Lower Merion Township, PA
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Sunrise to sunset (except where posted).
- No.
- The Parks & Recreation Department office at 610-645-6220.
- Yes, restrooms are open from May through mid November (as weather permits) at Ashbridge Memorial Park, Bala Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, Flat Rock, General Wayne, Gladwyne, McMoran, Penn Wynne, Richie Ashburn Field, South Ardmore, Vernon V. Young and Wynnewood Valley Parks.
- Yes, you may bring your own Grill to the park, but all charcoal must be full extinguished and disposed of properly.
- Program information can be obtained by visiting www.lowermerionrec.com.
- We accept cash, money order and checks payable to Treasurer, Township of Lower Merion. Credit Cards are also accepted in person and on-line (fees apply).
- Click here for the list of additional recreation program providers.
- Yes, Ardmore and Belmont Hills. Contact the Parks & Recreation Department office at 610-645-6220 or go to the Pool Information page for more information.
- Contact the Parks & Recreation Department office at 610-645-6220 or go to the Pool Information page for more information.
- Lower Merion Township does NOT have an indoor swimming pool, however, Lower Merion High School allows community use of their indoor pool. For more information, please contact 610-645-1889 or visit their Pool Information Page.
- Groups of five persons or more desiring the use of picnic tables must obtain a permit.
- To obtain a permit for use of Picnic Areas and/or Field Space, Lower Merion residents must complete an Application for Use of Township Property (PDF). Please see Fee Schedule for appropriate fee. Payment must be received with the application to reserve the date, time and location.
- Comfort stations and water fountains in Township parks will be opened in mid-April, once the threat of frost has passed and shut down in anticipation of the first threat of frost. Not all picnic areas have comfort stations.
- Applications can be submitted via email, however, the date, time and location will not be reserved until payment is received.
- Permits are issued for up to 6 hours of time.
- Parks are open sunrise and sunset, daily local time.
- The Belmont Hills Community Center is available to Lower Merion Township residents for birthday parties and bridal/baby showers. For pricing information, please refer to our Current Fee Schedule. No alcohol is permitted.
- You are permitted to make special arrangements at your event, however, you may be required to provide a Certificate of Insurance with Lower Merion Township listed as an additional insured.
- Events may be canceled at any time, however refunds are accompanied by an Administration Fee.
- Permit dates may be rescheduled at no additional charge if your event had to be cancelled due to inclement weather.
- Permit Change Requests are accompanied by an Administration Fee.
- The Bala Gym is located on Bala Avenue in Bala Cynwyd. The facility is mostly used for programming, such as gymnastics and basketball, however it can be used by outside groups. No food is permitted in the facility. To obtain a permit, Lower Merion Residents must complete an Application for Use of Township Property(PDF). Please See Fee Schedule for appropriate fee.
- Vernon V. Young Park at Ardmore and Spring Avenues in Ardmore from April through mid November (dates are approximate).
- Yes, at Lewis Smith Park located on Mary Waters Ford Road behind Belmont Hills swimming pool. Open 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily.
- Yes, at Flat Rock Park in Gladwyne. A permit is required to launch motorized boats, including personal watercraft (PWC) from the park’s boat launch. Go to the Flat Rock Park Boating Facilities page for more information or contact the Parks & Recreation Department office at 610-645-6220.
- Wynnewood Valley and Bala Avenue Parks have dedicated Pickleball Courts. For a list of other parks with Pickleball overlays, please visit our Township Parks page, which sorts by available amenities.
Please visit the Off Leash Dog Program page for Information regarding dogs and Lower Merion Township parks, including a list of parks where dogs are permitted.
- An Off Leash Permit may be purchased to exercise dogs off-leash in designated areas of Rolling Hill Park in Gladwyne and West Mill Creek Park in Penn Valley. Go to the Off-Leash Dog Program page for more information or contact the Parks & Recreation Department office at 610-645-6220.
- A PA dog license can be purchased on-line at www.padoglicenses.com.
No, paper must be separated from other recyclables. You may commingle glass, plastic, etc. but paper should be in either its own container or a paper bag beside the recycling bin.
The Township provides recycling containers only. The resident must provide their own refuse container with a capacity of no more than 48 gallons for a standard can, or no more than 20 gallons for a mini-can. Residents may purchase the refuse container of their choosing through any retailer. To request recycling containers, please fill out the Solid Waste change form.
Refuse and Recycling are collected every week. Recycling collection type is alternated week by week. Please visit the Lower Merion Trash & Recycling Guide and Schedule for more information. Please use the Address Lookup on the homepage, www.lowermerion.org, to determine your collection day.
I am a new homeowner in the Township and want to make sure my trash gets picked up. How do I start service?
Please fill out this form to ensure you are subscribed to the correct level of service.
Existing homeowners can use this form to add more cans or add Rear Yard collection to their subscription. Decreases in service level are only allowed during the month of December.
- No, this bill is not paid through your mortgage company or escrow.
- A sanitary sewer rent bill is for water discharged from your property from any drain into the Township's sanitary sewer system. Your sanitary sewer rent bill should arrive during the first week of June. The bill is based on your prior year's water consumption as reported by Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc. If you have not received a bill by the end of the first week of June, please call the Finance Department at 610-645-4767. Refer to the front of your bill for due dates and the bottom of your bill for important general information.
This bill is calculated based on your water consumption as reported by AQUA PA. If your bill does not match your AQUA water consumption, please contact the Finance department at (610) 645-4767.
- No, mortgage companies do not pay the Sanitary Sewer bill. You must pay the bill as you would any other utility bill (water, electric, etc.). Please do not rely on your mortgage company to pay this bill, as you may miss the discount period and become delinquent.
I am a new homeowner and this bill is based on last year's consumption when I didn't live in the house. Do I still need to pay?
Yes. The prior year's consumption creates the current year's bill. However, if you believe your water consumption will be significantly lower than the prior owner, you may be eligible for the New Homeowner's Credit. To qualify, you must pay the current bill as it was issued and submit the required documents when you have been in the home for 12 months. If there is a difference between your usage and the prior owner's usage, the Township will issue a refund check to you.
The Township of Lower Merion offers a one-time only sanitary sewer rent credit to new homeowners who occupy the property. The new homeowner’s credit does not apply to rental or commercial properties.
Sanitary Sewer Rent is based on water usage. If your yearly water usage proves to be less than the prior owner’s yearly usage, the Township will refund the difference. To qualify for this credit, you must pay the current sanitary sewer rent bill and then submit the following items:
1. A letter requesting the New Homeowner’s credit.
2. A copy of the settlement page that shows whether or not you received sewer rent credit.
3. Twelve consecutive (one year) water readings from Aqua Pennsylvania Company. Please note that the last reading provided must be an actual reading.
4. Proof of payment of the sanitary sewer rent bill you’re requesting credit against.Email all of the above to sewer@lowermerion.org
- To receive a credit for water that fills your swimming pool or feeds your irrigation system, you must have a Special Meter attached to the water line that supplies the pool or irrigation system. This meter must be installed by a plumber at your expense. When you call your plumber, ask for a Deduct Water Meter. Installation charges vary based on the plumber and equipment. This meter must be registered before use with a member of our Sanitary Sewer Division. Please see the FAQs for more information on the Special Meter program and registering your meter.
The box labeled Credit shows the gallonage that has been subtracted from your bill. That amount is subtracted from your Total usage, the result of which is the Net amount.
After you register, you will receive a postcard around January. The card that you receive in the mail will have your Special Meter’s location, brand name, and serial number indicated. Read the rolling dials on that meter, and write them on the card or enter them into the online form. Be careful to read the Special Meter and not the main House Meter.
The main House Meter has a Black plastic piece on the DIAL and a wire that runs outside. This is not the Special Meter, do not report that reading. This is the main water meter for the entire house. The Special Meter will not have the black plastic piece on the dial and it will not have a wire.
If you are having trouble reading your Special Meter, please call the Public Works Office at 610-645-6150.
I forgot to turn in my card with the meter reading/I haven’t turned in a reading for a few years. Can I still get credit?
