Allegheny County Office of Property Assessments – Pittsburgh, PA

Office of Property Assessments (OPA)

Real Estate Valuation and Tax Programs

The Allegheny County Office of Property Assessments, located in the County Office Building on Forbes Avenue, is the authority responsible for determining the market value of all taxable real property within the county. This office plays a pivotal role in the local tax system, as these assessments form the basis for property taxes levied by the county, municipalities, and school districts. The OPA does not set tax rates (millage) or collect taxes, but strictly manages the valuation and description of over 580,000 parcels of land.

• Homestead/Farmstead Exclusions: Processing ”Act 50” applications which reduce the assessed value of owner-occupied primary residences for tax purposes.
• Appeals and Hearings: Handling the initial intake of assessment appeals before they proceed to the Board of Property Assessment Appeals and Review (BPAAR).
• Clean and Green: Administering the Act 319 program which offers preferential assessments for agricultural and forest land.
• Data Correction: Updating physical characteristics of properties (bedrooms, baths, square footage) based on permits and property owner reviews.

Visitor Information

The public service counter in Room 347 allows property owners to file applications, review their property cards, and ask questions about the assessment process. It is distinct from the Department of Real Estate (which handles deeds) and the Treasurer’s Office (which collects taxes). Homeowners visiting the office to file for the Homestead Exclusion or to discuss an abatement should bring valid identification and proof of residency. The office also provides a robust online Real Estate Search Portal for viewing assessment data remotely.