Build-out and occupancy permits in Philadelphia
Plan review, building and occupancy approvals for the space. Philadelphia has 2 filings on this. None of them has a fixed government fee and 2 fees are set by the space or the business.
Fees and timelines at a glance
| Filing | Agency | Government fee | How long |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food business plan review | Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Office of Food Protection | Varies | A worksheet and fee letter within 30 business days; after you return them, the Health Department replies within 30 business days. Expedited review takes 10 business days. |
| Building permit for the build-out | City of Philadelphia, Department of Licenses and Inspections | Varies | Not listed |
Food business plan review
Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Office of Food ProtectionPhiladelphia
Anyone opening a stationary food business applies after zoning is approved and before construction or installing food equipment. Call 215-685-7495 to submit, book an appointment or walk in at 7801 Essington Ave (weekdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). The application covers 13 items, from the site plan to the menu, with a copy of the city food safety certificate.
- Fee
- Varies
- Filed
- Filed in person
- Takes
- A worksheet and fee letter within 30 business days; after you return them, the Health Department replies within 30 business days. Expedited review takes 10 business days.
Building permit for the build-out
City of Philadelphia, Department of Licenses and InspectionsPhiladelphia
Construction or alterations to the space need a building permit from L&I's Building Unit, filed in eCLIPSE; signs and emission-producing equipment have their own permits.
- Fee
- Varies
- Filed
- Filed online
Guides for each business in Philadelphia
Every filing links to the agency's own page, and every fact comes from an official form or agency page. Agency requirements change; check the agency's page before you file. How we source and check these guides
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Get the plan for your business in Philadelphia
This guide covers the city. Your exact address decides the county, the health district and the zoning. Placetta maps every filing for it, fills the official forms from your details, adds the deadlines and puts them up for your approval.
- The full list for your address, in filing order
- The official forms, filled line by line
- Renewal and inspection reminders