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Engineering

Show All Answers

1. I would like to re-grade a portion of my back yard. Does this require a permit?

The Township requires that the property owner submit a sketch to the Engineering Department. The Township Engineer will determine if a grading permit is required. Generally, earth disturbances less than 200 square feet will not require a grading permit. An exception to this general rule is if the work is near a property line, floodplain or wetlands.

Contact the Engineering Department.

View Grading Permit Application (PDF).

2. Where can I obtain a plan of my property?

A copy of the plot plan for your property may be obtained from the Township Code Enforcement Department or Engineering Department upon request (if available).

In the Staff Directory, view Code Enforcement Department and Engineering Department.

3. Where can I get a copy of a Township Map?

The Township website has several maps available for download in PDF format. The maps include the Township street Map, Zoning Map, Sanitary Sewer Map, Floodplain Map, Storm Sewer Map and Open Space/Protected Lands Map. In addition, paper copies of the maps may be purchased at the Whitpain Township building:

960 Wentz Road
Blue Bell Pennsylvania, 19422
Phone: 610-277-2400

To view maps, visit the Engineering Department page.

4. What permits are required if I resurface my driveway?

No permits are required from the Township if the property owner is only resurfacing their driveway and not adding any additional pavement. In addition, a driveway modification form is not required to be submitted to the Township for resurfacing a driveway.

View Engineering Department page.

5. What permits are required if I widen my driveway?

For the installation of additional driveway pavement including driveway widening, the property owner must submit a sketch with the Driveway Modification Form to the Township engineering department. The Driveway Modification Form may be found on the Engineering Application page. A Township Roadway Occupancy Permit (TROP) is only required if you are doing work within the right-of-way of a Township Roadway. Generally, the right-of-way extends approximately twelve feet from the edge of the roadway or curbline. If you have any questions regarding the location of the right-of-way in front of your property, please contact the engineering department for more information.

6. What permits are required if I install a new sidewalk or repair/replace my existing sidewalk?

A Township Roadway Occupancy Permit (TROP) is required if you are installing, repairing or replacing sidewalk within the right-of-way of a Township Roadway, Generally, the right-of-way extends approximately twelve feet from the edge of the roadway or curbline. If you have any questions regarding the location of the right-of-way in front of your property, please contact the engineering department for more information.

7. What is required to obtain a Township Roadway Occupancy Permit?

There are five components to a Township Roadway Occupancy Permit application (TROP):  the application form, a sketch of the work, the contractor’s insurance information, the application fee and an escrow for the proposed work.  The escrow will be returned to the applicant once the proposed work has been completed to the satisfaction of the Township.  The TROP application may be found in the “applications and forms” drop down menu on the Township website.  Once all of the required information has been submitted to the Engineering Department, a permit may be issued within five business days. For more information, contact the Engineering Department.

8. How do I know if I live along a Township, County or State maintained roadway?

The roadways within Whitpain Township are maintained by four separate entities. The roadways my be Township maintained, County maintained, State (PennDOT) maintained or privately maintained. The Township Street Map highlights the maintenance responsibility for each roadway within the Township through a color coding system. View the Street Map (PDF).

9. Whom may I contact for information on PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permits?

PennDOT's Montgomery County Maintenance Office should be contacted for information on obtaining a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit.

PennDot Montgomery County Maintenance Office

Swede Road and Johnson Highway

P.O. Box 350

Norristown, PA 19404

Phone: 610-275-2368

10. Whom may I contact for information on Montgomery County Highway Occupancy Permits?

The Montgomery County Roads and Bridges Office should be contacted for information on obtaining a Montgomery County Highway Occupancy Permit.

Montgomery County Road and Bridges Department

One Montgomery Plaza

6th Floor and Airy Streets

Norristown, PA 19401

Phone: 610-278-3613

11. Are there any public or private easements on my property?

The plot plan for your property should highlight any public easements on your property. A plot plan may be obtained from the Code Enforcement Department or the Engineering Department. For more detailed information on public easements, please contact the Engineering Department or emailing Jim Blanch. For private easements, such as electric, gas and communication utilities, the property owner should check their deed or contact the private utility company for more information.

