Licenses and Inspections

The Department of Licenses and Inspections issues all licenses, except marriage licenses, required by the City. It also conducts inspections, except those related to health, and is responsible for enforcing Philadelphia’s building, zoning, housing, electrical, plumbing and fire codes.

A production company planning to film in Philadelphia will need to obtain a Business Privilege License, required for any business, including trades and professions operated for profit.

A license or permit is also needed if a production will include: staging a parade, dance or ball; erecting, altering, repairing or demolishing any building or major structure, including electrical work; and/or the use of explosives, fireworks, firearms.

The initial application of any license or permit is made at the Department of Licenses and Inspections, Municipal Services Building, Concourse Level, 1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Philadelphia. The Department will then determine what, if any, other department permits or signatures are needed before they can issue the license. The applicant will need to obtain the designated permits and approvals. The Film Office may be able to act as a liaison for a production company to obtain the necessary papers with some exceptions.

Persons requesting license and permit services may call the Deputy Commissioner for Business at (215) 686-2404 or fax at (215) 686-2403.

The Department also earmarks abandoned buildings each year for demolition which may be available for film productions.