Bolthole Index

Fulton County, Pennsylvania

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Fulton County, Pennsylvania

79Index Score / 100
#8 of 67 in Pennsylvania

Fulton County, Pennsylvania requires a building permit before home construction covered by the statewide Uniform Construction Code begins; the applicable municipality, certified third-party agency or state administrator handles UCC enforcement.12 Fulton County has no countywide zoning, but municipal zoning controls need parcel-specific review.34 Septic permits remain with the municipal or joint local agency through a Sewage Enforcement Officer, with Pennsylvania DEP oversight.56

At a glance

Building permit
Required before UCC-covered work starts, subject to listed exceptions; obtain it through the applicable municipal, third-party or state administrator17
Building department
Residential UCC enforcement is municipal, through a certified third party, or under the state's opt-out arrangements7
Zoning
No countywide zoning; McConnellsburg Borough and Brush Creek Township have reviewed municipal zoning provisions389
Septic permit
Generally required through the municipality's Sewage Enforcement Officer, with Pennsylvania DEP oversight5610
RV or tiny-home living
Not confirmed countywide; ask the township or borough about occupancy, sanitation and siting before relying on it1112
Owner-builder exemption
Owners may do uncompensated work on their own residence, but UCC permits and any local contractor rules still apply1314
Agricultural buildings
Qualifying nonhabitable agricultural buildings are excluded from the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act15
Private wells
Commercial drillers need state licensing and permits; a homeowner drilling on owned or leased land is outside that licensing requirement16

Who to call

Planning & zoning

Fulton County Planning & Mapping Department

County planning and mapping; use the department as a county contact when identifying the municipality for a parcel

717-485-3717

tpeppernick@co.fulton.pa.us

116 West Market Street, Suite 203, McConnellsburg, PA 17233

Planning & zoning

Fulton County Planning Commission FAQ

County floodplain maps, address assignment guidance, municipal-official listings and basic zoning information

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Fulton County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

Fulton County home construction covered by Pennsylvania's statewide Uniform Construction Code requires a UCC building permit before work begins.21 UCC enforcement rests with the applicable municipality, certified third-party agency or state administrator, depending on the jurisdiction and project.217 Required building inspections cover construction and changes to buildings and electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems; manufactured housing also requires inspections for site preparation and foundations.18 A UCC-regulated residence cannot be occupied until a building code official issues a certificate of occupancy after a compliant final inspection; a temporary certificate may cover a safely occupiable portion.19 Qualifying nonhabitable agricultural buildings are excluded from the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act, but that exclusion does not settle separate land-use or sewage requirements.15410

Who issues building permits in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

Start with the parcel's township or borough to identify the municipal, certified third-party or state UCC building-permit administrator.217 Fulton County Planning & Mapping is reachable at 717-485-3717, and the Planning Commission FAQ says a municipal-official list is available.2021 In McConnellsburg Borough, the Zoning Officer issues the borough's zoning permit for covered buildings and land uses; that approval is separate from the UCC building permit.221 Septic permits remain with the municipal or joint local agency's Sewage Enforcement Officer.56 When Pennsylvania's Department of Labor and Industry has jurisdiction, its application must name the political subdivision and county; electronic and paper submissions are accepted.23 Department fees cover plan review and inspections, with extra charges for expedited review or after-hours inspections; municipal and third-party administrators may use separate fee schedules.2425

Does Fulton County, Pennsylvania have zoning?

Fulton County has no countywide zoning ordinance; municipal zoning must be checked separately for the parcel.34 McConnellsburg Borough publishes its own zoning ordinance, and Brush Creek Township's subdivision ordinance expressly requires compliance with township zoning and any required zoning approvals.89 Septic approval remains a local-agency responsibility through a Sewage Enforcement Officer rather than a zoning approval.56 McConnellsburg setbacks depend on the district and adjacent use: the R2 district ordinarily requires a 30-foot front yard, 15-foot side yard and 40-foot rear yard, subject to block-average provisions and different corner-lot standards.26 We could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling size or lot size; ask the parcel's township or borough before choosing a small-home plan. Zoning and subdivision approval are separate: Fulton County reviews and comments on subdivision plans, while the municipality approves or rejects them.27

How do septic permits work in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

On-lot sewage in Fulton County is administered by municipalities through certified Sewage Enforcement Officers, with Pennsylvania DEP setting certification and regulatory requirements; municipalities may also administer the work jointly.65 State law generally requires a local-agency septic permit before installing or constructing an individual or community on-lot system or occupying a building that it serves.10 Ask the parcel's municipality to identify its Sewage Enforcement Officer and local application steps because we could not confirm a complete countywide directory of septic-permit contacts or municipal fee schedules. A narrow exemption can apply to an owner or immediate-family residence on a contiguous tract of at least 10 acres, but ownership-date, notice, local-ordinance and siting conditions make local confirmation essential.10 A completed system cannot be covered until the original permit issuer or authorized representative approves covering, subject to the state's limited waiting provision.28 Only 3.9% of Fulton County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early purchase contingency.29

