What We Do For You
Land use and zoning law determines what can—and cannot—be built on a piece of property. These issues often make or break a project, whether it’s a small business expansion, a new residential community, or a large commercial development. Our work involves helping clients secure the approvals and permits they need, addressing challenges from neighbors or regulators, and, when necessary, taking disputes to court. Typical matters include zoning changes, variances, subdivision approvals, permit appeals, and defending developments against government or citizen opposition. Because these cases require both legal skill and practical knowledge of how local governments operate, our team brings deep experience on both sides of the process.
Our team at Brockstedt Mandalas Federico has a long track record of representing property owners, developers, and local business interests in complex land use and zoning matters. We have secured approvals for challenging and often controversial projects, successfully challenged confiscatory zoning regulations, reversed permit denials, and defended commercial developments against legal challenges. Whether you’re a small business looking to expand or a large-scale developer, our team is committed to providing the tailored legal support you need to navigate land use issues.
Our work includes representing clients in variances, site plan approval applications, partition applications, and subdivision applications, as well as appearing before government and administrative agencies to obtain project approvals. We have been involved in projects ranging from office and retail buildings, condominiums, shopping centers, golf courses, and residential communities.
Over the years, our attorneys have represented well-known companies and property owners, including Equity Lifestyle Properties, Dogfish Head, Blue Water, Lighthouse Construction, K. Hovnanian, the Hudson Family, Wal-Mart, and Royal Farms.
Case Highlight
In August 2025, a Superior Court jury awarded more than $5 million in an eminent domain case involving land at the intersection of Route 1 and Route 16 in Sussex County. The Delaware Department of Transportation had offered $1.48 million for the 4.2-acre parcel and $144,700 for a related easement. After a four-day jury trial, our attorneys—working closely with land appraisal experts—successfully demonstrated that the fair market value was significantly higher. The jury ultimately returned a $5.015 million award.
Why Hire BMF
Our attorneys have been consistently recognized among the best in Delaware. John Paradee has been individually ranked for 16 years in Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use by Chambers USA and has also been recognized as a Top Lawyer in Delaware Today for Land Use since 2015, as well as being listed in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers. Glenn has been named Top Lawyer in Delaware Today for over 10 years in Government Affairs and Land Use and is also recognized in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers for his work in this field.
We are prepared to handle your case regardless of whether it is a simple application or complex litigation. If you are searching for a land use and property lawyer, please contact us today.
