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Zoning establishes districts and limits the type of activities permitted in each zone provides setbacks and other dimensional regulations for each zoning district, and also governs signs, and home based businesses. The City's zoning regulations can be found in the Zoning Ordinance. Although the City zoning regulations are designed with some flexibility due to Altoona’s mixed use heritage, applications for zoning variances may be filed with the Community Development Department (Zoning), and cases heard and are decided by the City of Altoona Zoning Hearing Board. Due to the legal and advertising requirements of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, there are fees associated with zoning variances and special exceptions. Because of the state required legal fees and advertising, there is a flat rate of $500.00. The Zoning Appeal Application can be downloaded and completed for a zoning variance or special exception. Questions should be directed to the Community Development Department at 814-949-2470 or use this Contact E-Form.Zoning Ordinance