Do I need a development permit?
Any building or project larger than a single-family house requires a development permit. Single-family homes with a fire suppression system also require a development permit. Please review the qualifications for development permit on our permitting page.
How early should I begin the Development Permit Process?
We recommend that you schedule a pre-development meeting early in the design phase of the project. We can identify any design challenges and provide guidance on overcoming those challenges.
How much does a development permit cost?
Our Fee Schedule provides an overview of review and connection fees associated with development permits.
How long is the Development Permit process?
The time is based on responsiveness from both parties and requirements. If a project requires a Sewage Facilities Planning Module, the application takes on average 6 months. When the permit is in Pittsburgh Water’s court, we have 30 days to review and respond to the applicant. The applicant can opt to pay for an expedited review that will generate a Pittsburgh Water response within 15 business days.
Do I need to hire an Engineer?
Yes. All tap-in plans are required to be signed by a licensed professional engineer in the state of Pennsylvania.
Can I submit my permit electronically?
Yes. Our ClearForms permitting portal allows you to submit electronically and view an overview of the process. Project owners are encouraged to be active participants in the application process in addition to their design professional.
What is the first step of the development permit process?
The first step should be to schedule a virtual Microsoft Teams pre-development meeting.
Who should be on the pre-development meeting?
We recommend that the engineering consultant, owner, and plumber are present at this meeting. Pittsburgh Water representatives will include our engineers and public affairs team.
Where can I find standard details to include on the tap-in plan?
Our standard details can be obtained on our website or from your project reviewer through ClearForms.
Who should I contact if I find a Pittsburgh Water main impacted by debris or failure?
The applicant can submit a Report a non-emergency request through our website. Our operations team will process the request and take corrective action. If you have previously submitted a request and require a follow-up, please contact our development coordinator, Jordan Treaster.
How do I know if water and sewer service is available at my site?
A water and sewer availability letter request will provide you with a GIS map layout of water and sewer infrastructure in the area. A maps and records request will provide you with drill sheets, historical drawings, and as-builts for the infrastructure.
Does my project need a Highway Occupancy Permit?
All work located in a PennDOT right-of-way requires a Highway Occupancy Permit that is separate from their development permit. PennDOT requires that Pittsburgh Water submit the permit on behalf of the developer. Please submit a permit request to start the process.
What is the process of installing or relocating Pittsburgh Water facilities?
We require that developers enter into a development agreement and follow the Construction and/or Relocation of Pittsburgh Water Facilities process outlined in our developer’s manual.
Who can I call to set up my meter installation?
Our Tap Installations page covers who to call and for meter and tap installations.
What are the CCTV Requirements for my project?
Pittsburgh Water requires the developer to conduct NASSCO certified closed-circuit televised video (CCTV) of the public sewer prior to any connections or terminations. Specific manhole IDs will be provided during the pre-development meeting. Generally, all sewers surrounding the property boundary are subject to CCTV.