Permit Types in Philadelphia: EZ, Standard, Make Safe, Zoning-Only, and More

If you’ve ever tried to start a project in Philadelphia, you already know permits can feel overwhelming. Between zoning approvals, building permits, and specialty permits, it’s not always clear where to begin.

This guide breaks down every major permit type in Philadelphia, what they mean, when you need them, and how to get them, so you can approach your project with confidence.

Understanding the Basics: How Philadelphia Permitting Works

All construction permits in Philadelphia are issued through the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections. Their job is to ensure projects meet safety codes, zoning regulations, and building standards.

Most projects follow this general sequence:

• Zoning Approval (Zoning Permit)

• Construction Approval (Building Permit)

• Trade Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical)

• Inspections + Certificate of Occupancy (if required)

In many cases, you cannot get a building permit without zoning approval first.

Additional clarification:
Zoning approval is typically only required when:

• There is a change of use (e.g., residential → commercial)

• There is an addition or new construction

• There are exterior changes that impact zoning compliance

If you are doing an interior renovation within an existing structure and keeping the same use, zoning approval is often not required.

There are also different types of zoning approvals:

• By-right zoning: Your project complies with the existing zoning code and can be approved administratively

Zoning with variance: Required when your project falls outside zoning code, involving review by a Registered Community Organizations and the Zoning Board of Adjustment

1. EZ Permits (Permits Without Plans)

What It Is

An EZ Permit is a simplified permit that allows you to complete certain projects without submitting architectural drawings.

When You Can Use It

EZ permits are designed for:

• Non-structural work

• Small residential projects

• Work that follows strict city-issued “EZ Standards”

Common examples:

• Interior renovations (no structural changes)

• Decks under size limits

• Roof replacements

• Minor electrical or plumbing updates

Additional clarification:
Some EZ permits (especially residential EZ building permits) may still require an engineer’s letter confirming that no structural work is involved.

Key Limitations

• No structural modifications

• Must strictly follow predefined standards

• Often limited to smaller residential work

Important additional limitations:

• Any work involving a basement requires a Standard Permit

• If construction costs exceed $25,000, the project typically requires a Standard Permit

If you deviate, even slightly, you’ll be pushed into a Standard Permit.

Why It Matters

This is the fastest and easiest permit in Philadelphia. Many can be issued:

• Same day (in person)

• Within a few days online

2. Standard Building Permits (Permits With Plans)

What It Is

A Standard Permit is required for any project that involves structural work or doesn’t qualify for EZ standards.

When You Need It

You’ll need a standard permit if your project:

• Removes or modifies structural elements (walls, beams, joists)

• Adds square footage (additions)

• Involves new construction

• Changes occupancy or use

• Includes major renovations

What’s Required

• Architectural drawings (often stamped)

• Engineering (if structural)

• Code compliance documentation

• Energy and construction compliance documentation where applicable

Timeline

• 15–20 business days for review (typical)

• Longer if revisions are required

Pro Insight

This is where most projects fall, and where professional drawings (like what Jane Draws Plans offers) become essential.

3. Zoning Permits (Including “Zoning-Only”)

What It Is

A Zoning Permit determines whether your project is legally allowed on your property.

It regulates:

• Use (residential, commercial, mixed-use)

• Height and bulk

• Setbacks and lot coverage

• Parking requirements

When You Need It

You need zoning approval for:

• New construction

• Additions

• Change of use (e.g., residential → commercial)

• Exterior changes (in many cases)

What is a “Zoning-Only” Permit?

A Zoning-Only Permit means:

• You’re getting approval for use/layout only

• No construction permit is included yet

This is often used for:

• Property due diligence

• Real estate transactions

• Early project approvals before full design

How to Apply

• Online via eCLIPSE

• Or in person at the Permit and License Center

You can also reference zoning maps and guidance through the Philadelphia City Planning Commission.

4. Make Safe Permits

What It Is

A Make Safe Permit is issued when a building is considered unsafe or imminently dangerous.

When You Need It

Typically required when:

• L&I issues a violation

• Structural instability is present

• There’s risk of collapse or public hazard

What It Covers

• Emergency structural stabilization

• Temporary bracing or shoring

• Partial demolition (if required)

• Repairs required to resolve the unsafe condition

Key Detail

This permit is not for general renovations, but it can include permanent repairs necessary to fix the unsafe condition.

Examples include:

• Rebuilding a collapsed or failing roof

• Repairing fire-damaged structural elements

• Stabilizing and reconstructing compromised portions of a building

Afterward, you’ll still need a standard permit to continue work beyond the scope of the violation.

5. Demolition Permits

What It Is

Required to partially or fully demolish a structure.

Types

• Full demolition

• Interior demolition

• Selective demolition

Additional note:
There is also an Interior Non-Structural Demolition Permit, which:

• Applies to residential properties

• Allows removal of non-structural elements (drywall, finishes, etc.)

• Is often issued same day

This is often useful to complete before structural inspections, so existing conditions can be clearly evaluated.

What You’ll Need

• Zoning approval

• Utility disconnections

• Safety and site control measures

6. Trade Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical)

What They Are

These permits cover specific building systems.

Electrical Permit

Required for:

• Installing or modifying wiring

• Electrical upgrades or repairs

Plumbing Permit

Required for:

• Water supply or drainage changes

• Bathroom/kitchen modifications

Mechanical Permit

Required for:

• HVAC systems

• Ductwork and ventilation

Important Note

These are often:

• Filed separately

• Required alongside a building permit

Additional clarification:

• Single-family homes and duplexes typically do NOT require full MEP plan submissions

• Projects with more than two units or any commercial work DO require MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) plans

For larger or commercial projects, these plans are typically prepared by licensed engineers.

7. Combination Permits

What It Is

A Combination Permit bundle:

• Zoning

• Building

• Trades
  Into one application

When It’s Used

• New construction (especially residential)

• Large-scale projects

Why It’s Useful

• Faster coordination

• Streamlined approvals

8. Excavation & Site Permits

What It Is

Required for:

• Excavation deeper than 5 feet

• Site disturbance

• Foundation work

Why It Matters

Excavation impacts:

• Adjacent structures

• Public safety

So it’s heavily regulated.

Additional note:
For detailed requirements, refer to official guidance and technical documents provided by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections.

How to Apply for Permits in Philadelphia

Option 1: Online (Recommended)

Use the eCLIPSE system:

• Upload documents

• Submit applications

• Track approvals

Option 2: In Person

Permit and License Center
1401 JFK Blvd

General Steps

• Confirm zoning compliance

• Prepare documents (plans if required)

• Submit application

• Respond to review comments

• Pay fees

• Receive permit

• Schedule inspections

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting work without a permit (major fines + rework)

• Assuming your project qualifies for EZ

• Skipping zoning review

• Submitting incomplete drawings

• Ignoring violations on the property

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia’s permitting system can feel complicated, but once you understand the structure, it becomes much more manageable.

If you remember one thing, it’s this:

• Zoning determines IF you can build.

• Building permits determine HOW you build.

And choosing between EZ vs. Standard is what defines how complex your process will be.

Need Help?

At Jane Draws Plans, we help simplify the permitting process; from determining the right permit type to preparing drawings that get approved faster.