If you forget to submit a reading for 1-2 years you will be allowed to submit a reading and get up to a 2-year credit. However, your credit cannot be more than your current year’s usage, and you will still be required to pay at least the minimum bill (20.0 k/gal). To ensure that you receive full credit, submit a reading every year prior to the deadline specified on the postcard you receive.
If it has been more than 3 years since you submitted a reading, you will be removed from the system and will need to re-register with the current meter reading. That reading will be treated as an initial reading and you will not get credit for the years that you did not report readings.
Because water consumption varies by home, the best way to determine whether a Special Meter would be a good choice for you is to look at your quarterly water usage. If you see a significant spike in usage in the 3rd quarter, and somewhat elevated usage in Q4, chances are some of that water is being used for filling a pool and/or watering the landscaping in the summer months.
To calculate your potential savings, use Q1 and Q2 as your baseline and calculate the average of those 2 numbers. Then, normalize your usage across all 4 quarters to see how much water is potentially unsewered.
Example 1: Spike in Q3, slight elevation in Q4.
Q1 & Q2 average 15.5 k/gal. Estimated unsewered consumption 32.3 k/gal in Q3 (47.8 - 32.2 = 15.5) and 10.7 k/gal in Q4 (26.2 – 10.7 = 15.5). Total estimated unsewered usage 43 k/gal. 43 x 4.51
Qtr 1
Qtr 2
Qtr 3
Qtr 4
Total
Rate
13.0
18.1
47.8
26.2
105.1
$4.51
In this example, the bill prior to the installation of a Special Meter would be the Total k/gallonage multiplied by the Rate, 105.1 x $4.51 = $474.00. With a Special Meter, assuming a meter reading of 43 k/gal, the unsewered amount would be subtracted from the bill as follows. 105.1 - 43 = 62.1 x 4.51 = $280.07. This would be a savings of $193.93. Depending on the cost of the meter and installation, this meter would likely pay for itself in just a couple of years.
Example 2: stable usage, no significant savings
Qtr 1
Qtr 2
Qtr 3
Qtr 4
Total
Rate
15.5
18.9
16.7
17.5
68.6
$4.51
In this example, the water consumption is stable across all 4 quarters. This resident likely does not do a significant amount of exterior watering or have a pool. They would not realize any savings by installing a Special Meter.
Once you have the meter installed, please complete this form. If you prefer to print and mail the form, you may do so by printing this form. You must register your meter and report an annual reading to receive credit for the unsewered water. At the beginning of next year, a Special Meter Reading card will be mailed to you. You will return the card with a current reading and the usage will be deducted from the next sanitary sewer rent bill.
No, we cannot issue a retroactive credit without a Special Meter reading. Per the Township Code §126-12, and Ord. No. 1842, “the quantity of water so used and not discharged into the Township sewers must be measured by a device or devices approved by the Director of Public Works and installed without cost to the Township.”
If your question is related to payment of the bill, call the Township Treasurer's Office at
.610-645-6181 If your question is related to the water consumption at your home, contact AQUA PA.
If your question is about the sewer itself (permits, connections, etc.), contact the Sanitary Sewer Division of Public Works.
For other questions related to the sewer bill, contact sewer@lowermerion.org or call
.610-645-4767 Citizens are encouraged to assist the Department by reporting all compliments or complaints to the Staff and Inspections Unit (610-645-6250) on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. You may report a complaint in person, by letter, or by phone and the report can be anonymous. During weekend and evening hours, you may contact the Communications Center at 610-649-1000 and request an on-duty police supervisor. You may also use the linked complaint form and submit it via e-mail (police@lowermerion.org), conventional mail, or bring it to the police station.
The Police Department welcomes compliments. If you are impressed by an officer’s professional demeanor, prompt response to a particular incident, or simply his or her courteousness, you are encouraged to mail or e-mail (police@lowermerion.org) a brief note to the attention of the Superintendent of Police who will ensure that the officer receives a copy of your letter.
- The Township will continue to collect EMST and/or OPT for any year prior to January 1, 2008. Taxpayers are still required to file the Fourth Quarter EMST return for the quarter ending December 31, 2007. This return is due on or before January 31, 2008.
- Act 7 requires municipalities to use at least 25 percent of the tax revenue for emergency services, including police, fire and ambulance protection. The remainder may be use for road construction or maintenance, property tax reduction, or property tax relief through the implementation of a homestead or farmstead exemption.
- It is estimated that approximately 41,000 people work in Lower Merion Township. Of that number, approximately 20% are Township residents; the remaining 80% are non-resident individuals who come into the Township and enjoy the many services and amenities provided by the Township.
- The LST is effective January 1, 2008 and provides that employers are responsible for withholding the LST for each individual subject to the tax. Employers are required to withhold the LST for each individual who reaches or is expected to reach the minimum level of $12,000 in annual compensation. Employers and/or self-employed individuals are required to remit the tax collected and file a tax return with the Township’s Department of Finance Business Tax Collections Office on or before the last day of April, July, October and January for the four quarters ending the last day of March, June, September and December. In the case of schedule C filers (self-employed individuals, Sole Proprietors, etc.), the entire $52 LST should be paid in the first quarter. If a self-employed or sole proprietor does not reasonably expect to have gross receipts of more than $12,000 from within the Township then an Exemption Certificate can be filed.
Will employers have to vary withholding amounts to make sure that $52 is collected from every employee?
No, the amount of LST paid for an individual will vary depending on the individuals hire date and/or termination date. Employers are only required to withhold the prorated amount for each per pay period that an employee works. The only situation which would require a lump sum catch up withholding is if an employee has filed an exemption certificate and subsequently exceeds $12,000 in income.- The Township will refund any overpayment of LST tax in excess of $1 to individuals that file a Refund Application with required documentation to demonstrate that they were not subject to the tax. In order to be refunded, the Township must have received the withheld funds from the employer. The Township will not refund LST payments to employers.
- Yes, employees or individuals who had total earnings and net profits of less than $12,000 within the Township of Lower Merion in the prior calendar year (2007) and reasonably expect that they will not earn more than $12,000 in 2008 can file an Exemption Certificate to prevent LST withholding. Exemption Certificates and instructions are available on the township website. There are substantial penalties for filing fraudulent exemption claims.
- The Township’s ordinance provides a low-income exemption to individuals whose total earnings and net profits from all sources within the Township are less than $12,000 per calendar year. The LST also includes a new Active Duty Military Exemption for any individual called into active military service at any time during the tax year. Active military service does not include weekend or summer reservist training.
- The major difference between the EMST and LST is the manner in which the tax is withheld and paid. Unlike the EMST which was withheld in a lump sum, LST is withheld over the number of annual pay periods an employer has established for the calendar year. The LST also expands the available exemptions for employees.
- Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Act 7 of 2007 amended the Local Tax Enabling Act, Act 511 of 1965, to make major changes to the Emergency and Municipal Service Tax (EMST) effective January 1, 2008. The EMST is being renamed the Local Services Tax (LST) to better reflect how the funds are used by municipalities. Like the EMST, the LST is a payroll tax in the amount of $52 per year paid by ALL individuals (employed or self-employed) who work in the Township and are not eligible for an exemption.
- The Township’s CAFR and annual Budget contain extensive information on the Township’s debt. Further information is available on the Finance Department website under Township Debt.
- Copies of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and Budget can be reviewed at any of the Township Libraries and are available on the Finance Department website.
- Most modern smoke detectors will chirp to alert you the batteries are low, you should replace the batteries and test your smoke detector. Smoke detectors can be purchased at any hardware or large commercial department store.
Yes they are. There are many things you should consider while setting up and using a fire pit.
- Keep away from flammable material and fluids such as gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, and charcoal lighter fluid or vehicles while in use.
- Keep it a minimum of 15 feet away from buildings.
- Do not use flammable fluids such as gasoline, alcohol, diesel fuel, kerosene, and charcoal lighter fluid to light or relight fires.
- Exercise the same precautions you would with an open fire.
- Do not allow children to use the fire pit. Keep children and pets away.
- Do not wear flammable or loose fitting clothing such as nylon.
- Do not burn trash, leaves, paper, cardboard, or plywood. Avoid using soft wood such as pine or cedar that likely pop and throw sparks. Use of seasoned hardwood is suggested.
- Before starting the fire, make sure that the lid will still close to extinguish the fire in case of emergency. Do not overload.
