Bureau of Code Compliance & Inspections

What We Do

The Bureau of Code Compliance and Inspections provides for the safety, health and welfare of the general public who live, work and seek recreation in the City of Lancaster. The Bureau conducts inspections to assure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances adopted by the City of Lancaster and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through three operating units: Property Maintenance, Health and Building Code.

The PROPERTY MAINTENANCE UNIT performs inspections to ensure that the City’s housing
stock is suitable for habitation and assist in enforcing the city ordinances designed to address
trash, junk, grass and weeds and other nuisances that impact the quality of life in the City. This unit is also the principal unit responsible for enforcement of the City’s Lead Paint Poisoning and Lead Hazard Reduction Ordinance and management of the Lead Program Grants received through HUD.

The HEALTH UNIT inspects eateries, mobile food trucks, tattoo businesses and other public facilities to ensure compliance with State health and food safety standards. They also work with other organizations such as Lancaster General Health on initiatives designed to improve the overall health of our city. Efforts include community gardens and healthy food initiatives. The unit is also responsible for coordinating pest control programs for the City.

The BUILDING CODE UNIT reviews construction plans and conducts inspections to ensure compliance with the State Uniform Construction Code and applicable local ordinances. The Bureau reviews and evaluates structural, electrical, plumbing and mechanical plans for new construction as well as for renovation or remodeling of existing buildings. The Bureau issues all building permits in the City and manages the use of third-party plan review and inspection firms in the City.

These units work with other City Departments and Bureaus including the Bureau of Planning, Bureau of Fire, Bureau of Police, Department of Public Works, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture as well as the City’s Building Codes Board of Appeals, Housing Appeals Boards, Plumbing Board of Examiners, Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB), Historical Commission, and Property Reinvestment Board. This interaction serves to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community.

Services We Provide

• Grants & Programs
• Pests & Animal Control
• Code Enforcement
• Planning, Permits & Licensing