Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 5 to June 11, 2026
Coming up: public hearings
Committees hear testimony before voting. Open any bill and tap the bell to get a reminder the day before.
Monday, November 9, 2:00 PM · Committee on Streets and Services
City Council Introduces Bill to Convert Dupont Street to Two-Way Traffic from Baker to Smick.
City Council votes to make Dupont Street a two-way street from Baker Street to Smick Street, starting from the westernmost portion of Baker Street.
250099
Eighth Councilmanic district imposes time limits on parking of large vehicles on public streets.
Eighth Councilmanic district restricts parking of large vehicles, including boats and RVs, to no more than 3 hours on public streets unless posted otherwise, citing public safety concerns.
260765
Drexel Institute of Technology seeks permission to install street tree planters along 3001 Chestnut Street.
Drexel Institute of Technology is seeking permission to install 28 street tree planters along its property line at 3001 Chestnut Street, with 4 planters encroaching onto Ludlow Street.
260761
Homeowners exempt from fines for missed trash collection days when city fails to collect on time
Homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief if the city misses trash collection days, as a new bill would exempt them from fines for missed pickups. The proposed change would cancel fines and provide refunds for payments already made.
260698
City to vacate Hartwell Lane and reserve water main and public utility right of way
Hartwell Lane is set to be vacated and a right of way reserved for water main and public utility purposes, with the city to accept a grant under certain terms and conditions.
260801
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks, including 7 on the east curbline of South 19th Street. The planters will be located near the property line of 1849 Walnut Street.
260797
Civic Center Boulevard to be Renamed Roberts Way at Two Intersections Near Osler Circle
Osler Circle near Civic Center Boulevard and Curie Boulevard is set to be renamed Roberts Way at two intersections, according to a bill sponsored by Councilmembers Gauthier and Landau.
260831
South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location.
South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location, with plans for 12 tables and 36 seats, pending compliance with city regulations.
260830
Boats and large vehicles can be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking.
Philadelphia's streets will soon have new towing rules, allowing large vehicles, boats, and vending carts to be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking, as Councilmember Squilla introduces new regulations.
260854
Tuesday, November 17, 10:00 AM · Committee on Rules
Philadelphia Code Amended to Impose Use Restrictions Within Fifth District Overlay District
Philadelphia's zoning regulations are getting a makeover in the Fifth District Overlay District, imposing new use restrictions on specific areas. Certain types of buildings and activities will be allowed in designated areas.
260764
Philadelphia Business Hours Restricted in Fifth District Neighborhoods
Philadelphia businesses in the Fifth District and surrounding areas will be restricted from opening between 11pm and 6am due to an amended ordinance. New streets affected by the restriction include N. 29th Street from W. Dauphin to W. Huntingdon.
260697
Philadelphia Tightens Rules on Removing Heritage Trees from City Streets
Philadelphia's rules for removing heritage trees from city streets are about to get stricter, making it harder to remove these trees without meeting specific conditions or replacing them. Heritage trees must now be documented in a landscape plan and can only be removed with special permission.
260689
Philadelphia's Zoning Laws to Get Overhaul of Retail Sales Use Categories Definitions
Philadelphia's zoning laws are getting an update, with changes to how grocery stores and pharmacies are classified under the retail sales use category definitions. The changes will be reflected in use tables throughout the city's zoning code.
260688
Zoning Designations Changed in Area Bounded by Lehigh Avenue and Aramingo Avenue Streets
Councilmember Squilla's zoning bill changes designations in a neighborhood bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Belgrade Street, Aramingo Avenue, and Miller Street, altering uses and development in the area as shown on Maps 'A' and 'B'.
260800
Zoning designations changing in area bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street.
Zoning changes are coming to a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street, as authorized by Councilmember Bass.
260855
Retailers must meet specific standards and be located in certain districts for tobacco sales.
Philadelphia's zoning code is set to change, requiring tobacco retailers to meet specific standards and be located in certain districts. The new rules aim to regulate tobacco sales throughout the city.
260851
City Council Expands Center City Business Uses in Old City Residential Area, Core
Businesses like restaurants and tattoo parlors will now be allowed in Old City's residential area without special permission, as long as they meet certain conditions.
260896
Old City Special Services District Approves 7-Year Plan for Business Improvements and Services
Councilmember Squilla's bill approves a 7-year plan for the Old City Special Services District, outlining estimated costs and assessment methods for business improvements and services in the area.
