Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
For 2026 work, Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (Act 45), with the 2021 International Codes scheduled to become effective January 1, 2026 under CK-COG guidance, plus Pennsylvania amendments and applicable local requirements. CK-COG states all Union County municipalities have adopted Act 45.
Inspection lane
The permit holder or agent must request inspections from the building official. CK-COG requires at least 24 hours' notice (48 hours recommended); mandated inspections can include footer/post-hole, foundation, framing/masonry, rough plumbing/mechanical/gas/electrical, insulation, lath/wallboard, and final inspection before occupancy. Requests are scheduled through CK-COG or the municipality's assigned code agency.
Minor-work playbook
CK-COG provides project-specific guidance for residences, additions, alterations, garages/accessory structures, decks/porches, pools/hot tubs, solar panels, and commercial work; no single countywide cosmetic-exemption list was identified. Zoning, floodplain, sewer, driveway, address, and erosion-control approvals may also be required. Confirm any minor-work exemption with the issuing municipality or CK-COG.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
The permit holder or agent must request inspections from the building official. CK-COG requires at least 24 hours' notice (48 hours recommended); mandated inspections can include footer/post-hole, foundation, framing/masonry, rough plumbing/mechanical/gas/electrical, insulation, lath/wallboard, and final inspection before occupancy. Requests are scheduled through CK-COG or the municipality's assigned code agency.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
Open planning reference ↗Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
This record is marked Municipal Fallback. Confirm whether a city, state agency, or other local authority controls the parcel before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact Central Keystone COG: 570-522-1326 or 877-457-9401; Union County Planning Commission: 570-524-3840.
N/A as a countywide guarantee; CK-COG says it schedules inspections as soon as possible subject to its existing schedule. Commercial applications require a $1,000 plan-review payment before review begins; municipal and project-specific review times vary.
The permit holder or agent must request inspections from the building official. CK-COG requires at least 24 hours' notice (48 hours recommended); mandated inspections can include footer/post-hole, foundation, framing/masonry, rough plumbing/mechanical/gas/electrical, insulation, lath/wallboard, and final inspection before occupancy. Requests are scheduled through CK-COG or the municipality's assigned code agency.
For 2026 work, Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (Act 45), with the 2021 International Codes scheduled to become effective January 1, 2026 under CK-COG guidance, plus Pennsylvania amendments and applicable local requirements. CK-COG states all Union County municipalities have adopted Act 45. CK-COG provides project-specific guidance for residences, additions, alterations, garages/accessory structures, decks/porches, pools/hot tubs, solar panels, and commercial work; no single countywide cosmetic-exemption list was identified. Zoning, floodplain, sewer, driveway, address, and erosion-control approvals may also be required. Confirm any minor-work exemption with the issuing municipality or CK-COG.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.