L&I is now operating on a new technology platform, eCLIPSE. Using eCLIPSE, our customers can apply for, print, and manage their permits online.

The transition to eCLIPSE has brought changes to the permitting process that affect ALL permit applicants. Here are the Top 10 changes you need to know:

1. Current applications/forms

Use up-to-date versions of applications and forms. You can get current forms from the L&I website and at the L&I Permit and License Center in the Municipal Service Building Concourse. As of April 15th older applications and forms will be rejected.

2. One- and two-family “MEP” Combo Permits

All permit applications for the new construction of a one-or-two family dwelling MUST include mechanical, plumbing, and electrical work.

  • An electrical inspection agency must also be identified at time of application.
  • Permits will not be issued until trades contractors are identified and affirm association as explained below.

3. New ways to schedule inspections

All permit inspections must be scheduled online using eCLIPSE or by dialing 215-255-4040 and using the new Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system.

4. Register PA credentials in eCLIPSE

All design professionals, attorneys serving as the permit applicant, and home improvement contractors (HIC) must register their PA license or HIC number in eCLIPSE, even if they do not use online permitting.

5. Contractors “affirm association” with permits they’re named on

If a contractor is not the permit applicant, the permit cannot be approved until a contractor “affirms association” with the permit.

  • Contractors affirm association when they acknowledge that they are performing the work described by a permit they’re named on.
  • Contractors receive notification that they are named on a permit via email or postal mail.
  • Contractors can affirm association through their online eCLIPSE accounts.

6. Getting your billing statement

A billing statement will be generated only if the contractor on the project:

  • Has been named
  • Has current insurance on-file
  • Is tax-compliant
  • Has affirmed association with the permit (see number 6 above).

If a billing statement cannot be generated because the conditions are not met, the applicant must first meet the conditions and then notify L&I via online form.

7. Paying for your permit

You can pay for permits — online and in-person – using

  • Electronic check
  • Debit card
  • Credit card
    • There is no charge for electronic check payments.
    • There is a 2% surcharge assessed on debit and credit card payment.

If you’re getting your permit in person in the Permit and License Center, you can also pay by submitting paper checks, cash, and money orders to the Department of Revenue Cashier in the Concourse.

  • These methods of payment will delay permit processing for up to 3 business days.

8. Applying on paper

If an application for a permit is started on paper, that permit must be completed on paper.

9. Getting a temporary certificate of occupancy

Applications for temporary certificates of occupancy (TCO) must be initiated through an inspection request made online using eCLIPSE.

  • TCO applications will not be accepted at the Permit and License Center.

10. Checking the status of your permit

L&I’s online permit tracker tool is temporarily out of service, but you can still find out about the status of your application. Call the Interactive Voice Response system (IVR) at 215-555-4040 with your permit application number to get an update on your review.

Learn more about online permitting using eCLIPSE.