Zoning & Land Use

Serving Philadelphia and surrounding counties

Real Estate

Navigating Philadelphia’s Zoning, Permits and Land-Use Regulations.

In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey zoning and land use matters, our firm offers strategic counsel tailored to landowners, developers, business owners, and municipal entities alike. Our attorneys possess the requisite skills and experience to navigate the intricate landscape of regulations while advocating for the interests of our clients. Balancing community and individual neighbor considerations with the objectives of our clients, we strive to achieve favorable outcomes that foster progress while respecting tradition. From drafting and interpreting zoning ordinances to representing clients before governing bodies and planning commissions, we adeptly handle a spectrum of tasks aimed at securing variance approvals and navigating regulatory frameworks.

At the core of our approach is a commitment to clarity and transparency in the often complex realm of zoning and land use laws. We recognize the inherent confusion and stress that can accompany these matters and endeavor to alleviate such burdens by meticulously managing every detail of the process. We aim to provide our clients with a clear understanding of their situation, offering insights into potential risks and obstacles and the pathways toward their desired outcomes. By minimizing surprises up-front, and offering informed guidance, we empower our clients to make informed decisions that align with their objectives.

Our firm is dedicated to painting an accurate picture of the zoning and land use landscape for each client. By leveraging our experience and insights, we aim to equip our clients with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the regulatory environment effectively. Whether it’s deciphering zoning ordinances or advocating before regulatory bodies, our team is committed to ensuring that our clients are well-positioned to pursue their goals with confidence.

Our firm strives to serves as a trusted partner in navigating the intricacies of zoning and land use matters. By prioritizing clarity, transparency, and strategic advocacy, we strive to achieve outcomes that not only advance the objectives of our clients but also contribute to the overall welfare of the communities we serve.

What is Zoning in Philadelphia?

The City of Philadelphia’s Zoning Code is a dense document that details where and what you can and cannot build and operate just about anything in the city.  Any construction, renovation, addition, structure, new business, or even housing rental probably (definitely) requires a zoning or use registration permit.

Some zoning permits can be acquired “by-right”, which means within the boundaries of the zoning code. A by-right use registration permit may be obtained over the counter; but in most cases, you have to submit an application to Licenses and Inspections (L&I) for a formal review.  In other cases, your permit will not be considered “by-right” and thus will require special approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

All types of zoning and use permits, whether “by-right” or not, typically require the approval from an assortment of other city organizations and groups, including the Historical Commission, Art Commission, a Registered Community Organization, Streets Department, City Planning Commission, and many more.

Why would you need a Zoning Attorney?

We provide permit expediting services for building permits, zoning & use permits, zoning variances/appeals, and compliance requirements such as Commercial Activity Licenses, Philly Tax Accounts, and Housing Rental Licenses.

We understand the inner-workings of permitting procedures and are effective advocates for our clients when dealing with City departments. We lead the charge for getting your permits through the City’s red tape, procedures, and complex requirements.

Permitting and zoning in the City of Philadelphia is a complex and constantly changing series of codes and laws. Our law firm will assess your project to provide feasibility reports which allow you to make informed decisions when faced with a myriad of potential options. We also provide zoning training and consulting services on complex permitting projects.

We offer a free case evaluation to all potential clients.

Practice Areas

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Zoning & Land Use

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