Service overview
You need a lot adjustment to:
- Combine lots.
- Split a lot into multiple new lots.
- Reconfigure the property lines between adjoining lots.
The number of permits you need depends on how many lots you start with. The Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) will determine this during the review and issue necessary permits.
If your proposal meets code requirements, you are granted permits as a matter of right.
If your proposal does not meet code requirements, you’ll need a special exception or a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Make sure you know the legal boundaries of your property. You can find this information on the deed. You can check the exact location of property lines by hiring a licensed surveyor.
Refer to the lot line adjustment process information sheet for additional information.
Who
Any property owner or authorized agent of the owner can apply.
Authorized agents may include:
- Design professionals.
- Attorneys.
- Contractors.
- Licensed expediters.
Requirements
Permit application
The permit application must include the complete listing of addresses and current owner information.
- If the property is NOT owned by a natural person or a publicly-traded company, provide the name and mailing address of one of the following:
- Each individual with more than 49% interest in ownership of the property
- The two individuals with the largest interest
- If a 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).
Plans
If your application requires plans, they must follow plan requirements.
Related Permits
If you would like to:
You may request that work on your zoning application for lot line adjustment.
Required pre-approvals
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
A non-refundable filing fee of $100 is applied to the permit fee. The balance of the permit fee is due once your application is approved.
A non-refundable filing fee of $100 is applied to the permit fee. The balance of the permit fee is due once your application is approved.
Per page larger than 8.5 in. x 14 in.
Accelerated Plan Review fee (optional)
Applications for new construction 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.
- Accelerated review fees will not be credited toward your final permit fee.
To apply, fill out an Accelerated Plan Review Request form and submit with your permit application.
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 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.
Deeds and registration
After the permit is issued, new accounts must be established with the Office of Property Assessment and any new deeds must be recorded with the Department of Records . This is required within three years of permit issuance or Zoning Board of Adjustment decision.
Appeals
If your application receives a Notice of Refusal or Notice of Referral, you may appeal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Your right to appeal a Notice of Refusal or Referral expires 30 days from the date it was issued. These denials can not be extended. You need to submit a new application and filing fee to get a new refusal or referral.