Permit Appeals
Filing an Appeal Before you can file an appeal, you will need a formal code decision from the Department of Licenses and Inspections. This decision comes in the form of a Notice of Refusal document. This document is obtained from the plan examiner reviewing your permit application or request for... Learn More
Tank Permits
To obtain a construction permit for the installation, removal or insertion of a tank to gather or hold the materials listed below and submit a completed permit application in-person at the Municipal Services Building (MSB) Concourse.
Signage
To obtain permission to install a sign on your business, gather the materials listed below and submit a completed permit application in-person at the Municipal Services Building (MSB) Concourse.
Lawful Occupancy Sign
Lawful Occupancy Signs (LO) show how many people are allowed in a space at a given time. The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues Lawful Occupancy Signs. You need a Lawful Occupancy Sign if: You own or operate an assembly space where 50 or more people gather. L&I decides... Learn More
Alterations Permit
To obtain a Building Permit for alterations, gather the materials listed below and submit a completed permit application in-person at the Municipal Services Building (MSB) Concourse.
EZ Permits
EZ Permits are permits that Do Not Require the Submission of Plans
New Construction and Additions Permit
To obtain a Building Permit for new construction or an addition, gather the materials listed below and submit a completed permit application in-person at the Municipal Services Building (MSB) Concourse.
Building Permits
Building permits are required before beginning projects to enlarge, repair, change, add to or demolish a structure, and to install equipment or systems in a structure.
Public Garage or Lot License
This license is required to maintain an outdoor space for the storing of three or more vehicles for a fee.
Retail Motor Fuel Dispenser License/Vehicle Repair Shop License
This license is required to operate or maintain a weights and measures device for the purpose of dispensing fuel for vehicles.
Does the Historical Commission Affect You?
The Philadelphia Historical Commission (PHC) is the regulatory agency responsible for ensuring the preservation of historically significant buildings, structures, sites, objects, interiors and districts in the City of Philadelphia.
Does the Art Commission Affect You?
Philadelphia’s Art Commission is a charter-mandated design review board for architecture and public art.
Zoning and Use
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.
Making Your Location Decision
There are a number of existing buildings and build-to-suit opportunities for every type of business user. Many properties and buildings are located within special incentive zones, and sometimes City-owned or tax delinquent properties are available for development purposes.
Find a City Owned Property
The Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority has over 3,300 properties available for sale, located throughout Philadelphia. Their neighborhood-based property inventory includes both vacant lots and vacant structures, with a range of zoning classifications and allowable uses.