COVID-19 UPDATE:

Building Permits continue to be processed and issued. Please submit the applications with the payment by mail, we will process, and return the permit to the applicant.

Building Plans also continue to be processed and reviewed, please submit the plans by mail, and the applicant will be contacted once all reviews are completed.

Our mailing address is:

• Bureau of Building Standards and Safety
  Permits and Inspections
  435 Hamilton Street
  4th Floor
  Allentown, PA 18101

For questions on Building Permits, please call 610.437.7592, Extension 2687.

For questions on Plan Reviews, please call 610.437.7690, Extension 2680.

The Office of Building Permits and Inspections administers and enforces the City of Allentown’s building, plumbing and electrical codes, which apply to construction, alterations, use, location, occupancy or maintenance of all buildings, structures, and service equipment. The office reviews plans, issues permits and inspects the work.

The City of Allentown has developed a one-stop shop for information for developers and property owners looking for information about the development process and construction regulations.

Depending on your project you may need to coordinate with several City Departments and Bureaus.

• Department of Community and Economic Development (including NIZ)
• Bureau of Planning and Zoning (including historic preservation)
• Bureau of Building Standards and Safety (including permits and inspections)
• Bureau of Health
• Department of Public Works (including Engineering)

For assistance with the building permits and inspections process, please contact:

Building Office: 610-437-7591Business Development Office: 610-437-5964

Step 1: Zoning Application

The first step in the Property Development Process is to determine if you need a zoning permit. 

Step 2: Codes Requirements

Contact the Building Construction Office to discuss the code requirements for your project. The Building Office will guide you through the development process and let you know if you need to apply for permits and submit plans. 

Step 3: Permit Application

Apply for permits and submit plans, if required. 

Step 4: Plan Review

The majority of permit applications are for simple projects that do not require extensive plan review. In these instances, permits can be issued immediately. If your project requiring the Code Official and other professional to review your plans, it may take several days to complete the plan review and to receive your permit. 

Step 5: Receive the Permit

After your permit application is approved, you will pay for and pick up your permit. The permit is the document granting legal permission to start construction. You must post the permit in an area visible from the street. 

Step 6: Inspections

Contact the inspector listed on your permit to request an inspection for the work you have completed. Please see these notes for information on inspection requirements. 

Step 7: Certificate of Occupancy

When you complete your project, and pass the final inspection, the inspector will mail a Certificate of Occupancy to you.

 

For a visual roadmap, click here.