Township of Lawrence

Accessory Buildings

A structure serving a purpose customarily incidental to and subordinate to the use of the principal use or structure, and located on the same lot as the principal use. Accessory structures include, but are not limited to, a household storage shed, detached carport, barn, fence, a household swimming pool, or an accessory storage building to a business use.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Accessory Uses

A use incidental to and subordinate to and located on the same lot occupied by the principal use to which it relates.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Agriculture

Shall include farming in all of its branches and the cultivation and tillage of the soil, dairying, the production, cultivation, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural, aquacultural, floricultural or horticultural commodities, the growing, and harvesting of forest products upon forest land, the raising of livestock including horses, the keeping of horses as a commercial enterprise, the keeping and raising of poultry, swine, cattle and other domesticated animals used for food purposes, bees, fur-bearing animals, and any forestry or lumbering operations, performed by a farmer, who is hereby defined as one engaged in agriculture or farming as herein defined, or on a farm as an incident to or in conjunction with such farming operations, including preparations for the market, delivery to storage or to market or to carriers for transportation to market.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
When allowing agricultural uses in the Residential District the lots must be a minimum of one acre.

(a) Screening shall be provided against any residential properties.

(b) Housing for animals shall have an extra 15 ft setback from any property line.

(c) Agricultural shall be for the use of the residents on that property. No commercial operations are allowed unless there are five acres or more.

Agritourism Enterprise

Accessory uses conducted on a working farm and offered to the public or to invited groups for the purpose of recreation, entertainment, education, or active involvement in the farm operation. These activities must be related to agriculture or natural resources and incidental to the primary farm operation on the site. These activities may include a fee for participants. Examples include but are not limited to hayrides, corn mazes, farm tours, rodeos, educational exhibits, etc.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA C Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Development Requirements:
(a) Screening shall be provided against any residential properties.

(b) Agritourism Enterprise use in the Residential District the lots must be a minimum of one acre

(c) Must comply with all local, state and federal regulations in regards to animal waste.

Amusement and Outdoor Recreation

Various forms of entertainment, including miniature golf, driving ranges, batting cages, go-karts, paintball, athletic contests, or all other forms of diversion, sport, recreation, pastime, shows, exhibitions, contests and displays. Fairgrounds, rides, carnivals, fairway games of chance or skill for prizes, exotic animal exhibition or any vehicle racing other than go-karts shall be specifically excluded from this defined use.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Asphalt Batch Plants

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
A facility where aggregate stone, sand and AC-20 oil or other type of asphalt or emulsion oils are mixed together to prepare bituminous mixtures sold and used for roads or other similar structures.

Automobile Sales and Services

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C I

Vehicle Parking:
Two parking spaces for each 200 square feet of floor area devoted to sales, repairs or service facilities, in addition to display and storage spaces.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Auto sales and/or services shall be permitted subject to the following regulations:

(a) Any fuel pumps shall be at least 30 feet from the front lot line and at least 30 feet from a side lot line.

(b) Any lot line abutting a residential district or residential use shall be screened using screen plantings.

(c) There shall be no outdoor storage of new or used parts, scrap parts, junked autos, unregistered vehicles, tires, vehicles which lack current Pennsylvania inspection stickers or parts of vehicles. The overnight parking of customer vehicles and the storage of DER/EPA-approved trash containers shall be permitted.

Banks

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Bed and Breakfasts

An owner-occupied residence offering, for pay, overnight or short-term lodging and breakfast for transient guests.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Such uses are intended to provide overnight or short-term accommodations for transient guests in a home-like atmosphere. They must meet the following regulations:

(a) No signs in excess of four square feet shall be allowed. Only one such sign shall be permitted.

(b) No more than six guest rooms will be permitted.

(c) One off-street parking space for each guest room shall be required.

Billboards

A sign that identifies or communicates a commercial or noncommercial message related to an activity conducted, a service rendered, or a commodity sold at a location other than where the sign is located.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA C I

Boarding Kennels

A building, buildings, or land used for the raising, boarding, training, or breeding of six or more dogs, cats, or other small animals at least four months of age that is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. A kennel is not a facility for horses, cows, poultry, or other animals normally associated with animal breeding, nor are reptiles or amphibians permitted under this use.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(32) for detailed information.

