Township of Lawrence

Accessory structures

ACCESSORY BUILDING
A subordinate building, incidental to and located on the same lot as the principal building, and used for an accessory use.

Accessory uses

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

Agriculture

Asphalt batch plants

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C-H, I-L, I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more 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.

Assisted-living residence

Any premises in which food, shelter, personal care, assistance or supervision and supplemental health care services are provided for a period exceeding 24 hours for four or more adults who are not relatives of the operator and who require assistance or supervision in such matters as dressing, bathing, diet, financial management, evacuation from the residence in the event of an emergency or medication prescribed for self-administration.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, R-A, R-SP, R-U, V

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 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 conditional prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy.

ATM service

Auto service stations

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C-H, I-LS, V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each 300 square feet gross floor area (GFA). See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Auto service stations; automobile sales and service 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.

Automobile sales and services

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C-H Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each 300 square feet gross floor area (GFA). See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Auto service stations; automobile sales and service 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, drive-through facilities

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C-H Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each 300 square feet gross floor area (GFA). See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
This section shall apply to automated teller machines intended for use by patrons in vehicles as well as teller-operated drive-through facilities. Such facilities shall:

(a) Be at least 50 feet from the front lot line.
(b) Provide a vehicle-stacking capacity in its entrance driveway of at least five vehicles per drive-through window.
(c) Separate drive-through traffic from other site parking and traffic.

Batting cages

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: R-A Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
One off-street parking space for each guest room shall be required. See § 125-23B for more 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) See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.

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 as a Conditional Use: C, C-H, I-LS, R-A Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: I, I-L

Development Requirements:
Billboards shall be permitted, provided:

(a) Such signs shall not be placed within 150 feet of another on the same side of the road or 100 feet of another on the opposite side of a road.

(b) Such signs shall not be placed within 250 feet of any residence, church, school or similar edifice.

(c) Such signs shall not be placed within 250 feet of any road intersection, or at a curve, or at any place where vehicular line-of-sight could be partially or completely obstructed.

(d) Such signs shall not exceed 300 square feet in area when viewed from its widest silhouette unless a larger size is permitted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

(e) They comply with applicable regulations of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

(f) See also § 125-24.

Brick/ceramic manufacturing

Business (professional and personal services)

Car washes

Catering-food services

Cemeteries

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: R-A, R-S, V

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:
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 Conditional Use: I, I-L, I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more 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:

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

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

All lots shall be at least two acres in size.

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

Churches

A place of assembly used for congregate religious services and worship. Although accessory uses, such as educational and recreational facilities for use of church members are permitted, other facilities and uses will be regarded as separate principal uses.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: R-A, V Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, C-H, R-C, R-S, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each 4 seats. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Churches, schools, hospitals and nursing homes:

(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.

Clubs and lodges

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: R-S Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each 60 square feet of public floor area. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Clubs, lodges and fraternal organizations. 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.

Colleges and universities

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: R-C, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each teacher and staff.
1 required parking space for each 4 classrooms.
Plus 1 required parking space for each 4 high school students and 1 required parking space per each 3 seats.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Colleges, universities with related and accessory uses and structures in the R-C District.

Colleges, universities with related and accessory uses and structures

Commercial amusement

Commercial printing

Commercial recreation

COMMERCIAL RECREATION (INDOOR)
A facility which offers various indoor recreational opportunities for its patrons, including such games as pool, billiards, bowling, video games and similar pursuits.

Communication cell towers

Contractors/supply yards

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: I Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS, R-A Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: I-L

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.

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 as a Conditional Use: C, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each 300 square feet of gross floor area (GFA). See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
This use shall:

(a) Adhere to all provisions of Subsection C(8).

(b) Gas/diesel pumps shall be at least 30 feet from all lot lines.

(c) A covered canopy over pump islands shall be permitted up to an additional 10% of lot coverage.

