What is a Zoning and Development Code and why is it important?

The zoning code includes regulations that determine how land is used and developed. More specifically, it determines what types of development can be built in different areas (or “zones”) of a city and regulates the shape and size of parcels and buildings. Historically, zoning codes were primarily used to separate incompatible uses to ensure, for example, that housing is not developed next door to a loud, polluting factory.

More recently, zoning codes are also used as a tool for guiding growth that meets shared community goals, such as affordable housing or livability with an emphasis on “placemaking” rather than just use and form. Unfortunately, zoning codes often also include outdated and discriminatory rules that contribute to racial and economic segregation and other social equity issues. That’s why it is important for the City to keep the code up to date and remove unnecessary or harmful rules.

In addition to the Zoning Code, the City has many other regulations that guide the design of streets, open space, utilities, drainage, and other development-related issues. These regulations, often referred to as development codes, will also be addressed in the Comprehensive Code Reform project.