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Philadelphia City Council Establishes New CMX-3.5 Mixed-Use Zoning District and Deletes RM-3 Residential District Citywide

  • When: 2025/10/30
  • Address: Citywide, Philadelphia, PA
  • City: Philadelphia
  • State: PA
  • Category: Zoning Code Modification
  • Subcategory: Definitions Update
  • Asset Class: Mixed-Use
  • New Zoning: CMX-3.5
  • New Zoning Description: Community Mixed-Use District, intended to provide for high-density, mixed-use development, allowing for a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional uses. Designed to accommodate buildings up to 65 feet in height, with a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) of 500% for residential uses and 600% for mixed-use projects. Includes provisions for affordable housing incentives, requiring a percentage of units to be affordable or a payment in lieu.
  • Previous Zoning: RM-3
  • Previous Zoning Description: Residential Mixed-Use District

This bill amends Title 14 of The Philadelphia Code, 'Zoning and Planning,' by establishing the CMX-3.5 Community Mixed-Use District and concurrently deleting the RM-3 Residential Mixed-Use District. The CMX-3.5 district is designed to facilitate high-density, mixed-use development, accommodating a blend of residential, commercial, and institutional uses. It permits buildings up to 65 feet in height, with a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) of 500% for residential and 600% for mixed-use projects. The new district also incorporates affordable housing incentives, mandating a percentage of affordable units or an equivalent payment. The removal of the RM-3 district aims to streamline existing zoning regulations and promote the development of more dynamic, walkable communities. This legislative change simplifies the zoning code by replacing an outdated district with a modern classification better suited to Philadelphia's contemporary urban development objectives. It is expected to foster a broader spectrum of housing and commercial opportunities throughout the city.

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