Community Compass library

Look it up before the meeting

Plain-language explanations and real questions from residents, volunteers, and local officials about zoning, codes, housing, neighborhoods, organizations, and local economies. Laws and programs change and vary by place, so confirm anything time-sensitive with your local office or the current official source.

Browse everything, A to Z

Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
"Front of lot" Interpretation
Visitor Question: Hello. I have some deed restrictions on my property. One of which says no residence or outbuilding can be 50 feet from the front of
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
"Rocky" Small Rural Town Makes Big Splash and Brands Weldon NC
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website visitor writes: By Michael Smith (Rural Ethnography Solutions Website) As a independent Qualitative Ethnography Researcher,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
100 foot setback requirement for churches
Visitor Question: Our city has a 100' encroachment rule for new churches. They measure the furthest edge of the building to the nearest property line.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
13 Spring Newsletter Ideas to Keep Your Communications Fresh
These spring newsletter ideas are clustered into thirteen themes to make your neighborhood e-mail composition chores easier.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
1960s Rental Unit Found Unpermitted
Visitor Question: Hello there, I currently live in a downstairs unit of a duplex in an unincorporated area of our county. Long story short, the county
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
1960s Suburb Needs Refreshing
Visitor Question: Our 1960s suburb used to be the envy of the city. Our reputation was of great homogeneous neighborhoods, a wonderful place to raise a
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
21 Favorite Community Development Ideas to Inspire Both Small Actions, Big Projects
These starter community development ideas serve as examples of activities your neighborhood can begin now.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
4th of July Blow Out!
Last summer for the weekend of fourth of July, my family and I went up to celebrate my Tiiti and my daughter's birthdays which fall a day apart. This festival
Guide · Community development basics
7 Ways That Racial Equity and Community Development Issues Interact
Many people think racial equity and community development are already well linked; this page points out 7 areas where the relationship should be stronger.
Guide · Economic & rural development
A "Vibrant Downtown Ordinance" Is New Approach
We propose a vibrant downtown ordinance, requiring landlords to fill vacant space to make a lively and vital central business district or shopping area.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Bikeable Community Attracts Residents, Visitors
A bikeable community offers increased quality of life for all residents. Bikes are earth-friendly, and promote health mobility for kids and seniors..
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Building Code Makes Residents Safer
Enacting a building code to cover new construction spells safety for current and future residents, as well as their visitors.
Guide · Economic & rural development
A Community's Entrepreneurship Definition Should Focus on Business Success
The entrepreneurship definition we like is the process of becoming a successful business owner, who shows innovation, action orientation, and creativity.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
A Good Homeowners Association Solves Problems Quickly and Calmly
When a homeowners association board is chosen carefully, receives training, and treats residents respectfully, all HOA members benefit.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
A Housing Condition Survey Can Help You Visualize Areas Needing Most Attention
A housing condition survey helps communities or neighborhoods quantify and visualize housing quality issues. Your group can do it youselves.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
A Neighborhood Watchdog Notes Progress or Problems
We promote a neighborhood watchdog program with a structured checklist of potential problem items that volunteers who walk the neighborhood should observe.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
A New Streetscape Can Create an Attractive and Memorable District
Tailor a custom streetscape with eye-catching sidewalks, landscaping, street trees, benches, lighting, good-looking signs, and other pedestrian amenities.
