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1. Is a permit required to use an alarm system in West Whiteland Township?

Yes. Alarm users are required to file a short application/information form with the Police Department and pay a one-time fee of $25. (Users 65 years and older are exempt from the $25 fee.) Alarm Permit Application (PDF)

2. Does my alarm ring directly to the Police Department?

No. The alarm signal must alert a central monitoring station. A dispatcher from the central monitoring station will call the Chester County Department of Emergency Services (DES)/911. DES will dispatch the Police.

3. Must installers of alarm systems meet any requirements under the Ordinance?

Yes. Installers and monitoring service providers have many requirements under the Ordinance, including the presentation of evidence of insurance coverage, a list of all accounts in West Whiteland Township, provisions for repair services and an annual permit fee. Installers and monitoring service providers should contact Mrs. Johnson at 610-363-0200 for details.

4. If I have a false alarm activation, will I be charged a fee?

Yes. For purposes of reimbursing the Township for the expense of responding to false alarm activations, users of alarm systems that generate false alarms will be charged a fee for each response.

5. What happens if my system has many false alarms?

A system that has four or more false alarms in a calendar year will be subject to being placed on “verified response” status by the Chief of Police. Verified response means that the Police Department will no longer respond to future alarms at this site. Any alarm must then be verified by a representative of the user or of the central monitoring service as being a true emergency before the Police will be dispatched. (Verified status does not apply to holdup, panic or duress alarms.) The Chief of Police may remove any alarm system from verified response status upon receipt of evidence that the problems causing the false alarms have been corrected.

If you have any other questions, contact Mrs. Johnson at 610-363-0200.

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1. Where are the Board of Supervisor's agendas?

The agendas are located here

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1. Why isn’t West Whiteland saying no to all this construction underway?

Because legally we can’t. Property owners decide if and when to sell, develop or renovate their properties, although changes must meet applicable regulations.  

2. So developers can build whatever they want?

No, there are limits. While the Township can’t prohibit a property owner from developing their property, we can regulate how the property is developed. The property owner will not receive permission to construct until they demonstrate that the development will comply with all applicable regulations.  

3. What kind of limits or requirements can the Township adopt and enforce?

The Township has zoning and development regulations that specify

• the way a property may be used (e.g. houses or apartments or office…),  
• how big buildings can be (e.g. no taller than x feet high), both height and floor area,
• how much buffer, green space and landscaping there must be on a property,
• requirements for the provision of or funding for open space,  
• the need for traffic impact assessment and funding,
• requirements for managing stormwater runoff on the property,
• protections for historic structures and  
• many other features that address the scale of development on a property.   

The regulations also list information that developers must submit to demonstrate compliance. 

4. How do we know developers are following the rules?

Township staff and consultants review and comment on proposed plans.The reviews are provided to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors to inform their discussions with developers about the proposed plans at public meetings.  Areas of review include: 

• Zoning  
• Stormwater management
• Traffic
• Landscaping
• Lighting
• Historic preservation
• Community safety (police and fire)
• Construction codes/building safety 

5. Do I have a say about what can be developed on someone else’s property?

Yes, for commercial development or redevelopment or plans for new residential developments that must receive land development approval from the Board of Supervisors before building permits can be issued or construction can start. Those plans are discussed at the Planning Commission’s and Board of Supervisors’ public meetings at the Township Building. Their meeting schedules for the year are on the website. On the Friday before each of their meetings, the agenda and meeting packet also is posted on the website.   

Neighboring property owners are mailed a notice before the first public meeting when a proposed plan is on a Planning Commission agenda. Residents can receive notifications about subsequent meetings for developments they are interested in by emailing the Township at jweller@westwhiteland.org.  

Construction of or renovations to a single-family home only requires building permits, not public land development review, and therefore there is not an accompanying public input process.   

For any type of construction project, if the project does not comply with all zoning regulations, the property owner can seek a variance from the Township’s Zoning Hearing Board to permit the requested regulatory relief.  Neighboring property owners are mailed a notice prior to the first public meeting when a project is on the Zoning Hearing Board agenda. 

 

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1. Where is the West Whiteland Township building?

