PLEASE NOTE: Beginning on January 1, 2025, Upper Darby Township will be performing INTERIOR inspections along with the exterior inspection for all property resales. Please submit completed resale applications along with payment at least 3-4 weeks prior to the settlement date to allow for inspections to be performed, necessary permits to be issued, and any violations to be corrected.

This page provides a comprehensive guide to the steps, requirements, and necessary documentation for obtaining a U&O permit for property transfers or changes in use or occupancy within the Township. Whether you are the property seller, the property buyer, or the realtor, this resource ensures that you have all the information needed to navigate the process efficiently while complying with Upper Darby Township regulations.

Overview of the Use & Occupancy Permit Process

The U&O process is essential for ensuring that properties meet safety, zoning, and compliance standards as outlined by the Upper Darby Township Code and Pennsylvania State laws. This process applies to property transfers and changes in use or occupancy and involves completing an application, undergoing inspections, and addressing any code violations identified during inspections.

Required Documents and Forms

To ensure timely processing, the following forms and documentation must be submitted as part of the U&O application:

Required at Time of Submission:

Use and Occupancy Application: Complete all applicable sections legibly. Incomplete or illegible applications will be returned to the applicant.
Zoning Permit Application: Required for all non-single-family dwellings. Applications missing this document will be deemed incomplete and returned to the applicant.

Supporting Documentation: (if applicable)
Sewer Lateral Certification Form: Must be completed by a licensed Upper Darby Township Master Plumber and submitted with the application or at the time of inspection.
Rental License Application: Required if the property will not be owner-occupied and submitted with the application at the time of submission.
Fire Escape Certification Form: For properties with fire escapes, this form must be completed by a licensed design professional and submitted with the application at the time of submission.
Fire Department Occupancy Information Sheet: Required for all commercial buildings and properties with three or more dwelling units and submitted with the application at the time of submission.

Additional Information:

PA UCC Guide: Provides information on Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code requirements.
Business Privilege License Requirements: All applicable rental properties and businesses must obtain their Business Privilege and/or Mercantile license and submitted with the application at the time of submission.
PHCC Certified Sewer Lateral Inspectors: A list of certified sewer lateral inspectors from the Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association
NASSCO Certified Sewer Lateral Inspectors: A list of certified sewer lateral inspectors from NASSCO

Inspection and Certification Process

Scheduling the Inspection

Submit your application at least 14 business days before settlement/transfer. Due to high demand, we recommend submitting applications four (4) weeks prior to settlement.
After your application is filed, an inspector will contact you to schedule an inspection.

During the Inspection

The inspector will verify compliance with the Upper Darby Township Property Maintenance Code and other applicable codes. Inspections are non-invasive and visual in nature.

Inspection Results

Final Use & Occupancy Certificate: Issued if no violations are found.
Temporary Use & Occupancy Certificate: Issued if minor (non-substantial) violations are identified. Occupancy is permitted while corrections are made.
Temporary Access Certificate: Issued if substantial violations are identified. Occupancy by new occupants is prohibited. Existing tenants may remain if the property meets Human Habitability Requirements.

Definitions

Substantial Violation: A violation that renders the property unfit for human habitation. Examples include missing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, electrical hazards, structural hazards, and lack of functioning utilities.
Human Habitability: A property is considered habitable if it meets essential life/safety requirements, including functioning smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and utilities, as determined by the Department of Licenses & Inspections.

Important Notes for Property Sellers and Buyers

The U&O permit process ensures properties meet life/safety standards and compliance requirements, protecting buyers and occupants.
New occupants cannot reside in properties issued a Temporary Access Certificate until all substantial violations are corrected.
It is the seller's responsibility to provide a valid sewer lateral inspection report before the U&O certificate can be issued.
If a buyer assumes responsibility for correcting violations, a notarized Letter of Intent must be submitted to the Department.

Upcoming Updates

We are in the process of updating this U&O webpage to make all relevant forms, guides, and application details accessible in one place. Please check back for updates.

Fee Update

To assist with the transition to the updated U&O process, in particular with residential U&O’s, no U&O application fees will be charged for residential resales (single-family and duplex properties) at this time. We will keep you informed about any changes and when the fee will begin to be charged.

Contact Information

For questions or assistance, please contact the Department of Licenses & Inspections:

Phone: 610-734-7613

Email: UO@UpperDarby.org

Downloadable Forms and Guides

Use and Occupancy Application.pdf

Sewer Lateral Certification.pdf

Fire Escape Certification.pdf

Rental License Application.pdf

Fire Department Occupancy Information Sheet.pdf

PA UCC Guide.pdf

Notice To Businesses Regarding BPL Requirement.pdf