Lower Paxton, PA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Section 203-617(A)(15) sets the home day care rule in Lower Paxton Township. Day care homes other than those defined in Article II of the zoning chapter shall meet all of the foregoing requirements for a home occupation as well as three additional requirements. Paragraph (a) requires adequate areas for outdoor recreation, secured by a fence with a self-latching gate. Paragraph (b) requires a safe area for the drop-off and pick up of children who do not obstruct the free flow of traffic on any public street. Paragraph (c) requires off-street parking in accordance with Article IX of the chapter.

The foregoing requirements are substantial. The day care must be carried on wholly within the principal or accessory structures, and no more than 15% of the gross floor area of the dwelling and any accessory structures used can be devoted to it. Exterior signs other than those permitted in Article X, exterior storage, and any exterior indication of the use or variation from the residential character of the principal structure are not permitted. The use shall not significantly intensify existing vehicular or pedestrian traffic normal for the neighborhood, shall not require alterations that change the fire rating of a structure, and shall not increase use of water, sewage, garbage, public safety, or other municipal services beyond what is normal for neighboring residences. One work vehicle is permitted on the premises.

Because a home occupation is a permitted 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 all lots within 200 feet with owner names and addresses, and the fee from the Township's adopted fee schedule. A public hearing follows within 60 days of a complete application, and approval expires automatically if no grading permit, building permit, or zoning certificate application is submitted within 12 months. Section 203-712(A)(3) separately says the adult day care provisions do not apply to home based day cares classified as an accessory use.