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

We could not confirm a countywide or municipal rule that authorizes full-time RV living, temporary camping on private land or tiny-home occupancy in Fulton County. Ask the parcel's township or borough about occupancy, siting and any local zoning before buying or moving a unit onto the land.12 A tiny home used as a residence still has separate building and sanitation questions: UCC-covered construction needs a permit before work begins, and a building served by an on-lot sewage system generally needs local sewage approval.3010 A composting or incinerating toilet does not eliminate washwater disposal requirements for a new residence; an approved sewage-disposal method is still required for washwater or excess liquid.31

What are the steps to build a home in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

  1. Identify the township or borough; ask who issues the UCC building permit and what municipal zoning approval applies.1749
  1. Test the proposed septic area early; only 3.9% of county soils lack severe conventional drain-field limits.29
  1. Ask the municipality for its Sewage Enforcement Officer and obtain any required septic permit before construction or occupancy.610
  1. Mark the driveway when requesting a county-assigned address.32
  1. Submit the building-permit application and applicable fee, obtain the UCC building permit before covered work, and schedule required building inspections.17133
  1. Obtain a PennDOT driveway permit for work on state-highway land or connecting to PennDOT drainage.34
  1. Pass the final building inspection, obtain the certificate of occupancy, and give the utility written proof of passed inspections before completed construction is connected to public electric or gas service.1935

What should you check before buying land in Fulton County?

Confirm the municipality first, because it identifies the UCC building-permit administrator and identifies which municipal zoning controls need review.174 Make a satisfactory septic evaluation a purchase contingency: only 3.9% of Fulton County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.29 Check the flood map and access route; floodplain construction has additional documentation and municipal approval requirements, while work on state-highway land or connected to PennDOT drainage needs a PennDOT driveway permit.363738 The land is 74.8% wooded, and 44% lies at a slope of 15% or less, so inspect the actual homesite and driveway grade rather than judging buildability from acreage alone.3940 We could not confirm a Fulton County private-well permit rule; commercial drillers need state licenses and permits, but that requirement does not apply when a homeowner drills a well on owned or leased land.16

Watch-outs

  • Do not begin UCC-covered work until the applicable municipal, third-party or state administrator has issued the building permit; being your own builder does not waive UCC requirements.7113
  • No countywide zoning does not mean a parcel has no municipal zoning controls; ask the township or borough, and treat septic approval, floodplain approval, subdivision review and UCC building permits as separate requirements.3491037271
  • A state-road driveway needs a PennDOT driveway permit, while we could not confirm one universal driveway-permit rule for every local road in Fulton County.38

Sources

  1. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  2. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  3. Fulton County Act 167 Plan - June 2010, quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  5. Act 537 Sewage Facilities, quoted and re-checked
  6. Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, quoted and re-checked
  7. Uniform Construction Code, quoted and re-checked
  8. Borough of McConnellsburg: McConnellsburg Borough (Fulton County), quoted and re-checked
  9. Brush Creek Township: Brush Creek Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance – December 2015 (Fulton County), quoted and re-checked
  10. 25 Pa. Code § 72.22. Permit issuance (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Fulton County Act 167 Plan - June 2010 (2026 county census)
  12. Local Registrations, Permits, Zoning (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  13. Contractor Licensing (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Uniform Construction Code (UCC), quoted and re-checked
  15. Pennsylvania Construction Code Act — Chapter 1 (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Apply for a Water Well Drillers License and Rig Permit, quoted and re-checked
  17. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  18. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  19. pa.gov, quoted and re-checked
  20. Fulton County Planning & Mapping Department (co.fulton.pa.us)
  21. Fulton County Planning Commission FAQ (co.fulton.pa.us)
  22. Borough of McConnellsburg: McConnellsburg Zoning Ordinance - 1995 (Fulton County), quoted and re-checked
  23. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  24. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  25. Plan Review and Inspection Requirements, quoted and re-checked
  26. McConnellsburg Zoning Ordinance - 1995, quoted and re-checked
  27. Fulton County Planning Commission Subdivision/Land Development Review Policy, quoted and re-checked
  28. Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. 25 Pa. Code § 73.65. Recycling toilet, incinerating toilet or composting toilet (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. co.fulton.pa.us, quoted and re-checked
  33. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  34. Apply for a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit, quoted and re-checked
  35. pa.gov, quoted and re-checked
  36. Apply for a Uniform Construction Code Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  37. PennsylvaniA Floodplain Development Guide (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  38. Apply for a PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit (Pennsylvania statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  39. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  40. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data

Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Fulton County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleFulton CountyBedford CountyFranklin CountyHuntingdon CountyBlair CountyCumberland CountyAdams County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningNoNoNoNoNoNoYes
Septic permitsSEOMunicipal Sewage Enforcement OfficerMunicipal Sewage Enforcement OfficerMunicipal Sewage Enforcement OfficerCounty Sanitary Administration CommitteeMunicipal Sewage Enforcement OfficerMunicipal

County locator

Fulton County in Pennsylvania

79
County map
Fulton County highlighted among the Pennsylvania counties · colored by Index score

How Fulton County scores

Seclusion61100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency57100% ev.
Admin Boringness6290% ev.
Durability81100% ev.
Property Autonomy68100% ev.
Carry Cost74100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$245kTypical home
1%Property tax
$5,350Land / acre
41.3"Annual rain
0.7% of yrsSevere drought
2.4 / yr (+2.4)Mid-century 100°F days
12.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.83" (+9.8%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.54×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$961Home insurance / yr
-0.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.15%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
8,604People within 30 min
4,118,208People within 2 hr
35,439Radius comparison (15 mi)
33.1People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
44%Land at 15% slope or less
3.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
10,710 acWorkable land screen
74.8%Wooded land
49.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
51.8°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Fulton County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Answers from the rulebook for Fulton County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Fulton County rules

  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    Countywide zoning in Fulton County, including unincorporated areas.

