To qualify as an RCO, your organization must:

• Hold regularly scheduled, open meetings.
• Have leadership chosen by the organization members-at-large at regularly scheduled elections.
• Serve a geographic area that has no more than 20,000 parcels.

Some groups qualify as RCOs when they submit a complete application to PCPC. They are:

• Neighborhood Improvement Districts.
• Special Services Districts.
• Ward Committees.

The full RCO program rules and responsibilities are outlined in Chapter 14-300 of the Philadelphia Code, also known as the Zoning Code.

New applications for RCOs are accepted every year during the month of June. When you apply, you will need to attach the required documentation. This includes:

• An adopted statement of purpose for the organization concerning land use, zoning, preservation, or development.
• The organization's governing rules or by-laws. These must include a description of boundaries, a definition of the membership, and a description of the leadership selection process.
• A copy of a meeting announcement distributed publicly through hard copy or electronic notices.
• Proof that your organization is eligible.

Once the application is received, PCPC staff will review for completeness and will let you know if they require additional materials.

For more information, watch a video of the 2021 RCO information session.