12. Are there any restriction on what may be placed within a storm drainage or sanitary sewer easement on my property?

No structures or landscaping may be installed within a storm drainage easement or a sanitary sewer easement. Ornamental grasses and shrubs may be allowed within these easements.

13. Do I need a permit for a patio?

A patio permit is required to install a new patio or increase the size of an existing patio. There are three components to a Patio permit Application: the application form, a sketch of the work (including patio dimensions) and the application fee. View Patio Permit Application (PDF) . The patio application is reviewed for conflicts with easements and drainage swales and it must meet the requirements of the Township stormwater management regulations. Once the Township Engineering Department has reviewed and approved the permit application, a permit will be mailed to the property owner and/or applicant.

14. Where can I find a Licensed Surveyor or Engineer?

The phone book or internet may be used to find an engineer or surveyor. In addition, as a courtesy to our residents, a list of Professional Engineers and Surveyors licensed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that have previously submitted work to the Township is available. View the Engineering Department page.

15. Does the Township provide surveying services for property owners?

The Township does not offer surveying services on private property. The property owner should contact a licensed surveyor for surveying services. As a courtesy to our residents, a list of licensed surveyors that have previously submitted work to the Township is available. View the Engineering Department page.

16. What is required to obtain a Grading Permit?

There are four components to a Grading Permit application: the application form, a signed and sealed site plan, the contractor's insurance information and the application fee. View Grading Permit Application (PDF). Once all of the required information has been submitted to the Engineering Department, a permit may be issued witting ten business days.

Contact the Engineering department.

17. Do site plans for sheds, pools, patios and building additions need to be signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer or Surveyor licensed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

All pools require a signed and sealed site plan from a licensed engineer or surveyor. Site plans for sheds, patios and building additions may require a signed and sealed site pan prepared by a Licensed Engineer or Surveyor. The requirement is at the discretion of the Township Engineer and is dependent on the location of the work, the square footage of the earth disturbance and/or the size of the addition, patio or shed. For questions, contact the Engineering Department.

18. Whom may I contact regarding the installation or removal of an on-site sanitary sewer system?

The Montgomery County Health Department is responsible for the permitting of all new on-site sanitary sewer systems. In addition, the Health Department should be contacted prior to the removal of an on-site sanitary sewer system. For more information, visit the Montgomery County Health Department webpage.

19. Whom may I contact regarding the installation or abandonment of a private water well?

The Montgomery County Health Department is responsible for permitting of  all new private water well. In addition, the Health Department should  be contacted prior to the abandonment of a private water well. For more information, visit the Montgomery County Health Department webpage.

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Footer - FAQs

Show All Answers

1. What are the office hours for Whitpain Township?

Administration Department: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Code Enforcement: Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In the Staff Directory, view Administration Department and Code Enforcement Department.

2. When are Township Meetings?

All Township meetings are held in a hybrid environment. Participants may attend in person at the Township building or join via telephone or video through Zoom. To join using Zoom, please click here to navigate to the calendar.

• Board of Supervisors – 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. 
  • View Board Of Supervisors page.
• Planning Commission – 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Zoning Hearing Board – 3rd Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Board of Appeals – 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Park and Open Space – January, February, March, May, June, September, October, and November at 7:30 p.m.

• View Boards & Commissions page.

3. What do I do regarding power outages and how do I find out when the power will be restored?

Please contact PECO at 1-800-841-4141.

4. Where do I pay my Parking Ticket?

Parking tickets may be paid by mail or in person at the Whitpain Township Police station within 72 hours. The station is staffed 24 hours a day.

Whitpain Township Police Station

960 Wentz Road
Blue Bell, PA 19422

5. How can I reduce my water usage?

Conservation is relatively easy and can come in many forms. For example, just turning the water off while you brush your teeth will save gallons over a quarter. You could also take a quick shower rather than a bath. Fixing a running toilet will save water. Find more conservation tips from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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General

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Township Building located?

960 Wentz Road
Blue Bell Pennsylvania, 19422

View the Township Building on MapQuest.

2. What are the office hours for Whitpain Township?

Administration Department: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Code Enforcement: Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In the Staff Directory, view Administration Department and Code Enforcement Department.