Conversion apartments

A studio apartment with a wall, or space for a wall, dividing the bed from the rest of the living space.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-SP, R-U, V Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: C-H

Vehicle Parking:
All required parking shall be accommodated on lot. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

Development Requirements:
The purpose of conversion apartments is to allow for the conversion of older, larger single-family homes into multifamily units. To be allowed to convert from a single-family into a multifamily unit, the following criteria must be met:

(a) All units must have separate kitchen and bathroom facilities as well as living/sleeping spaces.

(b) Individual residential units shall have a minimum size of 450 square feet exclusive of common spaces.

(c) See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.

Crematory

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.

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: R-A

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.

Day-care centers

DAY-CARE SERVICES FOR CHILDREN (DAY CARE)
Provides out-of-home care for part of a twenty-four-hour day to children under 16 years of age, excluding care provided by relatives and excluding day care furnished in places of worship during religious services. This chapter identifies three levels of day care services for children: see Family day-care homes and Group day-care homes.

DAY-CARE CENTERS
Facilities in which care is provided for seven or more children, at any one time, where the child-care areas are not used as a family residence.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A, R-S, R-SP, R-U Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each staff person, plus 1 required parking space for every 6 children. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Day-care services for children have three separate types, (See Article II for definitions.) family day-care homes,* group day-care homes* and day-care centers. These uses shall be allowed providing the following criteria are met:

(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.

Dog kennel

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A

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 dog kennels:

(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.

Eating and drinking establishments (including drive-through)

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C-H, R-A Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, I-LS, V

Vehicle Parking:
Restaurants, taverns and nightclubs - 1 required parking space for each 2.5 patron seats.
Fast food/drive-through restaurants - 1 required parking space per each 50 gross floor area (GFA).
Plus one required parking space per employee and staff on major shift.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Eating and drinking places, drive-through:

(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.

Essential services

Family day-care homes

Facilities in which child day-care is provided at any one time to four, five, or six children who are not relatives of the caregiver.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each staff person, plus 1 required parking space for every 6 children. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Day-care services for children have three separate types, (See Article II for definitions.) family day-care homes, group day-care homes* and day-care centers. These uses shall be allowed providing the following criteria are met:

(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.

Feed mills

Fire stations

Food service establishments

Food trucks/trailers

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C, C-H, I, I-L, I-LS, R-A, R-C, R-S, R-SP, R-U, V

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:
Food trucks/trailers are permitted to be temporarily located on private property to sell food items to the general public subject to the following:

A. Food trucks are allowed in all districts.

B. Food trucks shall not be parked in any public right-of-way or on any Township road. They may not encroach on any access drive, parking lot aisle, clear sight triangle, and shall not result in an unsafe traffic condition.

C. Food trucks shall obtain an annual, nontransferable zoning permit and pay all applicable fees as set by resolution of the Board of Supervisors from time to time.

D. Food trucks shall operate between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

E. A sandwich board sign, not greater than six square feet in size, is permitted for the purpose of listing menu items for purchase from the food truck and shall be contained within five feet of the food truck.

F. The food truck operator is responsible for the proper disposal of trash and waste associated with the operation of the food truck. No liquid waste or grease shall be disposed of in any landscaped areas, storm drains, streets, or on public land.

G. The food truck shall comply with all statutes and regulations of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Department of Agriculture.

H. All food trucks shall be equipped with a serviceable fire extinguisher.

I. Written authorization from the owner of the land upon which the food truck/trailer is located must be provided.

Fraternities and sororities

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-C, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
All parking shall be accommodated on the lot to the rear of the main structure. See § 125-23B for more 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) See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.

(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.

Funeral parlors

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
25 required parking spaces for the first parlor and 10 required parking spaces for each additional parlor.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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) 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 of this chapter.

Gas well pads

Golf courses

Group day-care homes

Facilities in which care is provided for more than six but fewer than 12 children, at any one time, where the child-care areas are being used as a family residence. (Care of six to 12 children where the child-care areas are not used as a family residence will be considered a day-care center.)

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space for each staff person, plus 1 required parking space for every 6 children. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Day-care services for children have three separate types, (See Article II for definitions.) family day-care homes, group day-care homes and day-care centers. These uses shall be allowed providing the following criteria are met:

(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.

