Inclusionary Zoning Legislative Survey and Resource Manual Now Available on NAHB.com
NAHB has identified various policy concerns associated with inclusionary zoning and provided these arguments to local HBAs faced with the imposition of such requirements. However, local governments find inclusionary zoning to be an easy and expedient fix even in the face of NAHB’s counterarguments. Hence, the number of communities considering adoption and the variety of inclusionary zoning approaches are increasing rapidly.
Because of the need to offer better assistance to the increasing number of HBAs facing this problem and the lack of solid research available on inclusionary zoning, NAHB has retained nationally known consultants to research whether enabling authority is required for adoption of such ordinances; whether inclusionary zoning is effective at meeting the affordable housing need; whether there are negative economic consequences of this approach; and what incentives and other elements should be included in such ordinances from our industry’s perspective if they cannot be defeated.
NAHB has now released the “National Survey of Statutory and Case Law Authority for Inclusionary Zoning - Policy, Practical, and Legal Challenges to Inclusionary Zoning: A Resource Manual.”
This report provides home builders, developers, local HBAs and communities grappling with the issue of housing affordability an accessible guide that includes a comprehensive list of critical policies and questions members may adopt in response to any proposed inclusionary zoning ordinance.
The resource manual has an exhaustive list of 45 elements and issues any inclusionary zoning ordinance must provide for in order to be fair and effective. Its sobering conclusion is that inclusionary zoning is a complex market intervention and that local governments should be fully informed and carefully evaluate whether it constitutes sensible policy before they move ahead with adoption.
The manual includes a limited case law summary as well as a helpful summary of statutory authority for inclusionary zoning, identifying how various states enable the use of this approach. To read or download the manual, click here.
Preliminary results have been received on the economic research showing both price and production effects, and a final report is expected by year’s end. Research is also underway with a report expected by Dec. 31 on what other approaches are being used or could be used at the state and local level that can be recommended as alternatives to inclusionary zoning.
A Housing Affordability Toolkit of resources on housing affordability was recently updated and is available on NAHB’s web page. These resources are continuing to expand as we identify and upload additional useful research and reports.
For more information on these resources, contact Debbie Bassert at NAHB 800-368-5242 x8443, or Ed Tombari at 800-368-5242 x8309.
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