A First Look at Washington, D.C.'s New Zoning Code

The D.C. Zoning Commission last week approved a new zoning code for the nation's capital. The new code will go into effect in September.

1 minute read

January 21, 2016, 5:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


"Last week, the D.C. Zoning Commission quietly approved an overhaul of the existing zoning code," according to an article by Martin Austermuhle, "bringing to an end proceedings that began in 2007, spanning three mayoral administrations and involving hundreds of residents and stakeholders in dozens upon dozens of public meetings."

After setting the context for the process to create the new zoning code (the city's old code was created in 1958, though changes made since then made the code confusing, according to some observers), the article digs into the significant changes included in the new zoning code. Austermuhle notes the following provisions in the new code: more permissive use of accessory dwelling units, lower parking requirements, more corner stores in residential neighborhoods, and multiple other use designation changes around the city.

The article concludes by digging into the causes behind the zoning code updates long, laborious process. 

Wednesday, January 20, 2016 in WAMU

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

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

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog