Building Inspector

Building Permits

Building permits are required for the construction, alteration, replacement, and repair of all structures. Building permits can be obtained in person from the Community Development Department or by contacting Building Inspection Underwriters directly.

Building Permits Applications are available online at http://www.biupa.com/pf.html

Structural drawings and building permit applications can be submitted digitally to submitbiupgh@biuinc.com.

 

Occupancy Permits

Occupancy permits are required at the time of a sale of a property. This applies to both residential and commercial properties. Sellers and/or real estate agents are expected to schedule these inspections prior to the closing. Please allow a minimum of two weeks for scheduling.
All occupancy permits must be completed in person Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Community Development Office.

  • Occupancy permits are $75 per unit in single- and two-family  dwellings.
  • Occupancy permits for multi-family dwellings (i.e. apartment  buildings) are $50 per unit.
  • Occupancy permits for commercial and industrial buildings are $125 per unit.
  • The City reserves the right to charge a re-inspection fee after two visits to the same unit. The City also reserves the right to refuse the inspection of unsanitary properties (severely water-damaged, rodent-infested, etc.)


Other Permits

  • Street opening permits are $300 for the first 30 lineal feet, regardless of  the surface type, and $15 for each additional 20 feet. A $5,000 maintenance bond must be posted with each application. 
  • For sign permits (new signage and replacement signage) there is a $40 erection fee plus $1 per square foot.  
  • Planning Commission applications are $500. 
  • Residential Zoning Hearing Board applications are $500. Commercial Zoning Hearing Board applications are $1,000.