Cats Foundation nobodyscats.org.)

If the cat doesn't appear to be feral, you can file a found report with the Humane Society of Harrisburg, contact a local cat rescue, or have a vet scan for a microchip (free of charge).

11. What is the maximum height allowed for grass or weeds?

Click the link below to learn more about vegetation (grass or weeds):

12. What are the rules for door-to-door solicitation of goods?

The Township allows for the offering of goods, wares, services, or merchandise by visitation to private residences. Solicitors must obtain a soliciting permit (fee required) before doing business. Click the link below for rules and specifications governing this permit. An application must be completed along with a background check before a permit is issued. This process takes approximately three weeks. The permit is non-transferable and is valid for up to three months. Ask solicitors to see their permit. If they do not have one, please contact the Silver Spring Police Department at 717-697-0607.

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1. Is yard waste considered an illicit discharge?

Large amounts of yard waste can actually become harmful to our streams and creeks. Dumping yard waste into the storm drainage system can be considered a violation of the Township's Stormwater Management Ordinance. However, if residents are collecting leaves together along their curb line for the seasonal leaf collection program, this is an exception. Other than the seasonal leaf collection program (which is only for residential neighborhoods), residents can have their yard waste collected in biodegradable paper bags on their regular garbage and recycling collection day.

2. Where can used motor oil be thrown away?

When residents change their motor oil and perform other maintenance on their vehicles, none of that waste should be dumped into a storm drain because that is an illicit discharge and causes water pollution. Used motor oil can be taken to any auto parts store and their staff will take care of the used motor oil for you. The auto parts stores can accept motor oil in containers holding up to five gallons of motor oil.

3. Is water from swimming pools considered an illicit discharge?

Discharges from single residence swimming pools are authorized per the Stormwater Management Ordinance Section 601 provided that the water has been dechlorinated and that the water will not have a harmful impact on the environment. If the swimming pool water has chlorine in it (e.g. if it was recently "shocked" before draining), then that water can be extremely harmful to aquatic life in our streams and this will be considered an illicit discharge. Pool discharges should not be directed to the storm sewer or streams. Violators discharging chlorinated pool water that has a harmful affect on the environment will be held responsible for their actions.

Please consult the Pennsylvania DEP's guidelines in the link below for more information about pool discharges.

Swimming Pool Water Discharge Guidelines

4. Are there some things that aren't illicit discharges?

There are some exceptions to the Illicit Discharge Ordinance. Below are examples of exceptions:

Air conditioning condensate

Fire fighting runoff

Nonprofit car washing, including charity car washes and residential car washing

Groundwater discharges from sump pumps

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1. How do I find out about the Land Preservation program?

Please refer to the below document which explains the Land Preservation program and answers some frequent questions. For further information, feel free to contact Frank Evelhoch at landpreservation@sstwp.org.

Click here to learn about land preservation - Land Preservation Program Questions & Answers

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1. How do I get announcements or cancellation notices?

Announcements of cancellations and closings are made on the main page of the Township website, and also on the Parks & Recreation webpage www.sstwp.org/133 We also post announcements and cancellations on our social media sites: 

Facebook - Silver Spring Twp Parks & Recreation

Twitter - SSTrec

Instagram - sst.recreation 

2. Where can I fish or kayak in the Township?

There are 4 main access points to the Conodoguinet Creek in Silver Spring Township

1. Willow Mill Park, 80 Willow Mill Park Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 (back of the park or next to the Huston Mill)
2. Vincent DiFilippo Nature Preserve, 110 Sample Bridge Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 (from parking lot)
3. Hidden Creek Park, 50 Millfording Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 (from parking lot near sewer plant)
4. Scott's Farm Appalachian Trail Work Center, 301 Bernheisel Bridge Road, Carlisle, PA 17015 

You will also find other great fishing spots throughout the Township. Water Trail Guide 

3. What programs, camps or bus trips do you offer?

Programs are listed here on the recreation registration site: https://apm.activecommunities.com/sstrecregistration/Activity_Search 

4. What are the park rules and regulations?

Click on the button below to view codes and park regulations. Enter the topic you're searching for into the search bar. 

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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.

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1. Where is the Police Department building located?

The Silver Spring Township Police Department building is located at 5 Willow Mill Park Road in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (17050). Map of Police Department Building

2. How can I have a police officer contact regarding a police matter?

If you have questions in regard to police matter you can call the Cumberland County Communication Center, 911, or the non-emergency line at 717-238-9676. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

3. How can I get a copy of a reportable vehicle accident report?

One may obtain a copy of an accident report by calling the Police Department Office at 717-697-0607, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Vehicle accident reports are available for a fee of $15. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

4. How do I obtain a copy of a police incident report?

You can request any report with a Right to Know Request Form. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

5. I need to get fingerprinted, can you help?

Fingerprinting is available for Township residents and businesses at the Police Department from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. A fee of $20.00 will be assessed for each card. Please note that we can only take checks. Cash payments will not be accepted. Please call ahead at 717-697-0607 to let us know you are coming.

