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Community

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1. How do I report a pothole or a sign that is damaged, missing or obscured from view?

If it is a Township road, call our maintenance garage at 610-444-5130. If it is a State road (Routes 1, 41, 52, 82 and Burnt Mill, Kaolin, Creek, Old Kennett and Spring Mill Roads and E Cypress, Millers Hill, State, and N Union Streets) call PennDOT at 610-436-2091.

2. Whom do I call to register my kids for sports through the Kennett Area Park and Recreation Board?

Call Claire Finfrock at 610-444-6314.

3. Whom do I call to report any wild animals acting erratically?

Call the Wildlife/Game Protector at 610-608-1961/610-926-3136.

4. Where do I call to report a dog running loose or barking dogs which are causing a nuisance?

Call the SPCA, our enforcement officer at 610-692-6113.

5. How do I register my alarm system?

You do not need to register your alarm with the township. 

6. What is the number I should call before I dig anywhere on my property?

Call 800-242-1776 to notify the Pennsylvania One Call System. Without this notification, you could be liable for damages you cause to utility services.

7. Can I burn debris or limbs in my yard?

As of February 28, 2007, there will be no more burning permitted with the exception of mushroom growers to burn boards. All debris must be collected by your trash hauler or disposed of at the Township Maintenance Garage in the dumpster for debris.

8. Who do I call to report a dead deer (or other wild animal) on the road?

If you find a dead deer in the road, please call (610) 926-3136 if it is a Township Road, or PennDOT at (484) 340-3200 if it is a State Road.

Deer are active in the area, especially at dawn and dusk. They often dart into roadways and can cause a hazard to even experienced drivers. Please use caution, and urge young drivers to do so, especially when traveling along wooded roads during twilight.

9. Is this property within Kennett Township?

You can use the Chester County Road index to locate property information in the County! http://www.chesco.org/2198/ChescoViews

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Economic Development

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1. Can someone help me with opening a business?

Yes!

Contact: 

Nate Echeverria

Economic Development Director

Email

Phone: 610-444-8188

More information on Economic Development can be found on the Economic Development Page:  https://www.kennett.pa.us/271/Economic-Development 

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Finance

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1. Where can I view the Townships budget?

You can find all of the Townships financial information on the Finance page of the Townships website:  https://www.kennett.pa.us/159/Finance-Billing 

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General

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1. Where is the Township Building?

The Kennett Township building and Public Meeting room is located at 801 Burrows Run Road, Chadds Ford, PA 19317

2. What is the Townships Business hours?

Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm  

Closed all major Holidays, please see our calendar.

3. Who are our State Officials?

Thomas H. Killion- State Senator - 610-358-5183
Stephen Barrar - State Representative - 610-358-5925
Patrick Meehan-Congressman- 202-225-2011

4. What do I do about a stray Cat or Dog?

Please call the Chester County SPCA at 484-302-0865 for non emergency animal rescue efforts.

5. Where do I get a Dog License?

The County issues dog licenses.  Information can be found here:  https://www.chesco.org/1112/Dog-License 

6. Who is responsible for repairs of sidewalk or curbs?

Property owners are responsible for sidewalks and curbs.  If you need assistance on ensuring that the correct materials or specs are being used, please contact the Township Office.

7. Who do I call about a neighbors barking dog?

Please call the police department at 610-388-2874 or 911 after regular business hours.

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New Residents

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1. Who collects trash in the Township?

Kennett Township does not haul waste from the curb- you are required to sign up with an independent hauler that will pick up your trash (and recycling) curbside. Kennett Township and all of the residents are mandated by the State to recycle. If you do not recycle with your private hauler, you can recycle at the Kennett Township Maintenance Garage, located at 557 Bayard Road. The phone number for the Garage is (610) 444-5130 The following is a list of local trash haulers that service our area. This list is not exhaustive, nor do we specifically recommend or warrant one hauler over another. Information here is included for your convenience: 