3. When are Township Meetings?

All meetings are held in a hybrid environment. Participants may attend in person at the Township building or join via telephone or video through Zoom. To join using Zoom, please click here to navigate to the calendar.

• Board of Supervisors – 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. 
  • View Board Of Supervisors page.
• Planning Commission – 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Zoning Hearing Board – 3rd Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Board of Appeals – 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.
• Park and Open Space – January, February, March, May, June, September, October, and November at 7:30 p.m.

View Boards & Commissions page.

4. What are the Tax Collector’s Hours?

Hours

• Tuesdays & Thursdays 9-11am
• See www.whitpain-taxes.org for additional hours and evening/weekend appointments
• Email melissa@whitpain-taxes.org for appointments

5. Which companies provide water service in Whitpain?

• North Wales Water Authority 
  Phone: 215-699-4836
• Ambler Water 
  Phone: 215-646-1000
• Pennsylvania American Water 
  Phone: 800-717-7292

View Water Companies in the Resource Directory.

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Police

Show All Answers

1. What do I do regarding power outages and how do I find out when the power will be restored?

Please contact PECO at 1-800-841-4141.

2. What is the township ordinance regarding noise complaints?

The Township ordinance defines disturbing the peace as loud, unnecessary  noises on Sunday before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.; on Monday through Thursday before 6:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.; on Friday before 6:00 a.m. or after 11:00 p.m.; and on Saturday before 8:00 a.m. and after 11:00 p.m. For more information, view Ordinance No. 307 "Disturbing the Peace Ordinance".

3. What time is the township curfew for juveniles?

The Township has a curfew ordinance which states that juveniles  (seventeen years old or younger) must not be in a public place  unescorted by an adult between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.  Sunday through Thursday. The hours for Friday and Saturday are from  midnight to 6 a.m. For more information, view Ordinance No. 78 "Curfew".

4. Do you have to register your house or business security alarm with the township?

No.

5. What are the hours of operation for the police department?

The police department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is a Police Communications Operator on at all times.

6. What do I do if there is a wild animal inside or outside of my house?

Contact an outside contractor.

7. Where can I find information regarding moving traffic violations/points systems?

Visit PennDot.

8. How do I set up an appointment for fingerprinting?

Contact the Police Department at 610-279-9033 and ask for the Detective Division.

9. Can I make a late report of crime or traffic accident by phone?

Police officers are not permitted to take reports by phone. You must come to the police station or have an officer respond to your home if you are a township resident.

Whitpain Township Police Station

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell 

Pennsylvania, 19422

10. Where can I get information about civil hearings or criminal hearings?

District Court schedules all hearings. District Court offices are located at:

653 Skippack Pike 

Blue Bell, PA 19422

They may also be contacted via phone at 215-646-8201.

11. Where can I find answers regarding my PA Driver's License or motor vehicle registration?

PennDot's website will answer most questions and provides toll-free telephone numbers to assist you. For more information, visit PennDot.

12. Where can I get information about the Pennsylvania Driver's License Point System?

Visit PennDot Driver and Vehicle Services.

13. Where can I get information on domestic violence, family disputes, child abuse or child custody?

If you have fear for your (or someone else’s) personal safety, contact the Police Department immediately! To report an emergency, please dial 911. For non-emergency calls, please dial 610-279-9033. Additionally, you may want to consult with an attorney on civil matters.

Helpful information or contact points:

• Child Line
• Laurel House
• Mission Kids
• PA Coalition Against Rape
• PA Coalition/Domestic Violence
• Women’s Center

14. Where can I find information about Protection from Abuse Orders?

You may want to consult with an attorney. These links will provide you with helpful information or contact points:

• Laurel House
• PA Coalition Against Rape
• PA Coalition/Domestic Violence
• Women's Center

15. Where can I find information about Montgomery County Offices?

Information regarding county offices and services may be obtained by calling the main switchboard at 610-278-3000 or visit the Montgomery County website.

16. Where can I find information regarding criminal arrest records?

The Pennsylvania State Police are the central repository for criminal history information in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This site details the steps for obtaining criminal history information. For more information, view Pennsylvania State Police. For criminal records, call the PA State Police Criminal Records & Identification Division at 717-783-5494,  or Fax 717-705-8840.

