📋 Permits You Need for Home Additions in Pennsylvania

📋 Permits You Need for Home Additions in Pennsylvania

Planning a home addition in Pennsylvania? Whether you’re building out a new bedroom, sunroom, or second story, you’ll likely need permits before you start.

Here’s a quick guide to help homeowners understand what permits are required, why they matter, and how to stay compliant when remodeling in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

🏡 Common Types of Home Additions That Require Permits

In Pennsylvania, permits are typically required for:

• Room additions (bedrooms, offices, sunrooms)

• Garage or carport additions

• Second-story builds

• Structural changes (walls, beams, roof lines)

• Decks over a certain height

• New plumbing, HVAC, or electrical runs

🧾 What Permits Do You Need?

Depending on your municipality, you may need one or more of the following:

• Building Permit – For structural changes and new square footage

• Zoning Permit – Ensures your addition complies with local land use and set-back laws

• Electrical Permit – For new wiring or panel upgrades

• Plumbing Permit – For new bathrooms, sinks, or utility lines

• Mechanical/HVAC Permit – For new systems or ductwork

• Stormwater/Grading Permit – For projects that affect water runoff or impervious surfaces

In Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, your contractor will often submit these for you.

📍 Local Example: Pittsburgh Permit Process

In Pittsburgh, home additions require:

• Site plans and architectural drawings

• Zoning approval

• Plan review by the Department of Permits, Licenses & Inspections (PLI)

This process can take 2–4 weeks depending on the size and scope of the project.

⚠️ What Happens if You Skip Permits?

• Fines or stop-work orders

• Legal problems when selling your home

• Unsafe, uninspected work

• Issues with insurance claims

That’s why it’s crucial to work with a licensed contractor who handles permitting properly.

🛠 Storm Handles Permits So You Don’t Have To

At Storm Construction & Remodeling, we take care of all the necessary permitting for your addition or remodel — ensuring your project meets local code and stays on schedule.

📞 Planning an Addition? Let’s Get Started.

We’ve helped homeowners across Pittsburgh and Western PA build beautiful, code-compliant additions.
📲 Call (704) 496‑0030 or Email: info@stormcr.com