Building Permits & Information

Do I need a Building Permit?

The Middle Smithfield Township Supervisors adopted the International Building Codes effective January 1, 2004 as required by Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code - Act 45.

Current Codes

  • One and Two Family Dwellings and Townhouses - 2015 IRC
  • Commercial - 2015 IBC (Not chapters 1, 11, and 30)
  • Commercial Electric - NFPA 70-2014, National Electric Code
  • All other sub codes - 2015 ICC Codes

Note: For a complete list of current codes enforceable in Pennsylvania, visit the PA Uniform Construction Code website. A complete set of these codes is available at the township building department for review during normal business hours.

Applications & Information

  • Fill out a building permit application. Fill out Parts I, II, and IV.
  • Under Part I, Section A, check box 4, Repair, replacement.
  • Provide a written description of the project. A written proposal from the contractor often will suffice. For example, the written description should include, but not be limited to:
    • Tear-off of existing roofing
    • Installation of ice and water shield
    • Installation of felt paper and flashing
    • Installation of the specific type of finish material to be used
    • Also pitch of the roof should be identified


The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act ("HICPA") was adopted by Pennsylvania's General Assembly in October, 2008, and signed by the Governor as Act 132 of 2008. The law establishes a mandatory registration program for contractors who offer or perform home improvements in Pennsylvania. The statute also establishes minimum insurance requirements for contractors; requires contractors to provide their registration number in their ads and contracts; establishes required contract terms for home improvement contracts; prohibits unfair business practices; and creates a criminal penalty for home improvement fraud.

All contractors listed on a building permit application submitted to Middle Smithfield Township must have a valid Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number. You can find additional information at the Attorney General's website.