The most popular form-based tool was reducing or eliminating minimum dwelling unit size, used by 32% of communities who responded to our survey. When this standard isn’t in the zoning ordinance, the statewide building code governs the amount of livable space required. A similar proportion (28%) said they had reduced or eliminated minimum lot width and area requirements in their zoning districts. This is an especially useful tool where previous “reforms” have increased the minimum lot dimensions, making existing older lots nonconforming. Reducing residential parking requirements is another space-saver that 27% of the participants we heard from have implemented. These reductions can be tied to locational requirements like proximity to transit or to commercial centers–planning for transportation and housing simultaneously.
Lot with and area
Dwelling unit size
Parking