Business Tax Basics
The Department of Revenue imposes various taxes that must be filed and paid by businesses that are operated and/or located in Philadelphia. The most common business taxes are the Business Income & Receipts Tax, or BIRT (formerly the Business Privilege Tax), and the Net Profits Tax. However, the Department of Revenue... Learn More
Hot Works Permit
Operation Permits are issued for the regulation of the use and transport of certain hazardous materials, equipment and activities. The Department of License and Inspections works in conjunction with other City Agencies in the issuance of Operation Permits. The maximum time period a Hot Works Permit is valid is one year.... Learn More
Demolition Contractor License
A Demolition Contractor license is required of anyone removing structural elements for the purpose of removing the entire structure. This license must be renewed annually and successful applications must specify up-to-date insurance and tax compliance.
Training, One-on-one Consulting, and Legal Resources from our Nonprofit Partners
Need help with business planning, workshops or other research? Check with some of our technical support providers.
Safety Guide for Businesses
The City of Philadelphia Commerce Department Business Crime Prevention Guide has useful advice for keeping your employees and business safe.
How to Be a Good Business Neighbor
When merchants take pride in their community, it shows and creates a more enjoyable shopping experience for visitors coming to the area.
Solar PV System Installation
The installation of a Solar Photovoltaic System requires a building permit in addition to an electrical permit in order to ensure compliance with City code. However; if the installation of the Solar Photovoltaic System can be completed according to the specified guidelines, the Department of Licenses and Inspection will waive... Learn More
New Contractor/Trades Examination Information Bulletin
This bulletin answers most questions raised by International Code Council’s Contractor/Trade examination candidates.
Paid Sick Leave
The City of Philadelphia has enacted the "Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces" law, which requires certain employers located in the City of Philadelphia to provide their employees with up to 40 hours of paid sick time per calendar year.
PGW EnergySense
PGW’s EnergySense offers efficiency rebates and grants for commercial and industrial customers looking to make energy efficient updates to current properties or new construction. Please visit www.PGWEnergySense.com for more details.
Kiva Philadelphia (Small Business Loans)
Kiva Zip is a website that enables financially excluded and socially impactful entrepreneurs to access 0% interest small business loans.
Developer Services
The Developer Services Program helps large real estate projects get through the approval and regulatory process more easily by connecting Developers to key City departments through Developer Services Committee Meetings.
Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN)
Employers with more than 50 employees that are closing are required to notify the City of Philadelphia, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and federal government.
Make Changes to or Close Your Tax Account
Change, close, or transfer your Business Income and Receipts Tax Account Information.
Succession Planning
For many business owners, their company is a legacy that they want to continue long after they've exited the business