Guide · Economic & rural development
A Night Mayor Position Helps Cities Cope with Night Life and Night Shift Challenges
A night mayor is a city or downtown association employee who improves both the employment and recreational aspects of a city after dark. We explain advantages.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Planning Charrette Requires Preparation and Focus
The charrette is a technique from architecture often used in planning. This page helps you succeed in design collaboration between professionals and residents.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Property Maintenance Code Is Good for Your Town
Learn how to implement an appropriate property maintenance code, which promotes economic viability, safety, and attractiveness of your community.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
A Rural Neighborhood Should Involve Everyone
Learn how a rural neighborhood can achieve important results through organizing, mobilizing, and resolving conflicts.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Temporary Use Permit Expands Zoning Flexibility
A temporary use permit adds flexibility to the zoning ordinance while still assuring appropriate safeguards over sales, fairs, and seasonal uses.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
A Transit Oriented Development Fable
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Website Visitor Writes: Once upon a time there was a little light rail system that didn't think it was anything special.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Walkable Community Is Safe, Fun, and Healthy
Devising a walkable community promotes health, sociability, and efficient transportation. Walking also supports local businesses.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Abandoned Buildings and Lots Require Swift Action
Abandoned buildings and vacant lots threaten the integrity of neighborhoods. Learn about the best steps the community might take to find relief.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Abandoned Factories Present a Challenge for Communities
Embrace these ideas for reuse of abandoned factories, which quickly become dead zones discouraging investment and attracting trash and illegal behavior,
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Abandoned home in the village
Visitor Question: We live in a small village (pop. 3500) about 20 miles east of Buffalo,N.Y. We have had an abandoned house in the village for 15 years.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Abandoned Homes in a Village
In our tiny Village we have so many homes that have been abandoned. There are no jobs available in our area and the few jobs that there are pay such low
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Abandoned Homes Threaten Neighborhood Stability and Image
Learn how a neighborhood or concerned individual can address abandoned homes. Housing vacancy decreases property values and may increase crime.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Abandonment of Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: I live in a subdivision in a county that has 49 plots. The original covenants were written in 1976 for a period of 20 years with an
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Accessory Dwelling Units Add Housing, Reduce Cost
Learn how accessory dwelling units aid housing affordability, help older adults stay at home, and increase efficiency in providing services and utilities.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Active participation of students in Park Clean Up
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: With rapid development and urbanization most cities are unable to cope with the clean up of the areas.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Adaptive Reuse Re-Imagines Obsolete Buildings
Adaptive reuse, or converting old buildings to a new use, is an attractive means of adding distinctive and marketable housing or business to a community.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Adding a restriction to my deed
Visitor Question: How do I add a low income housing only restriction to my deed to thwart developers from calling me about my house in my quickly gentrifying
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Adding Street Lighting for Atmosphere or Safety
This page discusses street lighting choices in the language of citizens and community leaders.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Additional Set of Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: I am in contract to purchase a property here in Hays County Texas. The property in located in a subdivision with recorded Deed restrictions
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Advantages and disadvantages of felt need approach
Visitor Question: What are five advantages and five disadvantages of the felt need approach? Editors' Reply: We don't know whether we can give you five
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Adverse Possession or Easement Road
Visitor Question: A paved road extends from two city public streets across a privately owned lot which has been used by the public, police, fire and utility
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Agricultural Zoning Is a Win-Win for Both Farmers and Towns
Agricultural zoning is useful to towns trying to preserve farming and fight sprawl. Beneficial to both farmer and town, learn how to apply this zoning.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Aims and Objectives of Community Development
Last Updated: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: What are the basic aims and objectives of community development? Editors' Reply: The aims of community development
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Alley Cleanup Tips for Better Health, Safety, and Aesthetics
Alley cleanup tips will help you build neighborhood spirit, not to mention promote health and safety. Here's how to organize your event.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Alleys Offer Important Advantages in Keeping Cars Behind Houses
Alleys are traditional in cities, but were dropped from post-World War II suburbs. Now they’re making a comeback, and we clean, green, and beautify them.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Amendment to Restriction Never Recorded
Visitor Question: We bought a house on 1 acre in a non-zoned county neighborhood which is just a street. Animals are restricted; however the real estate
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
An Alley Clean Up with a Purpose!
