Pennsylvania Scale Certification & Weights and Measures

Pennsylvania uses a combined model: state inspectors cover much of the state, while county or city sealers handle inspections in their own jurisdictions. If you operate a commercial scale in Pennsylvania — at a warehouse, farm, recycling yard, retail store, or truck stop — here is who regulates it, what the law requires, and exactly who to contact.

Who inspects commercial scales in Pennsylvania?

Hybrid: state Division staff perform the required annual device inspections statewide, while remaining county and city sealers (CEWM) inspect within their own jurisdictions. Public inspection lookup: pairs.pa.gov/pairs-weights/Home/Search.

What Pennsylvania requires of scale owners

Commercial devices must pass the required annual inspection, and anyone who sells, installs, or repairs commercial weighing/measuring devices must be registered with the Department (3-year registration with annually certified test equipment).

Getting a scale into service — 4 steps

1. Buy a legal-for-trade (NTEP-certified) scale appropriate for your application and capacity.
2. Confirm your jurisdiction — call the state program ((717) 787-9089) to learn whether a state inspector or your county/city sealer covers your location.
3. Arrange compliant installation and calibration. Where required, placing-in-service must be done by a licensed or registered service company.
4. Stay compliant. Pass required inspections, keep calibration current, retain service records.

Common questions