The Mayor’s Business Action Team is always available to help sort through any start-up needs a business may have. For background information on some of the key business requirements in Philadelphia, please see below.

PHILADELPHIA REQUIREMENTS

Business Privilege License and Tax Account
The Business Privilege License, issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspection (L&I), and a city tax number, issued by the Department of Revenue, are the first steps required in starting a business in Philadelphia. Every establishment operating or conducting business within the boundaries of Philadelphia must obtain these. The application can now be obtained online, or on the concourse level of the Municipal Services Building, 1401 JFK Boulevard. A one-time fee of $250 is due upon receipt of the application.

Other types of licenses may be required depending on the nature of your business (food handling, street vending, etc.) Review license and permit forms available online, or for more information contact:
Licenses & Inspections - (215) 686-2490
Department of Revenue - (215) 686-6600

Zoning Permit, Certificate, or Variance
Every business location must be properly zoned. A zoning certificate or variance may be required for the proposed business location depending on the type of activities that will be conducted at the site. This process is separate and distinct from the one for obtaining a Business Privilege License. Both a zoning permit and a license may also be required for certain types of signs, canopies, parking lots, and other items or activities. The zoning process may require the submission of maps, plans, and drawings. Filing fees are involved. For more information, call the Zoning Division of L&I at (215) 686-2434.

Special Note for Restaurants, Delis, Etc.
Any business that will be preparing, selling or serving food products should contact the City Health Department as soon as a prospective location has been identified. Health Department approval of the premises is necessary before a Business Privilege License can be granted. For more information, review Department of Public Health Frequently Asked Questions online or call them at (215) 685-7495.

COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA REQUIREMENTS

The elements that businesses need to succeed are in place in Pennsylvania. For a comprehensive look at business resources at the State level, check out NewPA.com- the official site of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
For a more comprehensive look at business resources at the State level, check out InventPA.com - the official site of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.