260895
Became law
Landlords Ordered to Warn Neighbors When Renting Out Apartments on Short-Term Basis Daily
Landlords in multi-family buildings must warn neighbors if an apartment is rented out short-term, under a new proposal from Councilmember Young requiring notice about licensed dwelling units.
260241
City Council Moves to Rewrite Zoning Laws for Select Neighborhoods Bordering Historic Cobbs Creek Region
Councilmember Gauthier proposes rewriting zoning rules for areas bordering Cobbs Creek, changing "Special Purpose - Civic, Educational, Medical" zones to a different designation in the affected neighborhoods. Boundaries include Baltimore Avenue and Cobbs Creek Parkway.
260239
Erie Avenue Neighborhood Zoning Overhaul Signed into Law
Erie Avenue neighborhoods face zoning changes after City Council votes to alter zoning designations for areas bounded by Erie Avenue, Front Street, Lippincott Street, and 2nd Street.
260211
City Seeks To Simplify And Equalize Costly Asbestos Removal Fees For Homeowners And Businesses
City officials are revamping asbestos removal fees in an effort to make them more transparent and equitable for both homeowners and businesses. The changes aim to clarify and standardize requirements.
260206
Philadelphia Clarifies Cell Tower Rental Fee Under Realty Use and Occupancy Tax Law
Cell tower owners in Philadelphia must immediately pay rental fees based on market value, according to a new law clarifying how the Realty Use and Occupancy Tax applies to cell towers on private property.
260205
City Council Proposes Higher Fees for Philly Businesses Seeking Air Pollution Permits Daily
Philadelphia businesses could face higher fees for air pollution permits under a proposed change to the city's Air Management Code, with sponsors Council President Johnson and Councilmember Gilmore Richardson backing the shift.
260204
Philadelphia Officials Overhaul Zoning Board Fees and Hearing Process to Streamline Decision Making
Zoning Board of Adjustment fees will change and hearing schedules will be revised as part of an overhaul aimed at streamlining decision-making processes in Philadelphia. Changes include new fees and hearing scheduling rules for the ZBA.
260203
City Council Unveils Ambitious Six-Year Budget Blueprint for Philly's Future Development and Infrastructure
Philadelphia City Council has approved a six-year capital program for 2027-2032, with estimated costs totaling $22.1 billion to fund various city infrastructure and development projects.
260201
Philadelphia Council Unveils Plan to Pour $1 Billion into City Infrastructure Upgrades Next Year
City Council proposes a $7.59 billion budget for major city projects and repairs next year, outlined in an attached exhibit. The plan is sponsored by Council President Johnson and Councilmember Gilmore Richardson.
260200
Philadelphia City Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 Signed into Law
Philadelphia City Council unveiled its proposed $4 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2027, outlining how tax dollars will be spent across city departments. The operating budget would allocate funds to various initiatives, pending council approval.
260199
Philadelphia Unifies Zoning Laws, Combining Three Districts in Three Neighborhoods
City Councilmember Lozada's bill aims to unify zoning laws by combining provisions from three districts, impacting specific neighborhoods where these districts are located.
260165
City Council Proposes Major Overhaul of Ridge Avenue Traffic Flow
This bill proposes to create bicycle lanes and remove travel lanes on parts of Ridge Avenue in Philadelphia, subject to certain conditions.
260164
City Council Moves to Lower Barriers for Low-Income Families to Secure Cheaper Water Bills
Low-income families may soon qualify for cheaper water bills after City Council votes to revise income eligibility standards, making it easier for residents to access rate discounts and payment agreements.
251021
City of Philadelphia Moves to Slash Water Bills Amid Widespread Meter Malfunctions
Philadelphia is set to reduce water bills for customers charged due to defective or inaccurate meters, under terms and conditions yet to be finalized. This move aims to address widespread issues with city-supplied water meters.
251020
City Council Clears Path for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Philly Airport Cell Phone Lot
Philadelphia International Airport's cell phone lot will soon be equipped with DC Fast Chargers after City Council cleared the path for their installation through a concession agreement with Positive Energy Inc.
260431
City Rolls Out Electric Vehicle Charging Hubs at Parking Spots Across Philadelphia Streets
Philadelphia is set to get a network of public electric vehicle charging stations after the City Council authorized partnerships with two companies: It's Electric Inc. and Positive Energy Inc. to install chargers in curbside locations and parking lots citywide.
260428
Aviation Director Moves to Acquire Land near Philly Airport with Purchase, Negotiation Options Under Consideration
Philadelphia's Department of Aviation can now acquire a parcel of land near the airport through purchase or negotiation. The Director will have various options to secure fee simple title or a lesser interest in the property at 8800 Tinicum Boulevard.
