Business Resources

A clear guide to Shamokin's planning, zoning, permits, grants, and business support. Use this page to find the right starting point, then confirm current requirements with the responsible City office before beginning work.

Long-Range Planning & Zoning Updates

Shamokin 2035 Comprehensive Plan

The City recently adopted the Shamokin 2035 Comprehensive Plan, a ten-year roadmap for community and economic development. The plan guides future decisions about land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, downtown investment, public spaces, parking, and redevelopment.

For property owners and businesses, the Comprehensive Plan is a policy guide rather than a permit. Its recommendations help shape future zoning amendments, public projects, grant priorities, and development decisions.

Planning Context & 2035 Plan ReferencesGo Shamokin Revitalization PlanCommunity & Economic Development

Modernizing Shamokin's Zoning

The City is researching and preparing updates to modernize its older zoning ordinance and align land-use rules with the new Comprehensive Plan. This work is intended to make the code clearer, support appropriate redevelopment, improve housing and business opportunities, and protect neighborhood character.

Current public work includes a proposed amended zoning map and Downtown Overlay District for the downtown core generally bounded by Commerce Street, Water Street, Market Street, and Shamokin Street. The proposal includes updated downtown land-use standards and definitions. Because zoning proposals may change during public review, property owners should verify the currently adopted rules with the Code Office before making decisions.

Review Proposed Downtown Overlay & MapCurrent Zoning CodeCurrent Posted Zoning Map2026 Zoning Application

Before buying, leasing, renovating, or changing a property's use: Contact the City Code Office for a current zoning determination. A comprehensive plan, proposed ordinance, and adopted zoning ordinance serve different purposes.

City Code Office: Your First Stop

City Hall: 47 East Lincoln Street, Shamokin, PA 17872
Phone: 570-644-0876
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Applications, Permits & FormsCode EnforcementAll City Ordinances

A Practical Permit Process

1. Describe the project and proposed use. Contact the Code Office before ordering materials, signing construction contracts, or committing to a commercial build-out.
2. Check zoning and occupancy. Confirm the business use, parking, signs, accessibility, and proposed improvements are permitted at the property.
3. Submit the required applications. Provide plans, contractor information, supporting documents, and applicable fees.
4. Wait for written approval. Do not begin regulated work until the required permits are issued.
5. Complete inspections and final approval. Commercial projects may require inspections and a Certificate of Occupancy before opening.

Projects That Commonly Need Review

• New construction, additions, structural changes, renovations, and commercial build-outs
• Changes in occupancy or business use, signs, accessibility work, and facade improvements
• Roofing, demolition, driveways, dumpsters in a public right-of-way, and street excavation
• Subdivision, land development, market stalls, temporary vendors, and peddling

Important: This is a practical overview, not a permit determination. Requirements depend on the property and project.

Building, Occupancy & Property Forms

Residential Building PermitCommercial Building PermitDemolition PermitDumpster PermitSubdivision / Land Development

Commercial construction and changes to a space may require code inspections, accessibility compliance, and a final Certificate of Occupancy. Confirm the requirements for the specific property before opening.

Peddlers, Solicitors & Temporary Vendors

City rules generally require a license or permit for peddling, soliciting, canvassing, or transient retail activity unless an exemption applies. Apply through the Code Office, display the permit as required, and confirm current fees and operating rules before selling.

Peddler Permit ApplicationPeddling & Soliciting Ordinance

Facade Improvement Grants

The City continues to use its posted 2021 facade grant application for eligible street-facing improvements in the Shamokin Business District. The application explains matching requirements, supporting bids, ownership documents, before photos, design information, and permit and zoning compliance.

Funding and deadlines can change. Contact the City at 570-644-0876 before applying.

Current Posted Facade Grant ApplicationSeptember 2024 Council RecordEconomic Development

Business Startup Checklist

1. Choose a business structure and register the business name or entity.
2. Obtain federal and state tax accounts, including sales tax and employer withholding when applicable.
3. Confirm zoning and occupancy requirements before signing a lease or starting renovations.
4. Check whether the profession or activity requires a state license, local permit, inspection, or insurance.
5. Prepare a business plan, startup budget, financing plan, and marketing plan.
6. Arrange required inspections and receive final City approval before opening.

Startup Links

Before Choosing a Property

• Ask whether the proposed business use is permitted at the address.
• Confirm whether a change of use, zoning permit, building permit, accessibility work, or Certificate of Occupancy is required.
• Check sign, parking, fire-safety, food-service, and professional licensing requirements.
• Get written cost estimates and permit guidance before finalizing a lease or purchase.

Free Business Advising & Planning

Bucknell University Small Business Development Center provides confidential consulting, startup guidance, planning support, and educational programs for area entrepreneurs.

State & Local Programs

PA Business One-Stop ShopCommunity & Economic DevelopmentShamokin Business AssistanceGo Shamokin Revitalization Plan Program availability, forms, fees, and City requirements can change. Verify details directly with the responsible agency before signing contracts, applying for financing, or beginning work.