Zoning
Florida Law Aimed at Increasing Housing Includes Exemption for ‘Large Destination Resorts’
A new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis puts limits on local control of zoning for housing, but could also allow major resorts to bypass zoning regulations and review processes.
Colorado Law Lets Schools, Other Public Agencies Build Housing Regardless of Local Zoning
The law is modeled on a similar failed measure from last year that included fewer eligible organizations.
Co-living ‘Microapartments’ Cost Half as Much to Build as Typical Studios
In 10 major U.S. metros, an analysis found that converting office buildings to small co-living units could dramatically cut the costs of construction.
Virginia Assembly Passes ‘Yes in God’s Backyard’ Bill
The law would require 60% affordability and ensure that projects have access to water and sewage lines.
The Bittersweet Path to the Housing Crisis — and how to Find our way Home
Book Review: In “Bittersweet Lane: Creating Home(s) in the American Affordable Housing Crisis,” affordable housing developer Jamie Madden blends memoir with a manifesto for a new era of affordable housing in America.
Report: Every US State is Unaffordable for the Lowest-income Households
Nationwide, there are only 35 affordable and available homes for every 100 lowest-income renter families.
‘Builder’s Remedy’ Housing Project on Yosemite Border Draws Opposition From Locals, Environmentalists
Local residents are raising questions about a proposed 110-unit development in an isolated region adjacent to the national park.
In Defense of QUIMBY — a Rebuttal
Psychology shows that residents love what planners and architects don’t. Experience tells me that they’re right.
Iowa County Passes Restrictive Data Center Ordinance
A new Linn County ordinance requires data center builders to conduct environmental reviews, limit light pollution and noise, and compensate the county for infrastructure costs.
Salt Lake City Could Allow Backyard Homes on up to 3/4 of Residential Lots
A proposed zoning change would expand the residential areas where accessory units can be built.
What the Data Center Boom Means for Planners
It’s tempting to write off the havoc that data centers are wreaking in communities across the country as an IT problem. The truth? It’s a planning problem.
100 Years ago, Zoning Changed how US Cities Grow. Today, it is Ripe for Reform.
Euclidean zoning was enshrined in U.S. town planning by a 1926 Supreme Court decision. Cities are recognizing it’s time for some drastic changes.
Memphis Plans to Build 10,000 New Homes by 2030
The city plans to liberalize zoning codes to create better incentives for housing production.
Massachusetts Governor Says Safety Funds Won’t be Tied to MBTA Communities Compliance
Gov. Healey faced backlash for requiring local fire departments to confirm compliance with the zoning law to receive state funds.
Florida Senate Advances Law Allowing ADUs in All Residential Zones
The law would legalize ‘granny flats’ by-right in single-family zoned neighborhoods.
Pennsylvania Housing Action Plan Calls for $1B Fund, Expanded Renter Protections, Homebuyer Assistance
Gov. Shapiro’s proposed plan would bolster support for renters and homebuyers and reduce barriers to housing development.
Interactive, 3D Chicago Zoning Map Lets You Visualize Potential Development
A new tool creates a visual model of potential development on Chicago lots based on the property’s specific zoning regulations.
Massachusetts Zoning Reform Sparks ADU Surge
A 2024 law and a 2025 assistance program have spurred a flurry of ADU projects across the state.
Kansas City Adopts Milestone Data Center Zoning Rules
A new zoning ordinance classifies data centers as industrial facilities, triggering stricter zoning and permitting requirements.
Missoula Approves Zoning Reform Emphasizing More Diverse Housing, Walkability
The city’s new zoning code, map, and development standards will guide more expansive housing options and improved walkability.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS)
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
City of Cambridge
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello