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Website Visitor Wrote: I think a wonderful alley clean-up project would be to make it green! A friend of mine recently did
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
An Introduction to Site Plan Review for Planning Commissioners
This article recommends careful pruning of site plan review requirements and good choices about who approves the application based on what criteria.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
An Off Leash Dog Park Should Match Community Needs
An off leash dog park provides a place for canine play and exercise that also allows owners to socialize and learn about proper pet care.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
An Overview of How Code Enforcement Can Help You Make and Keep a Good Community
The code enforcement overview describes why and how local governments use this tool to obtain compliance with local ordinances. Typical flow is explained.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Annexation and re-zoning
Visitor Question: I have a 15 acre property which is being annexed and potentially re-zoned from Pasco County, Florida to Dade City, Florida, but the
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Apartment Dumpster Area Problem
Visitor Question: Should apartment dumpster areas be enclosed for safety and health reasons? If you rent and requested an enclosure be done and still
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Approaches to Neighborhood Traffic Problems
We pose solutions to neighborhood traffic issues such as bottlenecks, speeding, problem intersections, shortcuts, and ped and bike safety..
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Are cities part of a watershed?
What exactly is a watershed? Are cities part of it, or does the city absorb too much water. Editors' Reply: In a word, yes. A watershed is simply
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are counties subject to municipal zoning
Visitor Question: Are counties subject to a municipality's zoning ordinance? Our county government is proposing a new recreation center, and they claim
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Are gun buy-backs a good program for crime prevention?
Our city council woman thinks that a gun buy-back program would solve everything. Like if we have no guns, we have no crime. That might do some good, but
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Are Impact Fees A Good Way to Pay for City Expansion?
If you do not foresee both the advantages and disadvantages of impact fees, your city could create inequities and legal problems for itself.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are parks in a separate zoning district?
Visitor Question: We are redoing our comprehensive plan in our town, and I am helping with some of the outreach to our residents. I wanted to know if parks
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are Townhomes Spot Zoning?
Visitor Question: There is a parcel of land, 3.3 acres on the western edge of our neighborhood. The neighborhood is all single family homes (R5). This
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Are Ugly Utility Lines Really a Big Deal?
Many business districts and neighborhoods eventually focus on ugly utility lines as detracting from visual appeal. This page explores how to approach this issue.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Are very large cities better?
Visitor Question: What are the consequences that we can expect if we continue to allow and encourage larger and larger cities to be built? I think cities
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Armed code enforcement
Visitor Question: Why are code enforcement carrying fire arms? This is in Riverside County, California. Editors Reply: This is not typical throughout
Guide · Economic & rural development
Arts and Economic Development Are Complementary
Turbo charge the arts and economic development nexus when you actively cultivate cultural connections to tourism, innovation, and place-making.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Ask a Neighborhood Work or Community Development Question
Ask a community development question and receive answers from editors and maybe site visitors. All community and economic development topics are welcome.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Ask Us Questions About Neighborhood Quality of Life
Get answers to your questions about neighborhood quality of life, including nuisances, vacant property, and much more..
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Ask Your Questions About Community Environmental Issues Right Here
When you ask questions about community environmental issues at the neighborhood level, we can tailor a non-technical answer to your specific situation.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Assess Community's Housing Renovation Needs, Then Act
A lively housing renovation scene is key to maintaining viability of older neighborhoods. Where major revitalization is necessary, begin here.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Asset-Based Community Development Focuses on the Strengths
Asset-based community development emphasizes identifying neighborhood strengths and talents instead of problems. This creates energy for change.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Attracting a grocery store to a rural small town
Visitor Question: How do we attract a grocery store to our town? Editors Reply: Thank you for giving your zip code, which allowed us to see that you are
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Auto Repair Business vs. Boat Repair Business
Visitor Question: Our ordinances limit a boat repair business much more than auto repair. I'm just wondering what the rationale is behind that? I am looking
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Autumn Newsletter Ideas for Your Neighborhood
Many HOA or neighborhood association editors struggle to come up with new autumn newsletter ideas every year. This page gives some thought starters.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Auxiliary Land Improvement
Visitor Question: I live in a residential area. Across the street there is a lot that is zoned residential but classed as an auxiliary land improvement.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Avoid Spot Zoning To Be Seen as Fair
Learn what the term spot zoning, often heard at a public hearing on a municipal rezoning proposal, means and why it should be avoided.. .
