Is Affordable Housing Possible Under Current Zoning Laws?
Durham, North Carolina, is experiencing a hot debate over changing its zoning code.
The proposed “Simplifying Codes for Affordable Development” (or SCAD) presents tactical adjustments that focus on loosening the current rules so local people can make small-scale changes to their neighborhood. The changes would eliminate parking mandates, legalize smaller homes on smaller lots, and permit mixed-use development.
In this Upzoned episode, host Abby Newsham talks to Aaron Lubeck, who’s been closely involved in developing SCAD, about the proposed changes. They discuss why SCAD is such a controversial topic, and if it’s different from other reforms.
Interested in learning more about how to increase housing options? Join us October 5 at 12pm CT for an upcoming virtual workshop, “Saying Yes to All Types of Housing in Your Community.” And learn more about our full Local-Motive workshop series here.
ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES
“Op-Ed: The Purpose of Zoning is to Prevent Affordable Housing" by Bob Chapman, Indy Week (March 2023).
Sarasota County, Florida, is planning to use hundreds of millions of dollars to subsidize housing. But this money isn’t going toward low-income housing — it’s going toward road construction for gated communities.