In The News

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WORKS HARD TO MAINTAIN A THRIVING, ROBUST COMMUNITY

October 16, 2025  |  West Chester Community Development Department
Community Development Department

Online Permitting System Celebrates Two Years of Success

West Chester’s Community Development team launched the online permitting system in October 2023. Since then, almost 2,200 permits have been processed. No account is needed, and users no longer have to visit the office to drop off or pick up plans.

 

Customers say the system is easy to use and convenient, with several developers commenting that is the best online application process they have ever used.

 

“The new system has greatly streamlined the permitting process and significantly improved communication with customers which in turn reduces overall project development time,” said Bryan Hellard, West Chester Township Property Advisor. “Permit review turnaround times have decreased from weeks to days.”

 

The online permitting system reduces paper waste, improves processing times, and allows inspectors to use laptops in the field for digital plan reviewing, making the Community Development Department much more efficient and user friendly. The department’s doors are now “open” 24/7 for customers nationwide. 

 

Online Property Complaints Improve Community Upkeep

In January 2025, the Department also took property maintenance complaints online. Property maintenance is vital to maintain a beautiful, vibrant community, and now businesses and residences can submit complaints online for property advisors to investigate. Also, in 2025 the West Chester Fire Department started accepting permits online for fire inspections making the process much more efficient as well. 

 

New Zoning Code Adopted

In May 2025, the West Chester Township Trustees adopted the new and improved zoning resolution. Zoning rules cover issues like building setbacks, landscaping, density, and public safety standards. The update was developed by the Community Development Department in partnership with McBride Dale Clarion.

 

Zoning is key to maintaining West Chester’s character and property values. It helps guide growth in a way that preserves the community’s upscale image and supports a stable economy.

 

With a community of more than 66,000 people, this is a vital service to attract diverse businesses and residents and ensure sustainable growth.

 

“As an employee of local government, ensuring the safety, health, and welfare of West Chester Township properties is my civic duty,” said Senior Property Advisor, Bernie Schroeder. “Property maintenance guidelines are established by state law, so having a robust zoning code to follow is an essential part of the process and greatly benefits both the township and the properties within our jurisdiction. Our day-to-day focus is tackling properties that are in disrepair to prevent neglect from turning into blight.”

 

He added that the township used to receive more than 300 complaints a year, but that number has now leveled off. “Most of the township is complying and the new system has greatly streamlined communications with customers.”

 

Builders Praise Online Zoning Permit System

 

Developers are also benefiting from online zoning applications.

 

“The West Chester Township Zoning online permit application process has been a wonderful way to streamline and expedite the submission and approval process,” said David Labus, Principal at Foundation Development Group, an Epcon Communities Builder. “It takes us about five minutes to apply and pay for new zoning certificates for our single-family homes. It has been a great step forward for us as developer/builders and the township staff. We really appreciate the team at Community Development very much.”