In response to the federal lawsuit Fetsurka, et al. v. City of Philadelphia, et al., filed by the Firearm Policy Coalition (FPC), the City of Philadelphia adopted a digital application system for licenses to carry firearms (LTCF). This change marked a significant departure from the previous in-person system and allowed applicants to send their completed forms and supporting documents directly via email to Po********@***la.gov. Full instructions and requirements are available on the City’s official website at www.ppd-ltc.com.
This shift aimed to increase accessibility, reduce wait times, and improve safety—particularly in response to issues and concerns raised during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants have been instructed to email their materials and to cc or bcc themselves to maintain a dated record of submission. According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 6109, the City must issue a decision—approval or denial—within 45 days of receiving a completed application. If the application is denied, the applicant then has 30 days to file an appeal.
Attorneys involved in the Fetsurka litigation, working in conjunction with FPC, have remained actively engaged in ensuring Philadelphia’s compliance with Pennsylvania’s firearms preemption law under § 6109(c). Their ongoing efforts also include working collaboratively with City officials to implement a fully remote LTCF process, so applicants can complete every step from the safety of their own home—without ever visiting a government office in person.
If you believe your rights were violated during the LTCF application process, or if your confidential information was unlawfully disclosed, you are strongly encouraged to contact the Firearms Industry Consulting Group to explore your legal rights and potential remedies.
Firearms Industry Consulting Group® (FICG®) is a registered trademark and division of Civil Rights Defense Firm, P.C., with rights and permissions granted to Prince Law Offices, P.C. to use in this article.