Zoning Changes for Economic Resilience During and After the Pandemic

Cities can and should look to make changes to the zoning code to support local businesses through this particularly challenging time.

1 minute read

June 25, 2020, 9:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Code Studio has published the second in a series of articles on the ways that cities can use zoning code reform to help businesses begin to thrive post-COVID.

Part two of the series offer four more zoning recommendations, in addition to four recommendations in part one, based on trends and issues identified by the Code Studio team during the pandemic, with more details included in the source article.

  1. Bring back the neighborhood store.
  2. Allow for expanded home-based businesses.
  3. Expand the ability to grow food and raise small animals.
  4. Require more open space – public and private.

The Code Studio team promises a part three and encourages comments for more ideas on how communities can leverage zoning codes for economic benefits in these times of economic and public health uncertainty.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020 in Code Studio

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog