Penn Township Rezoning
New proposed Zoning changes are taking place in Penn Township. This change could impact property values, the peaceful enjoyment of your neighborhood, and create conflict with new surrounding light industrial development.
Info
What We Know
The township is proposing to change many sections of the community from Rural Resource (RR) to Light Industrial Commerce (LIC).
What We Don’t Know
What type of industry will be permitted in a Light Industrial Commerce zone, or the reasons it is proposed for rezoning.
What can you do?
1. Attend the Penn Township Planning Commission meetings to say NO to the proposed rezone.
2. Spread the word by telling your friends and neighbors using our Fact Sheet
Download the fact sheet
Ordinances
Fracking
Data Centers
The process of fracking leaves a clear, negative impact on residents living in its proximity. In addition to producing air, noise, and light pollution, emergency incidents can be catastrophic for environmental and human health. These effects are no secret, and can also lead to lower property values for residents living in proximity to a well pad.
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We're asking our municipal leaders to protect residents' health and property by:
Increasing setback provisions from 600 to 2,500 feet;
Developing a ten-year plan for future proposed development with gas wells at issue;
Conducting adequate studies and documentation of the proposed 10-year plan and its impacts;
Obtaining bonding and insurance in a minimum of 25 million dollars in the event of accidents involving people and property;
Specifying fines and penalties for failure to comply with the Ordinance.
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The data center boom has begun sweeping through Southwestern Pennsylvania, and without the proper precautions, municipal leaders have been left scrambling for adequate protections. Currently, Penn Township has no Ordinance regulating data centers. Unless the use is clearly defined and regulated as to where it can be located within a municipality, a developer could place a data center wherever they want.
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Without adequate protections, residents could be subject to:
Increased electricity costs;
Expanded fracking operations;
High water usage;
Noise pollution;
Air pollution;
Heat islands;
Among other negative health impacts.
History
In 2015, Penn Township proposed expanding the current industrial zone along Walton and Melon roads, but due to outcry from residents, that proposal was scrapped. Now Penn Township commissioners are attempting to expand this industrial zone again, making way for uses like truck stops, compressor stations, gas processing facilities, warehousing, and other industrial uses. Residents do not want heavy industry disrupting the rural characteristic of their home, decreasing their property values, and potentially causing tax increases across the township.
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At the October 2024 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission discussed plans to change the zoning of a large area in the township's northeast corner from Rural Resource (RR) to Industrial Commerce (IC). At this meeting we found out that the Board of Commissioners have been working behind closed doors since last year with a consultant company, Strategic Solutions, without telling the residents most affected.
Protect PT worked to quickly inform and mobilize people on this decision, making sure that residents have an input and their concerns are considered. Since then, nearly 100 residents have shown up to oppose this effort at the continued public hearings and caucus meetings.
In April 2025, the formally proposed map has been removed. More revisions will be considered thanks to the strong community efforts in expressing their concerns.
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In October 2025, the Township approved a map and ordinance including a Mineral Overlay & Light Industrial Commerce zones.
