Zoning/Use Registration Permit (change of use): Philadelphia restaurant guide
Philadelphia L&I
What it is
Establishes restaurant as the legal use of the space under the Zoning Code. L&I accepts it (or a food license at the same space within the last 3 years) as proof of occupancy for the food license.
When a restaurant needs it
When the space has neither a zoning approval for restaurant use nor a food license for the same type of business issued there in the last 3 years. If your restaurant zoning approval is more than 3 years old, you'll need an Affidavit of Continuous Use with the food license application.
How to apply
File a zoning permit application in eCLIPSE (or in person); use-only changes usually need no plans.
Documents you’ll need
- Description of proposed use
- Current owner information (and >49% owners for entity owners)
- Executed lease (if tenant)
- Deed or settlement sheet if recently sold
- Plans only if exterior/area changes
Good to know
If refused or referred, you have only 30 days to appeal to the ZBA and that deadline cannot be extended.
Official source
L&I — Zoning permit to change the use of a property · L&I — Zoning permit overview and fees
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.