    • The official county plan identifies McConnellsburg Borough as the only municipality with a zoning ordinance.
    • Municipal subdivision and land-development ordinances, floodplain rules, stormwater rules, septic rules, and the statewide Uniform Construction Code may still apply.
    “Q: Is there zoning in any of the municipalities? A: McConnellsburg Borough”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate of municipal zoning within Fulton County: McConnellsburg Borough has a zoning ordinance; the remaining municipalities do not have countywide zoning ordinances according to the official county plan.

    • The conclusion aggregates municipal rules and does not mean Fulton County administers McConnellsburg Borough's ordinance.
    • The official county plan also reports subdivision and land-development ordinances in all eleven townships, which are distinct from zoning.
    “Q: Is there zoning in any of the municipalities? A: McConnellsburg Borough”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of municipal zoning controls across Fulton County; the county Planning FAQ identifies McConnellsburg Borough as having zoning, while this claim does not treat the county as administering the borough ordinance.
      “Municipalities in Pennsylvania have the authority to regulate land use and development through the adoption of zoning codes. Only McConnellsburg Borough currently has such a code.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    On-lot sewage facilities serving properties in Fulton County.

    • The program is administered locally by individual municipalities or groups of municipalities, including county health departments.
    • Local agencies receive technical oversight and financial assistance from Pennsylvania DEP.
    “The onlot sewage facility portion of the program is largely administered on the local government level by individual municipalities or groups of municipalities working together (including County Health Departments), which are known as local agencies and joint local agencies, respectively. Local agencies receive technical oversight and financial assistance from DEP.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plans submitted to Fulton County municipalities for review.

    • The Fulton County Planning Commission reviews and comments; its comments are advisory only.
    • Only the municipality may approve or reject a subdivision.
    • The local municipality must give the County Planning Commission 30 days to review and comment.
    • A one-lot subdivision or lot addition intended for the next Township meeting must be submitted at least 10 days before that meeting.
    • Fees apply to subdivisions, land developments, and sewage planning modules.
    • Residential plan review fee: $45.00 per one-lot residential plan plus $10.00 per additional lot.
    • Commercial plan review fee: $70.00 plus $10.00 per 1,000 square feet.
    • DEP form fee: $20.00.
    • Fees will not exceed $1,000.00.
    • The policy is effective October 22, 2024.

    municipal review period: 30 days (A one-lot subdivision or lot addition intended for the next Township meeting must be submitted at least 10 days before that meeting.) · residential plan review fee: 45 USD per one-lot plan (Plus $10.00 per additional lot.) · commercial plan review fee: 70 USD (Plus $10.00 per 1000 square feet.) · DEP form fee: 20 USD · maximum fee: <= 1000 USD

    “The Fulton County Planning Commission is required to review and comment on any subdivision submitted to a Fulton County municipality for review and approval under the authority of their municipal subdivision ordinance.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    County addressing requests in Fulton County.

    • The driveway access must be marked when requesting an address.
    • This source establishes an addressing prerequisite, not a general driveway-construction permit.
    “Please provide the following information: What township the property is located in What street the property is located on Is it part of a subdivision, and if so, name of the subdivision The driveway access must be marked”

Pennsylvania rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential buildings and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems in Pennsylvania municipalities enforcing the Uniform Construction Code or under third-party agency enforcement.

    • The permit must be obtained before covered construction begins.
    • Emergency repairs or equipment replacement may proceed before application only if the permit application is submitted within 3 business days.
    • The regulation incorporates the exceptions in § 403.1(b), including specified UCC scope exclusions and exemptions.
    • No permit is required for listed limited work, including fences no more than 6 feet high; retaining walls no more than 4 feet high unless supporting a surcharge; certain water tanks up to 5,000 gallons with a height-to-diameter or width ratio no greater than 2 to 1; certain sidewalks and driveways no more than 30 inches above adjacent grade; prefabricated pools less than 24 inches deep; specified playground equipment; certain window awnings; uncovered decks no more than 30 inches above grade; communications wiring; ordinary repairs; and public-service-agency equipment.
    • The listed exemptions apply only if the work does not violate a law or ordinance.
    • Ordinary repair does not include cutting load-bearing walls or structural beams, changing required means of egress, or adding or relocating listed piping, wiring, or mechanical systems.