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Bad idea to rezone from residential to affordable housing
Visitor Question: My family owns property in New Jersey that is currently zoned residential but is being used for business because our business has been
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Ballot initiative downzoning a land parcel
Visitor Question: A ballot initiative by the citizens of Aurora, CO down zoned a 10 acre parcel of land some years ago, and now a developer wants to rezone
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Beach Nourishment Preserves Tourism But Offers Limited Environmental Benefits
Beach nourishment programs transfer sand from an offsite location to replenish an area torn apart by erosion or storm. This page helps you evaluate costs.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Beautification Projects cost money and North Carolina provides Special Funding or Grants
Visitor Question: Are grants provided by a State, such as North Carolina, required to be paid back in any way or fashion? How do I find the information
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Becoming Certified as a CDC
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Who can I apply to for my company to become a Community Development Corporation? When is application taken?
Guide · Economic & rural development
Beginning to Understand Tax Increment Financing
Municipalities can use tax increment financing, known as TIF, to finance public improvements by borrowing against future additional taxes.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Being harassed by the city
Visitor Question: My dad's property is in violation. It has been more than two years since we got the first letter. Today, we got the second administrative
Guide · Economic & rural development
Benefits and Components of an Innovation District
An innovation district consciously creates cross-pollination among start-ups, existing businesses, and higher ed, while featuring attractive employee amenities.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Benefits of Beautification and Addressing Boarded-Up Housing
1.Where do I find the statistics and research to convince local officials of the benefits of town beautification? 2.Where do I find research and stats
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Best City Plan: Tell Us Why It Is Excellent
Your example of the best city plan you have encountered could help others determine how to evaluate plans. Share your stories about documents you admire.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Best Street Festival in Chicago? Definitely Wicker Park Fest.
Chicago, Illinois is a place known for its high winds and cold winters. When the summer comes along, everyone in the city is ready to get outside and enjoy
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Best Street Party Seattle's Capitol Hill
Every year in Seattle's hip Capitol Hill area the whole city comes to celebrate the heat of summer, listen to a huge variety of music, drink far too much
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Best way to identify community needs quickly
Visitor Question: I am volunteering to help a local church reach out to its surrounding community and open its doors and 40,000 square feet of unused space
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Best Zoning for a Ministry
Visitor Question: Our ministry has been gifted a piece of property that currently has 3 different zonings. A small piece is 02, a section is HE and the
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Bicycle Sharing Continues to Advance
Bicycle sharing has spread rapidly in five continents and is feasible for smaller cities and campuses. Understand the benefits and challenges.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Block Party Delicious Anticipation
When I visited friends in a suburb of Chicago, the street department came on a Saturday morning and blocked off the ends of the street. Our hostess
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Block Units Help Build Community or Solve Problems in the Neighborhood
Block units organize residents of a very small area into a simple structure to address problems or head them off. We tell you how.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Brownfields Problems and Redevelopment Opportunities
Brownfields, or sites showing the real or perceived need for an environmental clean-up, have become a technical specialty. Learn how citizens can act too..
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Buffer requirements
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: My question is how to interpret the term abuts in a zoning ordinance. Our ordinance says this. Where a commercial
Guide · Economic & rural development
Build Economic Development on Realities, Not Myths
If you are serious about local economic development, avoid pie-in-the-sky activities that don't attract money to the community, and learn what works instead.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Builder Does Not Meet Subdivision Restrictions
Visitor Question: We have a builder that continues to build houses that do not meet our subdivision's restrictions... for example: gravel driveway, non-brick
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Building Codes Versus Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: What power do building codes have over deed restrictions over a title? What power over a title do building codes have? Editors Reply:
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Building just a garage on a lot in a subdivision with an HOA
Visitor Question: Our HOA has CC&Rs stating one single family use. A lot owner built his house and just bought the lot next door but wants to build a garage.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Building whatever I want
Visitor Question: If I own a property with no deed restrictions, could I build whatever I want on the property? Or if it was a yurt in Florida would that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Business Conditional Use Permit next to home and farm.
