Can Your Zoning Hack It?

Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the interactive nature of learning labs, only those with a seat may participate. Please arrive early to secure your spot!

Many zoning codes are a morass of overlapping, and sometimes contradicting, regulations that are challenging to navigate and administer. As a result, they often end up producing unpredictable and unintended development outcomes. The technical nature of codes also requires policymakers to navigate feelings of distrust and confusion among community members, making the adoption of reforms politically challenging.

Learn how a “code hack” exercise can be successfully used as a technical tool to test-fit zoning regulations and a communication tool to build coalitions in favor of code reform. Hear case studies of using a code hack exercise in communities of diverse size and geography. Participate in a facilitated code hack exercise and gain first-hand experience of the process.

Reforming development codes to allow for more equitable and inclusive places is a daunting but noble and necessary aspect of today’s planning profession. Walk away with a powerful tool for understanding the impacts of zoning regulations, crafting effective regulations for your community, clearly communicating development outcomes, and building political support for code reform.

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