260427
City Seeks Easement Changes at Philly Airport for Adjacent Development Project
Philadelphia city officials are seeking to modify an existing easement and acquire more rights to a portion of land near the Philadelphia International Airport for an adjacent development project. The proposed changes would affect the City's control over the parcel of land commonly known as 8350 Executive Avenue.
260426
Zion Baptist Church Gets Green Light for Decorative Enhancements Along Bustling N Broad St
Zion Baptist Church has been granted permission to install decorative puzzle walls, tree planter boxes, and bollards in front of their property on North Broad Street under specific terms.
260425
City Council Proposes Property Swap Option for Surplus Land Disposition Amid Affordable Housing Push
Philadelphia city councilors Gauthier and Lozada propose adding a new method to dispose of surplus properties through "property exchange," allowing the city to trade one property for another.
260423
City Council Votes to Allow Utilities Along Ridge Avenue in Neighborhood Development Plan
City Council votes to allow utilities along Ridge Avenue in a specific area bounded by Calumet Street, the Schuylkill River, and the Wissahickon Creek, under certain terms and conditions. This change affects zoning in the /FDO Fourth District Overlay District.
260422
Farmers Markets Find New Homes Across Philly as Council Votes to Expand Permitted Locations
Philadelphia's streets will soon allow farmers' markets in new areas, including Rittenhouse Square and Headhouse Square, under an ordinance amended by Council President Johnson and Councilmember Young. The change expands permitted locations for these markets citywide.
260390
Parking Restrictions Established on Six Philadelphia Streets with Two-Hour Time Limits
Parking restrictions are now in effect on six Philadelphia streets, limiting drivers to two hours per day, Monday through Sunday. Acorn Street is the first of these streets to see enforcement, with restrictions applying from 6am-10pm weekdays.
260384
City Council Gives Green Light for Market Street Property Owner's Frontage Enhancements or Market Street Business Owner Cleared to Install Bollards and Planters Along 2955 St Frontage
City Council has cleared the way for the owner of 2955 Market St to install bollards and planters around their property's frontage, with permission granted under specific terms and conditions.
260383
Council Seeks to Rename South Philly Park After Beloved Local Leader Tyrone "Cakes" Sims
Philadelphia City Council seeks to rename a South Philadelphia park after Tyrone "Cakes" Sims, a beloved local leader who devoted decades of service to the community. The proposed name change would recognize Sims' contributions to West and Southwest Philadelphia.
260382
Philadelphia Code Revised to Clarify Debris Dumping Violation Standards and Prosecution
City Council President Johnson and Councilmember Gilmore Richardson's bill changes what counts as littering violations, altering who can be prosecuted for dumping debris.
260380
City Council Slaps Parking Meters on Lawrence Street and Sparks Street Residents
Residents in two Philadelphia neighborhoods will soon face new parking rules: Lawrence Street between Tabor Road and Olney Avenue will allow 2-hour parking from 8am to 10pm, Monday through Friday; Sparks Street will permit 3-hour parking from 8am to 6pm.
260378
City Council Creates Certifying Process for Immigrants Victims of Crime Seeking Protection and Work Rights
Philadelphia City Council creates process for certifying immigrants who have been victims of crime, allowing them to apply for protection and work rights through the U-Visa or T-Visa programs. The new system includes guidelines for certification agencies to follow.
260303
Councilors Expand Sidewalk Café Permits Across Philly Neighborhoods Including Broad Street and Girard Avenue Corridors
Philadelphia's Sidewalk Café Permits to Expand into New Areas Including Broad Street and Girard Avenue Corridors. The city will allow sidewalk cafes in additional locations, including areas around Broad Street and Girard Avenue, under certain terms and conditions.
260300
Fair Housing Commission Members Get Pay Raise in Philadelphia
City Council votes to immediately boost pay for Fair Housing Commissioners, amending their compensation and deleting unnecessary provisions in related codes. Changes affect the members of the Fair Housing Commission.
260299
Council Proposes Strict New Parking Rules Along Bustling West Chestnut Street
Council President Johnson and Councilmember Bass introduce a new overlay zoning district along West Chestnut Street with specific regulations for parking, loading, and development. The WCS Overlay District aims to revamp rules in the bustling area.
260536
Philadelphia Approves Outdoor Café Plans for 2101 South 3rd Street Property
Lawrence Polanski and Ping Zeng, owners of 2101 South 3rd Street, have been granted permission to install an outdoor café with five tables and thirty seats on two sidewalks. The encroachment will be located on the south and east sides of the property.