- Before you light the fire, check the wind direction.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.
- No. Open Burning in the Township is prohibited due to changes to Chapter 78, the Fire Prevention Code of the Township of Lower Merion in September 2008. Because Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection standards do not allow open burning, the Township’s open burning ordinance was repealed to remain in compliance with state standards. This action was duly advertised and the Board of Commissioners took formal action on September 17, 2008. The Township appreciates citizen compliance with this important safety measure.
- Curb-side collection is defined as any point within five feet of the curb line. Any collection point beyond five feet is considered an enhanced level of service, or rear-yard collection.
- Crash Reports are available at the front counter of the Public Safety Building. There is a schedule of fees for various types of reports. Please call 610-645-6290 to request the report or additional information. Additionally, crash reports may now be purchased online 24/7 by visiting https://www.buycrash.com/. Additional fees may be charged by this online document service.
- Starting December 1, 2010 a PA dog license can be purchased on-line at www.padoglicenses.com
- The current sanitary sewer rate is $4.51 per thousand gallons of water consumption.
- Yes, the list of currently approved student homes is available as a PDF.
- The turn around time from the submission of the application to the permit actually being issued is between 7 to 10 business days. The permit must be picked up by the individual on the application itself.
- The completed application, two passport photos, a copy of a verifiable form of government identification (Drivers License or Passport) and the application fee.
- There is a $150.00 fee per applicant. Payable in the form of cash or check only. The check is to be made out to the Township of Lower Merion.
- You may download the application for the solicitor permit located under the Permits and Forms section.
A solicitors permit is required for anyone canvasing the township offering services, wares or goods for sale. Exemptions for the permit requirement are as follows; This article shall not apply to boys or girls under 19 years of age who take orders for and deliver newspapers, greeting cards, candy and the like for schools or school-related associations or scholarships, or who represent the Boy Scout and Girl Scout or similar organizations and take orders for and deliver cookies and the like, nor to any person who works for an organization which has registered with the Pennsylvania Department of State, as required by that statute known as the "Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act," as amended from time to time, or which is exempt from such registration. Additionally, this article does not apply to any person engaging in snow removal or yard work, including, but not limited to, the raking of leaves or cutting of grass, except that this exclusion shall not apply to persons soliciting to provide the aforementioned services on more than one occasion by written contract.
The basic 2026 Standard Level subscription is $465.
For those who place refuse/recycling for collection at the curb, no further fees were incurred.
Solid Waste Fee Subscriptions 2026 FeesOne Mini-Can (20-gallon container) $303Standard Level (One or Two Cans per week) - Maximum two 48 gallon cans
$465Enhanced Level (Three or Four Cans per week) - Maximum of four 48 gallon cans
$686
Optional Additional Service Fee
Rear Yard Collection Fee (Mini-Can)
$245Rear Yard Collection Fee (Standard) $307Rear Yard Collection Fee (Enhanced) $368
- All multi-family dwellings of four units or less are required to subscribe to Township solid waste collection by choosing a container level per unit as well as the rear yard collection option per unit if the collection point(s) for the refuse and recycling generated is more than five feet from the curb.
- The Park Friends Program provides residents, organizations, schools and businesses with a variety of ways to help protect and enhance the parks and to educate people about the importance of parks and open spaces. Call the Recreation Office for information about the program or visit the Park Friends Program page.
- Households that do not subscribe to Rear Yard Collection will be required to place their trash at the curbside, which is within five-feet of the curb line. If you fail to do so, you will be given a notice of violation. Violations beyond two violation notices will result in automatically being charged and separately billed the full annual rear yard collection fee for your property.
- Customers who prefer to place their refuse/recycling further than five-feet from the curb line are required to subscribe to this service. The 2026 cost to receive rear yard collection will be an additional $245 annually for a Mini-Can subscription, $307 annually for a Standard subscription and $368 annually for an Enhanced subscription.
Citizens who currently receive rear-yard collection may opt to discontinue this level of service to avoid the additional annual fee.
Customers who do not subscribe to rear-yard collection will be required to place their trash for collection at the curb line. Rear-yard trash containers will not be collected without a subscription for this additional level of service. What about households where no one is physically able to place their refuse/recycling within five-feet of the curb line?
The Township offers a program to exempt qualified disabled homeowners who meet certain criteria from paying the fee to maintain rear yard collection service. Customers who wish to apply for this exemption can download the application here or call the Township’s Public Works Department at for an application.(610) 645-6150
A waiver of the rear yard collection fee will be granted when the subscriber’s application includes a doctor's confirmation that he or she is disabled and not able to transport a 50- pound refuse container to the curb for collection. Waivers will not be granted to those who reside with others who are physically capable of bringing trash containers to the curbside.
If a subscriber has previously filed a waiver form along with documentation from their doctor indicating a permanent disability, the Township will allow the annual waiver form to be re-certified by the disabled subscriber (without a doctor's signature). The subscriber must also re-certify that there are no others residing in the home who are physically capable of bringing the trash to the curbside. All other requests for a disability waiver must be submitted along with confirmation of the disability form their doctor.- Charging increased fees for increased trash volumes set out for collection is an incentive for citizens to decrease the amount of waste generated at their household. A further incentive to reduce trash disposal was the creation of the “mini-can” option. This option is available only to subscribers whose one-container level of service is a maximum 20-gallon capacity.
There is no limit to the amount of recycling you can place for collection. - The Township currently offers Solid Waste customers that meet certain requirements, including income levels, a Senior Citizens rebate, which is 20% of the single container subscription. Applications forms are available on www.lowermerion.org or you may call
for more information.(610) 645-6146
NOTE: Senior Citizens rebates are not applicable to the Mini-Can subscription level or for Rear Yard Collection.
Residents may use many different sizes of trash containers up to a maximum of 48 gallons.
A single container 20-gallon capacity or less - weight limit of 25 pounds each
A single container 48-gallon capacity or less - weight limit of 50 pounds each
I currently have a 28-gallon container. Can I increase the size of my container to reduce my current subscription level?
The Township will accept up to a 48-gallon container (weighing up to 50 pounds) for collection. Citizens whose current containers are smaller than 48-gallons may be able to reduce their subscription level and subsequent fees by purchasing the maximum capacity container. Each household should carefully consider the subscription level and container size that works best for them. Remember: regardless of size, no container can contain more than 50 pounds of refuse/recycling.- The subscription form is at the bottom of the subscription letter mailed to customers in mid-November. Selections must be made and returned by mid-December (specific date TBA) and are effective January 1st.
- It is not necessary for all solid waste collection customers to return the subscription form. If you do not want to make changes, please DO NOT return the form.
The Township provides collection and disposal services to all single-family dwellings, all two-family dwellings and all apartments containing four or fewer dwelling units. Collection by the Township is optional for residential buildings of five to fifty units, but not from dumpsters. The Township does not collect commercial waste.
Refuse and Recycling are collected once a week at curbside or from the rear yard by municipal employees. Residents are required to recycle plastic, glass, aluminum food and beverage containers (comingled) and mixed paper. Recycling collection type is alternated week by week. Please visit the Lower Merion Trash & Recycling Guide and Schedule for more information. Please use the Address Lookup on the homepage, www.lowermerion.org, to determine your collection day. Residents are charged a Solid Waste Fee based on their container subscription level. There is no limit on recyclables.The SWF is an enterprise fund which is intended to be self-supporting through user fees charged for services to residential customers. The purpose of the SWF is to account for revenues and expenditures related to the state mandated disposal of refuse and recycling.
- Yes, there would still be weekly refuse and recycling collection. Recycling collection type is alternated week by week. Please visit the Lower Merion Trash & Recycling Guide and Schedule for more information. Use the Address Lookup on the homepage to determine your collection day.
- Formal Bids (those valued at $19,400 or over) are available on-line in the Current Bid section in the Purchasing Division section. In addition, bids are advertised in the Legal Section of the Main Line Times.
Yes. They are as follows:
Individual Township departments may make purchases via their own staff for supplies/services where the value does not exceed $3,000 and are NOT under contract via annual supply contracts. The Purchasing Division will obtain price quotes for supplies/services where the value falls between $3,000 and $10,500. For purchases between $10,500 and $19,400 the Township adheres to the First Class Township Code and solicits multiple quotes from qualified suppliers.For most purchases exceeding $19,400 formal sealed bids are required. This requires that an advertisement be placed in the local paper with a set time and place for receipt of a sealed bid.
