As promised, this month we are discussing a single-family home tap permit, also known as a residential permit. A connection to the public water and sewer system is required when constructing a new house. Some U.S. cities have water departments that are a part of the building department. In Pittsburgh, PWSA is a distinct authority. Due to this distinction, a water and sewer connection permit is required separately from a building permit. A third permit from the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) is required before connecting your plumbing to PWSA’s public mains. Let’s break down what PWSA is looking at when reviewing this permit with hopes of demystifying the process. 

Single-family homes are much less complicated and have less impact on our water supply and sewer collection than a larger development. We simply require less information when applying for this type of permit, which is why we can issue them over-the-counter. When an application is submitted, our engineering technicians make sure a public water main and sewer main are available for connection. Our entire public system is mapped digitally in a Geographic Information System (GIS). The techs print out the maps for the applicant and issue the permit after the fee is paid. How those connections to the public mains are made is what is of interest to PWSA. When the hired plumber is ready to make that connection, they call our Operations Division to witness and inspect the work. You now have water and wastewater service at your house!