You can use the Atlas search tool to explore the City's open geographic data, including zoning boundaries and demolition and building permits. The Philadelphia Zoning Code regulates development within the city. Zoning regulations govern: Property use.
A boundary survey or property survey determines the location of property lines and the monuments that mark the property corners of a parcel of land as described in a deed. The land surveyor undertaking a boundary survey should examine the deed for the property as well as possibly your neighbor's deed.
Center City is bounded by South Street to the south, the Delaware River to the east, the Schuylkill River to the west, and Vine Street to the north. The district occupies the old boundaries of the City of Philadelphia before the city was made coterminous with Philadelphia County in 1854.
RSA-3 districts are primarily intended to accommodate attached and semi-detached houses on individual lots, but may be applied in areas characterized by a mix of housing types, including detached houses. Single-family dwellings do not require zoning approval.
The city is bordered by six adjacent counties: Montgomery to the northwest; Bucks to the north and northeast; Burlington County, New Jersey to the east; Camden County, New Jersey to the southeast; Gloucester County, New Jersey to the south; and Delaware County to the southwest.
In Philadelphia, there are 10 zoning categories: Residential. Parks and open space. Public, civic, and institutional. Office. Retail. Commercial. Vehicle and vehicular equipment sales and services. Wholesale, distribution, and storage.
The city of Philadelphia, as laid out by William Penn, comprised only that portion of the present city situated between South and Vine Streets and Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. In fact, the city proper was that portion between High (Market) Street and Dock Creek.
Decoding RSA-5: The Basics of Philadelphia's Residential Zoning. RSA-5, which stands for "Residential Single-Family Attached-5," is one of the most prevalent zoning designations in Philadelphia's densely populated urban neighborhoods.
If a variance is required, the first step is to apply for a zoning or use registration permit from the Department of Licenses and Inspection. The application will be rejected. The applicant has 30 days to appeal to the Zoning Board, which will schedule a hearing to decide whether to grant a variance.
RSA-5 zoning plays a pivotal role in preserving the unique character of Philadelphia's historic neighborhoods while allowing sensible development. This zoning category helps maintain the streetscape of closely knit rowhouses that define much of the city's residential areas.