FAQs • East Bradford Township, PA • CivicEngage

Are large fireworks legal?: Yes and no. In 2017, Pennsylvania broadened the legal sale of fireworks. As a result, consumers who are at least 18 years old can now purchase and use “Class C” or “consumer-grade” fireworks, which include firecrackers, Roman Candles, bottle rockets, and similar explosives. However, the Bill does not override local regulations that govern the discharge of fireworks. In East Bradford, a permit is required for the discharge of the types of fireworks that can now be purchased within the State. It is also important to remember that many animals – particularly dogs and horses – become distressed by the loud noise and flashing lights of fireworks. They can cause harm to themselves and may even attempt to run away. Please be considerate to your pet-owning neighbors.

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Building, Zoning & Code Enforcement

1. Are large fireworks legal?: Yes and no. In 2017, Pennsylvania broadened the legal sale of fireworks. As a result, consumers who are at least 18 years old can now purchase and use “Class C” or “consumer-grade” fireworks, which include firecrackers, Roman Candles, bottle rockets, and similar explosives. However, the Bill does not override local regulations that govern the discharge of fireworks. In East Bradford, a permit is required for the discharge of the types of fireworks that can now be purchased within the State. It is also important to remember that many animals – particularly dogs and horses – become distressed by the loud noise and flashing lights of fireworks. They can cause harm to themselves and may even attempt to run away. Please be considerate to your pet-owning neighbors.

2. Can you make my neighbor cut their grass?: Every summer, the Township receives a number of calls about the height of grass in developed communities. There are two sections of the Code that deal with tall vegetation. One provision is in the Nuisance Ordinance. This regulation prohibits the growth of noxious and invasive vegetation above 12 inches. The other provision is in the Zoning Ordinance. This regulation applies to residential properties (mainly those that are three acres or less) and requires that lawn areas be controlled to a maximum height of 12 inches during the growing season (with a few exceptions). On the occasion that the Township determines that there is a violation, we must proceed through an established enforcement process. Therefore, it can take several weeks – even months – to resolve a violation of this nature. To report a complaint, email info@eastbradford.org.

3. Are there regulations governing bamboo?: Under current Township ordinances, bamboo is not prohibited from being planted, but we want to advise residents that once planted, it is very difficult to contain and/or remove. The Township does not regulate bamboo encroachment from one property to another. That said, if bamboo (or any vegetation) creates a hazard on a roadway, the Township can require property owners to prevent it from interfering with the road.

4. How many chickens can I have?: The Zoning Ordinance allows chickens on properties that are at least one acre in size with a limit of six chickens per acre and a maximum of 30 chickens allowed. To review the additional requirements for keeping chickens on your property, please visit Section 115-75 of the Township Code (“Keeping of Animals”).

5. Can I burn on my property?: While burning for the purpose of getting rid of brush and yard debris is not permitted, a few burning activities are allowed. Open burning regulations are contained in Chapter 76 of the Township Code and the application form is available on the Documents and Forms webpage. Questions should be directed to the Township Fire Marshal, Rich Hicks.

6. Is a permit required to erect a fence?: If you are thinking of installing a fence on your property, there are a few things you need to know.

7. Are certificates of occupancy required for resale of property?: Certificates of occupancy are not required for residential resale, but they are required for commercial resale and for all new construction.

8. What can I do with old vehicles?: Do you have an old car or RV on your property that you have been meaning to dispose of? There are a number of things you should about storing vehicles on your property.