Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $250–$600 Total based on $76 alteration base plus $50+ plumbing fixture fees.
Fee Method Project-based
Apply Online Apply at Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections →

What's Required in Philadelphia

  • Plumbing permit required for replacing or moving sinks, tubs, and toilets ($50 for first 7)
  • Electrical permit required for new exhaust fans, lighting, or GFCI outlets
  • Building permit required for structural changes or wall reconfigurations ($76 base)
  • Fixture replacement without piping work still requires a minor plumbing fee ($31)
  • Shower pan flood tests must be inspected before tile is applied
  • Waterproofing certifications may be required for walk-in shower installations

Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Bathroom in Philadelphia

It depends on what you’re changing. A cosmetic bathroom refresh in Philadelphia — new paint, a vanity or toilet swapped in the same spot, re-tiling, or replacing a faucet — usually doesn’t need a building permit. You cross into permit territory once you move or add plumbing or electrical, relocate fixtures, change the layout, remove or move a wall, or add square footage. Because remodels often bundle plumbing and electrical work, many projects need those trade permits even when the building permit is borderline. Check the specifics with the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections; the requirements above outline what Philadelphia treats as permit-worthy.

What Bathroom Work Needs a Permit in Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, the trigger is usually moving systems, not refreshing surfaces. Work that typically requires a permit: relocating or adding plumbing (moving a toilet, sink, or shower drain), adding a shower or tub where there wasn’t one, new or moved electrical circuits and outlets, removing or altering a wall, converting a half bath to a full bath, or turning another room into a bathroom. Like-for-like swaps in the same location — same toilet spot, same tub footprint — usually don’t. Even removing a tub can need a plumbing permit if the drain is capped or moved, so confirm with the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections before you start.

How to Get a Bathroom Remodel Permit in Philadelphia

1

Step 1: Trade Coordination

Hire a licensed master plumber and electrician registered in eCLIPSE.

2

Step 2: eCLIPSE Submission

Apply for the Plumbing and Electrical permits online.

3

Step 3: Fee Payment

Pay fees ($50 for plumbing, $76 for alterations) via the portal.

4

Step 4: Mid-Project Inspections

Schedule rough-in plumbing and electrical inspections before covering walls.

5

Step 5: Final Sign-off

Complete final fixture inspections to close the permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, any fixture replacement or plumbing change requires a permit.
A typical remodel costs $250–$600 depending on the number of fixtures and electrical circuits.
Yes, a minor plumbing permit for fixture replacement ($31) is required.
Yes — relocating a toilet, sink, or shower drain, or adding a new fixture, generally requires a plumbing permit in Philadelphia, even inside a cosmetic-looking remodel. Replacing a fixture in the same spot usually doesn’t. Check with the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections.