Thinking about turning your Taylor home into a duplex to add income or space for family? It can be a smart move, but success hinges on zoning and permits. Taylor Borough has clear rules on where conversions are allowed, how big each unit must be, and what approvals you need. This guide walks you through the essentials, from zoning checks to inspections, so you can plan with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Check your zoning first
If you own a single-family home in Taylor, the first question is whether your property sits in a district that allows a conversion. Taylor’s zoning permits residential conversions to add units only in the R-2 and R-3 districts, and only when specific standards are met. You can review the borough’s conversion rules in the municipal code section for supplementary regulations on conversions and parking requirements (Taylor Zoning Ordinance on eCode360).
Before you draw plans, confirm your zoning district. Start with the borough’s zoning map reference and district rules, then verify with the borough office if needed (confirm your zoning district). If your property is not in R-2 or R-3, you would need to seek a variance, special exception if available, or a rezoning, which adds time and uncertainty.
Key requirements for conversions
Minimum unit size and egress
Taylor sets minimum sizes for conversions. The structure must have at least 1,700 square feet of living space, and no dwelling unit may be smaller than 850 square feet. Each unit must have two independent means of egress. Review these local standards in the borough code’s conversion section (conversion requirements and egress).
Parking on site
Expect to provide off-street parking that meets Taylor’s standards in §180-31 and Table III. The conversion rules specifically require on-site spaces that match the borough’s count and layout criteria. If your lot cannot accommodate the required spaces without violating setbacks, you will likely need zoning relief (off-street parking standards).
Lot and setback rules
Dimensional standards for two-family dwellings apply, including minimum lot frontage and yard setbacks. If your lot does not meet these standards, discuss options with the Zoning Officer. Some projects may require a variance from the Zoning Hearing Board (dimensional rules overview).
Permits and inspections you will need
Zoning approval
File a zoning permit to confirm the conversion is allowed on your lot. If relief is needed, the Zoning Hearing Board handles variances and certain special exceptions. You can find the borough contact and application details on the Zoning Hearing Board page (Zoning Officer: Anthony Mengoni) (Taylor Zoning Hearing Board page).
Building permits under the UCC
Any conversion that adds a dwelling unit triggers building permits under Pennsylvania’s Uniform Construction Code. You will submit plans, undergo inspections, and must receive a UCC Certificate of Occupancy before anyone can live in the new unit (PA UCC plan review and inspections).
Sewer and utility coordination
If you are adding plumbing fixtures or a new kitchen, expect plumbing permits and possible sewer approvals. Taylor references sewer hook-up permits and deposits in the local code (local sewer permit reference). Taylor is served through regional arrangements, so coordinate early with the Lower Lackawanna Valley Sewer Authority to confirm requirements and capacity (LLVSA overview).
Site and risk checks in Taylor
Parking and lot capacity
Parking is a common dealbreaker. Confirm you can fit the required spaces on site without violating setbacks. Review parking counts, dimensions, and any accessibility requirements with the borough early (parking rules summary).
Mine subsidence awareness
Much of Taylor sits over historic coal mines. Mine subsidence can affect insurance and structural planning. Use the state’s resources to assess risk and consider Mine Subsidence Insurance if maps show mining under your parcel (PA Mine Subsidence Insurance program).
Floodplain or stormwater limits
If your property is in a mapped floodplain or your project disturbs soils, stormwater and floodplain rules may apply. The borough’s code includes floodplain overlay and related development standards (floodplain and stormwater references).
Step-by-step timeline
- Confirm zoning district for your parcel and whether conversions are allowed as-of-right. If not, discuss variance or rezoning strategy with the borough. Typical time: same day to 2 weeks to confirm zoning; months if pursuing a map amendment.
- Schedule a pre-application chat with the Zoning Officer. Review parking, egress, utilities, and whether Board action is likely. This quick conversation can save time later.
- Prepare a simple site plan and floor plans showing separate entries, egress, and parking. Use a professional if Board relief is likely.
- Submit a zoning permit or Board application. If a hearing is required, public notice and scheduling can add 6 to 12 weeks or more.
- Apply for building permits under the UCC. Submit construction drawings. Plan review often takes 1 to 6 weeks, followed by inspections during work.
- Coordinate utilities, sewer, addresses, and meters. Obtain any sewer permits and schedule utility work.
- After inspections pass, obtain the UCC Certificate of Occupancy. Only then can the new unit be occupied or rented.
For a straightforward conversion with no hearings, expect several weeks to a few months. If you need variances or major structural work, plan for many months.
Pro tips for a smooth conversion
- Start with parking. Sketch out stall locations and turning paths to see if your lot can meet the standard without setbacks conflicts.
- Document egress early. Plan two independent exits for each unit and show them clearly on your drawings.
- Size matters. Verify your existing square footage and confirm each unit will meet the 850 square foot minimum.
- Bring the right packet. Have your deed or parcel ID, a zoning map printout for your district, basic site and floor plans, and any prior permits handy for your first meeting.
- Keep communications local. Check in with the Zoning Officer during planning and with inspectors during construction to avoid surprises.
Local contacts and resources
- Taylor Borough Zoning Officer and Zoning Hearing Board applications: use the borough page for contacts, forms, and schedules (Taylor Zoning Hearing Board page).
- Taylor Zoning Ordinance and conversion standards: review the supplementary regulations and parking requirements (Taylor Zoning Ordinance on eCode360).
- Pennsylvania UCC permits, inspections, and Certificate of Occupancy guidance: process details and plan review steps (PA UCC plan review and inspections).
Ready to evaluate a property or plan your next step? If you want local perspective on value, rent potential, or resale strategy in Taylor and greater Lackawanna County, reach out to Michael S Taluto for clear, neighborhood-focused guidance.
FAQs
Can I convert my Taylor single-family home to a duplex?
- Conversions are permitted only in Taylor’s R-2 and R-3 districts and must meet size, egress, parking, and lot standards; otherwise you will need zoning relief or rezoning.
Do I need a Certificate of Occupancy for the new unit?
- Yes, after permits and inspections under the Pennsylvania UCC, a Certificate of Occupancy is required before the new unit can be legally occupied or rented.
How many parking spaces will I need on site?
- Taylor requires on-site parking per §180-31 and Table III; the exact number depends on use and must also meet layout and setback rules.
What if my lot is too small or lacks frontage?
- If your lot cannot meet dimensional or parking standards, discuss variance options with the Zoning Officer and consider a Zoning Hearing Board application.
Are there special local risks to consider in Taylor?
- Many properties lie over abandoned coal mines; check state mine maps and consider Mine Subsidence Insurance if your parcel shows mining risk.
