Philadelphia, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Dept. of Streets / L&I
- Materials storage fee
- $15-$30 per month
- Max occupied width
- 9 feet
- Max occupied height
- 13 feet
- Hydrant clearance
- 15 feet minimum
Summary
Storing materials, racks, chargers or other fixtures on a Philadelphia street or sidewalk requires a Department of Streets or L&I permit.
Construction materials used in connection with the construction or repair of a building, footway or other structure may be temporarily stored upon the roadway if a permit to do so has been obtained. The permit shall be issued by the Department of Streets for such period of time as the Department deems necessary and reasonable... Unpaved Streets: Fifteen dollars ($15) for each building frontage of 40 feet or less, per month or part thereof; Paved Streets: Thirty dollars ($30) for each building frontage of 40 feet or less, per month or part thereof.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 Code: Electronic version of The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter is current through August 19, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Philadelphia Code § 11-602 bars any structure, fixture, excavation, obstruction or projection over, on, in or under a street except as this chapter allows. Section 11-605 lets contractors temporarily store construction materials on the roadway only with a Department of Streets permit, capped at a 9-foot-wide, 13-foot-high area kept clear of hydrants, crossings and fire lanes. Section 11-604 separately requires an L&I permit (with Streets Department sign-off) before installing bicycle racks, wheelchair lifts or EV chargers in the right-of-way, and makes the permittee liable for repairs, insurance and removal costs.
Violations & Fines
Occupying the roadway or sidewalk without a valid Streets or L&I permit, or exceeding the permitted area/height, is a Code violation subject to removal and cost recovery from the responsible party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to store construction materials on a Philadelphia street?
What else counts as an encroachment needing a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
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