Starting next week, filing an assessment appeal in Lancaster County will cost $25 for almost all residential property owners. The 2012 fees for annual farm property and commercial property appeals will be $50 and $75, respectively.
The purpose of the new fees is to cover administrative costs generated by the appeal process. The fees are comparable to those imposed in Dauphin and Chester Counties, where the residential appeal fees are also $25. While the fee is new in Lancaster County, it is still a fraction of the cost of many civil action fees, which can add up to hundreds of dollars. For example, filing a civil action to challenge a decision by the Board of Assessment Appeals will be $158 in 2012.
The Lancaster County Property Assessment webpage has more information on the appeal process in the County. In addition, it is always beneficial to seek the guidance of an attorney if you are considering filing an assessment appeal. Our firm regularly represents residential and commercial clients.