Group homes

The coming together of more than four handicapped persons not related by blood, marriage or adoption in a single housekeeping unit which provides the physical and social needs normal to a residence and whose management is under the direction of a public or semipublic institution operating in pursuit of its objectives.

Heavy equipment sales and service/tractor trailer sales and service

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

Heavy manufacturing

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: I, I-L

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Heavy manufacturing shall be located where the emission of objectionable gases, fumes, smoke or dust will not be objectionable to established permitted uses nearby or is controlled by the installation of special equipment. Outside storage yards abutting or immediately across a street from any R District shall be screened. They shall meet all performance standards set forth in § 125-22.

Home and garden centers

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: R-A Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-S, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle 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.
See § 125-23B for more 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. See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.

(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 one [1] student 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.

Hunting, fishing and gun clubs

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.

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-A, R-S, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
2.0 required parking spaces per each space. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
All mobile homes shall be placed on a permanent foundation which will prevent shifting or settling from frost action, inadequate drainage, vibration, or other forces acting on the super structure (e.g., consisting of block pillars or cement pillars or similar construction). There shall be at least six permanent piers with hook and eyebolt attachment extending from below frostline to grade level for each mobile home stand and there shall be blocking from pier top to trailer frame and the necessary cable or chain to secure the trailer to the permanent pier. Fire-resistant or -retardant skirting shall be installed around all mobile homes.

Industrial parks

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: I, I-L Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Institutional educational and civic services

Jails and prisons

Laundry/dry cleaning

Light manufacturing and assembling

MANUFACTURING, LIGHT
The assembly, fabrication, manufacture, 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, I-L Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
See § 125-16C(33) for detailed information.

Light manufacturing, restricted

The assembly, fabrication, manufacture, 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 as a Conditional Use: C-H

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Light manufacturing may be allowed in the Commercial-Highway District subject to strict adherence of the following conditions:

(a) The lot size shall be at least two acres in size.
(b) Lot width shall be at least 200 feet.
(c) The yard requirements shall be:

[1] Front: 50 feet.
[2] Side: 40 feet.
[3] Rear: 50 feet.

(d) If the use abuts a residential use or district, every side or rear yard which abuts such use shall be increased 12 feet. Such additional yard space shall be used as a buffer strip. The buffer strip will consist of two rows of evergreen trees planted in a staggered fashion to provide a visual barrier at least eight feet in height when mature. The original planting shall consist of healthy plants at least three feet in height. If the front yard faces a residential use or district, the front yard shall be increased 10 feet.

(e) No outside storage shall be allowed in front or side yards.

Limited commercial use

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
Provide all parking as required by this chapter on lot. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
The purpose of this use is to allow smaller retail operations in an urbanized environment. Such uses shall:

(a) See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.

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

(c) All compressors shall be so enclosed as to baffle their sound from surrounding uses.

(d) All dumpsters and/or garbage/trash storage areas shall be enclosed.

(e) Total building size shall not exceed 3,000 square feet.

Lumber mills, sales and storage

Medical clinics

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C, C-H Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
8 required parking spaces per doctor. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Medical clinics/rehabilitation centers.

(a) 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.

(b) All lighting shall be so arranged to prevent glare to adjoining properties.

(c) Any parking area next to a residential use shall be screened. (See definition of "screening.")

Microbrewery

Mining

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I, I-L, I-LS, R-A

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:

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.

Mobile home parks

A parcel of land under single ownership which has been planned and improved for the placement of mobile homes for nontransient use, consisting of two or more mobile home lots.

Motels and hotels

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, C-H Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per guest room. Plus one required parking space per employee and staff on major shift.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

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-C, R-S, R-SP, R-U Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: V

Vehicle Parking:
2.5 required parking spaces per dwelling unit.
Multifamily units devoted to the elderly shall only be required to provide 0.5 parking spaces per unit. Such uses must supply adequate proof they will be dedicated to elderly tenants and shall be required to follow normal parking standards if they revert to nonelderly use.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
No more than six connected in the R-S and R-C Districts.

