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New Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District Created Amid Zoning Regulations Changes

Official:Amending Section 14-504 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “/NCO, Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District” by creating a new Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, and by revising the boundaries of Section 14-502 /CTR, Center City Overlay District, and making related changes, all under certain terms and conditions.

Introduced: September 17, 2026

: Committee on Rules

zoning overlays neighborhoodsresidential

Plain-Language Summary

This bill proposes creating a new 'Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District' and revising the boundaries of the existing 'Center City Overlay District'. It would impose specific zoning regulations on properties in the affected area.

What This Bill Does

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Creates a new Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, with specific zoning regulations for properties in the affected area.
Revises the boundaries of the existing Center City Overlay District, updating the area's boundaries to include or exclude certain streets.
Imposes specific zoning regulations on properties in the Southwest Center City Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District, which will apply to residentially zoned properties in the area bounded by South Street, 19th Street, Kater Street, and 18th Street.
Updates the /CTR Overlay district map to reflect the revised boundaries of the Center City Overlay District, which includes streets such as Poplar Street, 6th Street, West Girard Avenue, and the Schuylkill River.

Both Sides

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The case for

This bill protects the unique character of Southwest Center City by creating a specific zoning district that preserves its residential heritage, safeguards its historic homes, and enhances its neighborhood charm. This bill benefits property owners in the affected area by providing clear guidelines for development, ensuring that the community's distinct character is preserved for future generations. By establishing a tailored zoning framework, this bill helps maintain the area's aesthetic appeal, property values, and sense of community, making it an attractive place to live and invest.

The case against

This bill creates a new zoning overlay district that will increase regulatory costs for property owners in the Southwest Center City area. The bill imposes specific zoning regulations on residential properties, potentially limiting property rights and use, without clear justification for the additional restrictions. By revising the boundaries of the existing Center City Overlay District, the bill sets a precedent for further zoning overlays that could spread to other neighborhoods, potentially increasing the regulatory burden on property owners citywide.

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Upcoming

CITY COUNCIL

Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Room 400, City Hall PLEASE USE THE AGENDA PDF to select an item for PUBLIC COMMENT, not the MEETING DETAILS.

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