AJ Blosenski, Inc(610) 444-2341 

Evergreen Waste Service (302) 635-7055 

Penn Container (610) 274-1306 

Republic Services (610) 869-2222

2. Do I need to register my pets?

Dogs require licenses and regular vaccinations. Dog license applications are available by calling the Chester County Treasurer’s o?ce at (610) 344-6370. We also actively encourage dog and cat owners to consider a microchip for their pet, making it easier to return a pet to you in the unlikely event that it gets out of your property boundaries. If you do ?nd a dog running free or a lost pet, The Chester County SPCA is the enforcement agency for the Township and can be called at (610) 692-6113.
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Photo Courtesy of Jaan Lutter, 2015
Kennett Township does have a dog ordinance which can be found on its website (Sec. 110). In summary, the ordinance requires that in parks, athletic ?elds and public events within the township, dogs are expected to be on a leash and under control of the owner or handler. The owner or handler of the dog must diligently supervise the dog, and be responsible for the immediate removal of any fecal matter, disposing of same in a safe and sanitary manner. Violations may result in the imposition of a ?ne between $100 and $500.

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Permits

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1. When is a Permit required?

Generally speaking permits are required for “non-ordinary” repairs. These include the following:

Permit Required -

• Cutting away a wall, partition or portion of a wall
• Removal or cutting a structural beam or load bearing support
• Removal or change or reduction in size of any required means of egress. This includes the rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements.
• A permit is required for the alteration of, addition to, replacement or relocation of the following:
o Standpipe
o Water supply
o Sewer
o Drainage basis
o Drain leader
o Gas piping
o Soil vent or piping
o Waste vent or piping
o Electrical wiring
o Mechanical alteration
? A permit is not required for the installation, alteration or repair of equipment that is, by established right, under the ownership and control of a public utility as the term “public utility” is defined in 66Pa.C.S. § 102 (relating to definitions) These include installations, alterations or repairs of generation, transmission, distribution, metering equipment under the ownership and control of a public utility.

Zoning Permit – The following Building Construction require a Zoning Permit:

• Installation of an uncovered deck where the floor of the deck is no more than 30 inches above grade.
• Any agricultural building
• Utility and miscellaneous use structures that are accessory to detached single-family dwellings and have a building area of less than 500 square feet. The term includes:
o Carports
o Detached private garages
o Greenhouses
o Sheds
o Enlargement of existing porch or stoop that is a supporting structure
No Permit Require –

Building Related Construction – no permit is required for:
• Exterior or interior painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, flooring, cabinets, counter tops and similar finishing works.
• Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a one or two family dwelling.
• Window awnings supported by an exterior wall which do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support.
• Replacement glass in any window or door. The replacement glass shall comply with the minimum requirements of the “International Residential Code”.
• Installation and replacement of a window, door, garage door, storm window and storm door that does not require the alteration of the original opening.
• The installation of replacement windows or doors for means of egress or emergency escape may be made provided the size of the opening and the dimensions of the framing is not reduced in size.
• Replacement of existing siding.
• Repair or replacement of a porch or stoop that does not provide structural support for a roof or enclosure. (Enlargement of an existing porch or stoop requires a Zoning Permit)
• Installation of additional roll or batt insulation

Minor Electrical Work – no permit is required for:
• Replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to already approved, permanently installed receptacles.
• Replacement of a receptacle, switch, or lighting fixture rated at 20 amps or less and operating at less than 150 volts to ground with a like or similar item. Replacement of receptacles that require ground-fault circuit interrupter protection require a permit.
• Replacement of installed electrically operated equipment such as a doorbell, communication system and motor operated device do not require a permit.
• Installation, alteration or rearrangement of communications wiring.
• Replacement of dishwashers
• Replacement of kitchen range hoods
• Installation of battery-powered smoke detectors

Gas Work – no permit is required for:
• Portable heating, cooking or portable clothes drying appliances
• Replacement of a minor part in approved equipment that would alter the equipment thereby nullifying the approval or rendering the equipment unsafe.
• A portable fuel cell appliance that is not connected to a fixed piping system and is not interconnected to the power grid

Mechanical Work or Equipment – no permit is required for:
• A portable heating appliance
• Portable ventilation appliances
• A portable cooling unit
• Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment governed under the Uniform Construction Code.
• Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or render the equipment unsafe.
• Self-contained refrigeration systems containing 10 pounds or less of refrigerant or that are put into action by motors 1 horsepower
• Portable evaporative cooler
• A portable fuel cell appliance that is not connected to a fixed piping system and is not interconnected to a power grid

