Provisions for mixed housing types

[kschlabach]

Are there any jurisdictions that regulate the mixing of housing types? We are interested in encouraging a housing mix as a component of smart growth, rather than as a mechanism to provide affordable housing. Our zoning ordinance allows mixing housing types but developers rarely do it. I'm looking for specific requirements, incentives, design controls, etc. that other jurisdictions have used.

 

[Joe Iliff]

Yes!

We have an area of town onto which we have created a zoning overlay district. In most of it's residential areas, there is a required mix of lots sizes and single-family - multi-family dwellings. Already, several of the land owners are developing within those requirements.

 

[Cardinal]

The problem here is that everyone wants to do multi-family. If it is R-3, multifamily, we get 8- or 16-unit buildings. R-2 permits single family and duplexes, and 4-unit buildings as a conditional use. We always get conditional use requests. We've achieved a mix through ownership of the land (aggressive strategy) and are attempting it through negotiation. But even there, it is zoned R-1, single family, and the approach has been to negotiate an increased number of units by allowing some zero lot line duplexes and 4-unit condos. The developer also wants four 16-unit apartment buildings. It hasn't gone to the plan board yet, so we don't know if it will fly.