Lower Paxton, PA Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)

Section 203-713(A) sets five standards for a child day care center in Lower Paxton Township. The facility shall be licensed as such by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and proof of the valid license shall be provided to the Township before it issues a zoning occupancy permit. Ingress and egress shall be designed to ensure the safe dropping off and pick up of children, and all drop-off locations shall be designed so as not to interfere with the free flow of traffic on adjacent streets. Outdoor play areas shall be provided and secured by a fence at least four feet in height with a self-latching gate. Play areas that adjoin residential lots shall be screened by a bufferyard as defined by Article V of the chapter. Off-street parking shall follow Article IX.

The chapter defines a child day care center as a facility, licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, located within a building not used as a dwelling unit, for the care of children under the age of 16 for a portion of a 24-hour day. The definition includes nursery schools that provide daytime care or instruction for two or more children of preschool age.

Because the use is a special exception, the Zoning Hearing Board decides it under § 203-700. The application goes to the Zoning Officer with a development plan, a written statement showing compliance with the express standards, a map of lots within 200 feet with owner names and addresses, a traffic impact analysis if the Township subdivision ordinance requires one, and the fee from the adopted fee schedule. A public hearing follows within 60 days of a complete application, the Board can prescribe conditions and safeguards, and approval expires automatically if no grading permit, building permit, or zoning certificate application is filed within 12 months. The adult day care standard in § 203-712 is separate and requires registration or licensing by the commonwealth and a safe drop-off area.