When Philadelphia city departments want to create new rules or change existing ones, there’s an important process that makes sure residents like you can speak up. The Department of Records plays a key role in making this process fair and transparent.
What are city regulations?
City regulations are rules that help departments, boards, and commissions do their jobs better. These rules might cover things like:
- How businesses operate in the city
- Safety requirements for buildings
- Environmental protections
- Public health standards
These regulations affect your daily life, so it’s important that you have a chance to learn about them and share your thoughts.
How we help protect your right to be heard
When any city department wants to create a new regulation or change an existing one, they must follow specific steps outlined in Philadelphia’s Home Rule Charter. Here’s where the Department of Records comes in:
We make sure everyone knows
Once a department files a proposed regulation with us, we immediately:
- Post it online so you can read it anytime
- Advertise it in three local newspapers to reach as many people as possible
- Start a 30-day review period during which you can request a public hearing
This isn’t just a formality – it’s your legal right to know what your city government is planning.
We handle your hearing requests
During the 30-day review period, any member of the public can request a hearing about the proposed regulation. You don’t need to be an expert or have special qualifications. If you think the regulation will affect you, your family, your business, or your community, you have the right to request a hearing.
To request a hearing, you can:
- Email us at regulations@phila.gov
- Mail a letter to:
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- Attn: Regulations
- City of Philadelphia Department of Records
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- City Hall, Room 156, Philadelphia, PA 19107
What happens next?
If we receive a hearing request, here’s what happens:
- The department that proposed the regulation schedules a public hearing
- Anyone can come and share their views
- The department creates a report that either keeps the original proposal or changes it based on what they heard
If no one requests a hearing within 30 days, the regulation automatically becomes law. But if there is a hearing, the regulation becomes law 10 days after the department files their report with us.
Why this process matters to you
This system exists to protect your democratic rights. Here’s why it’s so important:
Transparency:
- You have the right to know what rules your city government is making. We make sure this information is easy to find and understand.
Public Input:
- Your voice matters. City officials need to hear from the people who will be affected by these regulations – that’s you!
Accountability:
- By requiring public notice and allowing hearings, we help ensure that city departments think carefully about the rules they want to make.
Fair Process:
- Everyone gets the same 30 days to review and respond. No one gets special treatment or advance notice.
Real impact on your life
These regulations might seem like boring government paperwork, but they can really affect your daily life. Past regulations have covered things like:
- Campaign finance rules for local elections
- Building safety requirements
- Business licensing requirements
Your input during the hearing process has led to important changes that make these rules work better for Philadelphia residents.
How to stay informed
Want to know about proposed regulations? Here’s how:
- Visit our website at phila.gov/departments/department-of-records/proposed-regulations/ to see all current and past proposed regulations
- Check local newspapers where we advertise new proposals
- Contact us at regulations@phila.gov or (215) 686-2262 with questions
Your participation makes Philadelphia better
Democracy works best when citizens participate. By learning about proposed regulations and requesting hearings when you have concerns, you help make sure that city rules work for everyone.
Remember: You don’t need to be a lawyer or policy expert to participate. If you live, work, or spend time in Philadelphia, your perspective matters. The Department of Records is here to make sure you have every opportunity to be heard.
Questions?
If you have questions about proposed regulations or the hearing process, don’t hesitate to reach out:
- Email: regulations@phila.gov
- Phone: (215) 686-2262
- Mail: Department of Records, City Hall Room 156, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Your government works better when you’re involved. We’re here to make sure you have every opportunity to participate in shaping the rules that affect your community.
