Zoning-Building Code Deparment

Patrick McGuire is Rochester's Zoning Officer. He can be reached at 724-968-9263. The Middle Department Inspection Agency (MDIA) will provide Building Code Official services. They can be reached at 1-800-580-6342.

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The Rochester Borough Building Department regulates the construction, demolition, and occupancy of all buildings within the Borough. This office reviews and issues all permits required by code for the repair, alteration, or addition to all public and private dwellings and structures, as well as permits for new construction. The primary mission of the Building Department is to provide safety and a better quality of living to the residents of the Borough of Rochester.

The Borough of Rochester has elected to administer the provisions of the Commonwealth’s Uniform Construction Code.  Accordingly, a permit is required for any project that involves constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing, or changing the occupancy of a residential or commercial building.  Additionally, a permit is required for anyone who intends to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace an electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system regulated by the Uniform Construction Code.

Permits are not required for ordinary residential repairs such as painting, replacement of siding, roofing, windows, doors, soffit and fascia, gutters, or re-pointing of masonry. However, it is recommended to speak with the Building Department before any construction begins.

The Borough of Rochester has established zoning to encourage practical and coordinated community development that promotes public health, safety, morals, and general welfare. The Borough’s Zoning Ordinance prevents the overcrowding, improper, or incompatible development or use of land to prevent blighting conditions and congestion or hazard in travel or transportation. Through zoning the Borough is able to conserve and stabilize property values through encouragement of the most appropriate use of land in relation to one another.

While many projects, both residential and commercial, may be exempted from the permitting provisions of the Uniform Construction Code, the Borough’s zoning ordinance may still require that a zoning permit be issued.  Examples include permit for sidewalks and driveways, fences, and signs.

Building and zoning permit applications, as well as assistance guide to aid in the completing of the permit application process, are available online.  Additionally applications be obtained by contacting the Building and Zoning Department. 

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