Car Washes

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) Car stacking. The entrance to the car wash shall be designed as to permit a waiting line of at least four cars per wash bay. In no event shall cars be permitted to use the public right-of-way while waiting to use the wash facility.

(b) All such facilities shall present a drainage plan to the Board.

Cemeteries

A lot, parcel, tract, building or structure used for burial of deceased humans or animals.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Development Requirements:
The purpose of cemeteries, under this chapter, is to provide a proper burial ground for persons. All uses and activities must be clearly and customarily incidental to this use. Prior to the establishment of a new facility or expansion of an existing cemetery, the owner shall:

(a) File a site plan to demonstrate the design and layout of the proposed cemetery or cemetery expansion and specifically illustrating the proposed drainage plan, the internal circulation plan, and the location of accessory building(s).

(b) Connections to existing Township streets will be no closer than 50 feet to a street intersection, 15 feet to a fire hydrant, 30 feet to a driveway on the same side of the street and shall avoid streets or driveways opposite proposed means of ingress and egress.

(c) Shall demonstrate compliance with applicable state laws.

(d) All accessory uses must be clearly incidental and subordinate to the function of the cemetery.

(e) All new facilities shall have a size of at least two acres.

Chemical storage, sales and distribution

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Chemical storage, sales and distribution, petroleum products wholesale distribution. The sale and hauling of chemical and petroleum products, especially in bulk quantities, represent a potential hazard to the community. Due to this, such uses must:

(a) Present evidence that all required federal and state permits, licenses, etc. have been secured, or are in the process of being secured. Specifically, the regulations of the Pennsylvania State Fire Marshal shall be followed. This includes approval of underground tank installation. A certificate of occupancy will not be issued until all such permits are finalized.**

(b) Copies of plans showing any underground piping, storage facilities, and related appurtenances as they involve chemical or petroleum products must be presented. As-built corrections must be made before a certificate of occupancy is issued.**

(c) No structure involving the use, storage, or handling of chemical or petroleum products shall be within 400 feet of a residential use or district.

(d) For chemical operations, a list of substances to be handled at the development will be furnished.**

(e) All lots shall be at least two acres in size.

** NOTE: This information will be shared with public safety organizations

Clubs, Lodges or Social Buildings

A building, structure, lot or part thereof, used to operate a nonprofit club or social organization, for the exclusive use of the members of the club or social organization, and which is not an adjunct to, operated by or in connection with another restaurant opened to the public, cafe or other public place. If a club, lodge, or social building contains or is used in connection with a health club or fitness center (see "health club; fitness center") or a golf course (see "golf course"), the building, lot or part thereof so used shall be deemed a health club or fitness center or a golf course. Food and drink service and dining for members as part of a club, lodge or social building shall be considered customary and incidental to the use.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R RA

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 100 square feet of floor area available to members or patrons.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Such uses may be an intrusion on a residential neighborhood and as such are to be tightly controlled. Such uses shall:

(a) Provide side yards of at least 25 feet.

(b) Provide a rear yard of at least 50 feet, if the rear yard abuts a residential district or use.

(c) Provide screen planting, as defined by this chapter, along all rear and side yards which abut residential uses or districts.

(d) Follow all parking regulations and provide a dust-free, year-round parking surface.

(e) No exterior loudspeakers shall be allowed.

Communication Cell Towers

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use AP

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Contractors/Supply Yards

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Convenience Stores

A retail establishment of limited size, designed for the sale of sundries, groceries and gasoline (and sometimes diesel fuel).

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
This use shall:

(a) Provide screen plantings along lot lines which abut residential uses.

(b) Have gas/diesel pumps at least 30 feet from all lot lines.

(c) Have a covered canopy over pump islands, permitted up to an additional 10% of lot coverage.

Crematories

An establishment containing a furnace designed to cremate or reduce to ashes human or animal remains of the deceased according to Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) regulations.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA C

Vehicle Parking:
There shall be a minimum of 5,000 square feet of off-street parking, but in no event less than that required by Article IV: Supplementary Regulations of this chapter.

Development Requirements:
(a) There shall be no receiving vault, preparation room or display of merchandise visible from outside the principal building.

(b) Parking. See "Vehicle Parking" above for details.

