Pittsburgh Building Permits

Official fees, requirements, and Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections application links for common residential projects in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

🏛 Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections 📅 Updated April 2026

About Building Permits in Pittsburgh

Building permits in Pittsburgh are issued by the City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses and Inspections (PLI). Most residential permit applications are submitted online through the Pittsburgh ePlans portal at pittsburghpa.gov/pli. Processing times for standard residential projects typically run 5–15 business days for standard residential permits.

2018 International Residential Code with Pennsylvania amendments. Pittsburgh's steep topography means many properties require soil and grading studies before permits are issued for additions or new structures.

Inspections are scheduled through the Pittsburgh ePlans portal.

Project Types in Pittsburgh

Select a project to see permit requirements, fees, and how to apply.

Deck Permit$100–$400 -- Required Fence Permit$50–$100 -- Sometimes Required Shed Permit$50–$200 -- Sometimes Required Pool Permit$200–$600 -- Required Roof Replacement Permit$75–$150 -- Required Kitchen Remodel Permit$150–$600 -- Required Bathroom Remodel Permit$100–$400 -- Required ADU Permit$1,000–$3,500 -- Required Electrical Panel Permit$100–$250 -- Required HVAC Permit$100–$300 -- Required