    emergency permit application deadline: 3 business days (after emergency repair or equipment replacement) · fence height exemption: <= 6 feet · retaining wall exemption height: <= 4 feet (unless supporting a surcharge) · water tank capacity exemption: <= 5000 gallons (height-to-diameter or width ratio no greater than 2 to 1) · sidewalk or driveway height exemption: <= 30 inches (not over a basement or story below) · prefabricated pool depth exemption: < 24 inches · uncovered deck height exemption: <= 30 inches

    “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a residential building [...] shall first apply to the building code official and obtain the required permit under § 403.62a (relating to permit application).”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction or building work in Fulton County governed by the Pennsylvania UCC.
      “before beginning any construction or building work, the property owner or an authorized representative must obtain a UCC building permit”
    • Required — Residential construction and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work in Fulton County under Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code.
      “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a residential building or erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace an electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system regulated by the Uniform Construction Code shall first apply to the building code official and obtain the required permit under § 403.62a (relating to permit application).”
    • Required — Commercial buildings, structures, facilities, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems in Pennsylvania jurisdictions enforcing the Uniform Construction Code.
      “An owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a commercial building, structure and facility [...] shall first apply to the building code official and obtain the required permit under § 403.42a (relating to permit application).”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable

    A property owner performing construction work on the owner's own primary residence in Pennsylvania without compensation, and most construction work for which Pennsylvania does not impose a statewide contractor licensure or certification requirement.

    • Pennsylvania has no statewide licensure or certification requirement for most construction contractors or their employees.
    • For home-improvement regulation, the statutory exclusion applies to work performed without compensation by the owner of the owner's private residence or residential rental property.
    • The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act excludes construction of a new home from the definition of home improvement.
    • Municipalities may impose their own contractor licensure or certification requirements.
    “The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania currently has no licensure or certification requirements for most construction contractors (or their employees).”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted

    Building construction throughout Pennsylvania under the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.

    • The UCC is administered and enforced locally by municipalities that opt in, using municipal employees or certified third-party agencies.
    • In municipalities that opt out, the Department of Labor and Industry is responsible for commercial code enforcement, while certified third-party agencies hired by property owners or contractors enforce residential UCC requirements.
    • The Department has sole jurisdiction for elevators and state-owned buildings wherever located.
    • The 2021 accessibility updates are permanently enjoined; structures must still comply with the 2018 accessibility requirements, and the injunction does not affect enforcement of non-accessibility UCC requirements.
    • The revised regulations adopting the 2018 I-Code series became effective February 14, 2022. Contract-based transition rules allow certain projects with contracts signed before that date to use the UCC in effect at the time of contract if application was made by August 14, 2022 or earlier.
    • The 2021 I-Code accessibility provisions became effective December 25, 2021, with a contract-based transition period allowing applications by June 25, 2022 or earlier.
    • Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code triennial update was published November 8, 2025 and became effective January 1, 2026.

    2018 I-Code regulations effective date: 2022-02-14 (For contracts signed before this date, application and permit issuance under the UCC in effect at the time of contract were allowed if application was made by 2022-08-14.) · 2021 I-Code accessibility provisions effective date: 2021-12-25 (For contracts signed before this date, application and permit issuance under the UCC in effect at the time of contract were allowed if application was made by 2022-06-25.) · 2025 triennial UCC update effective date: 2026-01-01

    “Pennsylvania's statewide building code, generally known as the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), has to be followed by builders in the state.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction in Fulton County subject to Pennsylvania's statewide Uniform Construction Code.
      “Pennsylvania's statewide building code, generally known as the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), has to be followed by builders in the state.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Building construction in Fulton County subject to Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code.
      “The Uniform Construction Code applies to the construction, alteration, repair, movement”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Residential construction for which a Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code permit was issued.

    • The permit holder must keep construction accessible and notify the construction code official when work is ready.
    • Required inspection areas are foundations; plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems; frame and masonry; and wallboard.
    • The official may conduct additional inspections for UCC or municipal-ordinance compliance.
    • A final inspection and final inspection report are required.
    • Third-party agencies under contract must submit the final inspection report to the property owner, builder, and designated lender.
    “A construction code official shall inspect all construction for which a permit was issued. The permit holder shall insure that the construction is accessible for inspection.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction for which a Pennsylvania UCC permit was issued.
      “A construction code official shall inspect all construction for which a permit was issued.”
    • Required — UCC-regulated construction in Fulton County.
      “A construction code official shall inspect all construction for which a permit was issued.”
    • Required — Construction or changes to commercial or residential buildings and listed building systems in Fulton County.
      “Inspections are also necessary in several cases, including construction or changes to commercial or residential buildings, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems, and the installation of swimming pools or hot tubs.”
    • Required — Commercial construction governed by §§ 403.41-403.48 of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.
      “A construction code official shall perform inspections to insure that the construction complies with the approved permit and the Uniform Construction Code.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Use or occupancy of a commercial building, structure, or facility governed by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.

