Townships

Pennsylvania has two classes of townships. All townships are second class unless first class status has been approved by voters.

A general rule is:

- Second Class Townships are run by Supervisors (usually three)

- First Class Townships are run by Commissioners (usually five)

A second class township with a population density of 300 persons per square mile can become a first class township if voters approve the change by referendum, but many townships meeting the density requirement have remained second class.

 

 

Exception: 27 townships in PA operate under home rule charters.