We are always happy to have businesses expand. You will need at least one permit to expand, maybe more. The information on this page will provide guidance, but feel free to call us with questions about your specific situation.

First things first, make sure you have a Use and Occupancy Permit for the space you currently occupy. If you do not, apply for one before you plan your project.

What you need to do depends on your project scope:

  • If you are adding space by expanding in to more offices in the same building but making no changes to the plumbing, electric, or framing you will only need a Use and Occupancy Permit for the new space.
  • If you are converting space that was something other than what you are using it for, for example, it was an office but you are converting it to part of your nail salon, or you are doing work to the plumbing, mechanical or electrical systems, or making structural changes you will need a zoning and building permit.
  • If you are adding space by building an addition or making changes to the exterior of the property, contact the Borough to discuss land development.

Planning Considerations

Zoning Requirements:

Before an occupancy or building permit can be issued it must be reviewed for zoning compliance. Each property within the Borough is part of a designated zoning district. The zoning district specifies the permitted land uses, such as residential, commercial, or industrial and the minimum distances or set back from the property lines for buildings, accessory structures, and fences, as well as maximum height restrictions. When you apply for an occupancy or building permit, the application will automatically be routed to Zoning for review.

You are encouraged to contact the Zoning Officer before you finalize your plans to make sure that the proposed use is permitted in the district you are in.

Historic District:

If you are located in the historic district and are making changes to the exterior of your property that can be seen from the street and exceed $2, 000 please review the HARB Certificate of Appropriateness requirements.

Applicable Building Codes:

All construction work must conform to the requirements of the following codes International Building Code 2015.

The information provided in this guide is intended only to assist individuals in understanding the code requirements. It is not a complete recitation of the code. Property owners should consult the Doylestown Borough Code of Ordinance for answers to specific questions.