How to get Mayor’s Permit Clearance in the Philippines 2025 Guide

 

Mayor’s Permit Clearance is an important document that every business in the Philippines must have. This permit is issued by the Local Government Unit also called LGU. It allows a business to operate legally inside the city or municipality. If a business does not have this permit then the government can stop the business and also give penalty or fine. So if you are starting a shop food stall salon online business office or any company you must apply for a Mayor’s Permit Clearance.

In this guide you will learn what Mayor’s Permit Clearance is why it is needed what requirements are needed how to apply how to renew and how much fee you will pay. This guide follows the 2025 updated steps so you will not get confused.

What is Mayor’s Permit Clearance?

 

Mayor’s Permit Clearance is an official document that shows that your business is legal and follows city rules.

It means the local mayor and the city government allow your business to operate. Without this permit your business is not registered and can be considered illegal.

Why is Mayor’s Permit Clearance Important

 

Mayor’s Permit Clearance is important for many reasons:

• It makes your business legal

• It protects your business from penalty and inspection problems

• It helps you open a business bank account in your business name

• It increases trust from customers and suppliers

• Your business becomes part of the government record system

If you run a business without this permit you may face business closure and penalty. So it is very important.

Who Needs Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

All types of businesses need this permit for example:

• Sari sari stores

• Online shops with income

• Internet cafes

• Beauty salons and barber shops

• Food stalls and restaurants

• Repair shops

• Water refilling stations

• Corporations and companies

• Home based businesses that earn money

Even if your business is small you still need this permit.

Requirements for Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

Different cities may have small differences but most of the time these are the basic requirements:

• Barangay Business Clearance

• DTI Business Name Certificate for small businesses or SEC Registration for companies

• Lease Contract if you are renting your space or proof of ownership if you own the place

• Valid Government ID

• Community Tax Certificate or Cedula

• Sanitary or Health Permit for food and water businesses

• Fire Safety Inspection Certificate

• Filled out Mayor’s Permit Application Form

If you prepare all documents before going to City Hall then your processing will be faster.

How to Apply for Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

 

Step 1: Get Barangay Business Clearance

 

Go to the barangay office in your business area. Apply for Barangay Clearance. Pay the fee and receive the certificate.

Step 2: Go to City Hall Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO)

 

Visit your City Hall and go to the BPLO section. Ask for the Mayor’s Permit application form.

Step 3: Submit Documents

 

Submit the filled application form and all required documents.

Step 4: Assessment and Payment

 

The officer will check your papers. Then you will receive the amount you need to pay. Pay at the cashier window.

Step 5: Inspection (if needed)

 

The city inspection team may visit your business to check if the place follows proper safety and sanitation rules.

Step 6: Claim your Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

When everything is approved you will receive your Mayor’s Permit Clearance. Now your business is fully legal and you can operate safely.

Online Application for Mayor’s Permit

 

Some cities now allow online applications to save time.

 

Online Steps

 

• Visit your City Hall official website

• Go to Business Permit or Business Registration section

• Fill the online form

• Upload scanned documents

• Pay using GCash or online banking

• Wait for email confirmation

• Download or claim your permit from City Hall

Not all cities support online processing so check your city first.

Fee for Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

The fee is not the same for everyone. It depends on:

• Location of business

• Type of business

• Size of business

• Estimated income of business

Average fee range is:

• Small businesses: 1500 to 4500 PHP

• Medium businesses: 5000 to 12000 PHP

• Large businesses: 15000 PHP or higher

Additional fees may apply for fire safety and sanitation tests.

Also read, how to apply for RTC Clearance

FAQs

 

What is Mayor’s Permit Clearance

 

It is a document from the local government that allows a business to legally operate.

Do online businesses need Mayor’s Permit

 

Yes if your online business earns income then it must have a Mayor’s Permit.

When should I renew my Mayor’s Permit

 

Every year usually in January. If you do not renew on time you may receive a penalty.

How long does it take to get the permit

 

Processing time is usually between 1 to 7 working days depending on your city.

Can I get the permit without Barangay Clearance

 

No Barangay Clearance must be submitted before applying for Mayor’s Permit.

Conclusion

 

Mayor’s Permit Clearance is a basic but very important requirement for all businesses in the Philippines. Without this permit your business will not be legal and you may get penalties. By following the steps in this guide you can apply or renew your Mayor’s Permit easily. Just prepare your documents pay the fees and follow city rules.