- Bid quotes valued under $10,000 can be faxed. Sealed bids and Request for Proposals that exceed $19,400 in value cannot be delivered via fax.
- Bid openings are generally held at the Township Administration Building, 2nd floor, Board Room at 11:00am.
There are many different smoke detector/alarms available on the market but they fall under two basic types:
- Ionization
- Photoelectric
Ionization alarms sound more quickly when a flaming, fast moving fire occurs. Photoelectric alarms are quicker at sensing smoldering, smoking fires. There are also combination smoke alarms that combine ionization and photoelectric into one unit, called dual sensor smoke alarms.
Because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting distinctly different yet potentially fatal fires, and because homeowners cannot predict what type of fire will occur in a home, the USFA (U.S. Fire Administration) recommends the installation of both ionization and photoelectric or a dual sensor smoke alarms.
The Lower Merion Fire Department reminds you to change the batteries in your smoke detectors twice a year. An easy reminder is to change your batteries when you change your clocks!
For complete coverage in residential homes, smoke detectors should be installed in all rooms, halls, storage areas, basements and attics. Minimum coverage is one detector on each level.
However, we suggest that you:
- Put a smoke detector in every sleeping quarter.
- Put a smoke detector on every floor of your home.
- Put a smoke detector as close to the center of the ceiling as possible.
- Acceptable locations are no closer than 4" from side wall. You may mount on the wall at least 4" from the ceiling, but no more than 6" from the ceiling.
Dog LIcenses will be sold at the front counter of the police station Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm effective January 2, 2008.
Dog Licenses are also available on line, please use the following link to obtain your license.
- Installing a pool in Lower Merion requires a building permit. Please click here for pool permit requirements.
Citizens must avoid parking cars in the street on the days their district is scheduled for sweeping.
Only streets with curbing are swept, which amounts to approximately 410 curb miles. The fall sweep tends to be the most challenging because of the number of leaves that collect on Township streets.
- Residents should be aware that under no circumstances are leaves to be raked into the street for pick-up by these machines. A street sweeper is not designed to handle bulk leaves and the contractor is instructed to go around raked out leaves.
- The Township does not collect leaves in the street because of the sheer volume, the number of roadway miles for which the Public Works Department is responsible and the staffing it would take to accomplish such a task. Also, leaves piled in the street are considered a hazard. They wash into and clog storm sewers, they are slippery when wet and they can be a fire hazard to parked cars with hot exhaust.
- Leaves from private property are to be put in compostable paper bags and placed by the curb for collection. They will be collected by Township personnel and taken to the Township’s compost site. It is ILLEGAL to burn leaves in the Township.
- Contact the Building and Planning Department at 610-645-6200.
- A traffic ticket or citation should be paid within 10 days and mailed to the district court listed on the citation. There are three district courts in Lower Merion Township: Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd and Narberth.
- Report a pothole: 610-645-6150
- Find out about snow removal and salting operations:
- During a declared snow emergency: 610-726-7127 (storm command center)
- After snow emergency has been suspended: 610-645-6150 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- For police, fire, or medical emergencies: 911
- Report a missing or damaged street sign: 610-645-6150
- Request a new street name sign: 610-645-6150
- Request a no parking, speed limit or stop sign: 610-645-6260; Traffic Safety - Police
- Report a storm water problem: 610-645-6150
- Inquire about the Township’s recycling program: 610-667-1952 or 1953
- To find out when my trash is collected: 610-667-1952 or 1953
- Get a copy of the trash and recycling schedule: 610-667-1952 or 1953
For non-emergencies, please call the Public Works office at 610-645-6150 during normal working hours 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For non-emergencies after hours and on weekends, contact the Lower Merion Township Police Department at 610-649-1000.
Stormwater Management - the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has lots of information of stormwater management programs and best practice.
- The Township has an annual road resurfacing program. The scheduling of roads to be paved each year is based on a structural rating prepared by Township staff through annual inspections of the roadway surface. If you wish to obtain the rating number for your street and the approximate year in which the road is scheduled for resurfacing, please contact the Public Works Department at 610-667-1590 ext 709.
- The Refuse and Recycling Division Office is located at the Robert J. Koegel Public Works Complex, 1300 Woodbine Avenue, Penn Valley, PA 19072. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The telephone number is: 610-667-1952 or 610-667-1953. Saturday Telephone # 610-667-7035 for the Scale House.
- Each year in January the Township mails to all Township residents a packet containing information on refuse and recycling collection and the holiday collection schedule for the year. Should you have any questions about your refuse and/or recycling, or should you want an additional copy of this packet, please contact the Refuse Division at 610-667-1952.
- Refuse and Recycling are collected once a week between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Place it out before 7:00 a.m. so that your collection is not missed. Refuse and Recycling collected curb side may be put out no earlier than 7:00 p.m. the night before collection. All containers must be retrieved no later than 9:00 p.m. on the day of collection. For rear yard collection, driveways must be cleared of all vehicles on collection day.
- Refuse and/or recyclable items are not collected on: New Years’ Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. You can also use a Township search form to determine your Refuse collection day.
How do I schedule the collection of additional refuse not provided for under the subscription level of refuse collection?
Bulky items and large appliances may not be placed out for regular refuse collection. You may obtain a Special "pick-up" application at the Public Works Department on the first floor in the Township Administration Building, 75 E Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, or at the Public Works Complex, 1300 N Woodbine Avenue, Penn Valley or by download here (PDF). There will be an additional charge for this collection based on the amount or size of the item. You can save the pick up fee by bringing these items or additional refuse beyond your subscription level to the Public Works Complex where you will only be charged a disposal fee.Bulky items, large appliances and other items normally collected with a special pickup are:
Air Conditioner
Antenna (TV)
Auto Parts (150 lb. limit)
Barbeque Grill
Bed Frame
Bicycle
Box Spring (wrapped in a mattress bag)
Cabinets
Carpet (rolled)
Chair
Couch or Sofa
Dehumidifier
Dishwasher
Dryer
Doors
Downspouts/Gutters
Freezer (door removed)
Golf Clubs
Lawn FurnitureLaundry Tubs
Luggage or Trunk
Lawn Mower (with gas removed)
Metal (misc.)
Mattress (wrapped in a mattress bag)
Padding (rolled)
Pipes (4' maximum length)
Refrigerator (doors removed)
Radiator
Stove
Sink
Toilet
Toys
Trash Can(s)
Washer
Water Heater
Wood (4' maximum length)NO CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL
NO HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
NO ELECTRONICSItems other than those listed above may be subject to non-collection, in which case the fee for Special pick-up will be refunded.
Recyclables include commingled items, mixed paper, and textiles. Commingled items include green, brown and clear glass; #1 through #7 plastics; and metal and bi-metallic food and beverage cans. You may have lids on these items. Place your commingled items in the yellow recycling bin supplied by the Township.
Mixed paper includes newspapers, magazines, catalogs, "junk mail", telephone books, notebooks and school papers (including spiral bound books), soft and hardback books and textbooks, shopping and pet food bags (without plastic liners), chipboard packaging (including nonperishable food boxes), beer and soda cartons and six-pack packaging, cracker, cake and cereal boxes (without plastic pouches or inserts). Mixed paper is to be tied or placed in brown kraft-type paper bags next to your recycling bin.
Corrugated cardboard is also accepted. Cardboard boxes must be broken down to 4' x 4' x12".
Textiles consist of clothing and fabric. Textiles are not collected by Township crews. They can, however, be taken to the Township’s recycling drop-off center located at the entrance to the Robert J. Koegel Public Works Complex, 1300 Woodbine Avenue, Penn Valley.
Leaves must be placed at the curb in compostable paper bags only for weekly collection on your normal collection day. Plastic bags not accepted. You may purchase the compostable brown paper bags from your local hardware stores or the Transfer Station at the Public Works Complex on Woodbine Avenue. The charges for the leaf bags are $0.52 per bag or $26 for 50 bags (plus tax).