6. What is the requirement for children's use of safety seats?

Any child between the ages of 4 and 8 riding anywhere in a vehicle shall be securely fastened in a child booster seat. Any child under the age of 4 shall be securely fastened in a child safety seat. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

7. What are the requirements for wearing a seat belt in a vehicle?

The driver and any front seat passengers shall wear a seat belt. Drivers are responsible to see that occupants under 18 years old in the rear seats are secured by a seat belt. In addition, a driver under the age of 18 may not have more passengers in the vehicle than there are seat belts. If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

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1. Who owns/maintains roads in the Township?

State roads in the Township are maintained by PennDOT and include: Carlisle Pike, PA Turnpike, Interstate 81, Conodoguinet Parkway, Hogestown Road, Trindle Road, Wertzville Road, North Locust Point Road, Rich Valley Road, Silver Spring Road, Valley View Drive, North Old Stonehouse Road, Texaco Road, and State Road.

Township roads are maintained by Silver Spring Township Public Works Department.

There are also roads within the Township which are privately owned and not maintained by PennDOT or the Township.

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1. Where is the Sewer Authority building located?

The Sewer Authority building is located at 5 Willow Mill Park Road in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (17050). Map of Sewer Authority Building

2. Does the Silver Spring Township Sewer Authority accept credit cards or direct payment from personal accounts?

Yes, the Authority is now accepting Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express for sewer rental payments. A 2.65% convenience fee applies to each credit transaction, which is collected by Nationwide Payment Solutions; the electronic payment service vendor. The Authority also offers an automatic payment feature that will collect the sewer bill payment directly from a personal checking or savings account for any residential customer that provides the necessary authorization to do so. No additional fees are collected for the ACH payment option.

Please contact the office at 717-591-1370 to obtain an automatic payment application and details.

Please contact the office to obtain the application and details at 717-591-1370.

3. Is my sewer bill based on the amount of water I use?

Yes, if you are a public water customer, you
are billed according to the amount of water that you use. The base rate of
$120.00 allows a residential allotment of 9,000 gallons of water each
quarter-year period to be used before any surcharges are applied. The surcharge
rate is $8.00 for each 1,000 gallons of water over the 9,000 gallon base
allotment in each quarter. Customers on private wells are charged a flat rate
of $158.00 per quarter.

If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Authority.

4. What is the amount of the average sewer bill?

The average sewer bill for a family of four will typically cost around $176 per quarter (about 16,000 gallons), or about $59 per month for budget purposes. This amount will vary with personal water use habits. A $176 sewer bill would indicate a daily water usage of about 175 gallons per day, or 44 gallons per day per person, in a four-person household.

If you have any questions, please contact the Silver Spring Township Authority.

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1. Can I be exempted from weekly trash pickups?

Participation in the weekly trash pickups by Penn Waste can be paused for a maximum of three (3) months. Residents who wish to file a temporary exemption for pickup should contact Penn Waste at 717-767-4456.

2. Where do I go to get a recycling bin?

Penn Waste offers, at no cost to our residents, a large 64-gallon recycling cart to each home in Silver Spring Township. Our goal is to reduce the amount of recyclable materials put into the regular trash and increase recycling. Contact Penn Waste at 717-767-4456 to arrange for delivery of your cart.

3. What items may be recycled?

Click here for a list of recyclable items

4. Where can I go to recycle electronics and digital devices?

The Cumberland County Commissioners have approved Sunnking Electronics for the operation of an electronics recycling center to be located off of Claremont Road in Carlisle. Plans are to open this center this summer. Visit the Cumberland County website Cumberland County for more information and updates.

5. How do I use the Joint Compost Facility?

The Joint Compost Facility is open to facility access card holders generally dawn to dusk, 7 days a week. Hours may be adjusted seasonally. Access cards may be purchased for $15 at the Township Administration Building. Call 717-766-0178, ext. 3001 for questions about the facility or obtaining/renewing an access card. The facility is self-serve and material drop off exemptions.

6. What can I do with grass clippings?

We encourage you to adopt "Grasscycling". Mow often enough so that only 1/3 of the leaf height is removed. This may require frequent mowing, especially in the spring. Be sure to mow when grass is dry and attempt to maintain grass height at 2-3 inches. For more information, visit the Penn Waste website at pennwaste.com.

Grass clippings can also be composted at your home. The Joint Compost Facility does not accept grass clippings.

7. Who provides trash pickup/recycling services in the Township?

Penn Waste is the Township provider for trash pickup and recycling. Any questions or problems regarding trash pick-up, recycling, or to request delivery of a recycling container, please call 717-767-4456, press #1 for residential customer service.