Pennsylvania Construction Permit Guide

Complete guide to building permits in Pennsylvania. Find requirements, fees, timelines, and contact information for your county.

Lehigh County Building Permits

Office Address

17 S 7th Street, Allentown, PA 18101

Phone

(610) 782-3000

Office Hours

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Permit Types & Fees

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Permit TypeFee RangeTimelineRequired
Building Permit$50-$5005-15 business daysRequired
Electrical Permit$45-$2003-10 business daysRequired
Plumbing Permit$45-$2003-10 business daysRequired
Mechanical/HVAC Permit$45-$1503-10 business daysRequired
Demolition Permit$75-$3005-10 business daysRequired
Zoning Permit$25-$1003-7 business daysIf Applicable

Application Requirements

  • Completed application form
  • Two sets of construction plans (to scale)
  • Site/plot plan showing property lines
  • Proof of property ownership or authorization
  • Contractor license and insurance documentation
  • Energy compliance documentation (for new construction)

Required Inspections

1
Foundation Inspection
Before pouring concrete
2
Rough Framing
Before covering walls
3
Rough Electrical
Before covering walls
4
Rough Plumbing
Before covering walls
5
Insulation Inspection
Before drywall
6
Final Inspection
Before occupancy

Tips for Lehigh County

  • Submit complete applications to avoid delays
  • Schedule inspections at least 24 hours in advance
  • Keep permit visible at job site at all times
  • All work must be done by licensed contractors or with owner-builder exemption

Need Help with Permits?

Our verified contractors can handle all permit applications and inspections for your project.

Projects That Typically Don't Need Permits

  • Painting (interior and exterior)
  • Flooring replacement (no structural changes)
  • Cabinet replacement (same location)
  • Countertop replacement
  • Light fixture replacement (existing circuits)
  • Faucet and fixture replacement (same locations)
  • Minor landscaping
  • Fence under 6 feet (check local ordinances)
  • Storage sheds under 120 sq ft (check local)
  • Patios at grade level

*Always verify with your local municipality as requirements vary.

Permit Requirements by Project Type

New Home Construction

Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Septic/Sewer, Driveway permits

$500 - $2,500

Kitchen Remodel

Building, Electrical, Plumbing permits

$150 - $500

Bathroom Remodel

Building, Plumbing, Electrical permits

$150 - $450

Roof Replacement

Building permits

$50 - $150

Deck Construction

Building permits

$75 - $250

Home Addition

Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical permits

$300 - $1,500

Basement Finishing

Building, Electrical, Plumbing permits

$150 - $600

Siding Replacement

Building permits

$50 - $100

Window Replacement

Building permits

$50 - $100

HVAC Replacement

Mechanical permits

$75 - $150

Swimming Pool

Building, Electrical, Fencing permits

$200 - $500

Garage Construction

Building, Electrical permits

$200 - $600

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