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Department of Licenses and Inspections

Philadelphia is preparing to adopt the 2021 I-Codes, with state and local modifications, effective July 2025. Starting January 2026, all new permit applications must comply with the updated codes. To learn more, view the forms and documents.

What we do

The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) helps people comply with building safety standards and other code requirements. Contractors, business and property owners, landlords, tenants, and other members of the public are all served by L&I.

As part of our mission, we:

  • Inspect construction projects so they meet construction and fire codes.
  • Inspect higher-risk properties for compliance with fire codes.
  • Respond to complaints regarding many code violations.
  • Inspect, monitor, seal, and demolish vacant and/or dangerous buildings.
  • Review plans and issue permits according to building, zoning, plumbing, and electrical codes.
  • Issue trade and business licenses.
  • Help landlords and tenants understand their responsibilities.

Connect

Address
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
11th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email If you’ve filed a construction complaint with 311, you can submit more information to:
addinfoli@phila.gov
Phone: 311

eCLIPSE

Avoid delays. Apply online.

Use our online system to apply for licenses and permits and look up business and trade license information.

Go to eCLIPSE

L&I monthly newsletter

Our newsletter keeps you up-to-date on permits, licenses, and more. Sign up to get new issues every month, or read archived issues online.

Events

  • Mar
    19
    Certificate of Occupancy Webinar
    12:00 pm to 1:30 pm

    Certificate of Occupancy Webinar

    March 19, 2025
    12:00 pm to 1:30 pm, 2 hours

    L&I will be offering a 90-minute webinar on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. to provide an overview of the Certificate of Occupancy. During this session, we will explore when a Certificate of Occupancy is required, the distinction between a Use Registration Permit and a Certificate of Occupancy, application requirements for a new Certificate of Occupancy and planned improvements.

      Please register if you are interested in attending this webinar.

     **Attendees can receive 1.5 hours of continuing education credits for this course.**

  • Apr
    2
    Zoning and Building Signs Webinar
    12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

    Zoning and Building Signs Webinar

    April 2, 2025
    12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, 1 hour

    L&I will be offering a 60-minute webinar on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. to provide an overview of Zoning and Building Permit requirements for signs. 

     Please register if you are interested in attending this webinar. 

     **Attendees can receive 1 hour of continuing education credits for this course.** 

Resources


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