Service overview
You need this zoning permit for projects that only involve site clearing and earth disturbance work that meets either of the following criteria:
- Site clearing on a lot that is more than 5,000 sq. ft. in area
- Site clearing includes cutting or removing trees, grubbing roots, and removing or filling building foundations.
- Lots with a principal use of single-family residence, two-family residence, or urban agriculture are excluded.
- Earth disturbance
- In the Steep Slope Protection Area, exceeding 1,400 sq. ft. with slopes greater than 15%.
- In the Wissahickon Watershed Overlay, exceeding 500 sq. ft., except sites designated as Category 5 on the Impervious Coverage Map.
If your project involves new construction or additions, you may not utilize this site clearing permit application. Landscaping / Tree Preservation plans and associated documents must be included with your Zoning Permit application for the new construction or addition.
The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) issues zoning permits.
If the property is in the floodplain
Properties in the floodplain may require special documents or a review meeting.
Who
Property owners and their authorized agents can apply for this permit. Authorized agents may include:
- Design professionals.
- Attorneys.
- Contractors.
- Licensed expediters.
Requirements
Permit application
- The permit application must include the scope of work and current owner information.
- You must apply for all permits under the legal address established by the Office of Property Assessment (OPA).
- If the property was recently sold, you must submit a copy of the settlement sheet or deed with the application.
Plans
Your application requires plans, and they must follow the plan requirements.
Forms and documents
You may need to provide:
- The deed to the property, if requested by L&I.
- Flood protection forms, if the property is located in the floodplain.
- An earth-moving plan compliant with the Department of Planning and Development regulations (DPD).
- Landscaping / Tree Preservation plan compliant with the Department of Planning and Development regulations (DPD), if applicable.
- A Receipt of Certified Mailing for required notice to the district councilmember and the director of the Office of Sustainability, if applicable.
- An agreement with the owner of an abutting property, if applicable.
Required pre-approvals
Where and when
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Cost
Filing fee
There is a non-refundable filing fee which is applied to the permit fee.
- For one-or-two-family dwellings: $25
- For all other uses: $100
The balance of the permit fee is due upon approval.
Permit fee
- Lot size less than or equal to 30,000 sq. ft.: $253
- Lot size greater than 30,000 sq. ft.: $632
Record retention fee
- Per page larger than 8.5 in. by 14 in.: $4
Accelerated plan review fee (optional)
Applications for site work and earth disturbance that include plans are eligible for expedited review. Accelerated applications are reviewed within 5 business days.
- Fee: $1050
- $350 is due when you apply. You must pay the remainder once approved.
To apply, fill out an Accelerated Plan Review Request form and submit with your permit application. Accelerated review fees will not be credited toward your final permit fee.
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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 20 business days.
The applicant can accelerate the application for an additional fee. Accelerated applications are reviewed within 5 business days.
If not approved, the applicant will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Online
If applying as a licensed professional or contractor, you must first associate your license or registration with your online account.
Applications are processed within 20 business days. Allow an additional business day for pre-processing.
The applicant can accelerate the application for an additional fee. Accelerated applications are reviewed within 5 business days.
If not approved, the applicant will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Renewal requirements
Expiration
Zoning Permits will expire in three years if you do not get a Site Work and Site Utility Permit and begin work at the site.
Extending a zoning permit
You can apply for a permit extension starting three months before the permit expires. Extended permits are valid for one year from the expiration date of the original permit, regardless of when the extension is issued.
You can apply for an extension online using eCLIPSE or in person. Refer to the zoning permit extension information sheet for more information.