If you are involved in certain industries here in Pittsburgh, then it is vital that you understand how the business permitting process works. The state and local governments have a responsibility to have operators like you obtain proper permits for your business, which will also ensure that you obtain and maintain the required licenses and be subject to certain inspections to ensure compliance. An experienced Pittsburgh business attorney can provide crucial assistance to you and your enterprise in this regard.
How Does the Permitting Process Work in Pittsburgh?
Depending on your industry, you may be required to obtain permits and licenses in order to operate. In general, the process begins with you submitting an electronic application making sure to include all specified fields. This is done through the OneStopPGH portal. You will also need to pay the appropriate application fee and provide the government with copies of all supporting documents. The Pittsburgh Permits, Licenses and Inspections Department (PLI) will then review your application. The process could take up to 30 business days for an initial application, especially if you are constructing a commercial structure. Assuming there are no comments or requested revisions, your permit should be issued at the end of the time period. After the permit is issued, you will be subject to periodic inspections at the discretion of the government. After you have completed the project and passed all of your inspections, your permit will be finalized.
What are the Specific Requirements for Different Industries?
If you are constructing a commercial structure, then you need a commercial permit from PLI. In contrast, residential buildings require building permits for the property owner or contractor. This is especially the case if you are building or renovating an existing one or two-family home. For owners and contractors who will be demolishing an existing structure, you will need to get your permit reviewed by the Allegheny County Health Department to inspect for and abate any asbestos. If you are setting up your business as a general contractor, then you will need to register with the City of Pittsburgh. This will involve verifying your insurance coverage and making sure you are in compliance with applicable tax laws.
There are other permit and license requirements for other businesses. If you are doing any construction in a public right-of-way, such as setting up outdoor dining or retail sales, then you will need to get proper permitting from the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure. This agency will also be tasked with permitting and inspections if you are developing vacant land. You will also need to make sure you have made the proper application with the Zoning Development Review agency if your intended use differs from that currently provided for. Finally, you may need to get permits from the Health Department if your intended industry will in any way affect the air quality in Pittsburgh.
What are Some Compliance Challenges You May Face?
There are a number of potential compliance issues that apply to Pittsburgh businesses. For example, you are required to give your employees paid sick leave if you employ at least 15 people. This will cover up to 40 hours of paid sick time per year. This is all part of your compliance with local labor laws.
If you are planning to operate a retail store, you are prohibited from providing your customers with plastic bags and must charge at least 10 cents for every paper bag provided except if the customers are paying with a form of EBT.
One thing that always presents a compliance challenge is waste management. All businesses are required to comply with applicable federal, state and local environmental regulations. This includes the carting and disposal of all waste, especially those involving hazardous materials. If you fail in this regard, you can find yourself subject to fines, penalties and even business closures from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Code Enforcement.
What is the Permit Renewal Process?
PLI maintains the OneStopPGH online portal. This provides you with the ability to renew an existing permit without having to appear at City Hall. Simply go online, fill out the renewal portion, and pay the applicable fee. You can still appear in person if you have any questions, but the portal provides a handy way for Pittsburgh businesses to keep their licenses and permits up to date.
Our Business Attorneys can Assist You with all of Your Permitting Needs
Doing business in Pittsburgh often entails obtaining permits and maintaining proper compliance. The experienced business attorneys at Jones Gregg Creehan & Gerace will be happy to walk you through the process, making sure you and your business stay in compliance with all laws applicable to your particular industry.