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.
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.
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.
Neighborhood Areas – Location & Zoning
Philadelphia is home to many vibrant neighborhood commercial corridors that serve as central places to shop, to work and to meet neighbors. These areas are great places to consider when choosing a location for your business.
Place-Based Incentives
Tax incentives or grant opportunities for businesses located in designated geographic areas.
Local Business Entity Certification
The City of Philadelphia’s Procurement Department allows for a 5% bid preference for certified local vendors.
Minority, Women, Disabled Owned Business Support
The City purchases products and services from hundreds of businesses every year. The City is committed to ensuring that at least 25% of contracts for the City are fulfilled by Minority, Women, or Disabled Owned Enterprises.
What is Economic Inclusion?
"Economic Inclusion" involves the development and implementation of a robust effort to include Minority, Woman, and Disabled owned business enterprises in City Contracts, advancing economic opportunities for these businesses.