PlainPermit

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Do I need a permit for a roof replacement in Philadelphia, PA?

Last verified: · Confidence: high · Status: Verified from official source

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Permit required Confidence: high

Yes. Roof covering replacement needs a building permit, but no plans (EZ permit). No zoning permit is needed if only the covering is replaced.

What changes the answer

Cost

Fee not extracted; see L&I. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/apply-for-a-permit/building-and-repair-permits/get-permits-without-plans-ez-permits/

Where to apply

Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (eCLIPSE online permits)

Permitting authority: City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). Applies in the City and County of Philadelphia. Properties on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places may need Historical Commission review. Zoning permits are separate from building permits.

Official sources

“Roof covering replacement NO if limited to covering only NO YES NO1”

Source: https://www.phila.gov/media/20260602151416/StartRight-FINAL-6.2026.pdf

“Roof covering replacement”

Source: https://www.phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/apply-for-a-permit/building-and-repair-permits/get-permits-without-plans-ez-permits/

Verified: · Status: verified · Confidence: high

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