Zoning Reform
The Case for a ‘Zoning Czar’
Federal oversight of zoning reforms could coordinate efforts across agencies and shoulder some of the political backlash to local zoning changes.
Opinion: Accessory Dwelling Units Will Benefit San Antonio
As the city considers loosening regulations on accessory dwelling units, one writer argues that the reforms would boost affordable housing and provide more options for changing household needs.
What Is a YIMBY?
YIMBY, an acronym standing for "Yes In My Backyard," describes advocates who support housing development as a response to the outcomes of restrictive zoning and planning policies.
San Francisco Just Ended Single-Family Zoning
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted to Tuesday to eliminate single-family zoning, but pro-development advocates say additional changes are needed to unleash a wave of construction.
Spokane to Test Citywide Residential Density Incentives
The Spokane City Council in July will consider the "Building Opportunity and Choices for All" pilot program, which would allow new residential densities throughout the city.
Four ‘Low-Hanging Fruit’ Zoning Reforms
An excerpt from the latest book on zoning argues for four approaches to reform that can immediately improve land use regulation in the United States.
California Coastal Commission Nixes Parking Reforms Intended to Spur ADUs in San Diego
Environmental causes run into conflict with zoning reforms intended for environmental benefit once again, as the California Coastal Commission requires San Diego to reinstate parking requirements for ADUs.
Arlington County Struggles To Meet Affordable Housing Goals
As the region’s population swells and demand for housing grows, Arlington County considers zoning reform to boost its affordable housing stock.
Portland Approves ‘Residential Infill Project – Part 2' to Add New Forms of Residential Density
The city of Portland is already building upon the historic work of the Residential Infill Project, approved by the city in August 2021, with a new slate of zoning changes dubbed the ‘Residential Infill Project – Part 2.”
Oregon to Reform Parking Requirements in 52 Cities
Oregon, the first state to end single-family zoning statewide, is on the cusp of another historic planning reform as the Land Conservation and Development Commission nears approval for new “Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities” rules.
‘City of Yes’ Zoning Initiative Announced to Support Business and Housing Opportunities in NYC
New York City’s new mayor, Eric Adams, has announced a new signature zoning initiative.
Eugene Approves ‘Missing Middle Housing’
The city council voted to approve an ordinance that will permit more middle housing types in single-family neighborhoods.
Voters Reject Atlanta-Area Cityhood Proposals
After local activists whipped up concerns about forced density to promote cityhood for three wealthy Atlanta suburbs, residents voted to remain in unincorporated Cobb County.
Zoning Reform Gains Momentum in Northern Virginia
Arlington County and Alexandria are moving forward with actions that could potentially launch a new era of planning and development in their respective communities.
Zoning Reform Works, but Is No Magic Bullet
Improving housing affordability and boosting housing production requires more than just eliminating single-family zoning.
Record Number of Homes Built in Chester County, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s Chester County, one of the state’s wealthiest, saw more homes built in 2021 than any year since 2001.
The Maine City Setting the Gold Standard for Pro-Development Zoning Reforms
Auburn, Maine, a city of 20,000 residents, has plans to add enough housing to increase its population by 25 percent by 2025.
Strip Malls as a Housing Solution
The American strip mall may be a dying breed of commercial development, but could the buildings serve a new use as sustainable housing?
Zoning Stands in the Way of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is cheap as ever, but zoning isn’t keeping up with the market.
Affordable Housing Proposal Faces Backlash in Salt Lake City
A public hearing last week revealed widespread opposition to a plan to loosen density and height limits and reduce parking requirements to encourage more developers to build affordable housing.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie
