Service overview
You need a license to operate a business that purchases or sells tires, whether they are new or used.
The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues this license.
Who
Business owners and their agents can apply for this license.
Requirements
License application
You must submit a license application and a tire dealer operation information form that includes the following details:
- The PA DEP registered waste haulers responsible for disposing of tires. The waste haulers must be registered with the PA DEP for a Waste Transporter Authorization.
- Type of business activity (i.e. sales, repair).
- Size and location of tire storage.
- Existing fire protection systems.
Other licenses and registrations
- Zoning approval – A Zoning permit is required for any business that sells tires as a primary use or automotive-related occupancy that sells tires as an incidental use.
- Certification of Occupancy (for high pile storage) – You will need a certificate of occupancy for indoor storage of tires and tire byproducts exceeding six feet in height.
- Business Income and Receipts Tax ID (BIRT)
- Commercial Activity License
Site plan
If outdoor tire storage exceeds six feet in height or a single column or row, you must include a site plan that complies with Section 3405 of the Philadelphia Fire Code. It must include:
- Pile locations.
- Dimensions of tire piles (including height).
- Distance between piles.
- Distance of piles from the property and building lines.
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
A non-refundable application fee of $20 is applied toward the license fee. The balance of the license fee is due once your application is approved.
If you renew your license more than 60 days after the due date, you will be charged 1.5% of the license fee for each month since the license expired.
Payment methods and details
Accepted payment methods
| Where | Accepted payment |
|---|---|
| Online through the eCLIPSE application
(There is a $200,000 limit for online payments.) |
|
| In person at the Permit and License Center in the Municipal Services Building |
|
| In person at the Cashier’s Station in the Municipal Services Building
(Items paid at the Cashier’s Station will be mailed within five business days.) |
|
Checks and money orders
Check requirements
- Make all checks and money orders payable to the “City of Philadelphia.”
- The individual or company listed on the check must be listed on the application.
- Personal checks are accepted.
- Checks and money orders must have issue dates within 12 months of the transaction.
Reasons your check may be rejected
L&I will not accept checks that are missing depository information or are:
- Unsigned.
- Expired.
- Post-dated.
- Starter checks without account info.
Returned payment policy
If your check is returned unpaid for insufficient or uncollected funds:
- You will be charged a $20 fee for collection.
- You authorize the City of Philadelphia or its agent to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account to collect this fee directly.
- The City of Philadelphia or its agent may re-present your check electronically to your depository institution for payment.
- If the City is unable to obtain payment, the license, permit, or appeal application will be void.
- You cannot take any additional action under a permit until you have paid all fees.
- The permit or license will be revoked if the outstanding fees are not paid within 30 days.
- You cannot file or obtain additional permits until you resolve the outstanding debt.
Late license payment
If you renew your license more than 60 days after the due date, you will be charged 1.5% of the license fee for each month since the license expired.
How
You can apply for this license online using eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Online
This usually takes about three weeks.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
In person
This usually takes about three weeks.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Renewal requirements
Annual renewal
- Renew online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Required for renewal:
- Must be current on all City taxes.
- An updated copy of the tire dealer operation information form.
- Fire protection certification.