Charter

In the May 2007 Primary Election, voters were asked the following question:

Shall the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter be amended to provide for the creation, appointment, powers and duties of an independent Zoning Code Commission which would recommend amendments to the Philadelphia Zoning Code to make the Code consistent and easy to understand, and to enhance and improve Philadelphia’s city planning process while encouraging development and protecting the character of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods?

Nearly 80% of the voters said "YES" ... thus, affirming that zoning does matter!

The Charter Amendment directs the Zoning Code Commission to "conduct a comprehensive analysis and make recommendations regarding reforms to the Philadelphia Zoning Code." The Charter Amendment also provides for the members of the Commission, defines the duties, and establishes a timetable for key milestones in the process.

To see a complete copy of the Home Rule Charter Amendment creating the Zoning Code Commission, click here.

Composition of the Commission

The Zoning Code Commission consists of 31 members comprised as follows:

• the Executive Director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, who serves as the Chair
• the Commissioner of Licenses & Inspections
• the Chairman of the Zoning Board of Adjustment
• 10 community leaders, one appointed by each of the 10 District Councilmembers
• 3 Councilmembers (with at least one from the minority party) appointed by the Council President
• 5 members appointed by the Mayor, and 5 members appointed by the Council President (these appointments must include a zoning attorney, urban planner, architect, real estate developer and building trades leader)
• One representative from the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, Greater Northeast Chamber, African-American Chamber, Hispanic Chamber and Asian-American Chamber (these members may appoint an alternate)