Jonathan D. Andrews
Represents developers in land use and zoning matters. Advises on municipal approvals for industrial, distribution, energy, utility, retail, mixed use, and residential projects.
See full profileZoning and Land Use
Land use decisions can determine whether a property supports the project envisioned for it. We help owners and developers evaluate development potential and secure the approvals needed to proceed.
Our focus
Land use strategy often begins before a property is acquired or a development plan is finalized. Land use ordinances can influence what may be built, while the anticipated approval process may affect the timing and economics of the project. We help clients assess those considerations early and establish a path through the regulatory process.
We prepare and present applications before planning commissions, municipal governing bodies, and zoning hearing boards. Our attorneys work closely with land planners, engineers, and other project consultants to shape applications, respond to municipal concerns, and address issues that arise during review.
Some projects require changes to existing regulations or involve questions that extend beyond a single approval. Stormwater requirements, transportation impacts, and other infrastructure needs may influence the project design or approval timeline. Environmental conditions or community concerns can also affect the process. We coordinate those issues within the broader development strategy so clients can make informed decisions as the project takes shape.
Our work also includes land use due diligence for property transactions and business acquisitions involving real estate. When an approval is challenged, we work with our litigation team to protect the client’s position and the investment already made in the project.
We represent clients whose projects require land use approvals or regulatory review, including:
- Commercial developers
- Residential developers
- Property owners
- Investors
- Businesses
- Healthcare organizations
- Educational institutions
- Public entities
- Energy producers
- Utilities
- Nonprofit organizations
Our work includes:
- Land use approval strategy
- Variances
- Special exceptions
- Conditional-use approvals
- Zoning amendments
- Validity challenges and curative amendments
- Subdivision and land development approvals
- Comprehensive planning matters
- State and local permitting
- Land use due diligence
- Stormwater issues
- Transportation issues
- Sewer and water infrastructure improvements
- Appearances before planning commissions and zoning hearing boards
- Representation before municipal governing bodies and state agencies
- Appeals and challenges involving land use approvals
Key Contacts
Jeffrey Esch McCombie
Provides strategic analysis and advice to developers and property owners related to real estate and the entitlement and land use process in Pennsylvania.
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Related news and insights
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PSATS 2026 Annual Educational Conference
McNees attorneys will present at the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) 2026 Annual Educational Conference, held April 19-22, 2026, at Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania. PSATS is a nonprofit, nonpartisan member service organization that provides a unified voice for Pennsylvania townships. The annual conference brings together township officials, local government professionals, and industry […]
McNees welcomes attorney Peter Kramer to Real Estate Group
HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 13, 2026) — McNees Wallace & Nurick today announced that attorney Peter Kramer has joined the firm’s Real Estate Group in Harrisburg, where he will support clients across Pennsylvania. Kramer represents residential, industrial and commercial property owners, developers, and business owners in transactional and land use and zoning matters. Working alongside the […]
Business Expansion Through Leasing & Land Use Lecture at Penn State Dickinson Law School
Real estate attorney Rachel Rowe presented “Business Expansion Through Leasing & Land Use” as a lecturer at Penn State University’s Dickinson Law School. Rachel is an associate in the Real Estate and Automotive Dealership Groups. She focuses on transactional matters, advising a diverse range of clients on lease negotiations, real estate sales and acquisitions, easement […]
Claudia Shank receives Building Award from Lancaster Building Industry Association
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