Engineer Licenses
The Engineer License is required of anyone operating or maintaining any steam or high temperature hot water boiler, steam engine, portable or stationary hoisting engine or refrigeration machinery. This license must be renewed annually.
Electrical Inspector License
Prior Approvals: Pass the Electrical Inspector Examination & Commercial Activity License
Dumpster License – Construction
This license is require for any dumpster utilized for storing all construction related debris. The company that owns the dumpster must apply for this license. There is a separate placement license necessary for the entity leasing the dumpster. The lessee permit is available from the Streets Department and will be issued for a defined time period.
Curb Setter License
A Curb Setter license is required to perform any curb or footway work within the City Right-Of-Way.
Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance
The Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance is intended to encourage the hiring of qualified ex-offenders through the reduction of the potential for discrimination. It is also known as "Ban the Box".
Laying Off or Firing Employees
Information on laying off or terminating employees and Pennsylvania employment law.
Employer Withholding Requirements
All Philadelphia employers must apply for a business tax account number from the City so you can begin withholding taxes.
Contractor License
A Contractor's License is required of any professional contractor who performs work in which the contractor receives payment of $500 or more. Applicants must annually reapply for this license and submit proof of a surety bond.
Start Electrical Service
Contact PECO Business Services
Have a Recycling Plan
All commercial properties receiving private or city waste collection must complete the Commercial Solid Waste and Recycling Plan.
Turning on Water Service
Water and sewer service in the city of Philadelphia is operated by Philadelphia Water Department (PWD). Billing for water use and services is regulated by the Water Revenue Bureau, which is a division of the Philadelphia Revenue Bureau.
Purchasing a Business
When buying or transferring a business, many of the same considerations apply as in starting a new business.
Financing Types
So you’ve tapped the bank – including your piggy bank – and you still need funds for your startup? Don’t worry. There are many avenues yet to explore.
Determining Your Business Costs
How do you determine how much money you need, not only to get your business started, but to keep it running until more cash is flowing in than out? One way is to consider all of the costs involved in running a business, not just those that are obvious.
Determining Your Current Resources
When you apply for funds to finance your business, the potential investor or lender will ask you three questions: how much do you want, why do you need it, and how do you intend to pay it back.