Cryptocurrency Mining

The operation of specialized computer equipment for the purpose of mining one or more blockchain-based cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin. This activity, which is also termed "proof of work," involves the solving of algorithms as part of the development and maintenance of a blockchain which is a type of distributed ledger maintained on a peer-to-peer network. Typical physical characteristics of cryptocurrency mining include specialized computer hardware for mining operations as well as equipment to cool the hardware and operating space. For the purposes of the associated regulations, cryptocurrency mining does not include the exchange of cryptocurrency or any other type of virtual currency, nor does it encompass the use, creation, or maintenance of all types of peer-to-peer distributed ledgers.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use AP RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) The facilities shall be required to develop or purchase sufficient new renewable energy to offset 100% of the electricity consumed by the cryptocurrency mining operation. To meet this condition, the cryptocurrency mining operation must be able to establish that their actions will introduce new renewable energy onto the electrical grid beyond what would have been developed otherwise.

(b) Facilities must be designed as to not allow noise to go beyond their property line as to not interfere with neighboring properties.

(c) A bond must be obtained and issued to Lawrence Township for the removal of the equipment. The bond will be released once the facility closes and all is cleaned up. The applicant is responsible to provide proof of cost to dispose of materials at the end of the facility's life.

(d) Must have all state and federal permits as deemed necessary by state and federal before obtaining local approval.

Day Care Centers

A profit or nonprofit facility for the care of more than three children or impaired adults on a regular basis during a portion of the day or night for the purpose of temporarily relieving the individual's legal guardian of that care. The term "day-care center" shall include nursery schools and drop-in centers. The term "day-care center" shall not include such care provided for less than four children or adults requiring supervision.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R RA

Vehicle Parking:
one parking space for each six students, plus one parking space for each employee.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) Any outdoor play area shall be effectively screened from abutting properties.

(b) For all new construction, and where feasible for existing structures, circular driveways shall be provided to deliver and pick up children. These will be for the safety of the children and the protection of the neighborhood.

(c) One parking space for each employee shall be required.

(d) The operator shall secure and keep current all permits from the commonwealth or other licensing agencies.

Detached Dwellings

A dwelling with yards on all four sides.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP R RA

Vehicle Parking:
Three parking spaces for each dwelling unit.

Development Requirements:
(a) Must show ability to comply with setbacks, if in future subdivided off.

(b) A temporary detached dwelling may be allowed by the Board of Supervisors but must meet all Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Requirements. Temporary is five years or less.

Educational Institutions

A public, private or parochial school, academy or college certified or accredited, including any educational institution regulated by the Department of Education. The term "educational institution" shall not include nursery schools or day-care centers.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R C

Vehicle Parking:
One per teacher and staff, plus one for each four classrooms, plus one for each four high school students and one per each three seats.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(21) for detailed information.

Essential Utilities

Utilities such as sewage, water, gas and electric lines and related appurtenances required and necessary to serve property owners in the municipality. The term "essential utilities" shall not include cross-country transmission lines or other utilities not required or necessary to serve the municipality.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Feed Mills

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Fire Stations

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Food Trucks/trailers

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Fraternities & Sororities

A building containing sleeping rooms, bathrooms, common rooms, and a central kitchen and dining room maintained exclusively for fraternity or sorority members currently enrolled and their guests or visitors and affiliated with an institution of higher learning.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Development Requirements:
Fraternities and sororities must meet the following criteria:

(a) Lot size must be at least one acre.

(b) Side yards shall be at least 50 feet.

(c) All parking shall be accommodated on the lot to the rear of the main structure.

(d) No outdoor loudspeakers shall be permitted.

(e) Any refuse disposal container (i.e., dumpster) shall be stored to the rear of the main structure and screened on at least three sides.

(f) Screened plantings shall be used along all side and rear yard lines which abut residential uses.

