The Department of Economic & Community Development is the first point of contact for new businesses, developers looking to provide commercial and residential opportunities, or established businesses looking to invest and expand within the Borough. Perkasie Borough is committed to maintaining a business-friendly relationship in which commercial activity can flourish. We are here to help you!
The Department works with the Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, Economic Development Committee, and Code Inspections to ensure all appropriate agencies are working to guide the applicant(s) through the process of establishing a business in Perkasie Borough. We can also help identify commercial space in the Borough that may meet the needs of a new or growing business.
Perkasie Borough has several ordinances that impact opening or relocating a business in town. A copy of the Borough’s Code of Ordinances is available online.
Zoning
Before establishing a business in the Borough, you must contact the Zoning Officer to make sure the chosen location allows the proposed business type. A copy of the Borough’s Zoning Map is available on our website and a Table of Uses is in the Borough’s Code Book. A zoning variance may be required if your required use is not “Permitted” in the zoning district. The Zoning Officer and Code Enforcement Officer can assist you in assuring that the proposed business will meet all Borough zoning requirements prior to any investment being made.
Use and Occupancy Permits
A Use and Occupancy permit is required for any business established in the Borough prior to opening. This includes established businesses that are acquired by a new owner, and businesses that are leasing space from another business. Permit applications are available on our website, or may be obtained at Borough Hall, 620 West Chestnut Street and the cost shall be determined by the fee schedule. Be aware a Certificate of Use & Occupancy must be obtained prior to the start of business operations.
Building Construction
Permits are required for most new construction, renovation and demolition within Borough limits. Our Building Permit Application form is available on our website. Commercial Building Permit Applications generally require “Signed & Sealed” plans. Do not begin mechanical, plumbing or electrical work until Building Permits are approved. The Fee Schedule lists the costs associated with construction or demolition projects.
Signs
Borough code regulates the location and area of all types of signs including awnings, roof, vehicle window and real estate. A sign permit must be obtained before constructing and placing a sign on any property in the Borough. A Sign Permit Application Form is available on our website or at Borough Hall.
Home-Based Businesses
A home occupation is considered a non-residential use conducted within or administered from a portion of a dwelling used as a permanent residence that meets the definition of general home occupation or light home occupation and is the secondary use of the dwelling. A permit application is available on our website or at Borough Hall. Home Based Business Applications also require a Zoning Permit. A No-Impact Home Based Business application is available on our website or at Borough Hall.
Business Services:
- Electric Service: is provided by the Perkasie Borough Electric Department. A security deposit may be required for new accounts. All accounts are billed monthly with bills being mailed at the end of each month and due on or around the 15th of each month. Please call 215-257-5065 to establish electric service prior to start of operations and also to cancel service before vacating the premises.
- Water and Sewer Service: is provided by the Perkasie Regional Authority, 150 Ridge Road in Sellersville. Call 215-257-3654 weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Trash Collection and Recycling: Businesses that generate trash and recycling in the Borough must have that waste picked up in the Borough. Businesses choose their own trash and recycling hauler(s). Perkasie Borough is an Act 101 mandated community. Act 101 requires all commercial establishments in PA to recycle high grade office paper, corrugated cardboard, aluminium cans and leaf waste. In addition, Borough Ordinance requires that commercial establishments recycle glass (all colors), plastic containers #1-7 and newpaper.
Door-Door Soliciting
requires a permit issued by the Perkasie Borough Police Department, 311 South 9th Street.
The Borough’s Comprehensive Plan, Executive Summary is HERE.
Developers and business owners interested in moving to the Borough may like to read WHY PERKASIE?