What is zoning? Land use and zoning regulations are key levers in the development and preservation of our city’s communities. NSCAN facilitates the involvement of residents via the city’s RCO Zoning Committee model, while always prioritizing grass-roots activism.
Know the Laws
- Quick Guide to Philadelphia Zoning
- Philadelphia City Planning Commission
- Voting Procedures for NSCAN’s RCO Community Zoning Meetings — contact us for a copy
How NSCAN Fights for Tenants, Homeowners & the Neighborhood
- Engage community members in variance applications, review of development proposals, and negotiations leading to community benefits agreements.
- Advocate for equitable zoning and development as a member of city-wide coalitions for housing and social justice.
- Hold developers accountable — secured compensation for residents and business owners harmed by flawed or illegal construction.
- Assist property owners in challenges to excessive or incorrect property assessments, and secured reimbursements.
- Organize town meetings to connect residents with government officials and decision-makers.
Core Features of Community Benefit Agreements
- Set-asides of affordable units in new developments
- Creating retail opportunities to increase retail traffic
- Increasing opportunities for local small businesses
- Establishing preference for local hiring
- Hiring of local and minority subcontractors
- Creating public amenities