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Permits, violations & licenses

Get a building permit to install signs

Service overview

To permanently install a sign, you may need a Building Permit and a Zoning Permit. Use the table below to determine which permits you need for your sign.

Building permit Zoning permit
Exterior signs : Yes, except painted signs, adhesive or vinyl graphics and letters Building permit: Yes
Interior signs : Yes, if they require fasteners Building permit: Yes, if installed within 18 inches of a window or door that is visible to the public
Window signs : Yes, if they require fasteners Building permit: Yes, if they take up 20% or more of two windows or doors
Signs on historic properties : Yes, for painted signs, adhesive or vinyl graphics and letters, regular maintenance of existing signs, and any sign types with conditions listed above. Building permit: No, with the exception of any of the sign types with conditions listed above.

If your sign will be illuminated, you also need an Electrical Permit.

If your sign meets certain standards, you can use EZ zoning and EZ sign installation. EZ permits do not require plans.

The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues these permits.

Who

Any property owner or their authorized agent can apply for this permit. Authorized agents may include:

  • Design professionals.
  • Attorneys.
  • Contractors.
  • Licensed expediters.

Requirements

Permit application

The permit application must include the complete scope of work and current owner information.

Contractor

A licensed contractor must perform all work. The contractor must:

  • Have an active license.
  • Be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
  • Have current insurance on file with L&I.

Plans

If your application requires plans, they must follow plan requirements.

Plans are not required for installations complying with the EZ Standard for Sign Installation.

Forms and other documents

Required pre-approvals

Signs on historic properties

More +

Signs that project into the right-of-way

More +

Where and when

Online

You can apply online using eCLIPSE.

If you need help filing your application online, you can schedule a virtual appointment.

In person

You need an appointment to visit the Permit and License Center in person.

Permit and License Center
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
MSB, Public Service Concourse
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Office hours: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

Offices close at noon on the last Wednesday of each month.

Cost

Fee types that may apply

Filing fee

  • Applications without plans: No filing fee is required if you are using the EZ Standard.
  • Applications with plans: $100 (credited towards the final permit fee)

This fee is nonrefundable and must be turned in with your application.

Permit fee

  • Accessory signs: $253 each
  • Non-accessory signs: $316 each

Surcharge fees

  • City surcharge: $3 per permit
  • State surcharge: $4.50 per permit

Record retention fee

  • Per page larger than 8.5 in. by 14 in.: $4

Accelerated Plan Review fee (optional)

Applications for new construction that include plans are eligible for expedited review. Accelerated applications are reviewed within 5 business days.

  • Fee: $1050
    • $350 is due when you apply. You must pay the remainder once approved.

To apply, fill out an Accelerated Plan Review request form and submit with your permit application. Accelerated review fees will not be credited toward your final permit fee.

How

You can apply for this permit in person at the Permit and License Center or online using eCLIPSE.

In person

1
Get any required pre-approvals before submitting your application to L&I.
2
Bring your completed application, application materials, and payment to the Permit and License Center.

The application must be made by a licensed contractor or include a signed statement on the contractor’s letterhead verifying involvement with the project.

3
L&I will review your application.

Applications with plans are processed within 20 business days.

You can accelerate the application for an additional fee. Accelerated applications are reviewed in 5 business days.

Applications that adhere to the EZ Standard for Sign Installation are processed while you wait. You are limited to three applications per ticket.

4
Once approved, schedule your inspection.

Contact your local inspection office when the contractor is ready to start work. The contact information and required inspections will be noted on your permit.

A Certificate of Approval will be issued upon successful completion of all required inspections.

Online

1
Log in to your eCLIPSE account and apply for a permit. Upload all required documents and pay the filing fee.

If applying as a licensed professional or contractor, you must first associate your license or registration with your online account.

2
The application will go to L&I and other City departments for review and approval.
  • Before a permit can be issued, the contractor must be identified and confirm association with the project.
  • Applications with plans are processed within 20 business days.
    • Allow an additional business day for pre-processing.
    • You can accelerate the application for an additional fee. Accelerated applications are reviewed in 5 business days.
  • Applications using the EZ Standard for Sign Installation are processed in 5 business days.
3
If approved, the applicant will receive notice to pay the balance.

If not approved, the applicant will receive an email stating what is missing or required.

4
Once you are approved, schedule an inspection.

When the contractor is ready to start work, request an inspection through eCLIPSE or by calling (215) 255-4040.

Approval documents will be issued upon successful completion of all required inspections.


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