How to Get a Zoning Variance in Philadelphia
The steps to win relief from the Zoning Board of Adjustment — and what it takes.
How do you get a zoning variance in Philadelphia?
A zoning variance is permission to do something the zoning code does not allow. In Philadelphia you get one by applying for a permit, being refused, and then taking the refusal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA), where you present your case at a public hearing and ask the board to grant relief.
The basic steps
- Apply and get refused. The refusal identifies exactly what relief you need.
- Notice. Notify registered community organizations and neighbors, and often meet with them.
- ZBA hearing. Present evidence of hardship and address objections.
- Decision. The board grants, conditions, or denies — and a denial can be appealed to court.
What it takes to win
Success usually turns on showing the required hardship — that the property cannot reasonably be used as zoned — and on managing community input. Whether you need a use or dimensional variance shapes how heavy that burden is.
How Nochumson P.C. helps
Nochumson P.C. handles variance applications end to end — filing, community outreach, and the hearing before the ZBA. Contact us to pursue a variance.
Related articles:
- Use Variance vs. Dimensional Variance in Philadelphia
- How to Appeal a Zoning Board Decision in Philadelphia
- Nonconforming Use in Philadelphia Zoning
- Philadelphia Zoning Permits: What You Need
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