17. Where can I find information regarding Child Seat Belt Laws?

You can call the following toll free number 800-227-2358. This program is funded by PennDot. The information is provided by the Pennsylvania chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. You may also contact the PA State Police Barracks.

18. What do I do if I see a deer, fox, or coyote?

Further information may be obtained from the PA Game Commission at 610-926-3136. If you see a deer, fox or coyote do not try to make contact with the animal. These animals will generally not make contact with humans they will eventually move on.

19. How do I remove a wild animal from my home?

Contact an outside contractor. such as Philadelphia Metro Wildlife Center – 267-416-WILD (9453).  www.phillywildlife.org  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/phillywildlife/

20. What do I do if I find an injured bird of prey?

Contact Aark Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center at 215-249-1938 or e-mail them here.  Donations are appreciated.  0r contact an outside contractor such as Philadelphia Metro Wildlife Center – 267-416-WILD (9453).  www.phillywildlife.org  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/phillywildlife/

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Police: Payments & Forms

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a gun permit?

Visit the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department.

2. How do I apply for a solicitation permit?

View Solicitation Permit (PDF).

3. How do I file a complaint against a police officer?

View Citizen Complaint Against Police Form (PDF).

4. How do I obtain permission for a block party, etc.?

A written request should be made to the Chief  Police or email Chief Ken Lawson. You can mail it to:

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell 

Pennsylvania, 19422

5. How do I request a copy of an Police Report (other than a crash report)?

Requests for copies of Police reports may be submitted to the Whitpain Township Police Department by completing and submitting Public Record Review and Duplicate Request Form (PDF).

Release of certain police reports may be prohibited by law. Mail to:

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell 

Pennsylvania, 19422

6. What do I need to do if I go on vacation and my house is vacant?

Vacation Notice can be mailed to the Police Department at:

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell, PA 19422 

You may also email your information to the Police Department.  Email your information to:

• Email M. Maxwell
• Email Police Control Room Operator

To download the vacation notice, view Vacation Notice (PDF).

7. Where do I get a Police Crash Report?

Contact the police department @ 610-279-9033. There is a $15 processing fee for each request. 

8. How do I request a commendation for a Police Officer?

Send a letter or email Chief Ken Lawson. Mail to:

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell 

Pennsylvania, 19422

9. Where do I pay my Parking Ticket?

Parking tickets may be paid by mail or in person at the Whitpain Township Police station within 72 hours. The station is staffed 24 hours a day.

Whitpain Township Police Station

960 Wentz Road

Blue Bell 

Pennsylvania, 19422

10. Where do I pay my Traffic Ticket or Non-Traffic Ticket?

Traffic and Non-Traffic citations (Parking tickets excluded) may be paid at District Court 38-1-21. The office is located at: 

653 Skippack Pike

Blue Bell, PA 19422

You may contact the District Court at 215-646-8201.

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Sewer

Show All Answers

1. How do you know how much water a household uses?

Water usage is monitored by your water company (American, North Wales or Ambler). You can consult previous statements to determine how many gallons you have used in the past. Please call 610-277-2400 for more information.

2. Is the same usage fee applied to all?

Yes. The usage fee applies to all residential households. For more information please call 610-277-2400.

3. What happens to a household on well water?

Households on well water have no metering devices. As a result, those households will not incur a usage fee. For more information please call 610-277-2400.

4. What happens to a condominium?

Condominium properties generally use less than 20,000 gallons in a quarter. As a result, those households will not incur a usage fee. For more information please call 610-277-2400.

5. Will you charge for water that does not go into the sanitary sewer system? For example, water used to fill a pool?

The usage fee will apply to any water usage that exceeds 20,000 gallons in a quarter. Monitoring for water that might be used for a pool, gardening or washing a car requires added expenses of monitoring devices as well as the labor intensive process of reading these devices. As a result, the Township has decided to monitor total water usage. For more information please call 610-277-2400.

6. How can I reduce my water usage?

Conservation is relatively easy and can come in many forms. For example, just turning the water off while you brush your teeth will save gallons over a quarter. You could also take a quick shower rather than a bath. Fixing a running toilet will save water. Find more conservation tips from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.