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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for McKeesport
McKeesport states building permits are required for the construction, alteration, replacement, and repair of all structures.
Note: No city-specific exemption list was posted on the reviewed McKeesport pages. Any exemption would be limited to work exempt under the Pennsylvania UCC or BIU guidance.
- Building permit application
- Structural drawings
- Scope-specific materials required by BIU
- Occupancy permit forms and payment for sale or transfer inspections
- Building code
- Pennsylvania UCC enforced through the City and BIU.
- Contractor requirements
- Work involving licensed trades must meet applicable Pennsylvania licensing and registration rules; BIU and City materials control any local filing requirements.
Application process
Typical processing: Occupancy inspections should be scheduled at least two weeks before closing; no general building-permit turnaround is posted on the reviewed pages.
- 01 Obtain the correct permit application from BIU or the City.
- 02 Prepare the building permit application and structural drawings for the proposed work.
- 03 Submit the package digitally to BIU at submitbiupgh@biuinc.com or coordinate through Community Development in person.
- 04 Receive review comments, approval, and fee instructions.
- 05 Pick up the permit, complete inspections, and for transfers or occupancy obtain the required occupancy permit through Community Development.
Typical processing time: Occupancy inspections should be scheduled at least two weeks before closing; no general building-permit turnaround is posted on the reviewed pages.
Fee schedule
McKeesport building permit fees
Occupancy permits must be completed in person Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in Community Development. Occupancy permits are $75 per unit for one- and two-family dwellings, $50 per unit for multi-family, and $125 per unit for commercial or industrial. Street opening permits require a $5,000 maintenance bond.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- BIU and Community Development (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Typical sequence: Building permit inspections during construction, then final or occupancy inspection where applicable.
Frequently asked
Common questions about McKeesport permits
01 Do I need a building permit in McKeesport, PA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in McKeesport, PA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in McKeesport, PA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in McKeesport, PA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in McKeesport, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of McKeesport Community Development Department; building permit review performed with Building Inspection Underwriters of Pennsylvania, Inc. (BIU) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.