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

• State Shop License

• 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

• Data request form

• NEW: Opening a Stationary Food Business: A Guide to Permits and Licenses
• NEW: Plan Review for Stationary Food Business: Instructions & Application Form
• NEW: Change of Ownership/Licensee Plan Review for Stationary Food Businesses: Instructions & Application Form
• NEW on-line payment options
• NEW: Food Safety Certification: Instructions & Application
  
• Food Regulations
• Special Event Sponsor Guide and Application
• Temporary Special Event Guide and Application
• Permanent Special Event Guide and Application
• Mobile Vending Guide and Application
• Food Safety Course Providers

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 Requirements
• Waiver or Alteration of Informed Consent or Waiver of HIPAA Authorization Form
• Conflict of Interest Form
• Revisions to an already approved study form

• Day Care Licensing Food Preparation and Serving Licensing

• 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 permits for the retail sale of tobacco products and certain other products containing nicotine. This ordinance became effective January 1, 2012, under Amended Chapter 9-600 of the Philadelphia Code, entitled “Service and Other Businesses.”

The Tobacco Retailer Permit is valid for one calendar year effective January 1st and will expire on December 31st of the same year. The permit must be renewed annually. The permit fee is $50. The annual renewal fee is $50.

Any retailer engaging in tobacco retailing without a valid Philadelphia Tobacco Retailer Permit may be subject to a $2,000 fine per violation. Each day the retailer engages in such unauthorized tobacco retailing is considered a separate violation.

If you have any questions, please contact Jody Wilkins at 215-685-7340.

• Tobacco Retailer Permit Application
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Specialty Tobacco Establishment Exception Form
• Tobacco Products Distribution Business Exception