The Philadelphia Historical Commission office is closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are not accepting or reviewing any paper building permit applications or nominations at this time, regardless of the submission date. You may submit building permit applications electronically through L&I’s eCLIPSE system. The Commission will review eCLIPSE permit applications when possible. When the office reopens, we will review all pending applications and nominations in the order received.
What we do
As part of the Department of Planning and Development, the Philadelphia Historical Commission protects the City’s historic resources. Together with its advisory committees, the commission:
- Identifies and designates historic landmarks.
- Maintains the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places.
- Hosts public meetings about historic properties.
- Works with property owners to protect landmarks.
The commission staff reviews building permit applications and nominations to the register. When needed, they forward applications to the appropriate committee. The staff:
- Approves over 90% of building permit applications without referral to a committee.
- Informs the public about the commission’s rules and processes.
- Gives advice on preservation techniques.
- Helps the public research the history of their properties.
Connect
| Address |
1515 Arch St.
13th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102 |
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preservation |
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Phone:
(215) 686-7660
TTY: (215) 683-0286
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