The Land Use group represents builder/developers and landowners in all aspects of zoning from petitions for zoning ordinance amendments, to applications for special exceptions, variances, conditional uses, and expansions of nonconforming uses.  We have given zoning advice and represented clients in all aspects of zoning.

The Land Use group lawyers each have significant experience in the zoning arena. The team has a SuperLawyer and Top Lawyer, as well as a Rising Star among its members. Three have experience representing municipalities or zoning hearing boards and one served on a Board of Supervisors.

This collective experience allows us to provide insight into the thinking and functioning of local municipal government. 

A Zoning Ordinance is much more than a menu of permitted uses. It includes area and bulk regulations, regulation of sensitive land areas - such as woodlands, wetlands and areas of steep slope - historic resources, and nonconforming uses. A thorough familiarity with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Code as well as the local ordinance in question is vital to achieving the client's goals.

Sometimes an approval is denied. We are able to evaluate the likelihood of success on appeal and provide representation at the Court of Common Pleas and higher appellate Court levels. One of our members has clerked for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and another for the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania

We have substantial experience in preparing and presenting a zoning matter.  We know how to present the evidence in support of an application, which may include fiscal and traffic impact studies, environmental analysis, geotechnical analysis, structural analysis, and other impact statements. 

Some recent examples of our representations include:

• Successful defense for a land use approval from an appeal by a group opposed to our client’s proposed use.  The matter went all the way to the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, which ruled in our client’s favor and denied the petition for allowance of appeal.
• Submission of conditional use applications for major redevelopment projects in Chester County, including mixed commercial/residential communities.
• Representation of  clients in challenges to the constitutionality of a particular zoning ordinance.
• Secured special exception and variance approvals in most Chester County municipalities. 
•  Secured zoning approvals to permit an aging business to be revitalized and continue in its long standing location.   

We welcome the opportunity to serve you in your Zoning matters.