Code Enforcement

The borough’s mission is to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the community.  It is in the best interest of our community to have safe and properly maintained properties.  To submit a complaint to Code Enforcement please submit our Code Violation Complaint Form. 

We make every attempt to engage people to comply with the ordinances in a fair but firm way.  If you have received a “Violation Notice,” please make every effort to correct the problem and contact the Code Enforcement Officer assigned to your issue so that we can work together to make Swissvale a safe and welcoming community.

Permits

When in doubt if you require a permit for your project, simply call us and we will be happy to discuss your project with you and answer any questions. All Building Permits are issued by the Fire Chief, who also serves as the borough’s “Building Code Official.”  We are not permitted to give construction advice nor tell you how to build something. We are only permitted to review what you submit and ensure it is in compliance with the applicable codes. Failure to obtain a required Building Permit may result in fines of up to $1,000 per day and 30 days in jail. 

Inspections

Residential Building Inspections

All Residential Occupancy Permit Applications related to the Uniform Construction Code and Building Permits are scheduled by the fire department Administrative Assistant.

Commercial Building Inspections

All commercial building inspections are performed by the borough’s contracted inspection service: CEA Code Enforcement Associates. Once a building permit has been issued, this agency performs all the required inspections related to the project. Call CEA Code Enforcement Associates at 412-455-3400.

Electrical Inspections

All electrical inspections are performed by the borough’s contracted inspection agency: CEA Code Enforcement Associates. All required electrical inspections must be performed by this agency, as this is the only recognized electrical inspector for the borough. The assigned inspector for Swissvale is Rich Merichko. Call Rich at 412-889-1995 or 412455-3400.

Plumbing Inspections

In accordance with state law, all plumbing permits and inspections are to be performed by the Allegheny County Health Department, Plumbing Section. Call Allegheny County Health Department at 412-578-8036.

Dangerous and Nuisance Structures

The fire department is also charged with the administration and enforcement of the borough’s Property Maintenance Code as it relates to buildings, the Fire Code as well as the Dangerous and Nuisance Structure Ordinance. Most of the enforcement of the Property Maintenance and Fire Codes is done in conjunction with the Occupancy Permit Program. However, if there is a property that you feel is in violation of any of these ordinances, you may contact us and report such complaints. If requested, complaints will be kept confidential.