On April 22, the City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses and Inspections issued revised temporary policy guidelines.  While most of the policy statement is a reiteration of its prior guidance regarding electronic permit submissions, review and licensing – it does issue new guidance regarding resumption of on-site permit inspections.

Most notably, a requirement that states for interior job sites, the permit holder is responsible for:

  • Ensuring that the job-site is vacant for a minimum of 48 hours prior to the inspection;
  • Ensuring the job-site is vacant of all personnel during the inspection;
  • Providing the inspector access to and from the job-site including vertical access without requiring direct contact with any individuals;
  • Making available a representative to communicate remotely with the inspector, and;
  • On a case-by-case basis, having a representative on-site to provide the inspector video-enabled software to allow the inspector to conduct their inspection from the exterior of the structure.

Similarly, for exterior inspections, permit holders shall minimize on-site personnel and maintain a minimum of 10 feet from the inspector.  The inspector may request that the job-site be vacant with a representative available by phone or that video-enabled software be provided to assist in the inspection of remote areas difficult to observe due to access.

In addition, the inspector has the ability to fail an inspection if the job-site fails to comply with all previously issued safety protocols issued by the CDC, PA Department of Health or other PLI temporary guidelines.

If you have any questions regarding the revised City of Pittsburgh guidelines, please reach out to Maiello Brungo & Maiello.

John Prorok

John Prorok possesses an invaluable understanding of privately held business owners’ needs in business planning, corporate formation, and transactions. He frequently speaks and counsels emerging and start‐up enterprises, offering insightful legal strategies toward success.