Short answer: for a typical Philadelphia home renovation, the building permit costs $76 for the first 500 sq ft plus $56 for each extra 100 sq ft, or 2% of the construction cost if you ask for that method (minimum $253). A new house costs $1,328 for the building permit. Electrical permits cost $25 per $1,000 of electrical work, and plumbing alterations start at $50.
What changed for 2026
The City of Philadelphia revised its construction permit fee summary in July 2026. However, the residential fees in this guide did not change from the schedule that took effect on January 1, 2025. In other words, if you budgeted with 2025 numbers, they still hold for one- and two-family homes in 2026.
Also, keep in mind that zoning permits have their own fees, separate from the construction permits below. As always, check the City’s current fee summary before you file, because fees can change.
Philadelphia building permit fees
These are the fees for one- and two-family homes. For example, most rowhome renovations fall under “alterations”.
| Permit | Residential fee (1–2 family) |
|---|---|
| New construction | $1,328 |
| Additions and accessory structures | $75 for the first 500 sq ft, plus $56 per extra 100 sq ft |
| Alterations and repairs | $76 for the first 500 sq ft, plus $56 per extra 100 sq ft |
| Alterations, cost method (on request) | 2% of construction cost, minimum $253 |
| Demolition (general) | $25.30 per 100 sq ft, minimum $253 |
| Preliminary plan review | $442 for three stories or less |
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EZ permit fees for small jobs
Many small residential jobs qualify for an EZ permit. As a result, the fee is low and the review is quick.
| EZ permit job | Fee |
|---|---|
| Roof covering | $69 |
| Exterior wall covering (siding) | $69 |
| Fence | $69 |
| Replacement windows and doors | $63 |
| Porch or deck flooring (up to 200 sq ft) | $63 |
Planning a deck? Read how to get a Philadelphia EZ deck permit.
Electrical, plumbing and mechanical permit fees
| Trade permit | Residential fee |
|---|---|
| Electrical work | $25 per $1,000 of electrical cost (minimum $63) |
| Plumbing alterations or additions | $50 for the first 7 fixtures, plus $22.50 per extra fixture |
| Plumbing, new construction | $284 for the first 7 fixtures, plus $25 per extra fixture |
| Water heater | $31 |
| Ductwork | $189 |
| Fuel gas piping | $189 |
| Appliances (boiler, AC unit, heat pump) | $69 each |
| Electrical or plumbing rough-in permit | $150 |
Licensed electricians and plumbers pull their own trade permits. See how to check a contractor license in Philadelphia.
Example: permit fees for a rowhome renovation
Here is a rough example for a 1,200 sq ft rowhome alteration with $20,000 of electrical work, 8 plumbing fixtures and new ductwork:
- Building permit: $76 + (7 × $56) = $468
- Electrical permit: 20 × $25 = $500
- Plumbing permit: $50 + $22.50 = $72.50
- Ductwork permit: $189
In total, that is about $1,230 in permit fees, before any zoning permit. Compared with the cost of the work, permits are a small line item.
Fees that are free or cheap to change
The City keeps a few fees low for owner-occupied homes:
- Amended permit: $25 for an owner-occupied one- or two-family home
- Permit extension: no fee for an owner-occupied one-family home
- Permit reinstatement: no fee for an owner-occupied one-family home
- Certificate of occupancy: no extra fee, it is part of the building permit
How to avoid permit delays
- Check zoning first. If the job needs zoning approval, that comes before the building permit.
- Submit complete plans. Missing drawings are the most common reason for a slow review.
- Use licensed trades. Electrical and plumbing permits must come from licensed contractors.
- Get help if you need it. A permit expediter or your general contractor can file for you.
For the full process, read our Philadelphia building permits guide.
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Philadelphia permit fee FAQs
How much is a building permit in Philadelphia in 2026?
For a one- or two-family home, an alteration permit costs $76 for the first 500 sq ft plus $56 for each extra 100 sq ft, or 2% of construction cost on request with a $253 minimum. A new home costs $1,328.
Did Philadelphia permit fees go up in 2026?
No. The City revised its fee summary in July 2026, but the residential construction permit fees stayed the same as the schedule that took effect on January 1, 2025.
How much is an electrical permit in Philadelphia?
An electrical permit costs $25 per $1,000 of estimated electrical work, with a $63 minimum. A rough-in permit costs $150.
How much is a plumbing permit in Philadelphia?
For alterations or additions, a plumbing permit costs $50 for the first 7 fixtures plus $22.50 for each extra fixture. A water heater permit costs $31.
Are zoning permit fees included?
No. Zoning permits have separate fees. If your project needs zoning approval, budget for that on top of the construction permit fees.
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