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How to file the commercial activity license (Philadelphia)

Every person or company doing business in Philadelphia needs it, and should get it before any other business license. Apply in eCLIPSE with the EIN and the BIRT ID, under the legal name on the city tax account, or at the Permit and License Center by appointment.

City of Philadelphia, Department of Licenses and InspectionsPhiladelphiaUpdated October 17, 2026

Agency
City of Philadelphia, Department of Licenses and Inspections
Where it applies
Philadelphia
How it's filed
Filed online
Fee
FreeFree.
How long it takes
Issued automatically online, or while you wait in person.
Renewal
Doesn't need to be renewed.

Official links

Checked against the agency's own page.

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This guide covers the city. Your exact address decides the county, the health district and the zoning. Placetta maps every filing for it, fills the official forms from your details, adds the deadlines and puts them up for your approval.

  • The full list for your address, in filing order
  • The official forms, filled line by line
  • Renewal and inspection reminders

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