Service overview
If you want to run a permanent retail business that sells food but doesn’t prepare it, you need a Food Establishment Retail, Permanent Location License.
Businesses that might need this license include:
- Grocery stores.
- Candy or drug stores.
- Meat markets.
- Convenience stores.
If you are preparing food or serving drinks, you need to get a Food Preparation and Serving License.
The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues this license.
Who
Business owners and their agents can apply for this license.
Requirements
Other licenses and registrations
- Business Income and Receipts Tax ID (BIRT)
- Commercial Activity License
- Zoning and Use Registration Permit if the business license is for a new use or the use has lapsed for a period of more than three years.
- Pennsylvania liquor license if you intend to sell alcohol.
- Plan Review and License Eligibility Report (LER) issued by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health
Ownership information
Your license will be issued to the legal entity listed on the Commercial Activity License and your Philadelphia Tax Account. Any trade name or “Doing Business As” (DBA) must also be listed on your Commercial Activity License.
License Eligibility Report
Your License Eligibility Report (LER) application must list the legal entity and trade names, exactly as they appear on your Commercial Activity License (CAL). This information must also correspond to the legal entity and any trade names or “Doing Business As” (DBA) registered with your Philadelphia Tax Account.
A failure to accurately list legal entity and DBA/ trade name information may result in the need to amend your LER, CAL, and/or tax account.
Tax compliance
You must be up to date on all City taxes.
Where and when
[text-blocks id=”permit-and-license-center-where-when”]
Cost
A non-refundable application fee of $20 is applied to the license fee. The balance of the license fee is due once your application is approved.
Renewal fee: $239
A non-refundable application fee of $20 is applied to the license fee. The balance of the license fee is due once your application is approved.
Renewal fee: $599
Renewal late fee: [text-blocks id=”license-renewal-late-fee” plain=”1″]
[text-blocks id="how-to-pay"]
How
You can apply for this license online using eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Online
Applications are reviewed within five business days.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
In person
L&I can review most applications while you wait.
Renewal requirements
This license must be renewed annually. You can renew online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
To renew your license, you must:
- Be current on all City taxes.
- Have a valid email address.