The Township building is located at 101 Commerce Drive, at the corner of Route 100, across from Main Street at Exton. Where?

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1. How do I reserve a park?

Please reserve a park here.

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1. What types of work or uses require a permit?

The list below shows some of the work that will require a permit. If you are unsure if the work you are doing requires a permit, please contact the Codes Department.

• Additions
• Alterations
• Decks
• Fences
• Finished basements
   
• Heater/air conditioner replacements
• Kitchen and bath renovations
• New buildings
• New electrical services
• Pools
• Re-roofs
• Sheds
• Signs
• Tenant fit-outs
• Underground and above ground tank removal or installation
• Wood burning stoves

2. What are the permit fees?

Fee Schedule for Permits & Inspections

3. How long does it take for permit approvals?

- Residential permit applications can take up to 15 days.
- Commercial permit applications can take up to 30 to 60 days. This depends on the complexity and the completeness of the application.

4. What are the inspection requirements?

24-hour notice is required for all inspection requests. You will be notified what inspections are required when your permit is issued.

5. What is needed for submittal of a new residential building, addition, or renovation?

- A plot plan indicating the locations of the new building or addition on your lot with distance to the property lines and/or right-of-way.
- Two sets of plans indicating the type of construction showing how it will be built. Include construction details indicating size of wood, spans interior wall surfaces, footer sizes, header spans and type of material. Show typical wall and roof details of the new construction.
- Complete building permit applications and submit contractor information.
- If the new building and/or addition is more than one-story, architectural drawing with the signature and seal of the designer is required.

6. What do I need for a deck permit?

A building application, plot plan, and deck drawings. Deck and building permit application forms are available to pick-up at the Township building or you may download the forms from the list of Permit Applications.

7. How do I know when I need a Building and Zoning Permit?

Most construction projects require permits. If you have a question as to whether or not a permit is needed, please contact the Codes Department.

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1. Why hasn't West Whiteland stopped Sunoco from converting Mariner East 1 to NGLs or from building Mariner East 2 in our community?

Because West Whiteland Township did not have any regulatory authority over the repurposing of Mariner East 1 and has not had any regulatory authority over Sunoco’s proposed construction of Mariner East 2. West Whiteland Township does not have enforcement or regulatory authority over the location of underground transmission pipelines, or whether a pipeline is constructed by horizontal directional drilling or open trench construction, or the type of product that will flow through the new pipelines or any of the existing pipelines.  To the extent there are regulations for underground transmission pipeline siting, methods of construction or use, they are enforced by federal and state agencies.  

The Board of Supervisors has supported and advocated for pipeline safety.  The Board funded a report to obtain recommendations for amendments to pipeline safety regulations, which was incorporated into comments by the Chester County Association of Township Officials submitted to the PA PUC.  The Board endorsed those comments in their own letter to the PUC as part of a rulemaking process.  In addition, the Board has intervened in three complaints before the PUC having to do with Sunoco's Mariner East pipelines.

2. What is the evacuation plan if there is a pipeline accident?

It depends on the incident.  There is no one size fits all response to a pipeline accident, or any other kind of accident or emergency. In some cases, emergency responders will want people to stay in place because they already are safe. In others, they will want people within a certain vicinity of the incident to evacuate. The extent and direction of an evacuation would depend on the nature of the accident, weather conditions at that time and any other factors affecting conditions on the ground.

If there were a major pipeline emergency, many fire, ambulance and police departments would respond. There would be numerous first responders on the scene working to get people to safety. As a result, people near the emergency would find out quickly what they should do.

3. When will our emergency responders receive training about NGL pipelines?

They already have.  Every year, first responders from the West Whiteland Fire Company, along with other local fire companies, receive training on how to respond to incidents involving natural gas, natural gas liquids and many other types of hazards.  Chester County’s Hazardous Materials Response Team receives even more extensive training on responding to hazmat incidents.  They are trained and prepared to respond to a pipeline emergency and will direct people where to go (or stay) to be safe.

