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Food Manufacturer License: Philadelphia restaurant guide

Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections

What it is

Required to manufacture, process or wholesale food in Philadelphia.

When a restaurant needs it

Only if you sell packaged food wholesale. Restaurants that cater as part of their operations don't need a separate caterer license.

How to apply

Apply in eCLIPSE with your tax and occupancy documents and a recent Health Department review.

Documents you’ll need

BIRT tax account
Commercial Activity License
Proof of occupancy
Health Department letter (LER) dated within 30 days

Fee

$380 (includes a $20 non-refundable application fee)

Processing time

Reviewed within five business days

Renewal

Annually, $380

Who files

Filed by the business owner or an authorized agent.

Good to know

Get the Health Department review letter first; it must be no more than 30 days old when you apply. The L&I license page lists $380, but the Nov 2025 license fee schedule lists $414 — confirm the amount in eCLIPSE before paying.

Official source

phila.gov — Get a Food Manufacturer license

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