Plumbing Work – no permit is required for:
• Replacement of bib valves if the replacement hose bib valves are provided with an approved atmospheric vacuum breaker.
• Refinishing of existing fixtures.
• Replacement of ball cocks
• Repair of leaks
• Clearance of stoppages
• Replacement of faucets or working parts of faucets
• Replacement of traps
• Replacement of water closet, lavatory or kitchen sink in an existing location
• Replacement of non-commercial clothes washers and dishwashers

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – no permit is required for:
• Replacement of motors, pumps and fans of the same capacity.
• Repair and replacement of heating, supply and return piping and radiation elements that do not require rearrangement of the piping system
• Repair and replacement of ductwork
• Repair and replacement of control devices for heating and air conditioning equipment
• Replacement of kitchen range hoods with the same capacity hood
• Replacement of clothes dryers if there is not change in fuel type, location or electrical requirements
• Replacement of stoves and ovens if there is no change in fuel type, location or electrical characteristics

Any work not listed above requires the appropriate permit for Kennett Township.

2. How do I schedule an inspection?

Call the Township at 610-388-1300

3. Do I need a permit to put a fence up in my yard?

Maybe! It depends on the height of the fence. Read the Fence Permit application in the Forms Center for additional information.

4. I am putting on a new roof, do I need a permit?

If you are only replacing the roof and not making any structural changes, no permit is required.

5. I am replacing my windows, do I need a Permit?

No, as long as the windows are the same size and no structural changes are being made, a permit is not needed.

6. I am converting my heater from oil to gas, do I need a permit?

Yes! You will need a mechanical and plumbing permits.

7. I plan to remove an in-ground pool on my property, do I need a permit?

Yes, you need a demolition permit to remove an in-ground pool.

8. I am having my kitchen remodeled, do I need a permit?

Only if you are changing (moving, taking out or adding) electrical or plumbing.

9. Do I need a permit to finish a basement?

Yes.

10. Do I need a permit to add a sunroom, porch or garage?

Yes.

11. Do I need a permit to replace siding on my home?

No, as long as you are not changing the structure of the home, a permit is not required.

12. Do I need a permit to put a shed on my property?

Yes, you will need a zoning permit.

13. Is a permit required to put a mobile/modular home on a property?

Yes, you will need a permit and the property must be in the correct type of zoning district.

14. Do I need a permit to run a business out of my home?

Yes, contact the zoning officer at 610-388-1300.

15. I am getting a Hot Tub, do I need a permit for that?

Yes, you will need an electrical permit as well as a 3rd party electrical inspection.

16. I am having landscaping done, do I need a permit?

Only if you are adding sidewalks/pavers to the property.

17. Subitting a permit-How many copys of plans do I need?

For general permits, 2 copies of plans are required.

18. I am a contractor licensed in another State, do I need to be registered in PA?

Yes, you can register by visiting http://www.attorneygeneral.gov

19. Who do I contact to mark my utility lines before I begin construction?

The PA One Call System should be contacted.  This helps prevent damage to underground utilities.  To promote safety, they provide an efficient communication network among property owners, contractors, and facility/utility owners. Call 811 before you dig!

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Police

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1. Can I pay at ticket / fine at the Police Department or online?

No, payments for traffic citations must be made to the Magisterial District Justice Court office. Please follow the instructions on the back of the individual citation.

2. Does the Police Department complete Criminal History checks for the public?

No, the law prohibits the police from accessing this information except for investigative reasons.

3. How do I complete a vacation notice?

Please fill out the vacation notice.

4. Does the Police Department offer fingerprinting?

Yes, please contact us by email. You must produce a valid state issue ID, fingerprint cards and payment (see our webpage for service fees; the police department can only accept personal check, money order or credit card payment via the website). Fingerprint cards can be obtained through the agency requiring you to be fingerprinted. If you are a Township resident you will not be charged.

Contact the Police Department

5. How do I meet with an officer?

Appointments can be scheduled by emailing the Police Department.

6. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?

Investigative reports are not public information and, therefore, not accessible under the Right -to-Know Law. Investigative reports may be available with a properly executed subpoena.