4. Will I ignite an explosion if I use my cell phone near a leak?

This scenario is all but impossible.  There has not yet been an actual incident (as opposed to an online legend) of a cell phone accidentally igniting anything anywhere.  Apparently the warnings about cell phones as an ignition source are a carryover from decades-old warnings about the potential for sparks from old landline phones. There were a few instances of explosions many years ago that supposedly were triggered by cellphones; stories about cell phones causing those explosions went viral but the fact that the stories were debunked did not.  Take a look at new gas pumps now – they no longer have a warning against using cell phones near them.

Of course, if you smell or hear gas outside that you think may come from a leak, for your own safety walk away before doing anything else, including calling 911. 

5. How would I know I was near a leak of natural gas liquids since they are colorless and odorless?

The Mariner East 2 pipeline will be at least 4 feet underground.  The portions of the pipeline installed by horizontal directional drilling will be anywhere from 20 to 220 feet underground.  If there is a leak deep underground, you will not see it.  The first likely sign will be a decrease in pressure detected by the pipeline system, which would trigger shut off.  Required inspections also can detect issues that may arise inside the pipe or with the protective coating.

For leaks closer to the surface, here is guidance:    

• Because pipelines transporting NGLs are pressurized to keep the product in a liquid form, you would hear a hissing sound from a leak, like air coming out of a balloon.
• Similarly, if the leak occurred in water or even a puddle, the pressure would cause bubbling.
• NGLs that leak into the atmosphere typically would form a visible vapor cloud, like white mist or smoke, as water molecules in the air condense when mixing with the cold gas.  Because the vapors from the NGLs are heavier than air, they would tend to hang low to the ground.
• If the leak is underground but close enough to the surface to impact vegetation, you may see dead grass or a brown spot in otherwise healthy vegetation, or an isolated area of frost on the ground.

Companies transporting natural gas to end users, such as PECO, often add odorant to add in detection.  Sunoco cannot add odorant to the NGLs in the Mariner East system because of the potential end uses of the products, such as textiles and plastics.

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1. What kinds of things does the Zoning Ordinance regulate?

The Zoning Ordinance establishes what activities are permitted in the Township as well as how buildings are placed on the land. Since not all activities are appropriate in all areas, the Ordinance divides the Township into zoning districts. There are currently nine different kinds of zoning districts in the Township: four for different densities of residential use; one that allows for a mix of compatible uses, including residential, commercial, and office uses; one for small-scale commercial use; one for office buildings and office parks; and two for different kinds of industrial uses. For each district, the Ordinance specifies what uses are permitted as well as how large the lots must be, the minimum distance required between buildings and the property lines, how much of the property must remain unbuilt and unpaved, and how tall buildings may be. Our Zoning Ordinance also includes extensive provisions for the protection and preservation of our historic resources.

2. What zoning district am I in?

Please refer to the Township zoning map. 

Township Zoning Ordinance

3. What if I want to do something that the zoning doesn't allow?

In Pennsylvania, the Zoning Officer only has the authority to enforce the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance; they do not have the authority to grant any relief from those provisions. If you are in a situation where, for example, your property is so narrow that you can’t build an addition on the side of your house that will still provide for the minimum distance required between the house and the property line, you will need to apply for a “variance.” In West Whiteland, the variance process includes an informal presentation to the Board of Supervisors followed by a formal hearing before the Zoning Hearing Board. The Zoning Hearing Board makes the ultimate decision on whether or not to grant a request for a variance. The process is explained fully in the Zoning Ordinance. If you are considering applying for a variance, you may wish to discuss it with the Zoning Officer to be sure of how your particular circumstances may affect the process.

4. What is a subdivision?

A subdivision occurs any time that land is divided into two or more properties. Any change in a lot line is also considered a subdivision. The process for making a subdivision is described in the Township’s Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.

5. What is a land development?

A subdivision is one kind of land development. Most kinds of construction are considered land development, and must be approved by the process provided for in the Township’s Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. Significantly, the construction of a single house on an existing lot, the construction of an addition to an existing house, and the construction of an accessory structure (such as a garden shed, detached garage, or swimming pool) on a residential lot are not considered types of land development, so these activities are exempt from this process.

