Securing the correct permits is a crucial step in any construction, renovation, or modification project in Erie, Pennsylvania. Understanding the permit process ensures compliance with city ordinances, safety regulations, and helps avoid potential legal issues and project delays. This guide, provided by the City of Erie’s Code Enforcement Office, outlines everything you need to know about permits, from application to inspection.
General Permit Information
The City of Erie’s Code Enforcement Office, located in Room 407 of City Hall, is your central point of contact for all permit-related matters. Their responsibilities include reviewing applications, issuing permits, and conducting necessary inspections throughout your project.
For in-person assistance, Permit Technicians are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM in Room 407. They can guide you through the application process, answer questions about fees, and explain the requirements for different permit types. Payments are accepted in the form of cash, check, or money order.
Important Note Regarding COVID-19: Please be aware that public access to City Hall may be limited due to ongoing COVID-19 precautions. Currently, visitor access might be restricted to the lobby area. However, the Code Enforcement office continues to process permit applications electronically. You can submit your applications, drawings, and required documents via email to [email protected].
For immediate assistance or to clarify any questions regarding permit fees, the LERTA (Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance) application process, or the permit submittal process, please contact the Permit Technicians directly at (814) 870-1313 or (814) 870-1473.
Understanding Permit Fees
Staying informed about the current permit fees is essential for budgeting your project accurately. The City of Erie provides a downloadable document outlining the updated fee schedule.
Updated Permit Fees
Download Permit Fees Document
It’s recommended to review this document to understand the costs associated with your specific project type and scope.
Types of Permits Issued in Erie, PA
The City of Erie regulates various types of work to ensure safety and code compliance. The Code Enforcement Office issues permits for the following categories:
- Building Permits: For new constructions, additions, renovations, and repairs of buildings or structures.
- Electrical Permits: For installation, modification, or repair of electrical systems.
- Plumbing Permits: For installation, modification, or repair of plumbing systems.
- Mechanical Permits: For installation, modification, or repair of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
- Demolition Permits: For the demolition of buildings or structures, or portions thereof.
- Sign Permits: For the installation or modification of signs.
- Fence Permits: For the installation of fences.
- Swimming Pool Permits: For the installation of swimming pools.
- Parking Lot Permits: For the construction or modification of parking lots.
- Child Care Permits: For the certification of child care facilities.
- Certificate of Occupancy [Change of Use]: Required when changing the use of a building.
- Occupant Load Placard: Certification of the legal number of occupants allowed in assembly spaces.
Here’s a more detailed look at the types of work that typically require permits:
- New Construction: Erecting new principal or accessory buildings or structures.
- Additions: Expanding existing buildings or structures.
- Renovations and Repairs: Modifying or repairing existing buildings or structures.
- Fire Safety Systems: Installing or modifying fire alarm and suppression systems.
- Electrical Work: All electrical installations, modifications, and repairs.
- Plumbing Work: All plumbing installations, modifications, and repairs.
- Mechanical Work: All HVAC installations, modifications, and repairs.
- Demolition: Tearing down buildings or portions of buildings.
- Signage: Installing or modifying signs.
- Fences and Pools: Installing new fences or swimming pools.
- Parking Lots: Constructing or modifying parking areas.
- Child Care Certification: Obtaining certification for operating a child care facility.
- Occupancy Certification: Certifying occupancy or change of use for buildings.
- Occupant Load Certification: Determining and certifying the maximum legal occupancy for assembly spaces.
Building Classifications: Residential vs. Commercial
For permitting purposes, buildings are classified into two main categories:
- Residential: This classification applies to single and two-family dwellings, but only when the entire structure is used solely for residential purposes.
- Commercial: This broad category encompasses all other building uses beyond single and two-family residential. This includes businesses, multi-family dwellings, and any structure not exclusively used as a single or two-family home.
Understanding your building’s classification is important as it may affect the specific permit requirements and inspections needed.
The Permitting Process: Step-by-Step
Obtaining a permit in Erie, PA, involves a structured process to ensure thorough review and compliance. Here are the key steps:
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Application Submission: Complete the necessary permit application forms and gather all required supplemental information, such as drawings, plans, and contractor details. Submit these documents to the Code Enforcement Office in Room 407 at City Hall or electronically via email to [email protected].
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Review and Approval: The Code Enforcement Office will review your application and submitted documents to ensure they meet all code requirements and regulations. This review process may involve different inspectors depending on the permit type (building, electrical, plumbing, etc.).
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Permit Issuance: Once your application is approved and all fees are paid, the permit will be issued. Make sure to keep the permit readily available at the job site throughout the duration of the project, as it may need to be displayed for inspectors.
