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Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) appeals materials

If the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) refuses your application, you have 30 days to appeal to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA). L&I may also refer your case to Zoning Board of Adjustment. ZBA will consider whether to grant you a variance or special exception. These decisions will allow you to continue with your plans. In addition to completing either the application for appeal or the application for special exceptions, you must fill out a Project Information Form.

An appeal against L&I can be made regarding any by-right zoning permits issued by L&I or any zoning decision made by L&I. See the instructions for appeals against L&I below. You have 30 days to appeal these decisions.

To learn more about filing an appeal online, view our step-by-step video guide.

Name Description Released Format
Zoning Appeal Manual 2026 PDF PDF A manual that describes the process of appealing a zoning decision to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. This is a guide for applicants, but anyone interested in zoning matters may find it useful. July 1, 2026
ZBA Application General Instructions PDF Instructions for selecting and filing the correct application document. August 28, 2025
Application for Zoning Variance PDF Use this form to apply for a zoning variance. August 28, 2025
Application for Special Exception PDF Use this form to apply for a special exception. August 28, 2025
Application for Appeal Against L&I PDF Use this form to appeal the issuance of a permit or another decision by L&I. August 28, 2025
Request for Reconsideration and Rehearing Form PDF Use this form (Form ZBA-04) to request a reconsideration and rehearing following a final decision by the ZBA. April 29, 2026
Request to Withdraw PDF Use this form (Form ZBA-06) to withdraw a zoning matter from the ZBA. December 30, 2025
Appeal fees for the Zoning Board of Adjustment PDF A schedule of fees for appealing to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. July 6, 2020
ZBA Fee Schedule PDF Zoning Board of Adjustment fees as established in Section A-907 of the Philadelphia Administrative Code. This schedule is effective as of August 1, 2026. July 1, 2026

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