Philadelphia Permit Expediter
Philadelphia permits can stall a project for months. That is why MatrixGC prepares the drawings, files with L&I and answers plan review comments. And when zoning says no, our team takes your project through the variance process, so you can get to construction faster.
- Philadelphia contractor license #43984
- Drawings in-house
- Zoning & ZBA experience
- Free permits & design with our build
Permits we handle
Do I need a permit in Philadelphia?
In general, work that involves building, demolition, structural repair, an addition, or new electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems needs a permit from the Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I). Applications are filed online through the city's eCLIPSE system. On the other hand, purely cosmetic work, such as painting or replacing finishes, usually does not.
If your plans do not meet the zoning code, L&I issues a refusal, so the project needs relief from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. In addition, that process usually includes notice to the neighborhood and a meeting with the Registered Community Organization (RCO) before the hearing.
What we do for you
- Feasibility check: zoning, setbacks, height and use before you spend on design.
- Drawings: plans, elevations and details prepared in-house. See design-build.
- Filing: complete applications in eCLIPSE with the right documents.
- Plan review: examiner comments get answered and resubmitted quickly.
- Zoning relief: refusal, ZBA appeal, RCO meeting and hearing preparation.
- Inspections: when we build the project, we schedule and close out every inspection.
Free permits & design when you build with MatrixGC
Many contractors charge separately for permit management. However, when MatrixGC builds your project, the drawings and the permit work are included: L&I building and zoning permits, Historical Commission approvals when needed, and inspections, at no additional service fee. Of course, city permit fees are still paid to the city.
As a result, you get one team for design, permits and construction, and no gap between what was approved and what gets built.
How permit expediting works
Free consultation
First, tell us the address and what you want to build.
Zoning check
Next, our team reviews zoning and code to find the fastest path.
Drawings
Then the plans needed for the application are prepared or reviewed.
Filing
After that, everything is submitted through eCLIPSE and we track the review.
Comments & zoning
Meanwhile, plan review comments get answered and any variance process is handled.
Permit issued
Finally, you are ready to build, with MatrixGC or your own contractor.
Stuck on a Philadelphia permit?
Send us the address and your plans or idea. In return, you will learn what is needed and how we can help.
Permit expediting FAQs
What needs a permit
What types of permits do you expedite?
Building permits, zoning and use permits, zoning variances and appeals. Also, compliance items such as plan review comments and violations.
How do I know if I need a building permit in Philadelphia?
Generally, any project involving building, demolition, structural repair, an addition, or the installation of electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems needs a permit from L&I. In contrast, cosmetic work usually does not. Either way, call us and you will hear exactly what your project needs.
Timing, refusals and cost
How long does it take to get a permit in Philadelphia?
It depends on the project. For example, simple alteration permits move faster than projects that need full plan review or zoning relief. Above all, complete, accurate applications and quick responses to comments are the best way to avoid delays, and that is what our team focuses on.
What happens if my zoning permit is refused?
A refusal means the project needs relief from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. In that case, our team prepares the appeal, coordinates the RCO community meeting and helps you prepare for the hearing.
Can I hire you just for permits if another contractor builds?
Yes. Permit expediting and drawings are available on their own. Plus, if MatrixGC builds the project, design services are included free.
How much does permit expediting cost?
It depends on the permit type and whether drawings or zoning relief are needed. So contact us for a free consultation and a quote for your project.