Professional Services – Page 5

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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...

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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.

Special Inspections Program

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.

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.