For all other report inquiries please submit a request and see our webpage for service fees. To the extent that this request seeks or may be construed to see Kennett Township Police records involving covert law enforcement investigations, including intelligence gathering and analysis, the Department can neither confirm nor deny the existence of such records without risk of compromising investigations and imperiling individuals. Under No Circumstances, therefore, should the Department’s response to this request be interpreted as indicating otherwise. In all events, should such records exist, they are entirely exempt from public disclosure under the Right-to-Know Law, 65 P.S. §§ 67.101-67.3104, and the Criminal History Record Information Act, 18 Pa. C.S. §§ 9101-9183. Incident Form

7. What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft involves acquiring key pieces of someone’s identifying information, such as name, address, date of birth, social security number, and mother’s maiden name, in order to impersonate them. This information enables the identity thief to commit numerous forms of fraud which includes, but is not limited to, taking over the victim’s financial accounts, opening new bank accounts, purchasing automobiles, applying for loans, credit cards, and social security benefits, renting apartments, and establishing services with utility and phone companies.

8. I have a concern, I'mnot sure if it is important enough to report it to the Police, should I report it?

Yes! If you have any concern, no matter the size, please report it! If it is not an emergency, feel free to call the Police Department at 610-388-2874, leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible!

9. Where is District Court located?

914 W. Cypress Street
Kennett Square, PA 19348
610-444-6330

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Real Estate

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1. Does Kennett Township require a Use and Occupancy inspection when a property is sold?

Only for commercial properties.

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Sewer

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1. I have a private sewer, how often does it have to be pumped?

Private on site sewers must be pumped every three years, documentation needs to be sent to the Township, this can be a copy of the service order or invoice. Please email to permits@kennett.pa.us or drop it off/mail it to the Township office.

2. How do I order a Sewer Certification?

Please fill out this form: Sewer Certification Form

3. I'm buying a home in Kennett Township

In most cases your title company has already supplied the needed information to change the name on the account. If you would like to follow up with an email please do so by emailing Denise.Serino@kennett.pa.us.

4. I'm selling my home in Kennett Township

In most cases, your title company has already supplied the needed information to change the name on the account and request a sewer certification for final billing. If you would like to follow up with an email please do so by emailing Denise.Serino@kennett.pa.us. Please note, you will not receive a final bill nor will an invoice be forwarded to your new address.

5. Why am I receiving an invoice when I did not own the home during the billing period?

Kennett Township legally has to bill the current homeowner for all invoices as they are responsible for all invoices once they take ownership. Please contact your title company as they may have credited you at the time of settlement or they are holding money to pay the invoice for you.

6. Can I pay my bill online?

Yes!

Click Here

7. I have Chester Water and my Kennett Township sewer bill is high. What do I need to do?

Kennett Township does not own and can’t touch any of Chester Water meters. Please contact Chester Water at 610.876.8181. Chester Water must inform Dina McILvaine of any changes they make to your consumption to possibly receive a revised invoice.

8. What are some reasons my sewer bill might increase?

Filling a swimming pool
Running toilet
Dripping sinks
Leaky faucet
Watering lawn/sprinkler system
Washing car

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Taxes

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1. How can I pay my taxes?

Make checks payable to HAB-MISC and mail to: PO Box 25144, Lehigh Valley, PA 18002-5144.

You can also pay online at www.HAB-INC.com. A third party fee will apply.

2. Whom do I call with questions about Real Estate Taxes?

Call Berkheimer Associates at 800-360-8989

3. Whom do I call about Kennett School Taxes?

Call Keystone Collections at 888-519-3903.

4. Whom do I call about Kennett Township Earned Income Taxes?

Called Keystone Collections at 888-519-3903 or 724-978-0300.

5. What is the Townships Earned Income Tax rate?

The rate for residents of the Township is 1.25%, non residents 1%.

6. Whom do I call about County Real Estate Taxes?

Call the Chester County Treasurers office at 610-344-6370?

7. I believe my property is assesed incorrectly, who do I call?

Call the Chester County Assessment office at 610-344-6105.

8. What is the PSD Code for Kennett Township?

150503

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Waste & Recycling

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1. What can/can't I recycle?

