Property Maintenance

Spring Cleaning Tips 

Spring is here and it’s the time most of us clean up the property from the winter months.  The following is a list of items to help you with the spring clean-up chores:

• Clean and check your rain gutters and downspouts.  Please make sure your downspouts are not directed to an adjoining property.
• Downed limbs and brush should be disposed of as per the requirements of our Refuse Department.  Please check our webpage for helpful hints.
• Check your windows and doors to make sure they operate correctly and are properly sealed.  Please make sure all locks are working.
• When mulching your flower beds, please keep your mulch at least six inches below the level of your sill plate.
• Spring is the time to check your roof.  If you are not comfortable on your roof, please have the roof inspected by a licensed and insured roofing specialist.
• Spring is a great time to look over your trees and make sure they are in good shape.   Any damaged tree should be inspected by an arborist, as there are several ways to address a damaged tree, other than to remove it.
• Clean-outs are very common in the spring, so please keep in mind that dumpsters and pods are not permitted within the public right-of-ways.   Pods require a permit from our department and that application can be found on our website.
• Please check the condition of your sidewalks and walkways.  If they need to be replaced or are a tripping hazard, please have them repaired.
• The installation of sheds is very common in the spring and summer months.  Adding a shed or garage to a property requires a permit.  That application can be found on our website.
• Another very common residential property improvement in the Spring & Summer is the installation of fencing.  Please be aware that the installation of or the replacement of  fencing does not require a permit in Springfield Township, however there are limitations on the placement of fencing over four feet in height.  Please contact our office prior to any fence work.
• Last year there was a large increase in the number of homes that installed pools on their properties.   Please be aware that a permit is required for the installation of a swimming pool and in most cases an electrical permit is also required.
• The spring season generally brings rain.  If you have a drainage swale or inlet on your property, please make sure it is free of leaves and other debris that may cause a blockage.
• The outside storage of junk, old appliances, car parts and the like are a Property Maintenance issue and are required to be removed from the property.  Contact a private hauler or review the Township’s Website to see what items can be placed in your weekly trash.
• Spring is the time to get outside, walk around and connect with your neighbors. Take advantage of all of the things Springfield Township has to offer.  For more ideas, check out our Park’s Department Page on the website.
• Please take the time to check on our older residents and if any help is needed, please feel free to contact our office.
• Please be aware that planting trees and shrubs within the limits of the public right-of-way is not permitted.  As these plants grow they cause sight obstructions for your neighbors exiting their driveways.   
• Do not forget to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
• Please remember to call PA One-Call at {811} before you dig on your property or within the public right-of-way.

For more information about property maintenance or permitting, please call the Springfield Township Department of Community Development at 215.836.7600.