260535
North Philadelphia Zoning Map Changes Signed into Law After Years of Debate
North Philadelphia neighborhoods are in line for significant zoning changes as City Council debates the proposals today, with some areas set to see new zoning designations.
260534
Council Proposes Tougher Rules for Sidewalk Cafes in Philly Amid Enforcement Concerns
Philadelphia's sidewalk cafes could face stricter fines and penalties under new rules proposed by Councilmember Squilla, with repeat offenders facing increased consequences for non-compliance.
260533
South Street Bakery Wins Approval for Sidewalk Café After City Negotiations
A South Street bakery has won city approval for a sidewalk café with one table and two seats, pending permits and removal if required by the city. The café will encroach about 4 feet onto the street from Varallo Brothers Bakery at 1639 S 10th St.
260532
Philadelphia Signs Sublease Deal with Municipal Authority for Office Space at 701 Market Street Building
Philadelphia will rent office space in the 701 Market Street building under a sublease agreement with the Municipal Authority. The deal is outlined in a newly authorized lease agreement between the City and the Authority.
260531
Developers Rewarded with Bonus Space for Streetscapes Upgrades Across Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Developers can earn bonus space and height in certain neighborhoods if their projects include public street upgrades. The changes aim to clarify how developers can receive incentives for enhancing city streets.
260530
City of Philadelphia Enters Lease Agreement for 12,749-Square-Foot Office Space at 1341 N. Delaware Ave
Philadelphia is set to occupy up to 12,749 square feet at 1341 N. Delaware Avenue under a new lease agreement that allows for annual rent increases of about 2%.
260529
City Approves Sale of Tacony Property for Less Than Fair Market Value Amid Tax Abatement Proposal
Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development sells Tacony property for less than fair market value, despite concerns about tax abatements. The sale is part of a larger development agreement for the Frankford Arsenal site.
260528
City Council Approves Financing Pact for New Police Headquarters at North Broad and Callowhill Streets
City Council Approves Pact to Finance New Police HQ at North Broad and Callowhill Streets with a Service Agreement between the City and Philadelphia Municipal Authority. The pact clears the way for the acquisition of two properties for use as police headquarters.
260527
City Council Votes to Axe Streets as Part of Revised City Plan No 120 Takes Shape
Cleveland Street between Girard Avenue and Stiles Street, along with part of 19th Street, are set to be erased from Philadelphia's city plan under a bill passed by City Council. The changes will be finalized if certain requirements are met within two years.
260524
Neighborhood Land Use Changes Unveiled as Council Moves to Revamp Zoning in Northeast Philly's Hunting Park Neighborhood
Zoning changes are coming to Hunting Park, where some land use classifications will be revised in an area bounded by Roberts Avenue and Wissahickon Avenue. The exact zoning designations for certain areas will shift under the proposed amendments.
260523
Fairmount Park Drives Designated One-Way Streets with Parallel Parking Permitted on Both Sides
Fairmount Park's East and West Memorial Hall Drives are now one-way streets, with parallel parking allowed on both sides of the roads, following city council approval of new traffic regulations.
260522
City Council Moves to Provide Death Benefits for Employees Who Take Own Lives After Traumatic Events on Job
Philadelphia city employees who die by suicide after experiencing traumatic events on the job may now be eligible for service-connected death benefits, under certain conditions and timelines specified in the bill. The new guidelines include a 45-day window following a traumatic event to qualify for the benefit.
260521
City Council Moves to Allow Transit Stations in Busy Commercial Neighborhoods Across the City
City Council introduces bill to allow transit stations in commercial areas, subject to certain terms and conditions. Commercial businesses across the city could soon be accompanied by new transit stations under proposed zoning changes.
260520
Council Bill Seeks Looser Zoning Rules for Philly Buildings Near Public Transit Hubs
Council President Johnson and Councilmember Gauthier's bill seeks to loosen zoning rules for buildings near public transit hubs by exempting certain districts from ground floor use requirements. The change would apply to areas with specific base zoning districts.
260519
City's Zoning Code Revised to Clarify Transit Improvement Bonus Structure and Parameters
Philadelphia's zoning code has been revised to clarify and overhaul the Transit Improvement Bonus structure, affecting developers who seek density bonuses for projects near transit hubs. The new rules take effect immediately.
260518
City Council Revamps Zoning Code Around Public Hubs to Foster More Transit Oriented Communities Across Philadelphia
Zoning laws in Philadelphia are being rewritten around public transportation hubs to foster more transit-oriented communities. The Transit-Oriented Development Overlay District is being renamed and expanded to cover a wider area, with new use, dimensional, and parking standards.
