Building Inspection and Permit Process - Return to Work begins May 1, 2020

Posted: 4/29/2020 3:07 PM

Building Inspection and Permit Process

Return to Work begins May 1, 2020

DT:       April 29, 2020

TO:      Township Residents and Contractors

FR:       James M. Kettler, Director of Building & Codes

The Governor has modified the work restrictions on commercial and residential construction. These modifications will take effect on May 1, 2020. While commercial and residential construction work may begin on May 1^st, there are very strict health and safety requirements that must in place. These include, but are not limited to:

ALL CONSTRUCTION

-       ALL WORKERS must wear masks in accordance with PA Department of Health orders.

-       Practice social distancing (6ft minimum) unless safety requires deviation.

-       Provide hand wash stations.

-       All gatherings on site are limited to no more than 10 people.

-       Identify a “Pandemic Safety Officer” for each work site who is responsible to implement and enforce all requirements of the Governor’s COVID19 guidance.

RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

-       No more than 4 workers on site at any time.

COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION

-       No more than 4 workers per 2000 sq. ft and then 1 worker for each 500 sq. ft. over 2000 sq. ft.

-       Must maintain a written site safety plan that includes COVID19 protections.

The Department of Building & Codes continues to review plan submissions. Approved permits may be issued beginning May 1^st. Field inspections will resume on May 4^th. Inspections will be on a limited basis due to the ongoing public health emergency. Inspections will NOT be completed on sites that fail to comply with the Governor’s 4/23 Guidance. A full copy of the guidance is available at: https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20200423-Construction-Industry-Guidance.pdf

The offices will remain closed to the public until at least May 8^th. Plans can be submitted via regular mail or email. Please send all correspondence to Township phones, emails, mail, or fax. General inquiries can be sent to contact@buckinghampa.org. Staff will work diligently to respond in a timely manner, but given the ongoing emergency, replies may be delayed.