The online Permit Navigator tool has launched to help users determine what permits and approvals are necessary for selected types of residential and commercial projects. The Permit Navigator walks users through a series of questions about their projects and brings them to a summary page containing approximate costs and links to the information they need on phila.gov to continue with the permitting process.

This is a collaborative effort between the Department of Commerce, the Department of Licenses and Inspections, the Department of Planning and Development, and Smart City PHL. The goal of the project is to make information about permits required for smaller residential and commercial projects more accessible and available to the public.

Technology upgrades help to substantially improve customer service. Piloting the Permit Navigator as a digital tool is a step in the right direction in supporting residents and business owners.

Which use cases does the permit navigator include?

Currently, the Permit Navigator is a pilot and does NOT interfere with or affect the current permit process. It does not include all permit uses across the City. The Permit Navigator includes selected residential and commercial use cases. Residential use cases include permits for renovations to established one- or two-family homes.

Business use cases include primarily commercial storefronts, including:

  • Commercial services use
  • Office use
  • Public, civic, and institutional use
  • Retail sales use

The full list of current uses in this pilot is available online. The Permit Navigator is a pilot and not a permanent tool. The City invites potential users are to attend an upcoming information sessions.

Attend the Upcoming Permit Navigator Info Sessions

  • Thursday, March 2nd (business) at 11:00 a.m. Register online.
  • Tuesday, March 7th (residential) at 10:00 a.m. Register online.
  • Thursday, March 9th (business) at 11:00 a.m. Register online.

The City is looking for feedback about the Permit Navigator so it can continue to improve and expand the tool’s uses. Please share your thoughts about this pilot project by sending an email to SmartCityPHL@phila.gov

Explore the Permit Navigator!