Zoning Permits

Work Requiring a Zoning Permit

Zoning permits are required prior to the erection, alteration, demolition, or construction of any structure requiring a building permit.

A zoning permit is also required prior to:

         - Any change in use of a building or land

         - The construction of an off-street parking area

         - A change of a permitted non-conforming use

         - Installation of or changes to existing signs

Zoning Permits are reviewed and issued by the Borough of State College. Building and Trade Permits are reviewed and issued separately by Centre Region Code Administration (CRCA).

Proposed work must comply with all applicable sections of the Zoning Code.

Exterior alterations to historically contributing structures may require a review by the Historical and Architectural Review Board (HARB) and the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness prior to obtaining a Zoning Permit. Information on alterations to historically contributing structures can be found here.

Some projects may also be required to submit a Land Development Plan. Please consult §19-305 of the Zoning Code for more information regarding these submissions and requirements. Questions regarding Land Development may be directed to Dan McCombie (Senior Planner / Zoning Officer) at dmccombie@statecollegepa.us.

Zoning Permit Application Requirements

The permit application form is shared by the Borough and Centre Region Code Administration (CRCA), so only one application is needed in any case. The general submission requirements for all Zoning Permits include:

1. A completed zoning/building permit application (Page 1)
2. Site Plan and Elevation Plan (show the following for existing and proposed conditions)

         - Horizontal and vertical dimensions of all structures and site elements (principal and 

            accessory structures, walkways, decks or patios, driveways, curb cuts, etc.)

         - Location of proposed structure(s) on the lot

         - Distance of structure(s) from all property lines

         - Lot coverage data (in SF) for building coverage, driveway and off-street parking 

           coverage, and open space

         - Elevation Plan (or section) is required when a structure is proposed

The site plan may be drawn on the grid page included in the permit application or submitted as a supplemental attachment. Applications for New Construction or Change of Use will also require parking information to be shown on the Site Plan.

3. Permit Fee, as established in the annual Fee Schedule. *Fees are due at permit approval*

Completed applications can be emailed to Ellie Gilmore at

egilmore@statecollegepa.us or mailed to/dropped off at the municipal building. Digital plan submissions are strongly encouraged and can improve the efficiency of application review. 

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Please allow for at least 10 business days for initial review. Staff will contact the applicant with any questions or required revisions prior to permit approval. 

Building Permits