Building Codes
Uniform Construction Code
Construction in Pennsylvania, including the City of Pittsburgh, is regulated by the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act or PA Act No. 45 of 1999, which is also commonly referred to as the Uniform Construction Code (UCC). The UCC adopts, in whole or in part, the International Code Council’s (ICC) I-Codes. Please refer to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry's regulations for additional information.
Current Codes
The 2018 Base and 2018 Accessibility Codes are currently adopted under the PCCA/UCC. On January 1, 2026, the 2021 ICC base codes and 2018 accessibility codes shall apply. Please refer to the UCC 2021 Code Adoption bulletin for information about the adopted 2021 ICC base codes and requirements for using the 2018 ICC base code.
Pittsburgh Amendments
The City of Pittsburgh's adoption and amendment of the UCC is documented under Section 1002 of the Pittsburgh City Code. These local amendments remain applicable as the UCC is updated by the Commonwealth. While the City Ordinances reference specific 2003 I-code code sections, these amendments are enforced by PLI based on the code provision and/or topic.
Plumbing Code
Please note that PLI does not enforce the plumbing code provisions of the UCC. Please see Allegheny County Health Department’s Plumbing Program for plumbing code permits and regulations.
Copies of Codes and Standards
last updated: 12/16/2025