Visitor Question: I live in a rural/agricultural area. I own 55 acres of pasture and farm ground. My only visible neighbor now owns my parents' place
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Business District Events Favor Restaurants
Visitor Question: I live in Winchester VA. I'm a merchant in the Historic District. The City hired an Events Manager who for three years puts on events
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Business in a subdivision
Visitor Question I live in a Texas rural area, three miles from Pleasanton. I have called every county department for answers, and no one knows the answer.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Business model for a Community Development Center with ICT and entrepreneurial courses
Visitor Question: I am having a challenge of coming up with a social business model canvas to understand how the business at a center that has already
Guide · Economic & rural development
Business Retention Is Best Community Option
Here learn the art of business retention, a much better use of community resources than trying to land one the rare business relocations.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Buying out of covered boat dock restriction
Visitor Question: I have purchased lake property. The owner placed a deed restriction on the parcel I bought. He sold the two parcels on either side
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Camps and Retreats Permit
Visitor Question: We live in a rural Montana neighborhood with 20 acres. There are 10 homesites back here ranging from 5 to 20 acres on a private easement
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a church meet in a building that is zoned industrial?
Visitor Question: I am a member of a local church congregation (less than 100 people) that has been meeting in a school gymnasium. Due to Covid-19,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a City Deviate from Its Future Land Use Map
Visitor Question: I'm wondering about when it is acceptable (or even legal) for a city to deviate from its adopted future land use map, which appears in
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a city itself apply for rezoning
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: In our town we have a weird situation. Our city council thinks they can just fill out a rezoning application
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a developer's unfinished work be used against new rezoning proposal
Visitor Question: I am a resident of a multi-phase development begun in 2017. This sits on a subdivision of large private land. Huge areas of mature trees
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can a Special Exception Be Exempt from Nuisance Laws?
I bought a historical home in a historical subdivision. Five years after I moved in I began to hear sounds of children screaming only to discover that
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can a town enforce deed restrictions
Visitor Question: Our town in New Hampshire has a Land Use Ordinance regarding RVs that reads: One recreational vehicle (RV) of any size may be parked
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can an HOA add a land use restriction by amending by-laws
Visitor Question: We have a complicated HOA, which oversees 13 subdivisions with each subdivision have its own deed restrictions, located in Michigan.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Can Bed and Breakfast Become Group Home?
Visitor Question: In a non-zoned area, can a property with multiple buildings being used as a bed and breakfast be sold as a residential property for a
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Can CDCs have employees
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question:Are community development corporations allowed to hire employees? Why or why not? Editors Reply: Certainly
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can Code Enforcement make me live in a home that is a health hazard?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Hello. I live in an unincorporated city in Riverside County. I live on a property that is in probate. I took
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement make me move
Visitor Question: I live in a good size travel trailer outside of the city limits at the end of a privately owned dirt road, out of sight from any type
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement move my car from the back yard
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can a code enforcement officer move my car from my back yard of my property? Editors Reply: The answer depends
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement officers take furniture from backyard
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Okay so I came home to find multiple things missing from my backyard such as our kids' basketball hoop and pole
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code officer decide what is trash?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Who decides what is trash (inside of a 30 gallon plastic container)? Is that the homeowner or the city code
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can codes help with condo sewage problem
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I own a condo on one side. The lady next door owns the condo on the other side. She moved to another state,
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can deed restriction limit land use
Visitor Question: Can a deed restriction require the use of a piece of property only for a public park? Shouldn't the owner of the property have some
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can Deed Restrictions Apply to Only Part of Subdivision
Visitor Question: We live in a subdivision that has had several of the properties excluded or removed from the deed restrictions/covenants over the years.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can deed restrictions limit use allowed by zoning?
Visitor Question:>/b> Can a deed restriction (i.e. only single family residences) limit the use allowed by zoning (i.e. cluster homes allowed)? I was
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Can emphasizing historic events lead to town revitalization?
Visitor Question: Our community is a little bit divided over how much we want to call attention to certain historic events that occurred at different places
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can I downzone in California
Visitor Question: Can our City Council grant us a downzone in California from multi family residential to single family, in order to become eligible for
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can Master Deed Violate Approved Site Plan?
Visitor Question: The site plan approved by the city for our condominium does not match the site plan filed with the registry of deeds with respect to
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can neighbors create an HOA to fight existing deed restrictions?