Leaves are not to be raked, blown, or dumped in Township parks or properties. Leaves from residents' property are not to be raked or blown into the street. IT IS ILLEGAL TO BURN LEAVES IN THE TOWNSHIP.
Small shrubs and tree trimmings may be placed in compostable paper bags. Other trimmings no larger than four feet in length, six inches in diameter, and bundled no more than eighteen inches in diameter can be placed for collection. Branches may be brought to the Transfer Station if under four feet in length. Logs six inches to eighteen inches in diameter may be dropped off at the Transfer Station. This is free for residents, non-residents for a charge of twelve cents a pound. We do not accept logs over eighteen inches in diameter.
BURNING BRANCHES AND TWIGS IS ILLEGAL in the Township.
- Grass clippings are not recycled by the Township. They may be disposed of with your regular refuse. Do not mix grass with other yard waste which is recycled. A recommended disposal method is to leave grass clippings on your lawn as they act as a natural fertilizer and can help improve the soil.
The Tax Collector Office is located at Lower Merion Township Building, 75 E Lancaster Ave, Second Floor, Ardmore, PA 19003-2376
While the Township does not accept motor oil for recycling, the following service stations will do so: Haliman Sunoco, Woodside & Lancaster Avenues, Ardmore; Fritsch’s Exxon, Montgomery & Woodside Avenues, Ardmore; Mike’s Amoco, 500 Lancaster Avenue, Haverford; and Laird’s Gulf, 949 Montgomery Avenue, Narberth.
You can also bring it to the Hazardous Waste Collection Day at the Koegel Complex in Penn Valley. This is usually held on Sunday in October and will be advertised well in advance on this website and on social media.
The office is open to the public, Monday through Friday, 10AM to 3PM. You need to bring the entire bill as it is needed for processing. There is a $3 fee associated with reprinting the bill in this office. Always check the township website for designated holiday schedule.
- Montgomery County sponsors collection weekends each year in October. This program will allow residents to dispose of hazardous waste which includes, but is not limited to, automotive products such as motor oil and antifreeze; paint products such as turpentine, paint remover and furniture stripper; household pesticides, herbicides, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, rug cleaner and other items such as swimming pool chemicals, asphalt sealer, etc.
There are two real estate tax bills: Township/County Real Estate and School District Real Estate.
There is also a Sanitary Sewer Rent bill, which is not a tax, but a municipal utility. Some apartments and condominiums do not receive the Sanitary Sewer Rent bill. You can email taxcollector@lowermerion.org for more information.
- Depositing household or business trash into containers located in municipal parking lots is prohibited.
Township/County Real Estate: mailed at the end of January
Sanitary Sewer Rent: mailed at the end of May
School District Real Estate: mailed at the end of June2% discount
Flat rate
10% penalty
Township/County
End of March
End of May
End of December
Sanitary Sewer Rent
End of July
End of September
End of November (for 10% penalty)
End of December (for 20% penalty)
School Real Estate
End of August
End of October
End of December
You must check your bill or contact taxcollector@lowermerion.org for the exact deadlines as they may be extended if they fall on a weekend or a federal holiday.
- The trees located within the right-of-way are the responsibility of the Township to maintain. Trees located outside the right-of-way are the responsibility of the property owner. Upon request, the Township Arborist will inspect a tree to determine if it is located within the right-of-way.
You can email us at the taxcollector@lowermerion.org with your inquiry. We post current bills on our website, but we do not share payment status publicly.
- The right-of-way consists of the street plus a strip on each side for curbs, sidewalks and utilities such as electric cables; telephone, water and gas lines; and sewers. For shade trees, the important dimension is the distance from the curb to the edge of the right-of-way. This distance varies from street to street and also sometimes within the same street. A property owner who wishes to determine whether a specific tree is within the right-of-way may obtain this information from the Township Arborist at 610-726-7141.
- You may contact the Shade Tree Division at 610-726-7141 and leave your name, address, telephone number and a brief message. The Township Arborist will investigate your request and contact you once the inspection is complete. As the Public Works Department receives numerous requests for tree plantings and maintenance, several days may elapse before the Arborist can provide you with any information.
Once tax bills are released, they are publicly available on our portal: https://www.treasurerlmt.org/. You can also contact the Tax Collector’s office and we will email you a duplicate copy of your bill. Please note that failure to receive a real estate tax bill does not absolve a taxpayer from their obligation to pay their bills in a timely manner.
My mortgage company pays my taxes from an escrow. Do I pay the solid waste fee on my Township/County tax bill?
No, do not send a solid waste fee only. Your mortgage company pays the entire bill as our office does not accept partial payments.
- The property owner is responsible for the maintenance, repair and/or replacement of sidewalk and curb abutting their property. A permit from the Public Works Department is required for any work done within the right-of-way.
- To report a malfunctioning street light , contact the Public Works Department at 610-645-6150. It is important to provide an accurate location of the pole – either an address or the pole number – to insure a prompt response.
Township/County is billed on the calendar year (January 1st – December 31st) while School District Real Estate is billed on the fiscal year (July 1st – June 30th of the following year).
There is a 2% discount on each bill if it is paid within the first 2 months.
- Requests for street light upgrades will only be considered if seventy-five percent (75%) of the affected property owners petition the Township for the expansion or upgrade. All requests for street light expansion and/or upgrades must be received in writing by the Public Works Department. Public Works staff will review the request and provide a recommendation for approval or denial to the Public Works Committee of the Board of Commissioners based on prioritization parameters and the available funding allocated in the Township’s Capital Improvement Program.
- Street sweeping is scheduled several times a year, in March, mid-summer and late fall. The Township is divided into 10 sweeping districts. With a new private contractor in 2017, the process takes about a week or longer, depending on weather conditions. The fall cycle will likely take longer.
No sweeping is done on holidays or on Saturdays and Sundays. Announcements will be made on the front page of this website (www.lowermerion.org) when street sweeping is scheduled, and also on LMTV (channel 7 Comcast, channel 37 Verizon FiOS), on the Township Facebook page and our our Twitter feed. Deadlines cannot be extended for any reason.
The Lower Merion School District may be willing to grant a one-time waiver of the 10% penalty for School District Real Estate taxes at your primary residence. You must contact them at taxes@lmsd.org.
- The Township allows residents who are connected to the public sanitary sewer system to have a water meter installed (at the resident’s own expense) to account for water that is not returned to the sanitary sewer system (e.g., swimming pool, lawn sprinkler). Upon installation of this special meter, the resident notifies the Township to register the meter (610-645-4767). Each year, residents who have registered these special meters will receive a card which must be completed and returned to the Finance Office. The reading is then credited against the resident's sanitary sewer rental bill.
For the School District Real Estate tax bill you have the option to pay in three equal installments, respectively due at the end of August, end of September, and end of October. You will not receive the 2% discount if you choose to pay in installments. If any installment deadline is missed, a 10% penalty will be applied to that installment only.
There is no installment option for the Township/County or Sanitary Sewer Rent bill.
If you recently purchased your property, the name and mailing address on the bill may still reflect the previous owner. We cannot change the bill once it is generated, as it is linked to your property’s parcel numbers. The current owner is responsible for paying taxes on their parcel. The name and address on the bill should be automatically updated by the next mailing.
We must receive a notice of a change in writing. Please email taxcollector@lowermerion.org requesting a mailing address update.
Our office is required by the State of Pennsylvania to mail tax bills to all homeowners as we do not track what parcels are paid from an escrow.
I accidentally paid my bill twice, or I sent in a payment but my escrow had already paid my taxes. Will I get my money back?
If your payment was deducted from your bank account but nothing was due at the township, it will be refunded. Refunds take at minimum three weeks as we must verify that the funds do not bounce before they are returned.
You do not need to contact us requesting a mailing address update unless you would like the bills to go to a location other than the property address. We are already legally required to mail bills to the property owner.
You may find it convenient to sign up for tax bill notifications so you are aware of when bills have been mailed. You may also want to consider signing up for automatic withdrawal of real estate taxes from your bank account.
MCCC stands for Montgomery County Community College.
