Pennsylvania building departments

How permitting works in Pennsylvania

Uniform Construction Code; local or third-party enforcement. Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code applies statewide. Most municipalities enforce it locally; in opt-out municipalities, owners hire a certified third-party agency for residential work, and home improvement contractors register with the Attorney General.

A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.

Pennsylvania building codes and licensing

Residential code

2021 IRC with Pennsylvania amendments under the Uniform Construction Code (34 Pa. Code § 403.21), effective January 1, 2026

Commercial code

2021 IBC with Pennsylvania amendments under the Uniform Construction Code, effective January 1, 2026

Adopted by

Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry (UCC Review and Advisory Council) (opens in a new tab)

Outside city limits

In municipalities that opted out of local enforcement, the owner hires a certified third-party agency to enforce the residential code, and L&I handles commercial enforcement. L&I also has sole jurisdiction over elevators and state-owned buildings.

Contractor licensing

Under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, most home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General, carry minimum insurance and use compliant contracts. The state does not license trades; some municipalities license contractors, electricians or plumbers locally. Pennsylvania Attorney General – Home Improvement Contractor Registration (opens in a new tab)

What is different in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania amends the IRC: interconnected smoke alarms are not required when one- and two-family homes undergo alterations, repairs or additions; non-interconnected battery-operated alarms are required instead.
• In counties of the second class, municipalities do not enforce the UCC plumbing code; plumbing is regulated under the Local Health Administration Law.
• The 2021 updates took effect January 1, 2026, replacing the 2018 I-code adoption that had been in effect since February 14, 2022.

Pennsylvania department guides

Browse Pennsylvania counties

Bold counties have at least one researched department guide.

Planning a project in Pennsylvania?

Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.

• Do I Need a Permit for a Deck
• Do I Need a Permit for a Fence
• Do I Need a Permit for a Shed
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Roof
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Water Heater
• Do I Need a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel
• How Much Does a Building Permit Cost
• Building Inspection Stages Explained

Sources

1. Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry
2. 34 Pa. Code § 403.21 – Uniform Construction Code
3. PA L&I – UCC Contractor Licensing

State facts checked October 21, 2026. Local amendments can change these rules; the department serving your address has the final word.