Visitor Question: I live on a street that was once land owned by a family that lives nearby. When they created the lots, they attached sweeping deed restrictions
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Can our board president take on a responsibility without anyone knowing about it
Visitor Question: What happened in our neighborhood is very disappointing to me. It seems like our neighborhood association's board president told the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can Rezoning Overturn Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: The Planning and Zoning Committee denied a request to change the designation of a lot to allow two homes instead of one on a lot. As
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can Successor Developer Ignore Covenants
Visitor Question: We have an unusual situation where the community prior to completion was foreclosed and resold to a secondary developer. The developer
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can the Town Board deny a petition without a public hearing
Visitor Question: Our town board had three landowners ask to have their land changed from 3 acre residential to commercial zoning. Can the town deny these
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can we be forced to stop renting through Airbnb
Visitor Question: We just received a warning to stop doing short term rentals. To cut a long story short, my husband was involved in a bad accident a few
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Can we force contractors to keep down the dust?
Published: September 28, 2024 Visitor Question: I live on a busy road. The city has decided it wants to upgrade the street. Considering the number of
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Can you add a deed restriction on only one lot already covered by covenants
Editors Note: The visitor question below was received several months ago, and we failed to answer at that time. We offer our apologies to our site visitor,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can zoning be changed without notification
Visitor Question: Can the planning and zoning department change the zoning on my property without any notification? Editors' Reply: Oh, this really shouldn't
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Canopy Violation
Last Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: Do I have to pull a permit for a 10' by 20' canopy which is assembled at the back of my house? I have to
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Career Paths for Addressing Urban Sprawl
Visitor Question: I was wondering if you might be able to advise. After spending a number of years in retail, I'm looking into changing careers to something
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Careful Project Selection for Neighborhood Associations Really Pays Off
Many neighborhood associations should limit their activities to sharpen their focus. But some community organizations need projects to add excitement.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Cars Parked on Narrow Residential Streets
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood of one and two family homes on small lots (5000 square feet on average) was developed 100 years ago when more people
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
CDC acting in bad faith
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Who can we turn to when our community development corporation, a 501c nonprofit, acts in bad faith, counter
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
CDC and 501(c)3
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We are interested and looking into starting a CDC in our town. Do you need to register as a 501(c)3 with the
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
CDC's Geographical Footprint
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can CDCs have a national mandate or does it have to be local? Editors Respond: We suppose this is a definitional
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Cellular Antennas on Historic Buildings
Visitor Question: A new local project development consists of a total renovation of a former factory building into condominiums. The building has historical
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Changing the CCR document in a non HOA neighborhood
Visitor Question: We have a 40 year old ambiguous CCR (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) initially created by the community developers that was
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Changing the Name of a Town
Visitor Question: What are the steps in the process of changing the name of a town? Our town and its attending unincorporated areas sharing the same zip
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Chickens and an HOA
Visitor Question: If there are no chickens allowed in an HOA development but we are zoned Agricultural, does this mean that my daughter cannot have them
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Choosing a Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy
Choose one of four potential neighborhood revitalization strategies to prioritize problem solving and redevelopment, housing, and infrastructure projects.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church buying residence to use for youth center does zoning allow
Visitor Question: A church on the next block over has purchased the house behind ours. We asked some people coming out of the church what they intended
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church in R1 zoning to be a house
Visitor's Question: A church building lies on property zoned R1 in a residential neighborhood. It has always been a church as far as we know. The church
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Church noise and traffic are too much
Visitor Question: Well, it's Sunday here, I guess it's Sunday everywhere. One more time those church bells at 8:00 in the morning make me crazy. It's the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Parking Lot Leased for Business Parking
Visitor Question: We live near a church which is located in a residential area. The church main parking lot holds about 200 cars. The have leased about
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Property Rezoning
Visitor Question: Must a property bearing a place of worship always be a place of worship? Or may it be sold for any use permitted by the zoning, such
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church sold lots and cannot meet parking requirement
Visitor Question: I have general questions. A large church congregation owns several parcels in a half-residential/half-office zoned area. It then sells
