In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, also known as Act 247, the MPC, and/or the Planning Code, is the enabling legislation that allows for uniform planning and land-use regulations throughout the state.

The MPC serves to:

• Accomplish coordinated community development;
• Provide for the general welfare by guiding and protecting amenities, guiding future governmental, social, and cultural development and growth;
• Improve governmental processes and functions;
• Guide uses of land and structures, type and location of streets, and public grounds and facilities;
• Minimize problems that presently exist or which may be foreseen (MPC §105). 

Article 2 of the MPC defines core aspects of a planning commission including, appointments to the planning commission, terms of office, and the powers and duties of the commissioners. In Bethel Township, the Planning Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors to review subdivision and land development plans. The Planning Commission’s responsibility is to assure compliance with local building and zoning ordinances, comprehensive plans, subdivisions, and land development codes, and ensure compliance with Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code (MPC). Additional information about the Bethel Township Planning Commission can be found at this page.