Commercial and Multi-Family Building Permit Checklist

Overview

This document outlines the requirements for obtaining a building permit for commercial and multi-family construction in Altoona, PA. It details the necessary plan submittals, required documentation, and the specific inspection procedures that must be followed during construction.

Plan Submittal Options

Applicants must choose one of the following methods to submit their plans:

• Electronic Submission (Preferred):
  • Submit via the MDIA website (www. mdia. us).
  • Navigate to "Offices" and then "Plan Review. "
  • Once approved electronically, the design professional is responsible for printing hard copies.
  • These stamped plans must be provided to the Building Code Official (BCO) and the municipality.
  • Important: No permits will be issued, and construction cannot start until all fees are paid. A complete set of stamped plans must remain on the jobsite for the field inspector.
• Paper Submission:
  • Submit 3 (three) complete paper sets of sealed drawings.
  • Must include specification books from a PA registered design professional.
  • Drawings must show in detail code compliance for all proposed work.

Required Documentation

The following items are required for the application:

• Site Plan: Must show outside dimensions of the proposed structure and distances in feet to front, side, and rear property lines.
• Accessibility Features: Location of parking spaces, accessible routes, public transportation stops, and other required features.
• Highway Access Permit: Penn DOT/Municipal permit, if required.
• Fire Sprinkler System: Automatic system designed in accordance with NFPA 13 where applicable.
• Application: Completed Building Permit Application.

Inspection Procedures

Once the permit is issued, the following rules apply:

• The building permit must be posted on-site and visible from the road until completion.
• Approved plans must be available at all times for inspection.
• Do not schedule an inspection unless the work is ready.
• A permit number must be supplied when scheduling.

Inspection Schedule and Priorities

Applicants should give three (3) working days' advance notice. Footing inspections are given priority. The required sequence of inspections is:

1. Footing: After forming and prior to placing concrete.
2. Foundation: French drain and water-proofing must be done prior to backfilling.
3. Plumbing Under Slab (Rough-in): Done prior to placing the concrete floor.
4. Framing: Done prior to insulating, but after heating, plumbing, and wiring are roughed in. Must be done prior to any exterior finishes being applied.
5. Energy Conservation.
6. Wallboard: Only needed if there is an integral or attached garage.
7. Final Inspection: When the job is completely finished, prior to occupancy permit and after plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work.

Contact Information

• Department: Codes & Inspections Department
• Address: 1301 12th Street, Suite 103, Altoona, PA 16601
• Phone: (814) 949-2456 or (814) 949-2406
• Safety Warning: Call 811 before digging.