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Zoning Often Subject to Special Use Permits
Once church zoning was permitted as of right in residential districts. But traffic and other issues have led to cities often requiring conditional use permits.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Churches in Single Family Neighborhood
Visitor Question: If a church is approved for an existing low density single family home neighborhood, is it treated the same as every other resident of
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Cities funding CDCs
Last Reviewed: June 13, 2024 Visitor Question: Are there any restrictions on Cities or local units of government funding CDCs? Editors Reply: There are
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
City Involvement in a CDC
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We are a small suburban city and what is the expectation of a Mayor's involvement in a CDC? Do Mayors, Council,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City Mistake on Zoning Requirement Adds to Financial Hardship
Visitor Question: My family has owned a mobile home park for over 10 years now. After the flood of 2011 the basement of our two-story home began to cave
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
City moratorium on development
Visitor Question:Is it legal for a city to have a moratorium on development? Our medium-sized city has discussed this a little bit in an open meeting of
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
City of Delray Beach Alleyway Cleanup Project
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Writes: The City of Delray Beach Public Works Department (Streets & Storm Water Divisions) completed our alleyway
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
City Planning With Kids May Give New Insight into the Future of the Community
City planning with kids can produce candid comments, lucid perceptions, and truth telling episodes that help adults think creatively.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
City requiring deed restriction before final inspection
Visitor Question: OK, here is a quick run down. I purchased a property two years ago to put a barn on the back. I went back-and-forth with the city for
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City shuts off water for code violations
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Our City Council has adopted a policy of shutting off city-provided water to residences to enforce code violations.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
City Sign Regulations Too Tough on New Business
Visitor Question: Our city has refused to allow us to even apply for a permit for a flag to advertise our business. They have railroaded us into 8 months
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City wants to change residential zoning to agricultural
Visitor Question: I bought 13 acres to develop with housing. The property is zoned R-6, a residential category. Now the city wants to change the zoning
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Civilian Oversight Helps the Public Understand Policing Situations
Civilian oversight boards can help your city develop and maintain police accountability and transparency to residents, and increase trust in law enforcement.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Clean Your Streams Day 21
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Story: In September 2017, Partners for Clean Streams hosted the 21st Annual Clean Your Streams Day in Northwest Ohio.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Cleaning Up Neighborhood Store Fronts
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Visitor Question: How do you get neighborhood businesses to clean up their store fronts? Editors' Reply: Ginny, we're
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Cleaning Up Your Neighborhood Park Is A Simple, Rewarding Activity
Learn the steps for cleaning up your neighborhood park, starting with event preparation all the way to post-project activities.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Clear Neighborhood Boundaries Build Reputation
Clearly defined neighborhood boundaries are essential to keeping your community's needs and assets in front of the people who can make it happen.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Climate Change Planning Presents New Physical, Social, and Economic Challenges
I think local climate change planning takes one of four pathways. Here we describe how your community can decide on an approach.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Closed Business Now an Eyesore
Visitor Question: We have a permanently closed business in our downtown whose owner refuses to sell. He is using it as an online liquidation sale location
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Closed CDC meetings and transparency
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can a community development corporation hold meetings which are closed to the community at large? Editors
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Co-Housing Presents Finance, Organizational Challenges
Co-housing offers the chance to create intentional community with shared facilities, custom home designs, and sustainability features.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement and Standing Water
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Website Visitor's Original Question: A family purchased a small inflatable swimming pool during the summer, and placed the pool
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement and wood piles
Published: October 1, 2024 Visitor Question: I thought it was supposed to be against codes to stack firewood on bare ground in a neighborhood. My neighbor
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement entered home
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in Flint, Michigan. Code enforcement entered my home, threw back the door, then took pictures of my home
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement in Rural Areas
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is there any code enforcement in rural areas? I'm tired of living around junked cars, rusting machinery, old
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Letter Received
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: We received a letter which was a fill-in-the-blanks city code violation form that says we have 10 days
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Letters Not Received
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: So I had a rather large problem arise involving a code enforcement and wanted some info before dealing with