260517
City Approves Applications for Millions in Federal Funding to Revitalize Neighborhoods Across Philadelphia
Philadelphia City Council authorizes applications for federal funding to revitalize neighborhoods through various grant programs, including Community Development Block Grants and blight prevention initiatives.
260513
City Council Approves $44.8 Million Funding Boost for Philadelphia Gas Works Amid Budget Forecast Revisions
Philadelphia Gas Works receives $44.8 million funding boost from city council, with amendments to FY2026 Capital Budget and revised forecast for FY2027-2031 capital budgets under new constraints and conditions.
260512
Philadelphia City Council Approves PGW Budget Amid Ongoing Infrastructure Upgrade Plans Continues
Philadelphia Gas Works gets $208 million budget approval from City Council, as part of ongoing infrastructure upgrade plans. The budget and revised forecast for future years were submitted by the corporation managing PGW's operations.
260511
City Treasurer Clears Path for New Payroll Banking Deal with Citizens Bank National Association
City Treasurer cleared to sign deal with Citizens Bank for payroll banking services, pending contract terms that safeguard city interests. Council President Johnson and Gilmore Richardson sponsored the authorization.
260510
Philadelphia Approves Plan to Refinance Youth Center Bonds and Revise Municipal Leases
City Council Approves Plan to Refinance Bonds Issued for Youth Center Facility, Makes Lease Changes with Philadelphia Municipal Authority.
260509
City Council Moves to Waive Parking Tax for Bus Loading Facilities Starting Next Spring
Bus loading facilities to escape parking tax starting next spring in Philadelphia. The change, effective May 1, 2026, would exempt these facilities from the city's Parking Tax under certain terms and conditions.
260507
Southbound Traffic Takes Over Pine Ridge Road Between Cheltenham And Fariston Drives
Southbound traffic is set to dominate Pine Ridge Road between Cheltenham Avenue and Fariston Drive, with a new ordinance making the stretch one-way southbound. The "No Parking Anytime" restriction in the area has also been repealed.
260506
Philadelphia Expands Sidewalk Café Program Allowing More Neighborhoods to Offer Outdoor Dining Spaces
City Council has proposed expanding Philadelphia's sidewalk café program to allow more outdoor dining spaces in various neighborhoods and business districts. The new locations would be subject to specific terms and conditions.
260461
Restaurant at 2351 South Front Street Gets Green Light for Expanded Sidewalk Café Seating Area
Restaurant at 2351 South Front Street gets green light to install expanded sidewalk café seating area with 7 tables and 28 chairs on both sides of the street.
260564
Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
Online Payment Portals Face New Restrictions, Fees to Be Reviewed Under Proposed Rule
Hidden fees in online bill payments now limited; businesses must disclose extra costs upfront to protect Philadelphians from unexpected expenses. Online payment portals will face new restrictions starting immediately.
260640
Philly Sets to Boost Fines for Dumpster Misuse, Introduces New Penalties for Waste Violations
Philadelphia's streets will now face stricter regulations on dumpster placement with immediate effect, including fines of up to $1,500 for licensees and $2,000 for repeat offenders. Violators may also be required to remove or clean their dumpsters.
260642
City Approves Strict Rules Governing Temporary No Parking Signs Across Philadelphia Streets
Philadelphia's streets are now subject to stricter rules governing temporary "no parking" signs, requiring a permit for their use and limiting when vehicles can be towed. Towing will only occur after a specified timeframe following sign posting.
260641
Philadelphia Hotels Ordered to Warn Guests About Room-Disrupting Service Issues Immediately
Philadelphia hotel operators will be required to immediately warn guests about service issues that disrupt their stay, including construction noise and unavailability of amenities, under a new city law.
260639
Council Proposes Holiday Honoring City's Symbolism with "Philadelphia Flag Day" on March 27th
Councilmember Squilla proposes a new city holiday to be held on March 27th, in recognition of the Philadelphia Civic Flag's unique history and symbolism. The proposed "Philadelphia Flag Day" would celebrate the city's founding principles of love and brotherly unity.
260643
City Hall Moves to Honor Local Leader by Renaming Iconic Building at Emanuel Recreation Center
Philadelphia City Council seeks to honor local leader Marlene Trice by renaming a building at the Dorothy Emanuel Recreation Center as the "Marlene Trice Neighborhood Center". The move would pay tribute to Trice's decades-long service to Philadelphia communities.
260638