Permit Requirements: Penn Hills vs Pittsburgh
How do permit requirements rules compare between Penn Hills, PA and Pittsburgh, PA?
Penn Hills and Pittsburgh have similar restriction levels.
Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Penn Hills requires a zoning/building permit for fences regardless of height. Applications filed with Planning and Code Enforcement Department. Survey or plot plan typically required.
View full Penn Hills rules →Pittsburgh, PA
Allegheny County
Pittsburgh requires a zoning permit for fences up to 6 feet and both zoning and building permits for taller fences. Floodplain fences need a building permit at any height. Apply via OneStopPGH.
View full Pittsburgh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Penn Hills | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required | - |
| Department | Planning and Code Enforcement | - |
| Documents | Plot plan showing location | - |
| Fee | Around $50-$100 | - |
| Address | 102 Duff Rd | - |
| Under 6 Feet | - | Zoning permit only |
| Over 6 Feet | - | Zoning + building permit required |
| Floodplain | - | Building permit required at any height |
| Application Portal | - | OneStopPGH at pittsburghpa.gov |
| State Law | - | PA UCC Act 45 of 1999 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Penn Hills FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fence in Penn Hills?
Yes. Penn Hills requires a zoning/building permit for all fences regardless of height. Submit a plot plan and application to the Planning Department at 102 Duff Road; fees run $50-$100.
What happens if I install a fence without a permit?
Code Enforcement can issue a citation of $100-$500 plus charge a double permit fee. Non-compliant fences may be ordered removed at your cost, and daily penalties accrue until resolved.
Pittsburgh FAQ
Where do I apply for a fence permit in Pittsburgh?
Permit applications are submitted through the OneStopPGH portal at pittsburghpa.gov or in person at the Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI).
Do I need a permit for a short fence under 6 feet?
Fences 6 feet or shorter generally require a zoning permit but not a building permit, unless the fence is in a floodplain area.
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