Funeral Parlors

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Gas Well Pads

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP AP Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C C I I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Golf Courses

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA

Vehicle Parking:
Six parking spaces for each tee.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Group Care Facilities

A residential facility designed, maintained and used for the provision of care and treatment to more than six residents who are physically or mentally impaired or who are experiencing family conflict problems or homelessness. A facility shall only be considered a large group care facility if there is a twenty-four-hour supervisory staff or the facility is affiliated with a health care provider or profit or nonprofit entity licensed or certified by the commonwealth. Large group care facilities shall not include correctional halfway houses for criminals or juvenile delinquents. For purposes of this chapter, a "group care facility" and a "group home" shall be considered the same use and defined as written above.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space per supervisor or employee and one space per five residents.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Heavy Equipment Sales and Services

To sell and service heavy powered machines which perform specific construction or demolition functions which are designed for primarily off-road work.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Home and Garden Centers

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Home Occupations

Any use customarily carried on entirely within a dwelling, by the occupants thereof, which use is clearly incidental and subordinate to the use of the dwelling for dwelling purposes and does not change the residential character thereof.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Home occupations are a potential intrusion upon residential areas and as such must meet all the requirements listed in this section:

(a) Parking. In addition to providing the required parking spaces for residents of the dwelling units, off-street parking must be provided for employees and customers in accordance with the criteria set forth by this chapter.

(b) Employees. No more than two outside employees, other than a family member, shall participate or work in the home occupation.

(c) Restrictions. No home occupation which would cause undue noise, traffic or other intrusion upon the neighborhood shall be allowed. Among the activities excluded shall be kennels, veterinary offices, restaurants, small motor repair, automotive repair, automobile body work and similar undertakings.

(d) Home occupations may include, but are not limited to, art studios, music studios (limited to onestudent at a time), professional services, beauty shops, and dressmakers.

(e) The nature of the home occupation shall not change the outward characteristics of the home as a residential unit.

(f) No more than 25% in aggregate of the home and accessory buildings may be used for a home occupation.

(g) One sign no larger than two square feet may be used to announce the name or purpose of the home occupation.

(h) Home occupations shall not operate before 8:00 a.m. nor after 9:00 p.m.

(i) Any retail sales shall consist primarily of items made on the premises. No more than 25% of on-premises sales shall be from items not made on the premises.

(j) No more than one home occupation per dwelling shall be permitted.

Hotels and Motels

MOTEL - A building or group of buildings containing individual rooms or apartment accommodations primarily for transients, each of which is provided with a parking space, and offered principally for rental and use by motor vehicle travelers. The term "motel" includes, but is not limited to, auto courts, motor courts, motor inns, motor lodges or roadside hotels.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I

Vehicle Parking:
one parking space for each guest room or unit.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Incinerators

An enclosed device licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), or its successor agency, which uses controlled combustion for the primary purpose of breaking down solid waste.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Individual Mobile Homes

A transportable, single-family dwelling intended for permanent occupancy, contained in one or more units designed to be joined into one integral unit capable of again being separated for repeated towing, which arrives at a site, complete and ready for occupancy, except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations, and constructed so that it may be used without a permanent foundation.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right R

Vehicle Parking:
Three parking spaces for each dwelling unit.

Industrial Parks

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Jails and Prisons

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
All jails and prisons will be located on a parcel at least three acres in size. All required yard spaces shall be expanded 30 feet. Such operations shall only be approved if operated by an agency of local, county, state or federal government.

Laundry/Dry Cleaning Services

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Life Care Centers

A community facility, typically including a range of residential options including skilled nursing care, custodial care, and semi-independent living units or apartments, which may include health services, communal dining, recreation areas, open space, parking and accessory facilities. A "life care center" may include a nursing home, accessory transitional "age-in-place" multifamily apartment dwellings, assisted living, personal care/skilled care for those with special needs and certain limited support facilities intended specifically to serve the needs of the residents.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R RA C

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each dwelling unit, plus an additional parking space for each three beds for patient use, plus an additional parking space for each employee and service provider working the primary shift, with additional parking spaces as required for shift changes.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) There shall be no sign or exterior display beyond the name of the home or its use. Signs shall meet the standards Lawrence Township Sign Ordinance.

(b) Required local, county and/or state certifications shall be presented to the Township Board of Supervisors. Specifically included are to be applicable permits from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

(c) Such uses shall have, list and present, all required local, county, state or federal permits, or applications for required permits. If required permits are in the application stages, the final approval for same shall be a condition prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy.

(d) Meet all rules as required by place of worship, educational institution, medical clinics.

