Codes and Laws

Code of Ordinances

Myerstown Borough is governed locally by its Code of Ordinances.  A code of ordinances is a collection of rules and regulations created by the local governing authority that serves as permanent, enforceable laws.  The code provides a framework for maintaining order, protecting public safety, and enhancing the overall well-being of a municipality.  The code addresses a wide range of important topics, such as zoning and land use, building regulations, public health and safety, noise control, animal control, parking rules, and many others.

In Myerstown Borough, our local governing authority is the Borough Council.  Our town's Code of Ordinances consists of individual ordinances that have been created to meet the specific needs and priorities of our community.  Enforcing these codes is a joint effort, with law enforcement agencies taking responsibility, along with appointed officials such as code enforcement officers or the Borough Manager.  Together, they ensure that our codes are upheld and that everyone understands and follows the rules that help maintain the well-being of our town.

If you're interested in learning more about our specific municipal codes,they are codified and easily accessible online at Myerstown Borough Code of Ordinances.

U.S. Constitution, Federal Statutes, and U.S. Treaties
Article VI, Clause 2 of the United States Constitution, also known as the "Supremacy Clause", states that the U. S. Constitution, Federal statues, and United States treaties are the "supreme law of the land".  Learn more about these documents here.

Pennsylvania Constitution, State Statutes, and State Regulations
Myerstown is a Borough in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Learn more about Pennsylvania's Constitution, State Statutes, and State Regulations here.

Pennsylvania Borough Code
The Pennsylvania Borough Code is the legal document by which boroughs are governed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Learn more about the Borough Code here.

Myerstown Borough Code of Ordinances
Myerstown is governed locally by the Myerstown Borough Code of Ordinances.  Learn more about the Code here.

Planning Documents

Comprehensive Plan
Physical planning by municipalities for the future development and redevelopment of their communities has long been accepted as an important function of local government.  Planning is a legal means of deciding how best to provide a proper arrangement of land uses, efficient circulation, desirable environmental features, and general amenities of community life.

In many communities throughout Pennsylvania, the vision for future growth and development is outlined in a Comprehensive Plan.  Comprehensive Plans are the backbone of any community planning effort.  They outline challenges facing the community, identify solutions, and provide guidance to appointed and elected officials on planning-related decisions. 

Myerstown Borough published a "Mini-Comprehensive Plan" in 2012, funded in-part by a grant from the Lebanon County Commissioners.

A comprehensive plan is an official public document that serves as a policy guide to decision making about physical development in the community.  It is an explicit statement of future goals for the community and serves as a formal vision for the planning commission, elected officials, and other public agencies, private organizations, and individuals.  The plan provides context and direction for the community's land use ordinances and regulations.  

Myerstown published its first Comprehensive Plan in 1968.  A "mini-comprehensive plan" was completed in 2012 with funding assistance from Lebanon County.

1968 Myerstown Borough Comprehensive Plan

2012 Myerstown Borough Mini-Comprehensive Plan