    • A building, structure, or facility may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official.
    • The certificate is issued within 5 business days after receipt of a final inspection report indicating UCC compliance.
    • A certificate may cover a portion that independently meets the UCC.
    • The certificate may be suspended or revoked for issuance in error, incorrect applicant information, or UCC violation; the owner may request a board-of-appeals hearing before revocation.
    • A temporary certificate may cover a portion before completion of all permitted work only if the portion may be occupied safely, and the official must set its validity period.
    • The certificate must include the permit number and address, permit holder information, covered portion, issuing official, applicable code edition, designated occupancy and construction classifications, special stipulations and conditions, accessibility variances, and final-inspection date.

    certificate issuance deadline: 5 business days

    “A building, structure or facility may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Residential buildings constructed or occupied under the Pennsylvania UCC.
      “A residential building may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official.”
    • Required — Residential buildings and other UCC-regulated buildings in Fulton County.
      “A residential building may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official.”
    • Required — Use of a building or facility in Fulton County subject to Pennsylvania's UCC.
      “A UCC certificate of occupancy must be issued before a building or facility can be used.”
    • Required — Use or occupancy of a residential building governed by the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.
      “A residential building may not be used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy issued by a building code official.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Pennsylvania zoning requirements and district information; the official state source directs applicants to the local township, borough, or city.

    • Local registrations, permits, and zoning requirements must be addressed with the township, borough, or city where the activity will occur.
    • The source does not publish a statewide zoning-district map or a single statewide zoning-district schedule.
    • This claim does not identify or aggregate individual municipal zoning districts.
    “Local registrations, permits, zoning requirements and related questions should be directed to the township, borough, or city where you will be operating.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured housing assembled and shipped by the manufacturer and bearing the required federal-construction-and-safety label, including changes in occupancy, resale, relocation, additions, repairs, utility connections, and grading addressed by Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code.

    • For new labeled manufactured housing installed in conformity with the manufacturer's approved design, the UCC does not apply except as provided in the regulation.
    • Construction activities or processes, including utility connections and grading, that are not addressed by the manufacturer's approved design must comply with the UCC.
    • The UCC applies to alterations or repairs outside the federal manufactured-home standards and manufacturer installation instructions after assembly and shipment.
    • The UCC applies to additions after delivery to the site.
    • The UCC applies to construction, alteration, repair, or change of occupancy if the manufactured housing is resold to a subsequent purchaser.
    • The UCC applies to construction, alteration, repair, or change of occupancy if the original purchaser relocates the manufactured housing.
    • Pennsylvania building-permit guidance states that manufactured housing projects require inspections for site preparation, foundation construction, repairs, and changes in occupancy.
    • This state construction-code rule does not resolve local zoning, land-use siting, or utility/septic approval requirements.
    “Construction, alteration, repair or change of occupancy if the original purchaser relocates the manufactured housing.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation, construction, occupancy, or use of a building served by an individual or community onlot sewage system statewide.

    • A permit must be obtained from the local agency before installation, contracting for construction, construction, occupancy, or use.
    • Multiple chemical or portable toilets for temporary construction, recreation, or temporary facilities are covered by one permit.
    • A permit is not required for a recycling, incinerating, or composting toilet where the existing onlot system is not altered.
    • A permit exemption may apply to an individual onlot system serving an owner or immediate-family residence on a contiguous tract of at least 10 acres, subject to the owner-of-record date, local ordinance exception, notification, and siting requirements.
    • A permit is not required for a replacement dwelling when the local agency determines the size and anticipated use are the same as or less than the prior dwelling and the prior dwelling was in use within one year, except during an active malfunction investigation.

    permit-exemption tract size: >= 10 acres (Only under the specific owner/immediate-family and January 10, 1987 owner-of-record conditions.) · permit-exempt siting distance: >= 200 feet (Applies to septic tanks and absorption areas from listed property, water, floodplain, and related features.) · permit-exempt utility right-of-way distance: >= 10 feet · local-agency verification fee cap: <= 25 USD (For verifying siting of a permit-exempt system.)

    “without first obtaining a permit from the local agency, except as provided in subsections (c)—(e).”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Individual and community sewage-disposal systems before concealment or covering after construction.

    • The system may not be covered until approval to cover is given by the original permit issuer or authorized representative.
    • If 72 hours have elapsed after notification of construction completion, excluding Sundays and holidays, the applicant may cover the system unless permission has been refused.

    post-completion waiting period: 72 hours (Sundays and holidays excluded.)

    “shall be covered from view until approval to cover the same has been given by the body which issued the original permit”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Composting, incinerating, recycling, and similar water-conservation toilets used for residential or establishment sanitation statewide.

    • For a new residence or establishment, an onlot sewage system or other approved disposal method must treat washwater or excess liquid, and both facilities must be under one permit, except for the retaining-tank exception.
    • For an existing residence or facility with no alteration of the onlot system, no permit is required for installation.
    • A composting or incinerating toilet on a qualifying retaining-tank lot is treated as and permitted as a privy.
    • The device must meet manufacturer specifications and be operated and maintained to prevent pollution or health hazards.
    • Liquid discharges are prohibited unless sent to a compliant onlot sewage system or another method approved under the chapter or by DEP.
    • Recycling, incinerating, and composting toilets must bear the NSF Standard No. 41 seal.
    “an onlot sewage system or other approved method of sewage disposal shall be provided for treatment of washwater or excess liquid from the unit”
  • Well permitLimited

    Private water wells in Fulton County, including drilling by commercial water-well drilling companies and self-drilling by farmers or homeowners on their own or leased land.