Inspections and Project Completion
After obtaining your permit, the process isn’t quite finished. Inspections are a critical part of ensuring your project adheres to safety standards and code regulations.
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Scheduled Inspections: As the permit holder, it is your responsibility to schedule inspections at various stages of your project. These stages are typically defined within the permit documentation and depend on the type of work being done. Contact the Code Enforcement Office to schedule these inspections.
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Required Approvals: All required inspections must be completed and approved by the relevant inspectors before your permit can be officially closed. This ensures that the work meets all necessary standards.
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Final Inspection: Upon project completion, it is crucial to schedule a final inspection. This final inspection confirms that all work has been completed according to the approved plans and in compliance with all applicable codes. For residential building permits, this responsibility falls to the homeowner or contractor.
Work That May Not Require a Permit
While most construction and renovation work requires permits, some minor projects may be exempt. However, it is always best to verify with the Code Enforcement Office to avoid any misunderstandings.
To confirm whether your specific project requires a permit, contact the office directly at (814) 870-1313 or (814) 870-1473. They can provide guidance based on the details of your planned work.
Access Permit Applications
The City of Erie provides access to permit applications for download and convenience. These applications can be filled out and submitted to the Code Enforcement Office.
Permit applications can be submitted in person at Room 407 of City Hall or via email to [email protected].
Contact the Code Enforcement Experts
Navigating permits can sometimes be complex. The City of Erie’s Code Enforcement Office has a dedicated team of professionals ready to assist you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the relevant inspector or staff member for guidance and support.
Office of Code Enforcement (Room 407)
Andy Zimmerman
Manager of Code Enforcement
(814) 870-1470
Andy Zimmerman manages the Code Enforcement Office and can assist with general permit inquiries.
Kristy Williams
Office/Licensing Coordinator
(814) 870-1475
Kristy Williams coordinates office operations and licensing matters, and can help with general permit process questions.
Scott Heitzenrater
Building Inspector
(814) 870-1471
Scott Heitzenrater is the Building Inspector and can answer questions related to building permits and inspections.
Sam Santana
Electrical Inspector
(814) 870-1472
For electrical permit and inspection inquiries, contact Sam Santana, the Electrical Inspector.
Zack Kindle
Plumbing Inspector
(814) 870-1479
Zack Kindle is the Plumbing Inspector and your point of contact for plumbing permits and inspections.
Michael Lavery
Demolition Coordinator
(814) 870-1509
For demolition permit questions, contact Michael Lavery, the Demolition Coordinator.
Kelly Neville
Permit Tech
(814) 870-1473
Kelly Neville, Permit Technician, can assist with permit processing and general inquiries.
Lindsay Bowers
Permit Technician
(814) 870-1313
Lindsay Bowers, Permit Technician, is also available to help with permit processing and general questions.
Jake Binney
Code Enforcement Officer
(814) 870-1512
Jake Binney is a Code Enforcement Officer and can address code-related concerns.
Donna Carson
Code Enforcement Officer
(814) 870-1484
Donna Carson, Code Enforcement Officer, can also assist with code enforcement matters.
Mike Higgins
Code Enforcement Officer
(814) 870-1487
Mike Higgins is a Code Enforcement Officer available for code-related inquiries.
Bud Palotas
Code Enforcement Officer
(814) 870-1496
Bud Palotas, Code Enforcement Officer, is another contact for code-related questions.
Steve Yurkewicz
Code Enforcement Officer
(814) 870-1510
Steve Yurkewicz is a Code Enforcement Officer who can help with code-related inquiries.
Jake Welsh
Chief Zoning Officer
(814) 870-1273
Jake Welsh, Chief Zoning Officer, can assist with zoning-related permit questions.
Amy Francis
Zoning Officer
(814) 870-1265
Amy Francis, Zoning Officer, is available for zoning permit inquiries.
Andrea Kensill
Rental License Compliance Clerk
(814) 870-1478
Andrea Kensill, Rental License Compliance Clerk, can assist with rental license and compliance questions.
Lindsay Bowers
Rental License Data Entry Clerk
(814) 870-1449
Lindsay Bowers, Rental License Data Entry Clerk, can help with rental license data entry and inquiries.
Zack Kindle, Plumbing Inspector, is a key contact for plumbing related permits.
This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the permit process in Erie, PA. By understanding the requirements and following these steps, you can ensure your projects are compliant, safe, and successfully completed. Remember to always verify specific requirements with the City of Erie Code Enforcement Office for your particular project.
