Service overview
You don’t need to have a Philadelphia Contractor License if you only do home improvement work on one- or two-family dwellings (excluding electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression). However, you must register with the PA Office of the Attorney General.
You can apply for permits for home improvement work using your PA Home Improvement Contractor Registration.
Who
Those who have registered as a PA Home Improvement Contractor with the Attorney General can use this service.
Requirements
Licenses and registrations
PA Home Improvement Registration
You must submit proof of your PA Home Improvement Registration.
Insurance
You must provide a Certificate of Insurance that includes these minimum amounts:
- General Liability: $500,000 per occurrence
- Automobile Liability Insurance: $300,000
- Worker’s Compensation:
- $100,000 per accident
- $100,000 per employee
- $500,000 policy limit
Tax compliance
You must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
Where and when
You can apply online using eCLIPSE. If you need help filing your application online, you can schedule a virtual appointment. You need an appointment to visit the Permit and License Center in person. Permit and License Center Office hours: 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday Offices close at noon on the last Wednesday of each month.Online
In person
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
MSB, Public Service Concourse
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Cost
There is no additional fee to apply for permits as a PA Home Improvement Contractor.
How
You can apply for permits as a Home Improvement Contractor in person at the Permit and License Center.
In person
You must bring your proof of registration as a Home Improvement Contractor with you when you apply for a permit.
You must also meet additional requirements for the permit.
Online
You must complete a PA Home Improvement Contractor registration. Refer to the Department of Licenses and Inspection’s (L&I) how-to guide for step-by-step eCLIPSE instructions.