Ask the Experts: Preservation and Conservation in Philadelphia

Описание: Originally presented on Wednesday, February 25, 2026

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s “Ask the Experts” series provides accessible, expert-led guidance on zoning, preservation, conservation, and stewardship topics relevant to historic homes, landscapes, and neighborhoods in Philadelphia. These programs connect technical regulatory systems with practical tools, helping residents and community groups better understand how land use decisions shape the places they care about.

This virtual program, “Ask the Experts: Preservation and Conservation in Philadelphia — Understanding and Navigating Tools for Community Advocacy,” examined how zoning, historic designation, and environmental planning function within the City of Philadelphia. The presentation focused on the systems that regulate development and property use citywide, with particular attention to tools available to property owners and community stakeholders.

David Gest, Esq., Executive Director of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and a land use attorney, provided an overview of Philadelphia’s zoning code, including base districts, overlays, variances, remapping, and civic design review. He also demonstrated how residents can research properties using public resources such as Atlas, Eclipse, and the Philadelphia Code.

Kim Chantry, Historic Preservation Planner Supervisor with the Philadelphia Historical Commission, explained how the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places operates at the local level. Her presentation clarified the designation process, the role of the Historical Commission in reviewing alterations and demolition proposals, and how members of the public may participate in nominations and public meetings.

Meg Cavanaugh, Environmental Planner with the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, discussed environmental planning tools embedded within the zoning code, including the Wissahickon Watershed Overlay, steep slope protections, and updated landscape and tree requirements. She also outlined ongoing citywide planning initiatives related to resilience, stormwater management, and comprehensive planning.

Together, the presenters demonstrated how Philadelphia’s zoning, preservation, and environmental regulations operate as working tools within the city’s regulatory framework — tools that residents, property owners, and community groups can use to navigate development proposals and engage constructively in planning processes.

The program concluded with a moderated Q&A.

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s free and low-cost public programs are made possible through the generous support of our Lead Sponsor, Chubb, as well as our General Sponsors, Event Sponsors, and members. To learn more about the Conservancy’s programs, membership, and sponsorship opportunities, visit CHConservancy.org.