Building Code Official

The primary means of ensure minimum levels of building construction safety and quality is to enforce the Uniform Construction Code.  The public involvement in private construction of homes and other facilities begins with the building permit application.  In West Hanover there are generally two types of permits: (1) residential construction permit and (2) the commercial building permit.  The Township also has specialized permits related to pools, decks and other structures.  All permits are acknowledged under the UCC and Township Code of Ordinances.  The Township uses the building permit as a method of policing and enforcing the Township building code regulations prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit.  The building permit authorizes construction and the occupancy certificate authorizes a builder to sell and occupy a structure because the municipal requirements are met.

The Building Code Official focuses on the UCC and other building construction related codes adopted by the Board of Supervisors.  If the applicant's (a developer or builder) building project specifications meet the requirements of the UCC, as the Building Code Official interprets them, the permit is approved, the project commences and the building project is inspected periodically during course of construction.  If plans and drawings related to a project are not met, the building permit application is not issued and construction may not commence.  Unlike the Township Zoning Officer, the Building Code is vested with some minor discretionary power to augment requirements or to meet the intent of the UCC and to protect some safety needs.  However, if the applicant and builder disagree with the Building Code Official interpretation and determination, their remedy is to appeal the decision to the Building Code Board of Appeals.  The Township Building Code Official oversees, administers and makes determinations on all building and construction permits on behalf of the Township.  

Harold Arndt - Building Code Official
harndt@westhanover.com

Building Code Reference Information

The following table provides links to a variety of information and materials related to building and construction in West Hanover Township.