Announcements
EFFECTIVE MAY 1, 2008
The method to determine permit fees for commercial renovation construction projects will change on May 1, 2008.
The permit fees will include a $75.00 application fee, a $75.00 per hour plan review fee , and a $75.00 per inspection fee.
This policy excludes all one- and two-family dwelling construction and all new construction projects.
If you have questions, please contact our office at 814-231-3056.
Building Permit Fees:
When calculating building permit fees, a couple things to keep in mind:
Act 157 of the PA Uniform Construction Code requires that all code agencies collect a $4.00 surcharge for every permit issued. Make sure to add $4.00 to the permit fee you calculate.
The CRCA has a minimum permit fee of $56.00. Construction projects with a declared cost of $7500.00 or less will be charged a permit fee of $56.00.
EFFECTIVE APRIL 12, 2009All building permit applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable minimum payment equal to 40% of the total permit fee. Plan review will no start until this fee has been received. In addition, the following items must be clearly indicated on building permit application: type of construction, use group and gross square footage; in addition, for renovation projects application must include level of alteration and corresponding square footage.
FAQs
How much will my building permit cost?
Who can apply for my building permit?
The owner, contractor, design professional, or an owner?s authorized agent can apply for building permits
Who is responsible for obtaining the building permit, prior to commencement of work?
The person(s) performing the work requiring a building permit, i.e., homeowner, contractor, subcontractors.
Who can be cited for work performed without a building permit or working beyond the scope of a building permit?
The person(s) performing the work requiring a building permit, i.e. homeowner, contractor, subcontractors.
Do I need a zoning permit?
Each Municipality has its own zoning office and its own zoning requirements. Please call the Municipal office for where work is being done and ask what their requirements are. Municipality Links
What is the difference between zoning and codes?
Zoning regulates what can be placed on the parcel of land (house, garage, decks, etc) and where. Zoning ensures that setback and easement requirements are met. Codes regulate how the structure is built, ensuring that the structure meets the minimum state adopted building code standard.
What code applies to my single family house?
If I get a permit for a project, such as replacement of the furnace or electrical service, am I required to bring the entire house up to the current building code?
No.
Do I need a building permit to:
| Install a liquefied Petroleum (LP) tank | Yes |
| Replace existing furnace or water heater | Yes |
| Install new central air conditioning | Yes |
| Replace roof shingles on owner occupied home | No, unless the property is a rental/business use |
| Replace the siding on home | No |
| Replace the windows in home | No, unless the size of window/opening is changing (Note: all replacement windows must meet the U-factor of the Energy Code) |
What do I need to submit for plans?
Is the building inspector responsible for specifications provided on the plans that are above and beyond the minimum code requirements?
No. (I.e. insulation above the required R-value)
Do I need an egress window in my unfinished basement?
No, but if you decide to finish the space as habitable at a later date, you will be required to install an egress window.
To what extent can I have my contractor finish the basement in my house currently under construction? (ex. framing exterior walls only, future egress window, storage room, etc.)
Work in your new home can not exceed the scope of work as indicated on the plans that were submitted and approved by the Codes office. If the decision is made to partially or completely finish the basement after construction of your home has started, plans must be submitted and approved by the Codes office and a new permit, for the basement, will be issued.
What if I want to use a new, unconventional product in my construction project?
Prior to the purchase of the product, provide the building inspector with the data sheets for the product, for approval. Be sure to indicate the building material on the plans that are submitted to our office for review.
Do my plans have to be prepared by a design professional?
No, but see our engineered components policy for items that must be addressed by an engineer.
How long does it take to get a building permit?
Typical plan review for initial comments, if any, is 7 to 10 business days. Please allow 3 to 5 business days for review of re-submittals.
When do I get inspections?
The building permit card is a complete list of inspections, in the order they should occur. Your project
may not require all the inspections listed on the permit card. The Inspection Guideline will further
explain what a building inspector will expect to be complete when coming to do the inspection.
Inspection Guideline
Who is responsible for the completion of the work that a permit has been obtained for?
The homeowner is ultimately responsible for the work that a permit has been obtained for.
What are the residential design criteria for the Centre Region?
| Ground snow load = | 30 |
| Wind speed = | 90 |
| Seismic category = | B |
| Weathering = | Severe |
| Frost line depth = | 36” |
| Termite = | Moderate to Heavy |
| Decay = | Moderate to Severe |
| Winter Design Temp. = | 7º F |
| Ice Shield Underlayment Required = | Yes |
| Flood Hazards = | Zoning |
| Air Freezing Index = | 1,000 |
| Mean Annual Temp. = | 45 |
Who is responsible for ensuring that the work done complies with the building code?
The person(s) performing the work.
What is the responsibility of the Building Inspector?
To ensure that the work being performed complies with the minimum code requirements.