Permits

Permit Configuration

Permits, Licenses & Inspections (PLI) permit applications and associated requirements are configured based on permit type, structure type, work type, and work scope. Please see work not requiring a permit for work that can be performed without a PLI permit.

Permit Type

PLI regulates construction by issuing a separate permit for types of work and for each system type as follows: building, demolition, land operations, signs, electrical systems, mechanical systems (including fuel gas), fire alarm systems, and suppression systems permits. PLI also issues permits that do not include construction as follows: occupancy only, and occupant load placard permits. Please note that Allegheny County Health Department Plumbing Division is responsible for plumbing permits.

The following types of work require a permit:

  • To construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building, structure, and facility.
  • To erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system.

Structure Type

Residential Structures and Commercial Structures types are defined as the following.

Residential – single-family:

  • Applicable to detached single-family dwellings and townhouses that are 3 stories or less in height regulated by the International Residential Code.
  • Applicable to structures accessory to the dwelling.
  • Not applicable if other uses beyond the dwelling unit are present in the structure.

Residential – two-family:

  • Applicable to detached two-family dwellings that are 3 stories or less in height regulated by the International Residential Code.
  • Applicable to structures accessory to the dwelling.
  • Not applicable if other uses beyond the dwelling units are present in the structure.

Commercial – all other uses:

  • Applies to structures regulated by the International Building Code;
  • Applicable to attached single-family and two-family dwellings and accessory structures;
  • Applicable to detached single-family and two-family dwellings that more than 3 stories in height and accessory structures;
  • Applicable to dwelling units in mixed-use structure (contains non-residential uses);
  • Applicable to non-residential uses.

Work Type

Work Types are defined generally as:

  • New Construction: applicable for new buildings.
  • Addition / Alteration: applicable for existing buildings and accessory structures.
  • Minor Alteration: applicable for existing buildings with a valid Certificate of Occupancy. Single-family dwellings and townhouses do not require Certificates of Occupancy.

Work Scope

Work Scope is specific for each structure type, permit type, and work type.

Permit Process

The permit process consists of the following steps:

Work Not Requiring a Permit

Stop! Your demolition may also require a permit from the Allegheny County Health Department for Asbestos Abatement. Learn more and avoid fines of up to $25,000 at their Asbestos Renovation Guide.

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