Building permits
Philadelphia requires building permits for many alterations, additions, demolitions, and major repairs. Exemptions depend on the work. Review the City’s building permit requirements.
Philadelphia renovation guide
Permits for Philadelphia Home Renovations
Check permit requirements while planning the renovation, before setting a construction start date. Requirements depend on the property and the proposed work. The links below lead to official City guidance. Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) and other reviewing agencies determine which approvals apply.
Permit types
Start with the work you are proposing
A project can involve more than one permit. Ask which applications are needed and who is responsible for each.
Zoning approval
New construction and additions require zoning approval. Some small additions may have zoning and building reviews together. See the City’s zoning guidance.
EZ permits
Certain projects qualify for permits without submitted plans, provided they meet the applicable EZ standard. This does not mean the work is permit-free. Check the current EZ permit standards.
From Our Work
Define the work before checking requirements
Use a clear description of the proposed structural, layout, and building work when reviewing permit requirements.
Check the property
Historic review can affect the proposed work
For properties on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, exterior work may need Historical Commission approval. Interior work generally requires that review only when the interior is itself designated. Confirm the proposed changes using the City’s historic property guidance.
Put responsibilities in writing
Agree on who handles permits and inspections
Include permit and inspection responsibilities in the written agreement before work starts.
Applications and fees
List who prepares drawings, submits applications, answers review comments, and pays the fees. Identify any professionals needed for that work.
Trade work
Ask which permits are needed for electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work and who will apply for them.
Inspection stages
Plan required inspections before the work is covered by walls, floors, or other finishes. Agree on which inspection records you will receive at completion.
Questions before you start
Questions about renovation permits
Does an EZ permit mean I can skip the permit?
No. It is a permit process for eligible work that does not require submitted plans. The proposed work must meet the applicable City standard.
Can I assume approval by a particular date?
Use the City’s published review periods for planning, but allow for incomplete applications, revisions, and other approvals. Review is one step toward permit issuance. See the building permit process.
Who confirms whether my project needs a permit?
Philadelphia L&I and the relevant reviewing agencies determine the requirements. A contractor can help define the work and coordinate the application process.
Does this guide apply to the suburbs?
No. This guide covers Philadelphia. Projects in Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, and other counties must follow the requirements of the municipality where the property is located.
Talk with Golden Brick
Review the proposed work before applying
Send the address, proposed changes, and any plans or existing permits. We can review the construction work and discuss the next steps.