Permits and Licenses · DOH permits
Department of Health Permits and Clearances
Healthcare facilities and health-regulated businesses need licenses from the Department of Health (DOH). We work out which ones apply and prepare each application.
Overview
How health facility licensing works
The Department of Health (DOH) licenses hospitals, clinics, laboratories, dialysis centers and other facilities that provide health services. Through its Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau and regional offices, it issues a License to Operate before a facility treats patients, and for many facility types a Permit to Construct comes first, before building or renovation starts. Some larger facilities also need a Certificate of Need under the Universal Health Care law. The Food and Drug Administration, attached to the department, licenses drug, food, cosmetic and device businesses separately.
The facility type decides almost everything: staffing, floor layout, equipment and the services you may offer. Plans are reviewed against department standards, so common setbacks include layouts that do not meet them, missing licensed professionals and applying under the wrong facility classification. We identify the correct classification, list every permit involved, prepare the documents and coordinate the application through to the license.
What we handle
Health permit and license support
We cover the DOH approvals for new facilities and keep existing ones in good standing.
Facility classification
We confirm how your facility is classified and what that means for staffing, layout and services.
Permit to Construct support
Plans and documents are prepared for review so building or renovation can proceed on a sound footing.
License to Operate application
We assemble the documents, professional credentials and facility details needed to apply for your license.
Renewals and changes
Renewals, added services and ownership changes are tracked and filed on time.
How it works
How health facility applications run
We plan around your build or opening date and confirm the requirement list for your facility type.
Classification and planning
We confirm the facility type, the services you plan to offer and the permits and approvals involved.
Plans and documents
Floor plans, staffing records, equipment lists and company papers are prepared and checked for consistency.
Filing and evaluation
Applications are filed with the right office and we respond to evaluation comments and revision requests.
Licensing and upkeep
After the license is issued, we track renewal and reporting requirements for your facility.
Why handle DOH permits with ILA
Right classification first
Applying under the correct facility class avoids refiling and delayed openings.
Plans checked early
We review layout and staffing against department standards before the documents are filed.
Other health approvals covered
We also flag Food and Drug Administration and local permits that your business may need.
Frequently asked questions
Health permit questions
Does every clinic need a DOH license?
Most facilities that provide health services to patients need to be licensed, but the classification and requirements differ by facility type, and some small practices follow different rules. We confirm what your clinic or laboratory needs before any filing is made.
What is the difference between the DOH and the Food and Drug Administration?
The Department of Health licenses facilities that deliver health services. The Food and Drug Administration licenses businesses that make, import, distribute or sell drugs, food, cosmetics and medical devices. Some businesses need both, so we map which approvals apply to you.
Can I build before the Permit to Construct is issued?
Where a Permit to Construct is required for your facility type, it should be secured before building or renovation begins, because plans are reviewed against department standards. Starting early risks costly changes. We confirm whether your facility type needs one.
Opening a clinic, laboratory or health business?
Book a free consultation and we will list the licenses and permits your facility needs.
