Zoning Board of Adjustment – Philadelphia, PA

Zoning Appeals and Variances

The Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) is an independent administrative board operating within the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Planning and Development. Its primary function is to hear appeals regarding the use and development of land. When the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) refuses a zoning permit application because it does not comply with the Philadelphia Zoning Code, the applicant may appeal to the ZBA. The Board has the authority to grant variances (based on hardship) and special exceptions, allowing property owners to deviate from specific code requirements under certain conditions.

Hearings and Public Participation

The ZBA holds public hearings where applicants present their cases, and community members can offer testimony. These hearings are typically held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The Board operates out of the One Parkway Building. While hearings are open to the public, those wishing to file an appeal in person must schedule an appointment in advance, although most filings are now handled online through the city’s eCLIPSE system. Registered Community Organizations (RCOs) play a vital role in this process, often meeting with applicants prior to the formal ZBA hearing.

Security and Access

The ZBA offices and hearing rooms are located on the 18th Floor of 1515 Arch Street. This is a secure municipal government building. All visitors are required to undergo security screening in the lobby, which includes passing through metal detectors and having bags inspected. A valid government-issued photo ID is required to receive a visitor pass. Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited on the premises.

Location and Transit

Situated at 1515 Arch Street, the One Parkway Building is centrally located near Love Park and City Hall. It is exceptionally well-served by public transportation, sitting just a block away from Suburban Station (Regional Rail) and the 15th Street Station (Market-Frankford Line and Trolleys). Numerous bus routes, including the 2, 17, 33, and 48, stop nearby. Public parking is available in the garage beneath Love Park and other commercial lots in the vicinity.