Lumber Mills, Sales and Storage

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Manufacturing Businesses

The assembly, fabrication, manufacturing, production, processing, storage and/or wholesale distribution of goods or products where no process involved will produce noise, light, vibration, air pollution, fire hazard, or emissions, noxious or dangerous to neighboring properties within 400 feet.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 1000 square feet of floor area for visitors.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Medical Clinics

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R

Vehicle Parking:
Six parking spaces per practitioner.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(21) for detailed information.

Microbreweries

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Mining

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Mineral extraction and mining, including coal, sand, gravel, limestone, clay and similar open-pit surface mining operations shall:

(a) Show compliance with all applicable state and/or federal regulations. Specifically, all needed permits from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources shall be presented to the Township prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy. Said permits must be fully approved and valid.

(b) The Township may impose limitations on the hours of operation of such activities, the type and extent of lighting for night operations, and noise levels when the mining operation is close to residential areas. Nighttime operations may be curtailed to avoid the disturbance of Township residents.

Mixed Use Structures and/or Developments

MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT - A development or redevelopment of land, buildings or space that includes residential housing, retail, dining or commercial services and/or professional services within a single development. A mixed-use development may rest on a single lot or multiple lots, but must be approved as a single land development.

MIXED-USE STRUCTURE - A structure that includes several uses including, but not limited to, office, commercial, service, retail, etc. where a residence or residences are located within the same building/structure.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Mixed use structures shall be allowed in a residential district when the following occurs.

(a) The business was established before adoption of this ordinance.

(b) Screening against residential lots.

(c) Trash service is provided to tenants of the mixed-use structure.

Mixed Uses

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP R Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Mobile Home Parks

A parcel of land under single ownership which has been planned and improved for the placement of mobile homes for non- transient use in compliance with Lawrence Township Subdivision and Land Development.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use R

Vehicle Parking:
Two per each space.

Development Requirements:
All mobile home parks shall meet the criteria as set forth by the Lawrence Township Subdivision Ordinance as the same has been or may be amended or revised.

Mortuary or Funeral Homes

An establishment that receives and prepares bodies for permanent interment or conducts cremation in addition to hosting facilities for religious or secular wakes or memorial services. Temporary storage of bodies in proper facilities prior to embalming, preparation, or autopsy is customary and incidental to a mortuary or funeral home use.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 100 square feet of floor area devoted to assembly room purposes.
There shall be a minimum of 5,000 square feet of off-street parking, but in no event less than that required by Article IV: Supplementary Regulations of this chapter.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) There shall be no receiving vault, preparation room or display of merchandise visible from outside the principal building.

(b) Parking. See "Vehicle Parking" above for details.

Multifamily Dwellings

A building containing three or more dwelling units, including apartment houses, townhouses, flats, and garden apartments.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right R RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Parking Lots and/or Garages, Commercial

A lot or structure whose principal use is the parking or storage of motor vehicles for specified time periods or on a rental basis, but not for commercial or public utility vehicles or the dead storage of motor vehicles.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Personal Service Establishments

Places primarily providing services which do not involve retail sales or professional advisory services. The term "personal service establishments" shall include those oriented to serving personal needs, such as barber and beauty shops, spas, nail salons, shoe repair shops, household appliance repair shops, dry-cleaning and laundry pickups, computer and phone repair services, tattoo parlors, travel agency and other similar establishments.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for every 100 square feet of service area.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Pet Cemeteries

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Petroleum Products Wholesale Distribution

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Places of Worship

A building or portion thereof designed, intended or used as a place of worship or gathering place for persons engaging in religious services, activities or ceremonies. The term "place of worship" shall include churches, chapels, cathedrals, sanctuaries, temples, synagogues, mosques, missions, meeting places, and similar designations. Places of worship shall comply with all sections of this chapter.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use R

Vehicle Parking:
Church, theater, entertainment and high-intensity recreational establishments: one parking space for each four seats or one parking space for each 500 square feet devoted to a theater, entertainment or recreational use, whichever is greater.

Development Requirements:
Place of worship, educational institution, medical clinics:

(a) Shall provide all parking and loading/unloading requirements as required by this chapter.

(b) Shall be located on a paved public street with a minimum cartway width of 20 feet.

(c) The design and landscaping shall be compatible with, and preserve the character of adjoining residential uses.

(d) All parking and recreation/play areas which abut residential uses shall provide screen planting.

(e) Any outdoor lighting shall be designed to prevent glare to adjoining properties.

