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Food business documents

If you want to open and operate a food business in Philadelphia, you need to get the appropriate licenses from the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). The forms and instructions on this page will help you through the process.

You can apply for food business licenses from L&I online or take your application to the Permit and License Center in the MSB Concourse. Do not mail applications.

The Department of Health also offers additional information about opening a food business.

 

Name Description Released Format
Food business license application PDF Application form for a license to prepare or serve food. July 6, 2020
Sidewalk Cafe License application PDF Application form to operate a sidewalk cafe. July 3, 2020
Cafe plot plan instructions PDF How to complete a cafe plot plan as part of your Sidewalk Cafe License application. March 7, 2019
Guide to opening a stationary food business PDF A guide to starting or changing a stationary food business. March 7, 2019

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