Municipal buildings

Nursing homes

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, R-A, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each 3 beds. Plus one required space per employee and staff on major shift.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Churches, schools, hospitals and nursing homes:

(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.

Offices

Personal care homes

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: C, R-A, R-SP, R-U, V

Vehicle Parking:
At least one additional on-lot parking space shall be provided for each four guests. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
The purpose of such homes is to provide residences for individuals in a home-like setting. Consequently, it is essential to maintain an exterior appearance that is in harmony with surrounding residences. Personal care homes are facilities which offer food, shelter and personal assistance for a period of more than 24 consecutive hours for four or more adult residents who are not relatives of the operator and where the residents do not require hospitalization or nursing facility care. In addition, such uses shall meet the following conditions:

(a) There shall be no sign or exterior display beyond the name of the home or its use.

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

(c) No home in the R-U or V District shall admit more than eight guests/clients at any one time.

Personal services

Pet cemeteries

Petroleum products wholesale distribution

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I, I-L, I-LS

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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:

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

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

All lots shall be at least two acres in size.

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

Private schools

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: V Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: C

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each teacher and staff.
1 required parking space for each 4 classrooms.
Plus 1 required parking space for each 4 high school students and 1 required parking space per each 3 seats.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Private schools shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

(a) They shall file a copy of all needed licenses with the Township.
(b) That on-site parking shall be provided for staff, administration and students in accordance with Article IV of this chapter.

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, C-H, V Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS, R-SP, R-U

Vehicle Parking:
All parking lots which abut residential uses or districts shall use screen planting as a buffer. See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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) See "Vehicle Parking" above for requirements.
(c) Shall not exceed 4,000 square feet in building size.

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.

Public utilities

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: I, R-A Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: C, C-H, I-L, R-C, R-S, R-SP, R-U, V

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) No outdoor storage shall be 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.

Research and testing centers

Residences as a secondary use

Retail bakeries

Retail business/stores

Rooming houses

A dwelling having two or more sleeping rooms for rent to persons not related to its other occupants. The term "rooming house" includes the term "boardinghouse."

Sanitary landfills

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-A 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:
Sanitary landfills shall be permitted only as a special exception. Plans for sanitary landfills 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 sanitary landfills shall 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 landfill shall have no more than two access routes, unless the landfill 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) Bond required. See § 125-16C(26)(e) for details.

(f) Restoration plan. See § 125-16C(26)(f) for details

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

Schools

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: R-A, V Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: R-SP, R-U Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: R-S

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per each teacher and staff.
1 required parking space for each 4 classrooms.
Plus 1 required parking space for each 4 high school students and 1 required parking space per each 3 seats.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Development Requirements:
Churches, schools, hospitals and nursing homes:

(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

Scrap and salvage yards

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

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.

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: I, I-L, I-LS

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.[2] A fence shall be provided around the premises as required in § 125-16C(26)(b).

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.

Senior-living dwelling

Contains six or more independent-living units in a single structure. "Independent living" is defined as a dwelling unit for senior citizens 55+ who can live independent of assistance and/or supervision that provides full living accommodations, including full baths and full kitchens.

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.

Short-term rentals

A furnished home, apartment or room that is rented out on a daily or weekly basis, often to tourist or business travelers.

Single-family attached

Two to three but not more than four dwelling units each accommodating one family, which are attached side by side through the use of common party walls and which shall have side yards adjacent to each end unit.

Single-family dwellings

A building containing only one dwelling unit.

Small businesses

Social center

Social clubs and lodges

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.

State and federal prisons

Supply yards

Swimming pools

Taverns/bars

Truck terminals

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: C-H, I

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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.

Two-family dwellings

A building containing two dwelling units.

Veterinary offices/clinics

Districts Where Allowed Districts Allowed by right: C-H Districts Allowed as a Conditional Use: I-LS, R-A

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 dog kennels:

(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-H, I-LS Districts Allowed as a Special Exception Use: I-L

Vehicle Parking:
1 required parking space per employee, on the largest shift, plus 1 required parking space for each 10,000 sq. ft. for visitors.
See § 125-23B for more detailed information about off-street parking.

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

Wineries

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