Environment

Chester County is home to high-quality streams and waterways, prime agricultural soils and important natural areas like the Hopewell Big Woods and the White Clay Creek National Wild and Scenic River. This web page provides information on environmental protection, including climate action planning, sustainability, and natural resource protection.

Environmental Planning Guides

Guides focused on a variety of environmental planning topics, including open space protection and solar power.

Climate Action Plan

The plan includes a greenhouse gas emissions inventory and an action plan for reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency throughout the county.

Keep Chester County Beautiful

Chester County is an official county affiliate of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.

Protecting Natural Resources

Local ordinances, guidelines, and best management practices are important tools for the protection of natural resources.

Natural Resources Mapping and Data

Find natural resource mapping, data, and related publications here.

Woodlands and Tree Protection

The protection and expansion of trees and woodlands supports the county's environmental health, climate policy, and social well-being

County Environmental Planning Policies

Learn more about Chester County's comprehensive plan, Landscapes3, Watersheds, and the Greenhouse Gas Report.

Watersheds Plan

Watersheds is the county's integrated water resources plan and serves as the County-wide Act 167 Stormwater Management Plan.

Sustainable Practices

Local case studies showcase successful sustainability and resource protection initiatives.

Environmental Planning Partners

The Planning Commission coordinates with other County departments as well as Federal and State agencies to protect Chester County's resources.

Environmental and Energy Advisory Board

This board will enhance the County's commitment to preservation and protection of the environment and focus on the balance, interplay, and impact of energy related initiatives and issues.

Clean and Sustainable Energy

Clean energy initiatives can address climate change and reduce our carbon footprint.