Permitting Home
Permit Configuration
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:
- 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:
