Applying for a rental license in the City of Philadelphia can feel like a convoluted process, especially if you are doing it for the first time. The city requires several prerequisite numbers, certificates, and tax clearances before they will even review your application.

Watch our step-by-step screen share tutorial below to see exactly how to navigate the eCLIPSE system, or read on for the complete checklist.

1. What You Need BEFORE You Apply

Before you log into the city portal to request your rental license, you must have the following items completely sorted out. If you skip any of these, your application will be instantly denied:

  • BIRT Account Number: A Business Income and Receipts Tax account number.
  • Commercial Activity License (CAL): You must obtain this before applying for the rental license.
  • Lead-Safe Certification: If your property was built before 1978, you must have a Lead-Free or Lead-Safe certificate, and it must be uploaded to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health's Lead portal.
  • Clear Tax Records: All of your city taxes must be paid and in good standing.
  • No L&I Violations: Ensure there are no open violations on the property.
  • Proper Zoning (Multi-Family): If you are renting a multi-family building, your zoning must legally match the number of units you are applying for.

2. How to Apply in the eCLIPSE Portal

Once your prerequisites are handled, follow these steps in the Philadelphia eCLIPSE system:

  1. Log into your eCLIPSE profile and click "Apply for a Business License."
  2. Select your Commercial Activity License from the dropdown list.
  3. Under the questionnaire, answer "Yes" to Renting Residential Property and "No" to all other options. If this is an investment property, select "No" under Owner Occupied.
  4. The system will automatically generate a Rental License application. Click Next.
  5. Search for and select your Business Site (the address of your rental property).
  6. Input your mailing address, contact information, and select "Email" as your preferred method for receiving notices.
  7. Set your Activity Start Date (the date your lease begins) and input the total number of units.
  8. Answer the prompt regarding the property's build date (Pre-1978) and select "Residential Dwelling" for the classification.
  9. Review your application and pay the required fee online.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?

After you submit your payment, processing times vary. Sometimes the system issues the license instantly. If an agent needs to review it, expect it to take anywhere from 1 to 10 business days, though during busy seasons, some landlords wait a couple of weeks. If there is an issue (like unpaid taxes or a missing lead certificate), the city will email you a rejection notice.

Want to skip the headache of dealing with L&I? Contact TrustArt Realty today and let our expert property management team handle your compliance and licensing for you!