The Homestead Exemption gives you a reduction on LMSD Real Estate taxes at your primary residence. Please direct all inquiries to Montgomery County at
as our office does not process this exemption. You must apply for it on or before March 1st of the year unless an application has already been filed and approved in a previous year. The form is available online.610-278-3761 The Homestead Exemption reduces the School District Real Estate bill by the same amount for all residents who have applied. In 2024, the reduction was $367.05. The figure for 2025 is not available yet.
Follow up with the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals. Their phone number is 610-278-3761.
- The Sanitary Sewer Rent bill is based on actual water consumption from the previous year. Further questions regarding the bill should be directed to the Finance Department at 610-645-4767.
- Twenty-four hours a day, seven days per week. For counter service (reports, permits, etc.), 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The building is closed for counter service on all legal holidays.
Lower Merion Police Department
71 E Lancaster Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003-2323Visit the Police Department's website
Yes. There is a fee of $30 for the first card and $10 for each additional card. Payment is in the form of cash, check or credit ($2.45 service fee for credit). The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. However, there is no guarantee that an officer will be available to perform the fingerprinting at time you arrive. You may need to wait or return at another time based on the availability of officers. There is no appointment needed, but it is advisable to call ahead at 610-649-1000 to check on availability.
A copy of your driver’s license, passport or other form of verifiable Government identification is required. If you do not have a fingerprint card(s) supplied to you, the Police Department uses Form FD258 and does have a supply of them.
The department cannot renew either, please contact a tag service, AAA or the PennDOT Website for assistance.
A traffic ticket or citation should be paid within 10 days and mailed to the district court listed on the citation. There are three district courts located in the Narberth section of Lower Merion:
38-1-06 38-2-04 38-1-07 Henry Schireson
District Court #38-01-06
925 Montgomery Avenue, Suite #100
Narberth, PA 19072-1913
610-644-5262
Karen Zucker
District Court #38-02-04
925 Montgomery Avenue, Suite #200
Narberth, PA 19072-1913
610-668-1201
Michael Quinn
District Court #38-01-07
925 Montgomery Avenue, Suite #300
Narberth, PA 19072-1913
610-896-8585
How do I find out about crime statistics for my neighborhood or about a neighborhood that I am considering moving into in the Township?
The department publishes an annual report that provides a complete breakdown of a wide variety of incidents reported to the police. These reports are available at all public libraries and at the Public Safety Building, or online at the following link: LMPD Annual Report
- Request that your insurance company contact the police department. Typically, it will expedite the situation if the department deals directly with the insurance company and it saves you time and work.
- Reports are available at the front counter of the Public Safety Building. There is a schedule of fees for various types of reports. Please call 610-645-6290 to request the report or additional information.
- Typically an investigator will contact you within 48 hours of an incident (excluding weekends). If you need to speak with someone sooner, please contact 610-645-6280 and ask to speak to the unit supervisor.
- Yes. Please call 610-645-6240 to schedule an appointment. There is no fee for this crime prevention service.
- Please call 610-645-6240 and an officer can provide you with additional information to improve your personal, residential or commercial safety and security.
- Contact 610-645-6250 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. At other times, contact 610-649-1000. Tell us how many cars you expect, the hours of the event and any special circumstances. Please call at least 3 days prior to the event.
- Contact 610-645-6250 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Police Officers will be assigned to assist with traffic situations, security or other police related issues at special events. The cost for these services will be borne by the party making the request. Please call at least 3 days prior to the event. Contact the number listed for a schedule of fees. The Township Finance Department will bill you for the service.
- If you are experiencing abuse of any sort, immediately contact the police by dialing 9-1-1, if it is an emergency. If you need to speak to someone about the situation and it is not an emergency, call 610-649-1000. Officers will personally assist anyone who is a victim of abuse through the process.
- Yes. Victims of abuse can call: Women's Center of Montgomery County 800-773-2424; Victim Services Center 610-277-5200; Child Abuse 800-932-0313; or the Rape Crisis Hotline 610-277-5200.
- Please refer to our Employment page for further information. Inquiries about future recruitment efforts can be made by calling 610-645-6250.
- For immediate problems such as road blockages, traffic light malfunctions, etc., contact 610-649-1000. For problems such as speeding, traffic regulations or general questions, contact the Traffic Safety Unit at 610-645-6260 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Send written information i.e. line cards, catalogs, business cards, and your business' type of work, requesting to be put on the bidder's list (PDF) located on the website. Sales representatives, please call 610-645-6148 to schedule an appointment. The Township's Guide for Contracting for goods and/or services is available in the Purchasing Division Office.
- The Township advertises all contracts for goods and services valued over $19,400 in the Main Line Times.
- For most purchases valued over $19,400, a formal bid process is required (advertising, public bid opening and contract award). In these instances, a bid security equaling 10% of the bid amount is required and must accompany the bid. The bid security can be in the form of a Bid Bond, Treasurer's Check or Certified Check. For Goods and Equipment, the successful bidder will be required to submit an Insurance Certificate and a Performance Bond. For Construction projects, the successful bidder will be required to submit a Performance Bond, Labor and Materials Bond and a two (2) year Maintenance Bond.
- Surplus vehicles and assorted equipment and supplies are usually disposed of through Public Auction.
Click here for current job opportunities.
- Lower Merion High School Main Office, 315 E Montgomery Avenue, Ardmore PA 19003, or call the Main Office at 610-645-1810.
- The Lower Merion School District and Lower Merion Township are two separate employers. Call 610-645-1950 for job opportunities at the School District.
- Contact the Staff and Inspections Unit of the Police Department at 610-645-6204.
- Ardmore Library: 610-642-5187
- Bala Cynwyd Library: 610-664-1196
- Belmont Hills Library: 610-664-8427
- Gladwyne Library: 610-642-3957
- Ludington Library: 610-525-1776
- Penn Wynne Library: 610-642-7844
Visit the Library System web site for library hours, addresses and other information.
- Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., regardless of weather, excluding Sunday and the following holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
- Fifty cents per hour. All meters will accept dollar coins, quarters, dimes, nickels, and the E-Z Park Smart Card.
Meter casings are color coded: red - 12 hours; dark gray - 2 hours. ADA Spaces are designated with blue meter heads. Many Township parking meters have “hour stickers” on the front to advise the maximum time possible.
- Notify the Lower Merion Parking Services Department, 610-645-6230. Give them the lot number or street address plus the alpha-numeric designation found on the small metal tag located on the back of the meter case below the silver lock.
- The Parking Services Department at the Public Safety Building. There is a fee.
Yes, municipal lots In Ardmore, Bryn Mawr and Bala. Applications can be made through the Parking Services Department. Lot Parking Permits are not accepted at parking meters.
Residential Parking Permits may be obtained at the Parking Services Office, located in the lobby of the Public Safety Building. Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:15 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Please bring the vehicle registration card for each vehicle to be included in the Residential Parking Permit Program, a valid driver's license and proof of residency such as a deed or notarized lease. Up to 2 vehicles may be listed on a permit. Residential Parking Permits are not accepted at parking meters.
- Each permit is valid for the calendar year and can be purchased at a cost of $20.00. They are renewable every December. There is no grace period for displaying an expired permit.
- You will be required to respond immediately to the Parking Services Department and notify them. A new permit will be issued indicating the change. The old permit will be surrendered.
- Permits must be displayed on the rear view mirror facing outward.
- The privileges of a Residential Parking Permit do not include free meter parking or Permit Lots.
Permits are transferable only between vehicles to which they are registered. They cannot be displayed on any other vehicles. Guest, visitor, or contractor, vehicles that must park in the street beyond the allowable time zone restriction must contact the Parking Services Department 610-645-6230 to relax the vehicle in our system to avoid being ticketed. Vehicle make, model, color and license plate must be provided.
- Vehicles parked in violation will receive parking tickets, which carry a fine of $25.00. Violations in the Lower Merion High School zone are $30.00. Failure to respond to a ticket will result in increased fines and costs. Duplicating, counterfeiting or altering permits will result in a fine not to exceed $600.00 and revocation of the permit, as mandated by Lower Merion Township Code 145-23. For Further Information: Parking Services Department 610-645-6230.
- Board of Commissioners' Committee Meetings beginning at approximately 7:00 p.m. are broadcast live on the first and second Wednesdays of the month with the monthly Board meeting broadcast live on the third Wednesday of the month beginning at approximately 8:00 p.m.
