Frequently Asked Questions
Am I allowed to use a fire pit in my backyard?
Yes, but you must first obtain a Recreational Burn Permit from the Borough Administration Office. A permit costs $25.00 and remains valid as long as the applicant occupies the residence listed on the permit application form.
We strongly encourage residents to review Chapter 139 of the Borough Code, pertaining to Receational Burning prior to obtaining a permit. The Allegheny County Health Department has also published helpful literature concerning burning regulations. Remember, only clean, dry wood can be used for open burning, an open air fire must be 15 feet from the nearest property line, and no burning is permitted when Allegeny County is forecasted to have an Air Quality Action Day.
What is the process for selling a house in Avalon?
Avalon Borough requires both a dye test and an occupancy inspection before the sale of any property.
The dye test can be completed by any plumber who is certified in Allegheny County. The plumber must sign a certification form, verifying that both the storm water and sanitary connections comply with Borough ordinances. A dye test is not required for condominium units located in The Summit, Chaize Place, the Kingston, or The Hampshire House. Dye tests results are valid for one year after the date of the test.
All sellers MUST schedule an occupancy inspection. Inspections are scheduled through the Borough Administration Office.
Finally, sellers must request Tax Certifications and Municipal No Lien Letters from Jordan Tax Service.
Complete instructions for transferring or refinancing properties can be found here. All necessary forms can be found on the form page.
Am I required to complete Tenant Registration?
Tenant registration is required for all properties that are not owner-occupied. This includes circumstances in which there is no formal lease agreement or when family members other than the owner of record are the primary residents of the housing unit. The information provided on the tenant registration forms helps the Borough's first responders contact residents and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
There is no fee for properties that are vacant for an entire calendar year. However, you are still required to submit a tenant registration form to the Borough.
Tenant registration is due by August 1 annually. However, property owners pay a discounted rate if the forms and payments are submitted prior to May 1.
Do I need a Fire Safety Rental permit?
Commercial properties are required to complete a Fire Safety Inspection annually. The fee is $100.00/unit. Commercial properties include store fronts and other businesses, restaurants, professional offices, gas stations, non-profit organizations, churches, and apartment buildings with five or more units.
Residental Fire Safety Permits are required for ALL properties that are not owner-occupied. The fee is $75.00/unit. As with tenant registration, this encompasses situations in which there is no formal lease or the primary residents are family members who are not the owners of record. A fire safety rental permit is valid for four (4) years. However, if a tenant changes prior to the expiration of the license, the property owner is required to apply for a new license and complete an inspection within 30 days of the date a new lease is signed.
If I have problems with my garbage and recycling pick up what should I do?
Please remember that the Borough's contract states that Waste Management has until 6:00 pm on Thursdays to complete trash collection. If your trash has not been collected on the scheduled pick up day, please call Waste Managment at 1-800-866-4460 or visit their website www.wm.com. After you have contacted Waste Management, please also report problems to the Borough Administration Office so that we can monitor any ongoing issues.
Where can I recycle glass?
Avalon now has a permanent glass recycling bin, located in the lot across from 629 New Brighton Road (across from the Public Works Garage). All Avalon residents may use the bin free of charge. Adhesive labels and lids do not need to be removed, but please rinse glass containers before dropping them off.
Who is the local magistrate?The Honorable Tara Smith | Located at 660 Lincoln Avenue | 412-761-8770