6. What permits do I need for my project?

That depends on exactly what you’re doing. Even if you don’t need land development approval, all construction activities, including do-it-yourself projects, will require a Building Permit and a Zoning Permit. It’s best to contact the Township office for complete information. Few homeowner projects require permits issued by the Planning and Zoning Department (other than the Zoning Permit); most require permits from the Permits and Inspections Department. Permit Applications

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1. Who can participate?

Any resident, business or property owner in West Whiteland Township with a security camera system that retains video footage.

2. What types of surveillance systems must I have?

Any camera system which captures and retains video footage will work.  From the high-tech camera used by businesses and retailers to the do it yourself camera system purchased at your local big box retailer or online, video footage provides some of the best evidence of criminal activity.  

3. What information will I need to provide?

We will ask for you address and the name and contact number for the property owner.

4. Who will have access to my information?

The West Whiteland Police Criminal Investigation Division will maintain an up-to date list of registered security cameras within the township.  This information will be protected and not disseminated to the public.

5. What happens when a crime occurs, and my cameras captured video?

A police officer or detective with the West Whiteland Township Police Department will contact you and ask to review your saved video.  If something of evidentiary value is identified, we will provide the media to make a copy of the footage.

6. Where will the footage go?

Any video footage obtained by the West Whiteland Township Police Department will be held in evidence and used for the purposes of a specific criminal investigation only.  It may be disseminated to the Chester County District Attorney’s Office or a law enforcement partner assisting in the investigation.  The footage will not be disseminated outside of the law enforcement community.  

7. If I decide that I no longer wish to participate, can I be removed from the list?

Absolutely.  This is a voluntary program to assist to police and your community.  If an individual or business no longer wishes to participate, you will be deleted from the system.

8. Will this really help the police?

Yes!  Hundreds of crimes are solved daily across the United States because something of importance was captured on a video surveillance camera.  By registering, you are help your police keep you and your community safe!

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1. How do I change my billing address?

Please email sewerbills@westwhiteland.org with the address for service and the new billing address.

2. Why am I getting billed for trash/recycling when we are in a community with our own trash/recycling service? Why am I getting a bill for sewer when I have an onsite septic system?

You receive a combined bill for sewer usage and trash/recycling. For residential customers, if you have both sewer and trash/recycling, your bill should be $334. If you just use the sewer, your bill should be $285. If you just have trash/recycling, your bill should be $49. If you think there is an error in your bill, please email sewerbills@westwhiteland.org or call us at 484-875-6025.

3. Does my mortgage company pay this bill? Is this escrowed with my mortgage company?

No, this is not a tax. It is a service provided. Please pay the bill directly via the methods noted on the bill and noted here in the FAQ.

4. Where do I send my check?

Make checks payable to West Whiteland Township. Mail to P.O. Box 8379, Lancaster, PA 17604. Detach and include the bottom portion of the bill and include your account number on your check.

5. Can I pay online?

Yes. Click Pay Online on our homepage, or click here.  You will need the account and PIN numbers on your bill.  If you lose the bill, you can contact the Township to retrieve your PIN.  You will be able to make a payment with NO FEES via credit card or Automated Clearing House (ACH). You can also view and/or print your bill or current balance at any time.

If you are a non-residential customer and have a consolidated bill for multiple accounts, you cannot pay online via this site. You can set-up recurring ACH or pay in person by credit card.

6. Can I give you my credit card information over the phone or in person?

We would prefer that you pay online so that credit card information is entered securely. We can also take credit cards in person at the Finance window in the Township building. It is helpful if you have your payment coupon but not required.

7. Can I drop the payment off in person?

Yes. For your convenience, there is a drop box in front of our building at 101 Commerce Drive, Exton, PA 19341. Pull up to the circle (between the orange balls) and you will see a grey box that says “DROP BOX. TOWNSHIP PAYMENTS ONLY” with a slit above the text. Please put the payment stub and check with account number in an envelope. A stamp is not required and you don’t even have to park.

8. I know I saw the bill but I can’t find it. What do I do?

Residential and non-residential customers can request a duplicate bill via sewerbills@westwhiteland.org or 484-875-6025.

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1. What days is the trash picked up?

Please place your trash bags out by 6 a.m. on Tuesday mornings.