Philadelphia Rental License Guide for Landlords
Updated September 2026 · 5 minutes
Philadelphia requires a rental license, and applicants must be current on all city taxes and fines and name a managing agent with a Philadelphia mailing address.
Understanding Philadelphia Rental License Compliance
In Philadelphia, rental licenses are issued through the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). Keeping the license active and accurate is the foundation of compliance for any owner renting out residential units.
The Rental License Application Process
The city says you can apply online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center. Applicants must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes and fines; if you are unsure, you can request a tax clearance. You must also identify a managing agent with a Philadelphia mailing address on the application. The agent handles dealings with L&I, and the owner remains the license holder.
Units Occupied by Family Members
To rent out a unit to a family member without collecting rent, the city says you must complete an Affidavit of Non-Rental form.
Lead Certification
The city says any property built before March 1978 must be certified as lead-free or lead-safe, and owners must also certify that they follow lead safety laws. Properties built later must file for an exemption. See our lead paint disclosure requirements guide for related federal and local duties.
Staying Ahead of Expirations
Track license expiration dates, lead certifications and related filings together so nothing lapses. Other Philadelphia requirements, such as the Certificate of Rental Suitability and vacant property licensing, have their own city pages; check them directly for current rules.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a rental license if a family member lives in the unit?
If you rent to a family member without collecting rent, the city says you must complete an Affidavit of Non-Rental form.
Do I need a local agent if I live outside Philadelphia?
The city says you must identify a managing agent with a Philadelphia mailing address on the application. The owner remains the license holder.
Where do I apply for my Philadelphia rental license?
Online through eCLIPSE, or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Does my pre-1978 property need lead certification?
Yes. The city says any property built before March 1978 must be certified as lead-free or lead-safe, and later properties must file for an exemption.
Sources
Figures in this guide come from these official sources. Rules change, so confirm with the source before acting.
- phila.gov/services/permits-violations-licenses/get-a-license/busine…
- Apply online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
- Applicants must be current on all City taxes and fines.
- A managing agent with a Philadelphia mailing address must be identified on the application.
- Renting to a family member without rent requires an Affidavit of Non-Rental.
- Properties built before March 1978 must be certified lead-free or lead-safe.
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