(f) Such uses shall have and present all needed local, county, state or federal permits or applications for needed permits. If needed permits are in the application stages, the final approval for same shall be a condition prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy.

(g) All required parking, loading and unloading shall be contained entirely on lot, including sufficient maneuvering room so that vehicles will not back onto a public street.

Professional Offices

The office or studio of a physician, surgeon, dentist, lawyer, architect, artist, engineer, certified public accountant, real estate broker or salesman, insurance broker or agent, musician, teacher, or similar occupation.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 300 square feet of floor area.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Professional offices shall adhere to the following criteria:

(a) All parking requirements of this chapter shall be followed.

(b) All parking lots which abut residential uses or districts shall use screen planting as a buffer.

(c) Shall not exceed 4,000 square feet in building size.

Public Buildings or Facilities

Municipal, county, state, or federal government buildings or facilities designed, maintained or used by the government or designed, maintained or used for public use which is sponsored by such governments, except landfills and waste disposal areas and facilities. Public buildings and facilities shall not include alternative tower structures, antennas, backhaul networks or towers.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 300 square feet of floor area.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Public or Private Educational Institutions

An educational facility that provides classes or training in specific fields or activities such as martial arts, dance, gymnastics, drama, music, voice and the like. This use is not an academic primary, intermediate or secondary public, private or religious school, college, university.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(21) for detailed information.

Public Parks and Playgrounds

Parks and playgrounds which are owned and operated by the Township of Lawrence or by an authority created for such purposes by the Township of Lawrence.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Public Utilities

A utility, which is owned, operated or maintained by a public utility provider for the purposes of providing sanitary sewage disposal, water supply, energy, telephone, or other utility services within a defined service area in accordance with the provisions established by the Public Utility Commission and the Public Utility Code, 66 Pa.C.S.A. § 101 et seq.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP RA Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Lots containing structures or buildings for public utilities shall:

(a) Be landscaped to present a minimum intrusion upon the neighborhood.

(b) Be enclosed by a security fence. Notwithstanding any other section of this chapter, the height of this fence shall be adequate to provide proper security for the installation (eight feet).

(c) Have no outdoor storage permitted.

Recreation Lodging and RV Camping

The use of tents and camping trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, motor homes, travel trailers and truck campers, which do not exceed 400 square feet in floor area, or the applicable ANSI A.119.2/NFPA standard for recreational vehicles, where persons or families may live temporarily. For the purposes of this definition, it shall be presumed that the occupancy of any of the foregoing for a continuous period of three months or more shall constitute permanent occupancy. Permanent occupancy of the above-listed uses is strictly prohibited.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Development Requirements:
(a) After six sites, proper sewage and water supply must be available and mandatory trash pickup.

(b) Campfires for cooking or aesthetics purposes are permitted, provided no complaints from neighboring properties are received.

Recreation Uses, Nonprofit, Private or Commercial

Leisure time activities that are open to members, guests, patrons or some specific groups at a facility that has controlled or limited access to the public. Uses may include certain sports, fitness or wellness activities in addition to other recreation and may also include the use of a summer camp where youth may stay to engage in similar indoor or outdoor activities while lodging for periods of time.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
Variable, depending upon proposed intensity of use and subject to approval of the Board of Supervisors.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Recycling, Scrap, and Salvage Yards

RECYCLING YARD - A business that receives a material that can be recycled. Materials shall be processed in and marketed within 15 business days.

SALVAGE YARD - A business where auto, truck or equipment parts are salvaged from vehicles or equipment that are no longer able to perform their intended purpose and are resold to consumers as used parts. Leftover material is then sold as scrap material within 60 days.

SCRAP YARD - A business where various types of metal material are received and then resold as the market prices dictate.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Recycling, scrap, and salvage yards shall comply with the following requirements:

(a) All lots shall be at least five acres in size.

(b) There shall be no storage of any kind in the front and side yard set back.

(c) All setbacks shall be increased by 10 feet.

(d) The processing or storage of hazardous materials as the same are defined by DEP and EPA shall not be permitted.

(e) A license shall be obtained for all recycling, scrap, and salvage yards as required under Lawrence Township ordinances.