Please contact Mark Murray (ph: 610-645-6263) for additional programming information. - All messages aired on LMTV are posted by the Public Information Office. Message content is usually in reference to Township services and Township Government Business.
- Yes. High school and college students may receive college credit for interning at LMTV. Have your school contact LMTV, Lower Merion Township, 75 East Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003-2376.
- Individuals wishing to volunteer for LMTV should have experience in video production, ENG and/or EFP. If you are interested please send your resume to LMTV, Lower Merion Township, 75 East Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003.
How can I register a formal complaint regarding my Comcast or Verizon Fios television or internet service?
A formal complaint takes place after the customer has contacted Comcast or Verizon Fios to seek resolution and the problem has not been resolved.
To register a formal complaint, either call 610-645-6199 or e-mail ljennings@lowermerion.org, the Township's Public Information Officer. We will forward the matter to Comcast or Verizon officials and ensure that a satisfactory resolution occurs.
- All home based businesses must have zoning approval. Contact the Building Regulations Department for a Zoning Application at 610-645-6165. In addition, after zoning approval, you must obtain a business license at 610-645-6142 or email businesstax@lowermerion.org.
- Yes, for more information please contact the Finance Department at 610-645-6142.
Belmont Hills Fire Company
4 S Washington Ave
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
610-664-9185Bryn Mawr Fire Company
901 Lancaster Ave
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
610-525-7702Gladwyne Fire Company
1044 Black Rock Rd
Gladwyne, PA 19035
610-642-9586Merion Fire Company
35 Greenfield Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003
610-642-9580Narberth Fire Company
100 Conway Ave
Narberth, PA 19072
610-664-9278Penn Wynne/Overbrook Hills Fire Company
Rock Glen & Manoa Rds
Wynnewood, PA 19006
610-642-9688Union Fire Association
149 Montgomery Ave
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
610-664-9112- If you or any member of your family would like to join the Volunteer Fire Service which protects your community, we always welcome new members. No experience is necessary.
Our Fire Companies are partially funded by Township allocations, but they all depend heavily on the support of the residents. Your local Fire Company will be contacting you through the mail during their next Fund Drive. Our Fire Companies do not solicit by telephone.
You can go to any one of the fire companies web sites to find out more information on how you can help to support your local fire company. Remember, your local fire fighters need your financial support for the maintenance of their firefighting equipment, fire trucks, rescue gear, maintenance and upkeep of the firehouse as well as training and retention programs for the Volunteer firefighters.
Belmont Hills Fire Company Penn Wynne Fire Company
Bryn Mawr Fire Company Narberth Fire Company
Gladwyne Fire Company Union Fire Association
Merion Fire Company of Ardmore
Belmont Hills Fire Company
4 S Washington Ave
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
610-664-9185Narberth Fire Company
100 Conway Ave
Narberth, PA 19072
610-664-9278Union Fire Association
149 Montgomery Ave
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
610-664-9112- Generally, each property in Lower Merion Township is located within two miles of a fire station and within 600 feet of the nearest fire hydrant.
- Township fire service is provided by the Lower Merion Township Fire Department's seven volunteer fire companies.
- Copies of Fire Reports are available from the Fire Department Office through submitting a Right-To-Know Request under the Public Information Office Department section of the website.
- No charcoal or propane-fired cooking equipment shall be used on the patio or patio balcony in any individual unit or covered common area or under any overhanging portion of a multi-family dwelling in Lower Merion Township. Charcoal or propane-fired cooking units may be used in multifamily dwellings if they are on the ground and fifteen feet from any building. Charcoal, charcoal lighter fluid and / or propane shall not be stored in any multifamily dwelling in Lower Merion Township. The owner of any vacant building or structure is responsible for removing all combustible waste from the premises as well as keeping doors and windows closed and locked at all times.
- Residential fire deaths have decreased steadily as the number of homes with smoke detectors has increased. Reports from the National Fire Protection Association on residential fire deaths show that people have a 40-50% better chance of surviving a fire if their home has the recommended number of smoke detectors.
- Drawing water from a fire hydrant for any purpose without permission from Aqua, PA and the Fire Marshal.
- Erecting any sign containing the words "Fire Marshal" without the authorization of the Fire Marshal.
- Leaving any part of the piping or oil tank or oil fill when removing an oil burner or taking the burner out of service in any structure in Lower Merion Township.
Open Burning in the Township is prohibited due to changes to Chapter 78, the Fire Prevention Code of the Township of Lower Merion in September 2008. Because Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection standards do not allow open burning, the Township’s open burning ordinance was repealed to remain in compliance with state standards. This action was duly advertised and the Board of Commissioners took formal action on September 17, 2008. The Township appreciates citizen compliance with this important safety measure.
- Drawing water from a fire hydrant for any purpose without permission from Aqua, PA and the Fire Marshal.
- The fax number is 610-649-2529.
- Copies of the Annual Financial Report and Budget can be reviewed at any of the Township Libraries.
- Typical household refuse and trash excluding recyclables.
- You may only decrease your selection by the annual Solid Waste Subscription mailing, issued December 1st. All requests for a decrease must be returned to the Finance Department no later than December 31st. Any reduction selection made after December 31st will not be reflected.
You may increase your container selection to a higher level at any time during the year by filling out the Solid Waste Change form located at http://www.lowermerion.org/swchange. You will receive an interim solid waste bill based upon the change that was selected.
- For general questions about business taxes, processing issues or for information on setting up a new account please the business tax hotline at 610-645-6142. For your convenience, your questions may also be emailed to businesstax@lowermerion.org.
- No.
- No, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Act 7 of 2007 amended the Local Tax Enabling Act, Act 511 of 1965, to make major changes to the Emergency and Municipal Service Tax (EMST) effective January 1, 2008. The EMST is being renamed the Local Services Tax (LST) to better reflect how the funds are used by municipalities. Like the EMST, the LST is a payroll tax in the amount of $52 per year paid by ALL individuals (employed or self-employed) who work in the Township and are not eligible for an exemption. However, delinquent EMST is still collected for the years 2005 through 2007.
Any individual (self-employed or employee) who earns $3,500 or more per calendar year is required to pay EMST. A payment of $52 is due in the first quarter in which the individual reaches $3,500. It is the responsibility of the employer to deduct and remit this tax.
Emergency and Municipal Services Tax was due on or before the last day of April, July, October and January for the four quarters ending the last day of March, June, September and December. Late returns are subject to penalty of ½% per month and interest of ½% per month. No, effective January 1, 2005 the OPT was replaced by the Emergency and Municipal Services Tax (EMST). However, delinquent OPT is still collected for the years 1973 to 2004.
Any individual (self-employed or employee) who earned $1,000 or more per calendar year is required to pay. A payment of $10 is due in the first quarter in which the individual reached $1,000. It is the responsibility of the employer to deduct and remit this tax.
Occupational Privilege Tax is due on or before the last day of April, July, October and January for the four quarters ending the last day of March, June, September and December.
- Yes, Mercantile Tax is levied on retail stores and restaurants at a rate of 1 mill ($1.00 on each $1,000) of gross receipts. Business Privilege Tax is levied on all service-type businesses at a rate of 1.5 mills ($1.50 on each $1,000) of gross receipts.
- There is no statute of limitation. The Township is required to collect taxes due from the date business started.
To receive an application or assistance about a fictitious (business) name, call the Fictitious Name Department in Harrisburg at
.You can also visit the Pennsylvania Department of State website.717-787-1057 To receive a federal tax ID number, please call the Philadelphia IRS Service Center Tele-TIN unit at
. You can also visit the Internal Revenue Service website.866-816-2065 The Business Privilege/Mercantile Tax return is due April 15th each calendar year. If April 15th falls on a weekend or holiday then the deadline is extended to the next business day.
If a business begins after April 15th, the license/estimated tax is due 40 days after the business opens.
The new Business Privilege/Mercantile tax forms are available for download:
- Application for License - New account (PDF)
- Business Privilege/Mercantile Combined Tax Return form (PDF)
- More forms
- It varies since there are approximately 19 different districts. To find out your district, please contact us at 610-645-6200. You can also use the zoning search form, but remember that the definitive answer on zoning classifications are the Zoning Maps in the Building Department.
- Generally, no, but an owner may perform minor repairs to an electrical or plumbing system if they can demonstrate that they have some knowledge of the trade. For more information, please contact us at 610-645-6200 or e-mail us.
- Click here to view our Residential Addition/Expansion Requirements.
- Yes.
- Two sets of plans are required to make application for a permit.
- Generally, 15 working days for residential, 30 working day for commercial.
- 610-649-9598
- We have most plans from houses built from 1927 to present. Please call Susan Taylor at 610-645-6275 or email at staylor@lowermerion.org first to confirm.
The Department offers digital scans and copies of available house plans from our archive. Digital scans are free, and printed copies (at full scale) are available at $5 per page. Plans that are damaged or too delicate for scanning can be photographed digitally. Original plans cannot be taken from the Township Building.
- The maximum plan size allowed is 24" X 36".
I have an abandoned underground fuel oil tank on my property. Does it have to be removed and who can remove it?
All abandoned tanks must be removed. All work on underground tanks in Lower Merion Township shall be performed by individuals certified by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). A Lower Merion Township building permit is required.It takes thirty to sixty days for a property owner to receive a certificate verifying that sidewalks and curbs are in good condition, house numbers are displayed visible from the street and smoke detectors are installed. The fee is $80.00 if application is received 20 or more days prior to settlement. The fee is $145.00 if application is received 20 or fewer days prior to settlement. Property owners must complete a Property Resale Certification Application that can be obtained from the Building Department or may be downloaded here.
- No, because of the potential conflict of interest and liability problems associated with recommending contractors.
- Any information provided by a resident, positive or negative, is placed in the contractor's file. This is for information purposes and is available for review by the general public. We do not attempt to verify the accuracy of the information provided.
Code Standard as of February 14, 2022
Lower Merion Township Zoning As Amended Lower Merion Township Stormwater Management As Amended Lower Merion Fire Code As Amended International Fire Code Sprinkler and fire alarms NFPA 2017 13 & 72 2018 International Building Code Chapters 2--29 and 31--35, including Appendices C, E, G, H and I 2018 International Residential Code including Appendices A, B, C, D, F and sections AE501 thru AE503 and AE601 thru AE605 of Appendix E 2017 Accessibility: 2021 International Building Chapter 11 and Appendices E Reference Standards ICC/ANSI 117.1 2017 ED The accessibility provisions contained in the following sections of the ''2021 International Plumbing Code'' · Section 403.4 (relating to signage).
· Section 403.5 (relating to drinking fountain location).
· Section 404 (relating to accessible plumbing facilities).
· Section 405.3.1 (relating to water closets, urinals, lavatories and bidets).
The accessibility provisions contained in the following sections of the ''2021 International Existing Building Code'' · Section 301.5 (relating to compliance with accessibility).
· Section 305 (relating to accessibility for existing buildings).
· Section 1101.2 (relating to creation or extension of nonconformity).
· Section 1508 (relating to construction sites).
· Appendix ''B'' (relating to supplementary accessibility requirements for existing buildings and facilities).
International Performance Code 2018 International Existing Building Code including Appendices A & B 2018 International Energy Conservation Code 2018 International Fuel Gas Code including Appendices A, B, C & D 2018 International Mechanical Code 2018 International Plumbing Code 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code 2018 National Electrical Code (by reference) 2017 International Wildland - Urban Interface Code 2018 Building and Fire Code Standards - PDF
The Township is currently accepting Business Privilege/Mercantile tax returns and payments online through the PA LITE portal. You can request an online account by emailing businesstax@lowermerion.org with your Township tax account number. Business license/registration fees and Local Services Tax returns must be completed, signed and mailed to the Township building with a check, if applicable.
Business Privilege/Mercantile Tax Returns should be mailed to:
Township of Lower Merion
MBP Tax Collector
75 E Lancaster Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003Local Service Tax returns should be mailed to:
Township of Lower Merion
LST Tax Collector
75 E Lancaster Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003All returns must be postmarked by the due date or you will be charged penalty and interest.
- No, you must obtain the Highway Permit and receive approval before beginning any construction work on your sidewalk.
Yes, you need to obtain a Highway Permit for both replacing an existing sidewalk and installing a new one. Highway Permit Application
- Installation of frontage fencing, secondary frontage fencing, or frontage facade fencing, or any repair or replacement of a nonconforming fence requires a zoning permit.
Yes – Rental properties are required to maintain a Business License and all rental receipts including applicable capital gains must be reported to the Township on a Business Privilege Tax Return. In addition, all residential rental properties must also maintain a Rental License issued by the Building & Planning Department.
- For more information or assistance with your sidewalk project, please contact the Township's Public Works Department at 75 East Lancaster Avenue Ardmore, PA 19003 or via phone at
.610-645-6150 The parking time zone signs show the number of hours a vehicle may be parked on the street, for the entire day. In a 2 Hour Parking area a car may only park in the zone for 2 hours and then the car must moved off the street for the rest of the day. Leaving and returning does not reset the time.
To obtain a Highway Permit, submit your permit application and any necessary plans in person at the Public Works Counter, located at 75 E. Lancaster Ave, in Ardmore. You will also need to pay the required fees.
On our website, you must complete a Business License Application for Rental Property. Most residential rental properties will also require you to register for a Rental License with the Building & Planning Department. The link to the Business License Application is: https://www.lowermerion.org/home/showdocument?id=21648
Once the form is completed it could be emailed to BusinessLicense@LowerMerion.org or mailed in to:
Township of Lower Merion
Finance Department
75 E Lancaster Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003- The cost of a Highway Permit includes a $37 administrative fee, plus $28 for the first 10 feet of sidewalk and an additional $8 for each subsequent 10 feet.
- Unfortunately, no credit can be issued in this case. Per the Township Code §126-12, and Ord. No. 1842, “the quantity of water so used and not discharged into the Township sewers must be measured by a device or devices approved by the Director of Public Works and installed without cost to the Township.” It is the homeowner's responsibility to ensure that the meter is registering consumption. The Township does not maintain, install, or replace special/deduct meters. The homeowner can contact the plumber of their choice to replace the meter, at their own expense. Once the new meter is installed, please register it using the online form to resume participation.
- New sidewalks must be between 5 and 8 feet wide and include a verge (strip of land between the sidewalk and the street) that ranges from 3 to 5 feet in width. Detailed plans stamped by a licensed engineer must also be submitted for review.
- If your plans do not comply, the Public Works Department will provide feedback on necessary changes. Your permit will not be issued until all requirements are met.
Yes – Under the Township code the renting of property to another is a business activity subject to Township business tax requirements. Local Business Tax is not governed by the Federal Tax Code.
- A verge is the strip of land between the sidewalk and the street, ranging from 3 to 5 feet in width. It provides a buffer zone for pedestrian safety and aesthetic purposes.
- When replacing an existing sidewalk, it must be a minimum of 36 inches wide to comply with ADA standards.
- After the sidewalk forms are set up, you must notify the assigned Public Works Inspector for a pre-pour inspection. Once the sidewalk construction is completed, a final inspection will be conducted by the Public Works Inspector to close out the permit.
- Zoning permits.
(1) A zoning permit shall be required as designated below. If any of the improvements listed below are located in the Floodplain District, they are also subject to compliance with the provisions of § 155-7.3, Floodplain Overlay District.
(2) No land use may be established or changed, and no building or structure may be used or occupied or the use classification changed until a zoning permit has been obtained. (See Table 5.1, Uses, for a list of use classifications.)
(3) No zoning permit shall be required for municipal or municipal authority offices.
(4) A zoning permit shall also be required prior to performing any of the following improvements:
(a) Temporary uses of land or structures.
(b) Grading within the floodplain.
(c) Any fence or wall within the floodplain.
(d) The storage of any materials within the floodplain.
(e) Play structures or other recreational equipment located within the floodplain.
(f) Any change or increase in impervious surface on a lot.
(g) The installation of a shed or other accessory structures less than 200 square feet.
(h) A retaining wall not within the floodplain exceeding four feet above grade.
(i) Installation of frontage fencing, secondary frontage fencing, or frontage facade fencing.
(j) Any repair or replacement of a nonconforming fence.
