Akerman LLP advises developers, landowners, and investors nationwide on the full spectrum of land use and zoning matters. The firm handles land assemblage, entitlements, environmental compliance, and affordable housing, frequently acting as zoning counsel on large-scale development projects. Florida-based T. Spencer Crowley III and New York-based Joshua Rinesmith co-chair the land use practice, providing expertise in zoning and permitting across their respective regions. In Miami, Neisen Kasdin advises on regulatory approvals for multi-use projects, while Dennis Kerbel guides clients through complex legal and regulatory frameworks. Chicago-based Meg George is a key contact for zoning, licensing, and permitting, and Eleanore Martins in New York manages approvals, amendments, and permits. Also in New York, Jaclyn Scarinci specializes in inclusionary housing and tax incentive matters. Vivien Krieger joined the team in June 2025 from Cozen O'Connor, bringing extensive experience in New York City land use and zoning matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Personal land use and government process attorneys that have principals still directly involved with the nitty-gritty.'
- 'Josh is personal, knowledgeable, and takes the time to understand client needs.'
- 'This practice is distinguished by its ability to manage complex, politically sensitive CUP and land-use matters where legal strategy must account for public process, community dynamics, and local political realities. The team brings deep regulatory expertise combined with practical judgment in high-stakes situations involving discretionary approvals.'
- 'Dedicated, thorough and proactive- always available and pushes things forward on their side.'
Key clients
- 8th Regiment Partners
- The Arker Companies
- Thorobird Companies LLC
- Developing NYS LLS/Goose Property Management
- New Tradition Media
- Continental Realty Corporation
- Bayview Asset Management
- Bally's Corporation
- Chicago Park District
- Swire Properties
- Tavistock Group
- Dezer Properties
Work highlights
Represented Camber Property Group as zoning counsel in securing a determination from the Department of City Planning that certain changes to the previously approved Stevenson Square development are substantially compliant with the previously approved plans. Stevenson Square is a $1 billion development in the Bronx’s Soundview neighborhood that will include almost 1,000 affordable housing units.
Represented 8th Regiment Partners on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx, potentially the largest private-public project in New York in 2025.
Handling the redevelopment of Pier Sixty-Six, a 32-waterfront acre space in the prime Harbor Beach district of Fort Lauderdale. Representation includes land use, zoning, and marina permitting advice related to the redevelopment of the historic property, as well as assemblage of adjacent property.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Eric D. Rapkin; T. Spencer Crowley III; Joshua Rinesmith
Other key lawyers
Neisen Kasdin; Dennis Kerbel; Meg George; Eleanore Martins; Jaclyn Scarinci