(f) A barrier of natural forestry at a width of 100 feet or an eight-foot high cyclone-type fence with panel weaving or similar solid fencing shall parallel all public rights-of-way and adjacent properties for purposes of preventing the passing of windblown litter and preventing direct visibility of the working area from public rights-of-way and adjoining properties.

Renewable Energy

A. Solar energy; B. Wind energy; C. Geothermal energy; D. Water power in the case of a hydroelectric project that does not require a new appropriation, diversion, or impoundment of water and that has a nameplate rating of 10 megawatts or less, or is an expansion of an existing hydroelectric project; E. Landfill or farm-based methane gas; F. Gas produced from the treatment of wastewater; G. Low-emission, nontoxic biomass energy based on dedicated energy crops, animal wastes, or solid organic fuels from wood, forest, or field residues, except that the term does not include wood pieces that have been treated with chemical preservatives such as creosote, pentachlorophenol, or copper-chrome arsenic; and H. Hydrogen derived from any of the sources listed above for use in fuel cells.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Research and Testing Centers

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
Sufficient parking to accommodate visitors and salespersons, subject to approval of the Board of Supervisors.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Restaurants

Any establishment at which food or drink is sold for consumption on the premises or drive thru. The term "restaurant" shall not include any snack bar at a public or community playground, play field, park or swimming pool operated by a governmental agency or municipal agency for the convenience of the patrons of those facilities.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for every two seats.

Development Requirements:
(a) All parking areas shall be designed for easy ingress and egress. In no event shall autos be required to back onto a public right-of-way.

(b) Drive-up windows shall be set back from the street with stacking room for at least four vehicles.

Retail Stores

A single business enterprise which primarily engages in the retail sale of consumer goods such as wearing apparel, antiques, books, beverages, confections, drugs, dry goods, flowers, food, gifts, garden supplies, hardware supplies, household goods, jewelry, paint, periodicals, tobacco, etc.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C I

Vehicle Parking:
One parking space for each 300 square feet of customer service and sales area.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Saw Mills

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Self-Storage Units

A building or group of buildings that contains various sizes of individualized, compartmentalized and controlled-access stalls and/or lockers leased by the general public for a specified period of time for the dead storage of personal property.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
(a) Number of units will be determined by lot size.

(b) Fencing is not mandatory, but the Board of Supervisors may require fencing due to privacy or other concerns.

Shopping Malls

A grouping of retail business and service uses on a single site with common parking facilities. This term will also include a single retail operation where the gross floor area is 30,000 square feet or more.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
For proposed shopping malls, the developer shall:

(a) Submit an existing site plan at a scale which may range from one inch to 10 feet through one inch to 50 feet. The site plan shall show existing site conditions, including buildings, natural features, and utilities.

(b) Submit a proposed site plan to include proposed building, parking, vehicular and pedestrian access areas, storm drainage, landscaping, lighting, utility location, and size.

(c) Submit a sketch plan showing surrounding properties, land use, and utilities within 200 feet of the proposed development.

(d) Submit a schedule of uses will be provided, along with parking lot capacity and a brief overview of operations.

(e) Provide a buffer strip of at least 100 feet along each side or rear yard which abuts residential uses or districts. Such a buffer strip shall be landscaped and planted to provide an attractive visual barrier between the use and adjacent residential areas.

Short Term Rentals

A furnished home, apartment or room that is rented out on a daily, weekly, monthly basis, often to tourist or business travelers. This term does not include month to month leases.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Single-Family Dwellings

A building containing only one dwelling unit.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA

Vehicle Parking:
Three parking spaces for each dwelling unit.

Solar Communities

Any solar project or purchasing program, within a geographic area, in which the benefits of a solar project flow to multiple customers such as individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and other groups.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Solid Waste Disposal

SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL AREA OR FACILITY - A lot, parcel or tract of land including, but not limited to, a sanitary landfill where garbage, trash or junk is disposed of or is processed or recycled for disposal or processing of hazardous or radioactive materials.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Solid waste disposal, transfer station, treatment.

Solid waste disposal shall be permitted only as a special exception. Plans for solid waste disposal shall be approved and controlled by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources (PennDER), the laws and regulations of the commonwealth and appropriate laws and regulations of the United States of America. Operators of solid waste disposal file with the Board written proof that they have met all permit requirements of the state and/or federal government as they may apply to a specific development. Local requirements which must be met prior approval include:

(a) A buffer yard of 250 feet from all public rights-of-way and 400 feet from all dwellings, schools, churches, hospitals and similar residential uses.

