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Zoning Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Litigation Attorney/Lawyer

Boston, MA · On-site

$39.59 - $50/hr

... zoning issues, securities concerns, fraud allegations, and intellectual property disputes. The ... attorney in Massachusetts or eligible to obtain admission through waiver. • 2 to 5 years of ...

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Deputy Zoning Administrator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$77K - $135K/yr

Works with County Attorney for cases involving court action and testifies in court as needed; Conducts property deed research as needed; Conducts research to prepare zoning verifications; Assists the ...

CITY ATTORNEY STATUS: EXEMPT REPORTS TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL/CITYMANAGER FOR DAILY OPERATIONS ... A minimum of 2 years of experience in litigation, governmental planning, zoning, land use, public ...

Represent clients in securing zoning approvals, land use entitlements, variances, conditional use permits, and subdivision approvals. * Advise on federal, state, and local land use, planning, and ...

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Zoning Attorney information

See salary details

$35.5K

$134.2K

$268.5K

How much do zoning attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoning attorney in the United States is $134,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $169,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Zoning Attorney vs Land Use Attorney?

AspectZoning AttorneyLand Use Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor, state bar license, specialization in zoning lawsJuris Doctor, state bar license, expertise in land use regulations
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, government agencies, private clientsLaw firms, government planning departments, development companies
Industry UsagePrimarily in real estate, municipal law, development projectsIn urban planning, real estate development, environmental law
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding zoning law practices, legal representation in zoning casesAdvising on land development, zoning compliance, and land use planning

While both Zoning Attorneys and Land Use Attorneys work within real estate and development sectors, Zoning Attorneys focus specifically on zoning laws and regulations, whereas Land Use Attorneys handle broader land development and planning issues. The roles often overlap, but their primary focus areas differ, making them distinct yet related legal specialties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zoning Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoning Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and expertise in land use, real estate, and municipal law. Familiarity with local zoning ordinances, permitting processes, and legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis is crucial. Strong negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills help in advocating for clients and navigating complex regulatory environments. These competencies are vital for ensuring clients' projects comply with laws and for achieving favorable outcomes in zoning matters.

What are some common challenges Zoning Attorneys face when working with local government agencies?

Zoning Attorneys often encounter challenges such as navigating complex and frequently changing zoning codes, addressing community concerns during public hearings, and coordinating with multiple municipal departments. They must be adept at building relationships with local officials and understanding the unique priorities of each jurisdiction. Successfully advocating for clients requires not only legal expertise but also strong negotiation and communication skills to resolve disputes and facilitate approvals.

What are zoning attorneys?

Zoning attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in land use, zoning laws, and real estate regulations. They help clients navigate complex zoning codes, obtain permits, and represent them in disputes with local government agencies or zoning boards. Zoning attorneys often work with property developers, homeowners, businesses, and municipalities to ensure compliance with local ordinances and to advocate for zoning changes or variances. Their expertise is essential in cases involving property development, rezoning, and land use planning.
More about Zoning Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoning Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Zoning Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Zoning Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoning Attorney jobs include:
Infographic showing various Zoning Attorney job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,221 per year, or $64.5 per hour.

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description:

Location/Schedule:
Cortland, New York | Full-Time


Salary Description:
$100,000 - $140,000, commensurate with experience


Practice:
Public Law


What Stands Out About This Opportunity:

Coughlin & Gerhart is one of the Southern Tier’s longest standing and most respected law firms, serving clients throughout New York and Pennsylvania since the 1890s. While we’ve grown to eight offices and a wide range of practice areas, we’ve remained grounded in the same philosophy that built the firm: strong client relationships, practical legal guidance and collaborative team culture.


This opportunity is ideal for an attorney looking to continue building Public Law experience within a firm that values professionalism, mentorship and long-term growth. Our attorneys work closely together across offices and practice groups, creating an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Attorneys have the opportunity to take on meaningful work from the beginning.


The Cortland office offers the ability to practice in a community focused environment while still having the resources and support of a larger firm. Attorneys in this role will have direct client interaction, courtroom exposure and the opportunity to handle a broad range of Public Law matters.


Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include advising municipal and public-sector clients on a broad range of legal matters, including municipal law, education law, land use and zoning, code enforcement, and environmental review processes.


The attorney will draft and review local laws, resolutions, policies, procedures, contracts, leases, easements, intermunicipal agreements, and other legal documents; provide legal counsel to boards and public officials; and attend and represent clients at municipal, school district, fire district, and other public board meetings.


This role involves conducting legal research, defending municipalities and public entities in litigation and administrative proceedings, including Article 78 matters, negotiating and drafting agreements, prosecuting code enforcement actions, and developing practical legal strategies that support the operational and governance needs of public-sector clients.


The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to build trusted relationships with municipal leaders, public officials, and community stakeholders.


This role also involves managing deadlines effectively and contributing to a collaborative team environment across practice groups and offices.


Core Requirements:

Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and be currently admitted to practice in New York State. Prior Public Law experience of at least three years is preferred.


We are seeking someone who is motivated to continue developing their legal skills while contributing positively to the client service standards of the firm.

Coughlin & Gerhart is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a professional and inclusive workplace. To express interest, please submit a cover letter, resume, and transcripts to Careers@cglawoffices.com.

Requirements: