High Swartz LLP helps Pennsylvania townships and boroughs enforce their municipal codes—keeping communities safe, orderly, and compliant. Our attorneys work directly with municipal managers, code enforcement officers, zoning officers, and elected officials to interpret, apply, and uphold local ordinances.
We represent local governments up and down eastern Pennsylvania from our offices in Norristown, Doylestown, Wayne, and Feasterville.
What We Do in Code Enforcement
Ordinance Interpretation and Application
We guide municipal officials through the correct reading of zoning codes, property maintenance ordinances, and other local regulations. If the wording creates confusion, we recommend clear enforcement strategies backed by Pennsylvania law.
Enforcement Actions
When property owners, landlords, or businesses violate local codes, we help municipalities take effective action. This may involve issuing notices of violation, filing enforcement proceedings in District Court, or seeking compliance orders in the Court of Common Pleas.
Appeals and Hearings
If a property owner appeals a code decision—whether under the Local Agency Law or the Uniform Construction Code—we defend the municipality’s position in hearings, zoning boards, and higher courts.
Collaboration with Municipal Staff
Our attorneys work closely with building inspectors, police departments, public works directors, and other staff to ensure that enforcement actions follow proper procedure and withstand legal challenges.
Who We Serve
We represent:
- Township Boards of Supervisors and Borough Councils
- Zoning Hearing Boards
- Planning Commissions
- Municipal Authorities (water, sewer, parking)
When to Involve Our Code Enforcement Team
Contact us when:
- A property owner ignores multiple violation notices
- A landlord fails to maintain rental units to minimum habitability standards
- A construction project violates zoning or building codes
- A business refuses to comply with sign, noise, or environmental regulations
- An appeal or court challenge threatens a recent enforcement action
Early involvement allows us to build a clear record of compliance efforts, strengthening your municipality’s case if litigation follows.
How We Work
We start with a review of the ordinance, the violation history, and supporting evidence. We then:
- Draft or review notices of violation for legal sufficiency
- Guide municipal staff on the next procedural steps
- Represent the municipality in court, zoning hearings, or appeals
- Negotiate compliance where appropriate, while preserving enforcement authority
Our attorneys also train municipal staff on enforcement procedures to reduce future disputes.
Why Municipalities Choose High Swartz LLP
- Proven Experience in Pennsylvania Municipal Law – Serving as solicitors, special counsel, and litigation counsel for dozens of municipalities in Eastern PA.
- Our firm garners national recognition for real estate litigation, land use, and zoning law.
- Licensed, Recognized Attorneys – Members of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Local County Bar Associations, and active participants in municipal and zoning law committees.
- Team Approach – Our municipal group includes attorneys with decades of courtroom experience, land use litigation backgrounds, and daily involvement in zoning and ordinance matters.
- Local Knowledge – Familiarity with the unique needs of boroughs and townships across Southeastern Pennsylvania, from small rural communities to growing suburban areas.
Contact Our Municipal Code Enforcement Attorneys
To discuss how we can help your township or borough enforce its codes, call (610) 275-0700 or contact us online. High Swartz LLP provides responsive, practical legal support that helps municipalities uphold their ordinances and protect their communities.
