§1186. Probationary period.

(a) General rule.--An original appointment to a position in the police force or as a paid fire apparatus operator shall be for a probationary period of not less than six months and not more than one year, but during the probationary period an appointee may be dismissed only for a cause specified in section 1183 (relating to rejection of applicant and hearing) or because of incapacity for duty due to the use of alcohol or drugs.

(b) Notice denying permanent appointment.--

(1) If, at the close of a probationary period, the conduct or fitness of the probationer has not been satisfactory to the council, the probationer shall be notified in writing that the probationer will not receive a permanent appointment and the appointment shall cease.

(2) If the probationer is not notified or dismissed in accordance with this section, the probationer's retention shall be equivalent to a permanent appointment.

(c) Finality of decision.--The decision of a borough to suspend or discharge a probationer shall be final and shall not be subject to the hearing provisions of section 1191 (relating to hearings on dismissals and reductions).