Construction

Every individual, partnership, association and corporation doing business in Philadelphia must file a Business Income and Receipts Tax Return in whether or not they earned a profit during the preceding year. Rental activities are usually considered business activities.

An Activity License is required for all businesses and non-profits operating in Philadelphia. This includes businesses that are located outside the city limits but do some or all of their business activity in the City.

A Contractor's License is required of any professional contractor who performs work in which the contractor receives payment of $500 or more. Applicants must annually reapply for this license and submit proof of a surety bond.

The following information must be submitted with all permit applications. Permit applications will not be accepted without these documents.

For Engineering Services, Construction Services, Emergency Services, this procedure establishes the minimum requirements necessary to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, stability, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards.

The Philadelphia Zoning Code regulates development within the city. Zoning regulations govern land use, the height and size of buildings, population density, parking requirements, signage placement and the character of development on private property, and property uses.

A Building Permit is required to perform reconstruction work on a building that has experienced deterioration of a portion of its major structural elements, such as floor joists, exterior walls, or roofing elements.