Philadelphia County, PA Permit Requirements: Renovation Permits (2026)

You must get a Building Permit before starting a project that: Constructs a new building. Enlarges or adds to an existing structure. Changes the interior or exterior of an existing structure. Partially or fully demolishes a structure. Changes the occupancy classification of any part of a building. Increases the occupant load in a space. Includes major repairs that aren't part of regular maintenance. Includes 5,000 sq. ft. or more of earth disturbance. For any excavation that results in a cut, trench, or depression that is more than five feet below an adjacent grade, must either add the excavation work on the building permit application as part of a combination permit, or get a separate Excavation Site Permit in advance of submitting the building permit application. Some projects are eligible for an EZ Permit , which doesn't require you to submit plans. Plans are typically not required for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work in new, residential construction projects. In most cases, you must get a Zoning Permit before you can apply for a Building Permit. Projects that may not need permits For some projects, you may not even need a Building Permit at all. As long as your property is not on the Philadelphia Historic Registry, you often don't need a permit for: Repairs related to regular maintenance. Fencing up to six feet in height . Retaining walls up to two feet in height .