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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Pittsburgh
PLI requires permits for development, right-of-way, fire code, and construction work configured by permit type, structure type, work type, and work scope.
- Exempt Work that is not within a PLI, DOMI, fire code, or planning permit category shown in OneStopPGH
- Exempt Minor ordinary repairs only to the extent allowed by the Pennsylvania UCC and the permit-specific PLI guidance
Note: Pittsburgh publishes permit-specific requirements rather than a single citywide exemption list. Confirm with PLI if your work is exempt.
- Permit application
- Plans or drawings as required
- Contractor and trade license information
- Certificates of insurance where applicable
- Zoning or other agency approvals
- Stamped design documents required by scope
- Building code
- Pennsylvania UCC as administered by PLI with local amendments; 2021 ICC code cycle with Pennsylvania amendments for current enforcement.
- Permit validity
- Permit renewal fee is posted; if a permit lapses, renewal is required. Failure to keep license information current can result in permit revocation.
- Owner-builder
- Owners may apply directly, but contractor and trade licensing requirements still apply where licensed work is being performed.
- Contractor requirements
- City trade and business licenses apply for covered contractors, and state home improvement registration applies for qualifying residential work.
Source: City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI) ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Not posted as a single citywide turnaround; inspection requests must be submitted at least 5 business days before the requested date.
- 01 Identify permit type and application requirements in the PLI permit pages and OneStopPGH reference materials.
- 02 Create a OneStopPGH account and prepare application materials, including plans, contractor/license details, and any agency coordination items.
- 03 Submit the application in OneStopPGH or at the OneStopPGH counter.
- 04 Respond to review comments, zoning or agency coordination requests, and pay the assessed fees.
- 05 After issuance, post the permit, request required inspections, and obtain final approval or certificate of occupancy where applicable.
Typical processing time: Not posted as a single citywide turnaround; inspection requests must be submitted at least 5 business days before the requested date.
Source: City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI) ↗
Fee schedule
Effective January 1, 2025
OneStopPGH accepts credit card, check, and money order at the counter; cash is not accepted there; third-party payment providers may charge processing fees.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ (effective January 1, 2025) before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- OneStopPGH portal (online)
- 412-255-2175 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Inspection requests must be submitted at least 5 business days before the requested date.
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Typical sequence: Scope-dependent building, trade, and final inspections, with passed inspections from required outside agencies submitted at rough, underfloor, wall-cover, and final stages when applicable.
Source: City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI) ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Pittsburgh permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Pittsburgh, PA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI) before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.