Form-Based Code Approved in Miami

Commissioners in Miami have voted to replace the city's use-based zoning code with a form-based code, dubbed Miami 21, which had been in the works for years.

1 minute read

October 23, 2009, 11:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg


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."

Thursday, October 22, 2009 in The Miami Herald

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