A Citizen’s Guide to Applying For a Building & Zoning Permit

Overview

This guide outlines the four-step process for applying for a building and zoning permit for new residential construction or additions in the Borough of Hollidaysburg, PA.

Step 1: Compliance with Zoning Regulations

• Historic Districts: Applicants must check if their property is in the Historic District by contacting the Borough Zoning Administrator or checking the map on the borough's website (www.hollidaysburgpa.org).
• Certificate of Appropriateness: If the property is in a Historic District and contains a significant structure, this certificate is required before any exterior repairs, renovations, or new construction.
• Plot Plan: A drawing of the lot is required showing dimensions, existing structures, and proposed structures (including distances from property lines). The street address must be visible.
  • Requirements: Plans do not need to be drawn by an architect or engineer but must be accurate, clear, and legible. A surveyor may be needed to determine property lines.

Step 2: Compliance with Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code

• Submission: Three (3) sets of construction plans, drawings, or blueprints must be submitted with the application.
• Plan Details: Plans must be drawn clearly, accurately to scale, and with sufficient detail (sketches are not accepted).
• Required Specifications: Plans must show details for footers (below 36" frost line), foundation walls, floor joists, sheathing, wall construction (e.g., 2x4 studs), exterior coverings, beams, doors/windows (headers/lintels), rafters, ceiling joists, roof pitch/sheathing, trusses, elevations, and energy requirements (Res-Check calculations).

Step 3: Permit Fees

• Plan Review: Free of charge.
• Zoning Permit Fee: Based on square footage:
  • 0–100 sq ft: $25.00
  • 101–500 sq ft: $50.00 + $0.10/sq ft
  • 501–2,500 sq ft: $100.00 + $0.10/sq ft
  • 2,501+ sq ft: $150.00 + $0.10/sq ft
• Building Permit Fee: Based on square footage, number of bedrooms, and other factors (e.g., pools/hot tubs). The total is calculated after plan approval.
• Payment: All fees are due at the time of issuance. Checks must be made payable to the Borough of Hollidaysburg.
• Note: The Building Permit fee is separate from the Zoning Permit fee and does not include plumbing, electrical, or mechanical inspection fees.

Step 4: Required Inspections

• Contacting the Inspector: Upon permit issuance, applicants receive the Building Code Inspector's contact info. It is recommended to contact them before construction begins to schedule inspections.
• Certificate of Occupancy: Required for any new construction or addition to be legally occupied. This is issued by the Borough Building Code Official after final inspection approval. Residents should keep this document for their records.