Form-Based Code Approved in Miami

Miami is now the largest U.S. city to have adopted a form-based code.

"The mayor has sought to transform auto-centric Miami into a more-urban, pedestrian-friendly city.

The so-called Miami 21 zoning code would replace a code that critics charge has led to overscaled and intrusive development. The new code encourages mixes of commercial and residential uses along major corridors, seeks to reduce the impact of large-scale development, and requires new buildings to conceal parking while meeting the sidewalk with active fronts like shops, offices and homes.

Opponents range from neighborhood activists to some architects who contend the code doesn't do enough to curb overscaled development while forcing new buildings into homogenous templates that limit creativity. Some lawyers argue it will unfairly curtail development rights."