Lawful Occupancy Sign (assembly spaces of 50+): Philadelphia restaurant guide
Philadelphia L&I
What it is
The L&I-issued occupant-load placard you must post in any assembly space where 50 or more people gather. At 50+ occupants your dining room is an Assembly (A-2) occupancy; under 50 it is classified as Business (B).
When a restaurant needs it
Any restaurant or bar with lawful occupancy of 50 or more. Issued free with a building permit or Certificate of Occupancy; otherwise apply separately.
How to apply
If your building permit/CO covers the space the sign is included; otherwise file a Lawful Occupancy Sign application in eCLIPSE with plans; an inspection precedes issuance.
Documents you’ll need
- Permit application with use description and owner info
- Lease or deed
- Plans per L&I requirements
Good to know
The SAOL application requires the Lawful Occupancy sign, and a change from under-50 (B) to 50+ (A-2) is a change of occupancy that needs a new CO.
Official source
L&I — Get a Lawful Occupancy Sign · L&I CO information sheet (A-2 vs B under 50)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.