(b) A barrier of natural forestry at a width of 100 feet or an eight-foot high cyclone-type fence with panel weaving or similar solid fencing shall parallel all public rights-of-way and adjacent properties for purposes of preventing the passing of windblown litter and preventing direct visibility of the working area from public rights-of-way and adjoining properties.

(c) The barrier shall be at a minimum distance of 75 feet from all operations, and the area between the work area and barrier shall consist of a natural cover of vegetation or forestry. This strip shall not be of barren soil.

(d) The facility shall have no more than two access routes, unless the facility property borders three or more public rights-of-way. In such an event, approval by the Township Supervisors will be necessary to secure an additional access route.

(e) A bond will be filed with the Township Supervisors, at an amount deemed necessary by the Board of Supervisors, to provide for protection of Township roads which may be used for access to the landfill.

(f) The operator shall submit to the Board for approval a plan for the restoration of the facility area which shall include anticipated future use of the restored land.

(g) All such proposed uses shall be on a lot of no less than 15 acres.

Solid Waste Transfer Stations

SOLID WASTE TRANSFER AREA - A place where solid waste is brought, sorted, stored for less than four days and transferred from one vehicle to another vehicle or to a rail car for the purpose of transport to a solid waste disposal area or facility.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(30) for detailed information.

Solid Waste Treatment

Any method, technique or process, including neutralization, designed to change the physical, chemical, biological, character or composition of any waste so as to neutralize such waste or so as to render such waste nonhazardous, safer for transport, suitable for recovery, suitable for storage, or reduced in volume. The term "solid waste treatment" includes any activity or processing designed to change the physical form or chemical composition of waste so as to render it neutral or nonhazardous.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(30) for detailed information.

State and Federal Prisons

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(15) for detailed information.

Supply and contractor's yards

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Supply and contractor's yards shall effectively screen the yards facing surrounding properties. Such screening shall be via fencing or screen planting.

Taverns/Bars

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Timbering

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right AP R RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Truck Terminals

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use C I

Vehicle Parking:
One space per employee, on the largest shift, plus one space for each 10,000 square feet for visitors.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
See § 125-15C(33) for detailed information.

Two-Family Dwellings

A building containing two dwelling units.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right R RA

Vehicle Parking:
Three parking spaces for each dwelling unit.

Veterinary Offices

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use I Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Veterinary office and/or boarding kennel:

(a) Must be at least 50 feet from any neighboring property line,

(b) Outdoor runs and facilities for animal keeping and care shall be constructed for easy cleaning and shall be adequately screened from neighboring properties.

Warehousing and Wholesaling

WAREHOUSING - A structure for the temporary storage of merchandise or commodities. Such use may include the storage of goods and equipment for other businesses. Warehouse uses do not include retail activities.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use C

Vehicle Parking:
One space per employee, on the largest shift, plus one space for each 10,000 square feet for visitors.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Development Requirements:
Warehousing, wholesaling and truck terminals. Such uses are permitted subject to the following requirements:

(a) Lot size shall be at least two acres.

(b) Side and rear yards shall be increased by 20 feet.

(c) All outdoor storage shall be in side yards (behind the front lot line) or in the rear yard.

(d) Access to roads and highways shall be clearly defined.

(e) All parking, loading and unloading facilities shall be clearly designed so motor vehicles will not be required to back into or from streets or roads when parking or leaving the premises.

Wind Turbine Farms

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use AP Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use RA C

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Wineries

An accessory agricultural operation to a vineyard on site where wine is produced for consumption on or off site. A winery may include a tasting area and event space as customary and incidental if all regulations and requirements of this chapter are met.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use RA C I

Vehicle Parking:
See § 125-23B for detailed information about off-street parking.

Merchandise Loading:
See § 125-23A for detailed information about off-street loading.

Please confirm all information with the Township Zoning Officer: 814.765.4551 option 4 Got it!

MapLink™ | Land Uses

Please confirm all information with the Township Zoning Officer: 814.765.4551 option 4 Got it!

Township of Lawrence, PA

MapLink™ | Land Uses