Detached Accessory Building Checklist
Overview
This document outlines the requirements and procedures for obtaining a building permit for detached accessory structures (such as sheds, garages, or pavilions) that are 100 square feet or larger in the City of Altoona, PA. It serves as a checklist for applicants to ensure all necessary documentation is prepared before submission.
Submission Requirements
To submit an application, you must have a "checkmark" for every item in the following checklist:
- Site Plan: Must show the proposed structure, outside dimensions, and distances in feet to the front, sides, and rear property lines.
- Construction Drawings: Three (3) sets of detailed drawings showing code compliance are required. These must include:
- Footing details (including depth below frost line).
- Type of foundation.
- Roof rafter size (e. g. , 2x6, 2x8) and spacing (e. g. , 16" or 24" on center).
- Roof sheathing thickness and type.
- Ceiling joist size and spacing.
- Floor joist size and spacing.
- Wall sections showing top/bottom plates and headers.
- Location and size of all beams, girders, and headers.
- Sizes of all doors.
- Plumbing details (if applicable).
- Mechanical details (if applicable).
- Electrical details (if applicable).
- Wall bracing details (material, length, and fastening).
- Application: A completed building permit application form.
Review Process
- Plans are reviewed for code compliance.
- If requirements are not met, the applicant will be asked to supply additional information.
- Once minimum requirements are met, plans are marked "Approved. "
- A permit is issued only after all fees are paid.
Inspection Procedures
Once the project begins, the following rules apply:
- Permit Posting: The building permit must be posted on-site and clearly visible from the road until the project is complete.
- Plan Availability: Approved plans must be available on-site at all times for inspection.
- Scheduling: The applicant or authorized agent is responsible for scheduling all inspections.
- Contact: Call the inspector listed below to schedule. Do not schedule if the work is not ready.
- Permit Number: You must provide your permit number when scheduling an inspection.
Inspection Schedule
Applicants are requested to give three (3) working days' advance notice for inspections. Footing inspections are given priority. The required inspection sequence is:
- Footing Inspection: Done after forming and prior to placing concrete.
- Foundation Inspection: Includes French drain and water-proofing; done prior to backfilling.
- Plumbing Under Slab (Rough-in): Done prior to placing the concrete floor.
- Framing Inspection: Done prior to insulating, but after heating, plumbing, and wiring are roughed in. Must be done prior to any exterior finishes.
- Energy Conservation: Inspection required.
- Wallboard: Only needed if there is an integral or attached garage.
- Final Inspection: Done when the job is completely finished, prior to occupancy permit, and after plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work is complete.
Contact Information
Codes & Inspections Department City of Altoona 1301 12th Street, Suite 103 Altoona, PA 16601 Phone: (814) 949-2456