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Food Establishment Plan Review: Philadelphia restaurant guide

Philadelphia Department of Public Health — Office of Food Protection

What it is

Health Department review of your layout, finishes, sinks, equipment, ventilation, plumbing and menu before you build.

When a restaurant needs it

New food business or renovation — after zoning is approved and before construction or installing food equipment.

How to apply

Submit the Plan Review for Stationary Food Businesses application to Environmental Health Services at 7801 Essington Ave. (walk-in Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–1 p.m. or by appointment; call (215) 685-7495 to set up a virtual consultation or arrange submission). Don't pay up front — they invoice you.

Documents you’ll need

Scaled site and facility plans
Equipment list with manufacturer/model
Plumbing, electrical, lighting and ventilation details
Finish schedule
Garbage/recycling details
Copy of Philadelphia Food Safety Certificate
Full menu

Fee

$375 (≤1,000 sq ft), $875 (1,001–5,000), $1,500 (5,001–10,000), $2,125 (10,000–14,000), above that $2,125 + $15 per 100 sq ft; expedite +$380

Processing time

30 business days for initial review, then up to 30 business days after fees; expedited 10 business days

Renewal

One-time per build-out

Who files

Owner or your architect/consultant may submit.

Good to know

PDPH adds a $250 fee if you start installing or operating food equipment, or begin any interior modification, before you submit plans. Building before approval also risks costly rework.

Official source

PDPH — Plan review for a stationary food business · Plan review application (2025 fillable PDF)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.