Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements
2 requirementsCity of Philadelphia Master Plumber License
Philadelphia requires its own Master Plumber License issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). This is separate from any state license. Applicants must pass a Philadelphia-specific plumbing exam, have 5 years of plumbing experience, and provide proof of insurance and a $10,000 surety bond.
Philadelphia Business Privilege License
All businesses operating in Philadelphia must obtain a Business Privilege License from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue. Also required: registration for Philadelphia's Business Income and Receipts Tax (BIRT).
Pennsylvania State Requirements
2 requirementsPennsylvania — No Statewide Plumber License
Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide plumbing contractor license. Licensing is handled at the local/municipal level. Philadelphia has its own Master Plumber exam and license. In other parts of Pennsylvania, county or municipal licensing may apply. Statewide, contractors must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code.
Pennsylvania Business Entity Registration (if applicable)
LLCs and corporations must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
Get your personalized permit checklist
Find out exactly which permits and licenses your plumbing contractor needs in Philadelphia, PA — with costs, timelines, and official links.
Get Your Permit Report — $9.99Related Guides
Other business types in Philadelphia, PA
- Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
- Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
- Bookkeeping Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
- Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
- Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
Plumbing Contractor in other cities
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Aberdeen, SD
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Albuquerque, NM
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Anchorage, AK
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Annapolis, MD
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA
- Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Austin, TX