New Fire Watch Requirements - Effective November 1
Beginning on November 1, 2020, a Fire Watch is required on jobsites during non-working hours where combustible buildings under construction reach a height of over 40 feet. Review Code Bulletin F-2001 to learn more about:
- When and where Fire Watches are required;
- How to conduct and document the Fire Watch detail.
Lot Line Adjustment Process Information Sheet
There have been significant changes to the permitting process for subdivision / lot line adjustments. L&I has created a Lot line Adjustment Process information sheet explaining the process, the creation of permanent parcel addresses, handling changes of ownership, and issuance of a Certification of Occupancy.
EZ Solar Permit is Now Available
We have adopted a new EZ Solar Standard to allow for the permitting of certain solar projects without the submission plans. Qualifying permits that are filed online will be processed within three business days and those filed in-person will be processed as you wait. Please review our website or join us for a virtual information session on Solar Permitting on October 13 to learn more.
Introducing the Master Approval
We are pleased to offer an alternative permitting option for residential development. If your project consists of multiple buildings of the same design and construction, the Master Approval may be the right option for you:
This is a two phased approval process that may reduce overall permit processing time:
- Obtain a Master Approval for your site and each prototype building. All plans, permit documents and requisite approvals must be provided for review by L&I and other involved departments.
- File for individual building permits under the Master Approval. All permit application information, approved plans, and department approvals are cloned from the Master Approval. L&I will perform an administrative check to verify that no information has been changed and issue your permit.
Coming Soon: Submit your subcontractors' names to L&I
Starting on January 1, 2021, Philadelphia contractors and trade licensees will be required to submit the names of each subcontractor that works under their permits to L&I using eCLIPSE, within three (3) days of that subcontractor starting work. This requirement will not apply to the construction of one- or two family residential buildings.
Failure to comply may result in license violations, fines, and Stop Work Orders.
Refer to the How-To Guide for step-by-step instructions to add a subcontractor to your permit via eCLIPSE.
New Code Bulletins Provide Guidance on
Zoning and Property Certifications
Check out the Code Bulletin section of our website for new guidance on Zoning and Property Certification approvals.
- Multiple by-right applications;
- Permit application filed while another application is before the ZBA;
- Abandoned approvals.