Reference Code(s):
Philadelphia Zoning Code
PZ_003_INF (Rev 7.2024) Page 1 of 2
Unity of Use
Information Sheet
1. What is Unity of Use?
Unity of Use is a legal principal that allows multiple properties to be reviewed as one zoning lot without formally
consolidating the lots with a lot adjustment permit. In Philadelphia, Unity of Use is not specifically described in the
Philadelphia Zoning Code; however, some case law supports the concept that contiguous lots, owned by a single
owner may be treated as a single lot for zoning purposes only.
Unity of Use is only recognized for the purposes of zoning. Lots joined by Unity of Use are treated as separate
lots under the Philadelphia Building Construction and Occupancy Code.
2. Under what conditions are multiple parcels eligible for Unity of Use?
The following conditions must be met for parcels to be eligible for Unity of Use:
1. The parcels must be contiguous and within the same block (e.g. not separated by a public street or alley
used by other parcels).
2. The parcels must share common ownership (See #4).
3. The Unity of Use proposal must contemplate developing or building on the entire zoning lot as an
integrated unit.
3. How is Unity of Use established or dissolved?
A zoning permit is required to establish or dissolve Unity of Use. When applying for the zoning permit, all involved
parcel addresses shall be included on the application. A draft of the Unity of Use agreement must be submitted
with the application. The Unity of Use agreement is required to be recorded prior to the issuance of any
associated building permit per the Property Rights Code Bulletin A-1703.
Visit the Department of Records for more information on how to record the Unity of Use agreement .
4. Are the parcels required to be owned by the same entity?
Yes, all parcels involved in the Unity of Use are required to have common ownership (e.g. owner in fee).
5. If one or more of the parcels is sold, is the Unity of Use still valid?
If all of the parcels are sold and common ownership is maintained; the Unity of Use agreement is still valid. If at
any point, one or more parcels is sold resulting in the parcels included in the Unity of Use having different owners,
the Unity of Use is no longer valid and must be dissolved through the issuance of a permit.
6. Is Philadelphia City Planning Commission approval required to establish or dissolve Unity of
Use?
No, the approval of Philadelphia City Planning Commission is not a condition of approval of Unity of Use.
Reference Code(s):
Philadelphia Zoning Code
PZ_003_INF (Rev 7.2024) Page 2 of 2
7. Is a sealed survey required to establish or dissolve Unity of Use?
No, professional quality site plans are required; however, they are not required to be sealed by a professional
surveyor.
8. If Unity of Use is only recognized for the purposes of zoning, how are building and trade
permits reviewed after a Unity of Use is established?
For the purposes of reviewing building and trade permits, only the recorded lot lines are recognized. Construction
near or across lot lines may generate refusals for fire separation distance, exterior wall openings, fire, plumbing,
sewer services, etc.
A Unity of Use agreement may qualify for the exception under B-706.1.1 that eliminates the need for a party wall
separating a building spanning lot lines provided that a recorded easement or contractual agreements allow for
access to fire and life safety systems on both sides of the property line and all other conditions of this section are
satisfied. This exception applies only to firewalls and does not extend to requirements relating to exterior wall
ratings and allowable openings.
9. After a Unity of Use is established with a permit, what address should be used to apply for
permits?
When Unity of Use is established, the applicant is able to select which address they would like the unified lots to
be known as. This is the address that all future zoning permit applications should be filed under.
Since Unity of Use is only recognized for zoning permits, the addresses of the individual lots should be used
when filing building or trade permits.
10. Can Unity of Use be used to establish air rights?
No, a parcel is defined as a two-dimensional plane; it cannot be separated vertically.
11. Does an existing Unity of Use require common ownership?
If the Unity of Use was permitted prior to 3/1/2022 and the zoning permit or recorded document does not
reference common ownership, there is no restriction relating to ownership on the joined parcels or the future sale
of any parcel included in the use permit.
Questions?
Call 311 or (215) 686-8686 (if outside Philadelphia) or submit an online form via http://www.phila.gov/li/get-help.
Disclaimer:
This interpretation, policy or code application is intended to provide guidance to staff for consistency of review and is subject to change
without notice. Application of this interpretation, policy or code application to specific projects may vary. There may be other ways to
comply with the Code. If so, you are not required to use this method. You may want to investigate other options or consult with a
professional identifying an equally code compliant solution.
