Building Permits

When do I need to obtain a building permit?
Building permits are required for any interior renovations to your property including plumbing, electrical and general repair. Building permits are also required for exterior renovations including new siding, roof or sidewalk, the addition of sheds and fences and paving, blacktop and concrete work. Some of these projects may require you obtain a zoning permit as well.

What are the fees for building permits?
Fees are based on the estimated cost of the job.

When do I need to obtain a zoning permit?
Residential zoning permits are required for such things as additions to your home, the installation of fences, swimming pools, decks, sheds, garages and other buildings, and the construction of a driveway or other off-street parking lot.

What is the fee for a residential zoning permit?
The fee for a residential zoning permit is $50.

When do I need to obtain a commercial zoning permit?
Commercial zoning permits are required for all new businesses, whether new construction or those that move into existing buildings. Applicants must first file for a zoning certificate. An occupancy inspection is also required.

What is the fee for a commercial zoning permit?
The fee for a commercial zoning permit is $100.

What is an occupancy inspection?
A code enforcement and zoning officer and the fire chief inspect proposed business locations to assure there are no code violations. They check for adequate fire extinguishers, proper exit signs and any defects that may need to be fixed before occupancy is approved.

What is the fee for an occupancy inspection?
There is a $50 one-time fee for occupancy inspections for new businesses.

What are the fees for demolitions?
The permit fees for demolitions are as follows:
Storage sheds - $25
Residential garages - $50
Single home - $200
Double dwelling home - $300
Commercial buildings - $500 flat fee up to 10,000 square feet. Buildings over 10,000 square feet add .25 per square foot.

What are the licensing fees for contractors?
All contractors working in the city of Hazleton must be licensed.
The annual licensure fee is $100 per trade. So, if a contractor does both plumbing and electrical work, for example, the fee would be $200 total. Contractors engaging in all trades -- general, plumbing, HVAC and electrical --pay an annual fee of $300.

In order to be licensed, contractors must present a copy of their insurance policy, including at least $500,000 in liability insurance, and proof of workman's compensation insurance, if other employees work for the contractor.

All contractors applying for permits must present an estimate, written to the client, and description of the job they are doing.

Anyone conducting business within the Hazleton city limits must pay a license or permit fee. Licenses and permits are issued on an annual basis. For a list of all types of businesses requiring licensure, contact the Code Enforcement and Zoning Office.

Door-to-door solicitors must also be licensed and are subject to a background check by city police.

Transient retail business such as fireworks sales, flower sales, and tent sales must pay a licensure fee of $150 per week or $300 per month.

Christina Parlatore, License and Permit Office Clerk
570-459-4925
Fax: 570-459-4922

Office hours May 8 to Sept. 1
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday - Friday

Office hours Sept. 2 to May 7
8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday - Friday