Guidelines for Recycling at the Curb:
Recyclables are commodities. Dirty or contaminated, they are worthless. Clean and properly prepared recyclables have value and may be turned into new products.

Items Accepted in One Container The following single-stream items are typically collected in one container at your curb:
• Aluminum cans, foil, and pie plates
• Corrugated cardboard and boxboard
• Glass bottles and jars
• Metal cans
• Mixed paper 
• Newspapers
• Plastic #1-5 and #7 containers 

Items Not Allowed:
• Caps / lids
• Ceramic cups / plates
• Crystal
• Drinking glasses
• Flower pots
• Light bulbs
• Metallic wrapping paper
• Mirrors
• Oil cans / bottles
• Ovenware
• Paint cans
• Plate glass
• Window glass

2. What can I do with Hazardous materials?

Chester County Solid Waste Authority holds regional hazardous waste recycling events every year, where dangerous household items like paint, electronics, chemicals and more can be safely taken to be disposed of safely. A complete list can be found below.  Please check their website for the upcoming dates as they change yearly.

2023 Chester County Household Hazardous Waste Events

Saturday April 22, 2023 - Technical College High School - Pickering Campus (1580 Charlestown Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460) 

Friday June, 23, 2023 - Coatesville Learning Center (1635 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville, PA 19320) Please use the Stone walled entrance - Veteran's Drive- same entrance as CAT Brandywine-Route 30 across from Dairy Queen.  

Saturday August 26, 2023- Oxford School District Administrative Building- 125 Bell Tower Lane Oxford, PA 19363

Saturday October 7, 2023- Government Services Center - 601 Westtown Road West Chester, PA 19363

Click HERE!

3. How do I dispose of Household batteries?

Household Alkaline batteries can be placed in your normal trash. The landfill has a liner system that keeps the groundwater safe.

4. What do I do with yard waste?

The Township has a yard waste pile for residents to drop off to located at 557 Bayard road and is open from dawn to dusk everyday except when grinding is taking place.  Contractors MAY NOT use this facility. 

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Zoning

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1. What does "Accessory Use" mean?

Accessory use, building or structure means a use, building or structure on the same lot with, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate to, the principal use, building or structure.

2. What is a Right of Way?

A Right of Way is the legal right, established by usage or grant, to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. Example: The land used by a public utility.

3. What are Setbacks?

Setbacks are distances between structures and property lines, and vary depending on the zoning district. Information for setback requirements for each zoning district can be found in section 240 of the Township codebook of Ordinances:  https://library.municode.com/pa/kennett_township/codes/code_of_ordinances 

4. What is a use? Accessory Use? Principal Use?

The specific purpose for which land or a structure is designed, arranged, intended, occupied or maintained.

Accessory Use - A use customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use or building and located on the same lot with this principal use or building.

Principal use - The main or primary use of property or structures.

5. What is a non-conforming use?

A use, whether of land or of structure, which does not comply with the applicable use provisions in this chapter or amendment heretofore or hereafter enacted, where such use was lawfully in existence prior to the enactment of this chapter or amendment, or prior to the application of this chapter or amendment to its location by reason of annexation.

6. What is the difference between a variance and special exception?

A variance is a use not permitted in a specific zone. A special Exception is a use generally compatible with a particular zone once specified criteria have been met.

7. Do fences require a permit?

Answer:  Maybe!  Fences 6 ft. high or shorter do not require a permit. Fences higher than 6' are considered structures and do require a permit. Fences may not be located within any drainage easement or street right-of-way.

8. Do temporary signs require a permit?

Yes, However, There are exceptions like, non profit, political, religious, educational (and others).  Please consult with the Townships Zoning officer.  Signs may not be placed in the Right of Way.

9. Can I have chickens on my property?

Yes, Kennett Township currently does not regulate chickens on properties. 

10. Can I have a compost pile on my property?

Yes, however, it should be located at least 5 ft. from the rear or side of the property line.  Special consideration should be taken into the location of the pile compared to waterways and neighbors. 

11. How do I find my property lines?

The Township does not have records of property lines.  We recommend you contact a surveyor.  Your deed will provide you with the coordinates.  You can obtain a copy of your deed via the Chester County Recorder of Deeds website or at their offices in West Chester.