Service overview
This permit allows you to use a building for a short-term event.
You cannot hold special events for longer than 15 days. To host a longer event, you need to:
You do not need this permit if your space is already approved for assembly use and the event will not exceed the number of people allowed. The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues this permit.
Who
Property owners, their tenants, and their authorized agents can apply. Authorized agents may include:
- Design professionals.
- Attorneys.
- Contractors.
- Licensed expediters.
Requirements
Permit application
Application must include a description of use and current owner information.
- If the property was recently sold, submit a copy of the settlement sheet or deed with the application.
- You must apply for all permits under the legal address established by the Office of Property Assessment (OPA).
- If a tenant makes the application, include the executed lease agreement.
Plans required
If your application requires plans, they must follow plan requirements.
- Plans must be drawn to scale on a sheet that is at least 18 in. by 24 in.
- Include three copies of plans.
- The plans must show compliance with Code Bulletin A-1501/ Section C.
Fire watch
The application must include written confirmation that a fire watch will be provided during times of occupancy.
- A fire watch can be performed by any uniformed security company trained in emergency procedures.
- Fire watch must be performed in accordance with the requirements of Code Bulletin A-1501/ Section C.
- You must identify the company performing the fire watch on your application.
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
Fee types that may apply
Filing fee
- $25
This fee is nonrefundable and will be credited towards the final permit fee.
Permit fee
- $464 per event
Surcharge fees
- City surcharge: $3 per permit
- State surcharge: $4.50 per permit
Record retention fee
- $4 per plan
Payment methods and details
Accepted payment methods
| Where | Accepted payment |
|---|---|
| Online through the eCLIPSE application
(There is a $500,000 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.) |
|
Credit and debit card payments
Surcharges and fees are applied automatically to all credit and debit card transactions.
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 permit in person at the Permit and License Center or online using eCLIPSE.
In person
Applications are processed within 10 business days.
If not approved, the applicant will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Before the permit can be issued, you’ll need to schedule an inspection.
Contact your local inspection office to arrange the inspections noted on your permit.
A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy will be issued upon successful completion of the inspection.
Online
If applying as a licensed professional or contractor, you must first associate your license or registration with your online account.
If not approved, the applicant will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Applications are processed within 10 business days.
When the contractor is ready to start work, request an inspection through eCLIPSE or by calling (215) 255-4040.
Approval documents will be issued upon successful completion of all required inspections.
Renewal requirements
Special event approvals cannot be renewed. You must file a new permit application for each event.