Do You Need A Permit To Replace Exterior Doors In Pennsylvania?

Who wouldn’t want to replace an old, drafty door with something more energy efficient? However, before you start your project, it's important to know whether or not you need a permit. 

Luckily, this article aims to help you understand Pennsylvania's building codes and permit requirements for exterior door projects.

*Please note, this article is meant for general educational purposes only and is not intended to represent professional legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

What Are Building Permits & Why Are They Important In Pennsylvania?

Building permits help ensure that any construction work meets necessary safety standards. They’re given out to those who promise to follow set rules during construction that are outlined in local building codes. In Pennsylvania, different counties and municipalities have varying building codes, but the majority follow what’s outlined in the state’s Uniform Construction Code. 

Without building codes, you could be putting yourself or anyone living or working within a building at risk, so following them is important. Along with this, you may also find yourself in legal trouble or facing fines if you do not get the necessary permit prior to completing the work.

Is A Permit For Exterior Door Replacement Mandatory?

The answer depends on what kind of door project you're doing. Based on Pennsylvania building codes, here are the key things you should know:

When You DON'T Need a Permit

According to Pennsylvania building codes, you don't need a permit for "ordinary repairs." Simple door replacements typically fall under this category.

You don't need a permit if you're just:

👉🏻 Replacing an existing exterior door with a new one of the same size

👉🏻 Installing a new door in the same opening without changing the structure

👉🏻 Making minor repairs to an existing door

When You DO Need a Permit

You must get a permit if your project involves:

👉🏻 Cutting away a wall to create a new door opening

👉🏻 Widening or changing the size of an existing door opening

👉🏻 Removing or changing any structural beam or load-bearing support

👉🏻 Changing any required means of exit

👉🏻 Adding a sliding glass door where a window or solid wall was before

In short, if you’re replacing a door of the same size in a pre-existing door frame, you won’t have to get a permit. However, if any structural changes need to be made to the home during the new door replacement, a permit is likely to be necessary. 

Is Getting A Permit An Important Thing?

Yes! Various reasons justify the importance of issuing these permits: 

👉🏻 Safety: Doors that serve as exits must meet certain standards for emergencies.

👉🏻 Structural integrity: Creating or widening door openings can affect your home's structure, and you want to keep it as durable as possible.

👉🏻 Code compliance: All work must meet current building codes.

👉🏻 Legal protection: Having proper permits helps if you sell your home or have to handle insurance claims.

What Happens If You Don't Get The Required Permit?

Skipping a required permit may seem like a good idea in order to save time and money, but it can lead to serious consequences!

👉🏻 Fines: You could face penalties from your municipality

👉🏻 Removal orders: You might be ordered to remove the door and restore the original structure

👉🏻 Insurance issues: Insurance companies may not cover damage related to unpermitted work

👉🏻 Resale problems: Unpermitted work can complicate home sales and reduce property value

👉🏻 Safety risks: Without proper inspection, your door might not meet safety standards.

How To Apply For An Exterior Door Permit In Pennsylvania

If your door project requires a permit, here's how to get one:

👉🏻 Contact your local building department: Permit requirements can vary slightly between municipalities in Pennsylvania

👉🏻 Complete an application: You'll need to fill out a permit application form

👉🏻 Submit plans: You may need to provide details about the door and the changes you're making

👉🏻 Pay the fee: Permit costs vary by location and project scope

👉🏻 Schedule inspections: An inspector will check your work during and after installation

🚨Emergency Repairs Exception

Pennsylvania building codes do include an exception for emergency repairs. If your exterior door is damaged and poses an immediate safety risk, you can make the repair first and then apply for a permit within three business days.

This exception is helpful if, for situations where your front door is broken during a break-in or damaged by severe weather, and needs immediate replacement for security reasons.

But make sure that you document the size of the damage and the repairs you made for a smooth and nice process!

Permit Costs for Exterior Door Replacement In Pennsylvania

The cost of permits varies throughout Pennsylvania. In Pittsburgh, for example, permit fees are based on the value of the construction work.

In Pennsylvania, the fee to replace a commercial exterior door can vary depending on the local municipality, but it typically includes a base fee and may have additional costs based on the square footage of the building. 

For example, in Norristown, the minimum fee is $139.50, which includes permit, inspection, administrative, and state fees. Some jurisdictions, like those in Philadelphia, require permits for any change to the exterior of an existing structure, including door replacement.

Here's what affects the cost of your permits when replacing your exterior doors!

👉🏻 The value of your project

👉🏻 Your specific location within Pennsylvania

👉🏻 Whether structural changes are needed

👉🏻 If additional work (like electrical) is included

5 Tips for a Smooth Permit Process

To make your permit application process easier:

👉🏻 Plan ahead: Apply for permits well before you want to start your project.

👉🏻 Be specific: Provide clear details about what you plan to do.

👉🏻 Ask questions: If you're unsure about requirements, ask your local building official.

👉🏻 Keep records: Save all permit documents and inspection reports.

👉🏻 Follow the rules: Don't make changes to your plans without updating your permit.

Also Read: How Much Does A Door Installation Cost?

Get Professional Exterior Door Replacement Services In Pennsylvania

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local home improvement company serving Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania with services such as door replacement and installation.

We want to make sure that each part of your home is installed properly, which is why we only use the right practices and quality materials to make sure your doors look good and perform well for many years to come. We provide door replacement along with high-quality home remodeling, exterior, and roofing services. 

For a free, no-obligation discussion with our professionals, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660.