Are you opening a restaurant?
Planning a study?
Does your dog need a license?
This page has many of the permits and forms you'll need for a wide range of activities and issues. Businesses may find additional permits and forms at the City of Philadelphia's Business Services Center.
- Air Pollution Permit and License Applications and Forms to install or operate equipment that emits or controls air pollution.
- Asbestos Control Unit Permit and License Applications and Forms
- Regulations Governing Operation and Conduct of Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishments
- How to Become a Certified Shop, Certified Artist and Certified Apprentice in Philadelphia
- Certification Guidelines
- Body Artist Certification
- Food Regulations
- Plan Review Guide and Application
For change of ownership, new business, renovations, change of operation or new construction - Special Event Sponsor Guide and Application
- Temporary Special Event Guide and Application
- Food Safety Certification Instruction and Application
- Permanent Special Event Guide and Application
- Mobile Vending Guide and Application
- Food Safety Course Guide
This committee ensures that all research involving PDPH data, staff or clients supports the mission of the Department.
- HCO Review Committee Submission Form
- Protocol – proposals for research or public health analysis
- Protocol – manuscripts for publication and conference presentations
- Protocol – conference abstract submissions
- Full protocol – HCO Review Committee
- Portable Toilet Permit Application
- Storage/Holding Tank Permit Application
- Septic Systems Application
Contact the Environmental Engineering Office at 215-685-7342 - Information on Wastewater Management (PA Department of Environmental Protection)
- Infectious waste plan application and instructions
- Regulations Governing Disposal of Infectious Wastes from Hospitals, Healthcare Facilities and Laboratories
As required by Department policy, medical ethics and federal regulations, all research that involves human subjects must be reviewed by an IRB prior to implementation and on an ongoing basis.
- IRB Proposal Application
- Expedited Review Application
- Exempt Study Application
Please be sure to also submit the IRB Proposal Application - Consent form requirement
- Waiver or Alteration of Informed Consent or Waiver of HIPAA Authorization Form
- Conflict of Interest Form
- Revisions to an already approved study form
- Laws and regulations for public swimming and bathing places
- Information on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
Philadelphia City Council passed an ordinance on June 9, 2011, that requires all tobacco retailers to obtain a
permit to sell all forms of tobacco and other products containing nicotine, effective January 1, 2012. This permit
will enable the Philadelphia Department of Public Health to monitor tobacco retailers and assure that they are
complying with the applicable laws.
While the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue requires a license for the sale of cigarettes, our permit covers
all forms of tobacco, including: cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, hookah, snuff, snus, chewing tobacco, dip
tobacco, bidis and any other preparations of tobacco. The permit also covers electronic smoking devices and
unapproved nicotine delivery products.
The permit is effective January 1st and expires December 31st of each year. The fee for the permit is $50 and the
annual renewal fee is $50. A permit cannot be transferred from one person to another or from one location to
another. A tobacco retailer shall prominently display the Tobacco Retailer Permit at each location where the
person engages in tobacco retailing. A new Tobacco Retailer Permit is required whenever a tobacco
retailer changes locations or transfers ownership.
If you fail to have a permit or apply for a current one, you will be fined $75 per violation; each day that a tobacco
retailer engages in tobacco retailing is considered a separate violation.
For more information, please contact Jody Wilkins at 215-685-7340.