Publication Date

Spring 2004

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Urban Planning (MUP)

Department

Urban and Regional Planning

First Advisor

Earl Bossard

Abstract

The United States has a curious history of employing zoning as a reactionary solution to society’s physical problems. In many ways, it has been an effective tool for ensuring the built environment develops in a manner consistent with cultural norms, preferences, and safety concerns. However, it has failed, in its current form, to keep pace with the growth pressures, transportation limitations, and basic service needs of the modern society. Hence, zoning regulation in the United States is at a crossroads. The structure of zoning ordinances must be reevaluated periodically to ensure they are effective and efficient in their goals. Traditional zoning codes, often criticized for their inflexibility, are no longer seen as appropriate in all situations. Meanwhile, form-based codes, developed over the past two decades as an alternative to the traditional use-based codes, present a viable alternative.

Form-based codes regulate through design requirements, rather than use allowances and restrictions. Design considerations such as setbacks, building heights, building placement, floor-area ratios, frontage type (porch, stoop, fence), parking placement, street configuration (width, number of lanes, tree placement), and architectural standards dictate the desired physical form of a place. Form-based codes also include use allowances. However, these are more generous and less restrictive than Generally, uses that require otherwise incompatible are permitted in adjacency. The underlying principle of form- based codes is the creation of identity of place. A coherent and pleasing physical form is traditional codes. similar building scale and are not constructed through code design standards. Secondary benefits such as increased housing supply, improved transportation infrastructure, and economic benefits often result from such codes and are a direct result of the design criteria prescribed through them.

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