    • Water-well drilling companies must obtain a license and permits to drill a well.
    • The licensing and permit requirement described on the official page does not apply to farmers or homeowners who drill their own water wells on their own or leased land.
    • Pennsylvania has construction standards for public water-supply wells but not for private water wells.
    • The source concerns water wells, not oil or gas wells or public water-system construction permits.

    driller license year: June 1 to May 31 · driller license fee: 60 USD per year · rig permit fee: 20 USD each

    “Water well drilling companies must get a license and permits to drill a well in Pennsylvania. The license year runs from June 1 to May 31. This does not apply to farmers or homeowners who drill their own water wells on their own or leased land.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Water-well drilling statewide, distinguishing commercial water-well drillers from farmers and homeowners drilling their own wells on owned or leased land.
      “Water well drilling companies must get a license and permits to drill a well in Pennsylvania.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Public electric or gas utility connection for completed UCC-regulated construction in Fulton County.

    • A building code official may authorize temporary connection during construction.
    • Completed public electric or gas connection may not occur unless the permit holder provides written proof that the building passed required inspections.
    “Connection to a public electric or gas utility for the completed construction may not occur unless”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Qualifying agricultural buildings under Pennsylvania's Construction Code Act and Uniform Construction Code.

    • The exemption applies to an agricultural building as defined by the Act: a structure used to store farm implements, hay, feed, grain, or other agricultural or horticultural products; house poultry, livestock, or other farm animals; serve as a milk house; or grow mushrooms, agricultural, or horticultural products.
    • The definition includes a qualifying carriage house owned and used by members of a recognized religious sect for housing horses and storing buggies.
    • The definition includes a structure less than 1,000 square feet used to process maple sap.
    • The structure must not include habitable space.
    • The structure must not contain spaces where agricultural products are processed, treated, or packaged.
    • The structure is not a place of occupancy by the general public.
    • Other municipal land-use, zoning, fire, electrical, health, or environmental requirements may still apply; the cited exclusion is from the Construction Code Act.

    maple sap processing structure area: < 1000 square feet (Must otherwise meet the statutory agricultural-building definition.)

    “(b) Exclusions.--This act shall not apply to any of the following: [...] (4) Any agricultural building.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Agricultural buildings covered by Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code Act.
      ““Agricultural building.” A structure utilized to store farm implements, hay, feed, grain or other agricultural or horticultural products or to house poultry, livestock or other farm animals, a milk house and a structure used to grow mushrooms. The term includes a carriage house owned and used by members of a recognized religious sect for the purposes of housing horses and storing buggies. The term shall not include habitable space or spaces in which agricultural products are processed, treated or packaged and shall not be construed to mean a place of occupancy by the general public. [...] (4) any agricultural building;”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development activities within a Special Flood Hazard Area in Pennsylvania municipalities.

    • Municipalities must evaluate whether a project is within the SFHA and identify the type of work.
    • Municipalities must review permit applications and issue or deny permits for SFHA development.
    • Municipalities must conduct periodic inspections for compliance with proposed plans and the floodplain ordinance.
    • After completion, municipalities review required certificates and issue a certificate of occupancy when the development complies with the local floodplain ordinance.
    • Additional zoning permit requirements may apply when proposed land use changes.
    “A floodplain development permit (or its equivalent) must be issued by the municipality before development activities occur within the SFHA.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction in a flood plain subject to the Pennsylvania UCC.
      “When construction will occur in a flood plain, documentation required in Section 1612.5 of the 2018 International Building Code shall be prepared and sealed by a registered design professional.”
    • Limited — Activities subject to Pennsylvania Chapter 106 Floodplain Management permitting and authorizations.
      “The site restoration permit is only for the removal of a highway obstruction or obstruction owned or maintained by the Commonwealth”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Short-term lodging rentals of rooms, apartments, or houses for fewer than 30 days to the same person in Pennsylvania.

    • The Pennsylvania hotel occupancy tax rate is 6 percent.
    • Allegheny and Philadelphia counties have an additional 1 percent local hotel tax collected by the Department of Revenue.
    • Some counties impose an additional tax collected by the county treasurer.
    • If the taxpayer does not exclusively use a third-party booking site, or the broker does not collect and remit the hotel occupancy tax, the taxpayer must register with the Department of Revenue for a Sales, Use and Hotel Occupancy Tax License.
    • If a taxpayer exclusively uses a third-party booking site and the broker confirms collection and remittance, the homeowner should not register for a Sales, Use and Hotel Occupancy Tax License.

    lodging duration threshold: < 30 days (To the same person.) · Pennsylvania hotel occupancy tax rate: 6 percent

    “anyone who rents out their property to provide lodging for less than 30 days to the same person must collect and remit”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry UCC building permits and related services applicable when the Department is the issuing authority.

    • The published schedule is identified as effective November 8, 2025.
    • For new buildings and additions, the standard fee is $414.49 plus $0.84 per square foot of floor area or each fraction of floor area.
    • Expedited permits are $1,705.75 plus $0.84 per square foot and $206.60 per hour for inspections outside normal business hours.
    • Alterations, renovations, or modifications have a standard fee of $414.49 plus $83.93 for each $1,000 of estimated cost; expedited work is $1,705.75 plus the same cost-based fee and $206.60 per hour for inspections outside normal business hours.
    • The schedule also lists fees for other services, including new structures, accessibility review, demolition, annual permits, plan revisions, variances, phased approval, in-home day care, document copies, and duplicate certificates of occupancy.

    fee schedule effective date: 2025-11-08 · new building or addition standard fee: 414.49 USD (plus $0.84 per square foot of floor area or each fraction) · new building or addition expedited fee: 1705.75 USD (plus $0.84 per square foot and $206.60 per hour for inspections outside normal business hours) · alteration or renovation standard fee: 414.49 USD (plus $83.93 per $1,000 of estimated cost)

    “Service | Fee Effective November 8th, 2025 --- | --- 1. Permit for new buildings and additions Standard fee | $414.49 Plus $0.84 per square foot of floor area or each fraction of floor area”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry UCC permit applications that may apply in Fulton County.
      “A check or money order made payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the applicable fee. The department is now offering expedited plan review performed within seven days of receipt of a written request for an additional cost.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry UCC permits and inspections in its jurisdiction affecting Fulton County.
      “A check or money order made payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the applicable fee. Please click here for fee schedule. The department is now offering expedited plan review performed within seven days of receipt of a written request for an additional cost. It is also offering inspections outside of normal business hours (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5p.m., excluding holidays) upon written request from the applicant at an additional cost. Fees paid cover plan review and all inspections.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — PennDOT highway occupancy permits, including driveway permits, for work involving state highway land or a PennDOT drainage facility.
      “Permit costs vary. Please contact the district permit manager or consult our regulations. View the Pennsylvania Code, Title 67, Chapter 441.4 or driveway fees or Chapter 459.4 for utility fees.”
    • Variable (with conditions) — PennDOT Highway Occupancy Permit fees for driveways, local roads, and related facilities in Pennsylvania state highway rights-of-way.
      “Permit costs vary. Please contact the district permit manager or consult our regulations. View the Pennsylvania Code, Title 67, Chapter 441.4 or driveway fees or Chapter 459.4 for utility fees.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Pennsylvania UCC building-permit process applicable to construction in Fulton County.

    • Applicants must identify the political subdivision and county.
    • The Department will not process applications lacking that information.
    • Electronic Plan Review and paper submissions are accepted.
    • Paper submissions require three complete sets of construction drawings and one set of specifications.
    • A completed UCC application form is required for listed project types.

    paper construction drawing sets: 3 sets (Electronic Plan Review has different submission requirements) · paper specification sets: 1 set

    “It is imperative that applicants indicate the name of the political subdivision and the county where the proposed construction will occur. Without this, we cannot verify that the Department has jurisdiction for this work. We will not process applications that lack this information.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — UCC building permit applications and inspections in Fulton County.
      “The following items (1-9) constitute a complete UCC application package”
    • Published (with conditions) — Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code building permits for construction and building work subject to the UCC.
      “The UCC requires property owners to obtain a construction or building permit before starting any work.”
    • Partial — Local registrations, permits, and zoning inquiries for businesses and development in Pennsylvania.
      “Local registrations, permits, zoning requirements and related questions should be directed to the township, borough, or city where you will be operating.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    RV use and occupancy at Pennsylvania state park campgrounds.

    • Use must occur at a state park campground and comply with campsite rules.
    • Campers may stay up to 14 consecutive nights from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
    • Campers may camp up to 21 consecutive nights during the remainder of the year.
    • Campers must vacate and remove all equipment for 48 hours between reservations.
    • A maximum of two sleeping units is permitted per campsite, of which only one may be wheeled.
    • Campsite occupancy is limited to one family unit or one non-family unit limited to five persons per site.
    • The page does not establish statewide permission for long-term or residential RV occupancy outside state park campgrounds.

    maximum stay, Memorial Day to Labor Day: 14 consecutive nights · maximum stay, remainder of year: 21 consecutive nights · equipment-removal interval between reservations: 48 hours · maximum sleeping units per campsite: 2 units (Only one may be wheeled.) · maximum non-family occupancy: 5 persons per site (One family unit is permitted instead.)

    “maximum of two sleeping units are permitted per campsite, of which only one may be wheeled.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary camping at Pennsylvania state park campgrounds.
      “Campers may camp for up to 21 consecutive nights”
  • county zoning authorityLimited

    County zoning authority over land in Pennsylvania municipalities that lack an effective municipal zoning ordinance.

