Zoning Law

Zoning and land use regulation touch the lives of all who own real estate. Activities on land frequently require hearings for Zoning  Variances, Special Exceptions, and Conditional Uses to lawfully use one’s property according to law. These proceedings have become more  specialized as regulations have increased. Because we have experience  representing private clients, Zoning Boards and municipalities in zoning cases, this dedicated experience offers all our clients positive results when this kind of representation is needed. Our experience includes success at Board, Common Pleas Court, and Commonwealth Court review levels in zoning and land use cases.

Variances

Land use regulations are complex. Zoning laws regulate the use of  land everywhere in Pennsylvania and landowners can face fines in the  thousands of dollars if they violate zoning laws. When zoning rules  restrict an owner’s desired use, presenting a variance case to the local zoning board is often the only solution. Zoning Hearings are formal proceedings requiring sworn testimony. And, more often than not, requests are frequently contested by neighbors and sometimes the government itself. We have guided landowners through the variance hearing process for more than 45 years.

Planning

We have been consulted and have helped in the preparation and adoption of many ordinances for local governments and therefore know and understand the inner workings of these regulations.  Because many  government regulations frequently restrict how landowners can use their own property, any significant project should start with a proper planning review, and our experience can offer valuable additional insight in the planning process for large and complex projects.

Development

Increasing population growth has fueled continued land development over many years, frequently in an environment where developers, local government, and local residents all oppose each other. It doesn’t have to be that way. It is possible to pursue land development in ways that enhance and protect wetlands, watersheds, and preserve farmland, as well as promote open space, cluster development and conservation of natural  resources. Proper preparation can help change the approval  process from opposition to cooperation.

Our Practice Areas

  • Estate Law

    Wills • Powers of Attorney • Living Wills • Trusts • Estate Planning & Admin

  • Elder Law

    Nursing Home Planning • Asset Preservation • Guardianships

  • Business Law

    Corporations • Limited Liability Companies • Disputes

  • Commercial Law

    Business Transaction • Collections

  • Municipal Law

    Government Relations • Municipal and Zoning Solicitors 

  • Real Estate Law

    Buying • Selling • Commercial • Residential • Subdivisions

  • Trial Law

    Representation in all State and Federal Courts in all listed Practice Areas

  • Zoning Law

    Variances • Special Exceptions • Conditional Use • Planning • Development

  • Title Insurance

    Berks County Abstract Company, Title Insurance Throughout Pennsylvania

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Our offices are located in Reading and Boyertown, PA. Please contact us for an appointment. Once we establish an attorney client relationship, we can also assist you via online and electronic means. We look forward to helping you in the future.*

Please note that we will respond as quickly as possible to all questions, but that our current client work always takes precedent.