So You Wanna Shut Down a Sidewalk in Philly? A Guide for the Sidewalk Tycoon (or Just Regular Joe)
Ever dreamt of having your own little corner of sidewalk real estate? Maybe you're planning a block party so epic it spills out onto the pavement, or perhaps your bulldog insists on a red carpet rollout for his daily walk (hey, some pups have standards). Whatever your reason, the first hurdle you face is the dreaded sidewalk closure permit.
Fear not, fellow Philadelphian pavement proprietorship aspirant! This guide will have you navigating the bureaucratic maze with the grace of a greased-up cheesesteak whizzing down the conveyor belt at Pat's and Geno's.
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| How Do I Get A Sidewalk Closure Permit In Philadelphia |
Step 1: Convincing Yourself It's Worth It
First, a moment of honesty. Closing a sidewalk is a big dill. There will be forms, there will be fees, and there will likely be some Karen or Kevin muttering about pedestrian rights (Karen and Kevin will probably be walking their poodles who judge your bulldog for his lack of sophistication). Are you sure this sidewalk soiree is worth the hassle?
- Is it for a special occasion? Block party, film shoot, neighborhood kickball tournament (Philly has those, right?) - then crack on!
- Is it for construction? Then this guide might be slightly less applicable (and slightly more tear-inducing). Sorry, buddy, you gotta go through the proper channels for that.
If you're still gung-ho, let's get this sidewalk shut down!
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
Step 2: The Digital Paper Chase: Apply Online!
The good news is, you can apply for your sidewalk closure permit online. Because who needs human interaction in the 21st century, right? [Apply for a street closure permit for construction]([invalid URL removed] a-street-closure-permit-for-construction/) Just fill out the form, upload any necessary documents (think blueprints if it's a construction thing, disco ball installation instructions if it's a block party), and hit submit.
Remember, you gotta submit this application at least 10 business days before your sidewalk soiree. Don't be that guy who throws a last-minute bash and forgets the permit. Your neighbors will thank you.
Step 3: The Waiting Game (and Maybe Some Light Bribery... Just Kidding... Mostly)
Now comes the waiting. The City will review your application, likely muttering things about "pedestrian disruption" and "traffic flow." This is where you might be tempted to unleash your inner Benjamin Franklin and offer a strategic donation of fresh cannoli to the permit office. We advise against it... but we won't judge.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
In all seriousness, expect to wait a while. The City gets a lot of permit requests, so patience is key. Use this time to brainstorm an epic playlist for your sidewalk shindig. Or, you know, bribe your neighbors with cannoli.
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Step 4: Victory! (or Defeat... But Hopefully Victory)
If the permit gods smile upon you, you'll get an email with a link to your permit. Print it out, frame it, and hang it on your wall. You've conquered the sidewalk closure bureaucracy!
If not, well, there's always next year. Or you could just throw a renegade sidewalk party and hope nobody notices. We wouldn't recommend it, but hey, it's a free country (well, mostly).
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
FAQ: Sidewalk Closure Permit Edition
How to apply for a sidewalk closure permit?
- Apply online at least 10 business days in advance:
Apply for a street closure permit for construction
How long does it take to get a sidewalk closure permit?
- The City can take more than 10 business days to process your application.
How much does a sidewalk closure permit cost?
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
- The fee depends on the duration of the closure and the date of approval. The City will send you an invoice after they review your application.
Do I need any other permits besides the sidewalk closure permit?
- Maybe! If you're having a block party with amplified music or selling food, you might need additional permits. Check with the City for details.
Can I bribe the permit office with cannoli?
- We strongly advise against it.
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