Permits & Zoning

The business and construction climate in Philadelphia has improved dramatically in the last decade. New construction and rehabilitation are at an all time high. City Department and Agency regulations are constantly changing. Debra Valenti-Epstein has a comprehensive understanding of the procedures necessary to secure zoning, use and construction approvals in the City of Philadelphia.

• Review site and construction plans to ensure compliance with current regulations for new construction and alterations with all City Departments
• Start-to-finish service which includes initial delivery of plans and final pick up of permits
• Applications and submissions to City Planning Commission, Streets Department, Art and Historical Commissions, Water Department, Health Department and the Department of Licenses and Inspections, including accelerated processing
• Comply violation notices, representation at code enforcement hearings, and open default judgments
• Appeals from rejection of any application including appeals to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, Board of Building Standards, L&I Review Board, Fire Review Board and any Local and Appellate State Court
• Coordinate activities of contractors, architects, engineers and attorneys in the process of securing permits including any and all representatives and regulators for the City of Philadelphia

The extent of her experience and the diversity of her practice may be seen in the following examples of current engagements and recent results achieved for her clients:

• Represent business property owners, including warehousing and telecommunications, in various matters before City Regulatory Agencies including successful representation before the Fire Review Board
• Represent and secure permits for new center city businesses, including restaurants and pharmacies, and representation before the Art Commission, Board of Building Standards and Zoning Board of Adjustment
• Obtain zoning and use variances and building permits for residential clients, contractors, business developers, architects and architectural firms, and engineers and engineering firms, both Philadelphia based and out-of-state

Estate & Probate . Zoning . Personal Injury . VIOXX . Real Estate . Business Formation . Commercial Litigation