Service overview
To make reservations or collect payment for hotel accommodations or on behalf of a limited lodging operator, you need a Limited Lodging and Hotels Booking Agent License.
This license is issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I).
Related licenses
To rent your primary residence or a unit in it as a short-term rental, you need a Limited Lodging Operator License.
To rent housing units or properties that aren’t your primary residence as a short-term rental, you need a Rental License with a hotel designation.
Who
Business owners and their authorized agents can apply for this license.
Requirements
Other licenses and registrations
Tax and code compliance
- You must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
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.
Where and when
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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.
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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, you must be up to date on all City of Philadelphia taxes.