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
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.
Precious Metal Dealer License
This license is required of any person engaged in the business of purchasing or making appraisals of precious metals and their alloys for resale to refiners, brokers, or the public. This license is issued to an individual and not to a business or location.
Pawn Shop License
This license is required of any person who is: Engaged in the business of lending money on the deposit or pledge of personal property; Purchases personal property with an expressed or implied agreement or understanding to sell it back at a subsequent time at a stipulated price; or Lends money upon goods, wares or merchandise pledged, stored or deposited as collateral security.
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.