    • County zoning power is limited to land in municipalities wholly or partly within the county that have no zoning ordinance in effect when the county zoning ordinance is introduced and until the municipal zoning ordinance becomes effective.
    • A zoning ordinance enacted by a municipality other than the county repeals the county zoning ordinance pro tanto within that municipality.
    • The statute defines a county under the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code as a county of the second through eighth class.
    “The powers of the governing bodies of counties to enact, amend and repeal zoning ordinances shall be limited to land in those municipalities, wholly or partly within the county, which have no zoning ordinance in effect at the time a zoning ordinance is introduced before the governing body of the county and until the municipality's zoning ordinance is in effect. The enactment of a zoning ordinance by any municipality, other than the county, whose land is subject to county zoning shall act as a repeal protanto of the county zoning ordinance within the municipality adopting such ordinance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Pennsylvania counties adopting and enforcing zoning ordinances on unincorporated land.
      “Section 602. County Powers.--The powers of the governing bodies of counties to enact, amend and repeal zoning ordinances shall be limited to land in those municipalities, wholly or partly within the county, which have no zoning ordinance in effect at the time a zoning ordinance is introduced before the governing body of the county and until the municipality's zoning ordinance is in effect.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    Pennsylvania county authority over building-code administration and enforcement for residential construction in unincorporated areas.

    • The general Pennsylvania Construction Code Act assigns administration and enforcement to municipalities, not counties.
    • A county of the second class may retain authority only if it has adopted a plumbing code and accompanying rules and regulations under the Local Health Administration Law.
    • The retained authority is limited to promulgating and enforcing that plumbing code and making changes that meet the minimum requirements of the Uniform Construction Code.
    • The official Department of Labor and Industry page states that residential UCC requirements in opt-out municipalities are enforced by certified third-party agencies hired by property owners or contractors.
    “A county of the second class that has adopted a plumbing code and accompanying rules and regulations pursuant to the act of August 24, 1951 (P.L.1304, No.315), known as the Local Health Administration Law, shall retain the authority to promulgate and enforce such plumbing code and to make such changes as it deems necessary, provided that such changes meet the minimum requirements as defined in the Uniform Construction Code.”

Inside cities and towns in Fulton County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings constructed or enlarged in the R2 Two-Household Residential District of McConnellsburg Borough, Fulton County, Pennsylvania.

    • The rule applies specifically to McConnellsburg Borough's R2 district, not countywide or unincorporated Fulton County.
    • The front yard is 30 feet or the average front-yard depth of structures on the block, whichever is less.
    • The side yard is 15 feet or the average side-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever is less.
    • The rear yard is not less than 40 feet or the average rear-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever comes first.
    • For corner lots, the front yard is 25 feet or the average front-yard depth of existing structures or the block, whichever is less.
    • For corner lots, the side yard abutting a street is 20 feet or the average side-yard depth of existing structures on all adjacent corner lots, whichever is less.
    • For corner lots, the side yard not abutting a street is 15 feet or the average side-yard depth of existing structures on the block.
    • For corner lots, the rear yard is not less than 40 feet or the average rear-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever comes first.
    • An accessory building in the rear yard is permitted under Article VIII, Section 806.
    • Projections into yards are permitted under the standards in Article VIII, Section 806.

    front yard depth: 30 feet (or average front-yard depth of structures on the block, whichever is less) · side yard depth: 15 feet (or average side-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever is less) · rear yard depth: >= 40 feet (or average rear-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever comes first) · corner-lot front yard depth: 25 feet (or average front-yard depth of existing structures or the block, whichever is less) · corner-lot side yard abutting street: 20 feet (or average side-yard depth of existing structures on all adjacent corner lots, whichever is less) · corner-lot side yard not abutting street: 15 feet (or average side-yard depth of existing structures on the block) · corner-lot rear yard depth: >= 40 feet (or average rear-yard depth of existing structures on the block, whichever comes first) · accessory building in rear yard: permitted (see Article VIII, Section 806) · yard projections: permitted (must comply with Article VIII, Section 806)

    “Rear Yard Depth - Not less than forty (40) feet, or the average rear yard depth”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings and enlargements in the McConnellsburg Borough zoning district addressed by the cited yard-setback provision.
      “No building shall be constructed or enlarged unless the minimum yard setback requirements are provided for. 1. Front Yard Depth - 0 feet or the front yard setback of the adjacent existing structures. 2. Side Yard Depth as follows: a. Side Yard abutting commercial property - No setback required. b. Side Yard abutting residential property - Not less than the setback of the adjacent existing structure. 3. Rear Yard Depth - Not less than five (5) feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Zoning setbacks for buildings in McConnellsburg Borough zoning districts.
      “Rear Yard Depth - Not less than five (5) feet.”

Set by your town or city, not the county

In Pennsylvania, zoning is adopted by each town or city, so Fulton County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your town or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Minimum lot size
  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Fulton County, Pennsylvania

Is Fulton County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Fulton County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and manageable long-term carry cost.

Do you need a building permit in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

Fulton County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Local/municipal agency Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO) under PA DEP Act 537. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Fulton County, Pennsylvania?

Land in Fulton County runs about $5,350 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Fulton County?

Fulton County gets about 41.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 0.7% of years.

How remote is Fulton County?

A representative private-land location has about 8,604 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,118,208 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Fulton compares in Pennsylvania

Compare side-by-side →See all 67 Pennsylvania counties ranked →