Increasing Housing Supply Through Smarter Zoning
Upzoning is a policy tool that allows for higher housing densities by loosening restrictions on residential property development. This report highlights how upzoning can address Florida’s housing shortages by promoting organic growth within neighborhoods and diversifying housing types.
Key Insights
What is Upzoning?
- Definition: Upzoning involves adjusting zoning laws to permit higher densities, such as adding duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in single-family neighborhoods.
- Impact: Promotes housing diversity without disrupting the character of established neighborhoods.
Why Upzoning Matters
- Affordable Housing: Increases supply, helping stabilize costs.
- Sustainability: Reduces urban sprawl by making efficient use of existing land.
- Flexibility: Allows homeowners to voluntarily increase density on their properties.
Examples of Successful Upzoning
- Minneapolis, Minnesota: Adopted a plan allowing up to three housing units on single-family lots, significantly boosting supply.
- Portland, Oregon: The Residential Infill Project upzoned traditional neighborhoods to accommodate duplexes and triplexes, aiming to create over 100,000 new homes by 2035.
- Auburn, Maine: Incrementally loosened zoning laws to allow multifamily housing in low-density areas, addressing local demand.
Proposed Recommendations
- Adopt Incremental Zoning Changes
- Permit duplexes and triplexes in single-family neighborhoods.
- Allow property owners to split lots for additional housing.
- Focus on High-Demand Areas
- Target urban areas with pressing housing needs for pilot programs.
- Utilize upzoning to address housing inequities and promote accessibility.
- Educate Communities
- Raise awareness about the benefits of upzoning in balancing growth and affordability.
Why It Matters
- Expanding housing options through upzoning can help meet Florida’s growing housing needs.
- It supports sustainable development while preserving neighborhood identity.
- Upzoning ensures that families, seniors, and low-income residents have access to housing in desirable locations.