Special Assembly Occupancy License (SAOL): Philadelphia restaurant guide
Philadelphia L&I
What it is
Required for restaurants and bars that offer dancing, live or recorded music, or DJs and have a lawful occupancy of 50 or more.
When a restaurant needs it
Entertainment (beyond a strolling musician) and occupancy of 50+.
How to apply
Post the notice on every street-facing side of the building and photograph it, then apply in eCLIPSE. Keep the notice up for at least 30 days. Review includes a Police Department recommendation and an L&I fire safety inspection (up to 45 days in total).
Documents you’ll need
- CAL and BIRT
- Proof of occupancy (zoning approval or prior license)
- Lawful Occupancy sign
- Certificate of Occupancy if assembly space not legally established
- PA criminal background check
- Photos of posted notice on every street side
Good to know
Philadelphia eliminated the separate Amusement License (Bill No. 250572), but if you charge a cover you still owe the 5% Amusement Tax. No entertainment? Then no SAOL — but 50+ occupants still requires the Lawful Occupancy sign and an A-2 Certificate of Occupancy.
Official source
L&I — Get a Special Assembly Occupancy License
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.