Licenses & Permits to Open a Restaurants & Bar in Philadelphia, PA
Opening a restaurants & bar in Philadelphia requires between 12–16 permits. Here's the complete list, with costs, timelines, and links to every agency. If you are missing licenses, we can handle registration and then manage renewals for you.
Complete License Checklist for Restaurants & Bars in Philadelphia
| License | Required? | Cost | Issuing Agency | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Yes | $50–$500 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
| Health Permit | Yes | $100–$1000 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
| Food Handler's Permit | Yes | $10–$50 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Every 2–3 years |
| Liquor / Alcohol License | If applicable | $300–$15000 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
| Fire Inspection Certificate | Yes | $50–$500 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
| Signage / Sign Permit | If applicable | $25–$500 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | One-time or annual |
| Building Permit | If applicable | $100–$5000 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Per project |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Yes | $25–$500 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Upon change of use or tenancy |
| Sales Tax Permit | Yes | $0–$100 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Varies by state |
| DBA / Fictitious Business Name | If applicable | $10–$100 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Every 5 years |
| Music License (ASCAP / BMI / SESAC) | If applicable | $250–$2000 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
| Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining Permit | If applicable | $100–$1500 | Department of Licenses & Inspections | Annual |
Total Estimated Cost
The total licensing cost for a restaurants & bar in Philadelphia varies based on your specific business activities, size, and location. Budget for the sum of all applicable license fees listed above, plus potential inspection and professional certification costs.
We'll track all licenses for your restaurants & bar in Philadelphia.
We can register missing licenses first, then manage every renewal deadline.
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