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement officer in backyard without consent
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Hi. I am a resident of the Village of BISCAYNE Park, Dade County. I have the code enforcement officer harassing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Questions Often Arise Because of Inconsistency, Wrong Emphasis
Many code enforcement questions arise because of standards that seem too strict or too lax. Here you can ask pros what they think.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Right to Enter Property
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can a Non-Certified, non-law enforcement Code Enforcer in Colorado enter your property without permission or
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement says too much stuff
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: My husband has ADD. He lost his job and as a result, he buys and sells things. He got cited from Code Enforcement
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement singling me out
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What if anything can I do if code enforcement is sending me letters for violations and not to anybody else I
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement targeting an individual
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Could I be targeted for code violations? Editors Respond: We assume that you mean that you feel that the city
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code officer ignores my written complaints
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A wealthy and gregarious neighbor has SCHMOOZED the code officer into looking the other way on his development.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Codes to quiet cars with booming sub woofers
Visitor Question: How have other communities dealt with loud booming sub-woofer speakers in cars? We have many in our city. I wonder if there are any ways
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Combining subdivided lots
Visitor Question: I am considering purchasing a 16 acre piece of property. It has already been divided into smaller lots. Can some of the lots be put back
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial Church Kitchen as Food Truck Commissary
Visitor Question: We have spent three years upgrading our church kitchen to meet Health Department requirements for a Commercial Kitchen. Now that we
Guide · Economic & rural development
Commercial District Revitalization Requires Skill, Determination, Experimentation
Commercial district revitalization is challenging due to multiple property and business owners. Coordination and diversification are essential.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial driveway in a residential zone
Visitor Question: I live in a small town on a block that is adjacent to the retail district. Zoning is r-3. On my side of the street there are only houses.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial Rezoning Violates Covenants
Visitor Question: I live in a residential subdivision in Tennessee. Recently, the road to the subdivision was widened to 5 lanes and the land immediately
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Community Amphitheaters Can Be Viable Low-Budget Projects with Big Benefits
When you envision community amphitheaters as gathering places, you capture the best meaning of this community project. They are also beautification.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Community Anti Drug Coalitions Are Effective in Many Types of Settings
Community anti drug coalitions encompass representatives from prevention organizations, education, law enforcement, business, and others. Learn how one works.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Community Attachment Research Provides Excellent Discussion Points
Understanding community attachment can help you retain talented residents. We describe factors in city loyalty, including social life, openness, and beauty.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Community Beautification Lifts Spirits and Property Values
Learn about community beautification projects to do now, and 8 opportunities and 7 challenges for larger issues.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Community Benefits Agreements Can Be Crafted Carefully to Support Social Goals
Community benefits agreements formalize commitments a developer makes to the neighborhood. These are incorporated into municipal development approvals.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Community Clean Up Projects Helping Individuals
I would love to start a community based program where we help other residents with their yard work or other projects. The people I would like to benefit
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Community Cultural Development: Where Arts and Civic Structure Interact
Solid community cultural development practice both promotes traditional arts while using their shared meanings and experiences to strengthen social capital.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Community Development Banks Lend to Lower Income Clients
Learn how community development banks offer targeted lending and financial services in low to moderate-income areas.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Community Development Corporation Approval by United Nations
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I have had a CDC since 2014. Are Community Development Corporations registered and/or approved by the United
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Community Development Corporation Questions Abound; Here Are Some Answers
Community development corporations raise many questions about transparency and accountability. This page is a gateway to asking them.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Community Development Evaluation Needed in Your Organization
Community development evaluation can energize your organization in new directions as you suddenly see your next challenge come into focus.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Community Development Grant Narratives Must Be Specific and Carefully Written
To strengthen your community development grant narratives, you must engage both the heart and the brain if you want to receive funding for your non-profit.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Community Development tradeoffs
Visitor Question: What happens when conflicts arise between the policy makers and some of the community members, such as the community thinking jobs is
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Community dinners as community engagement
What about having some community dinners as a way of having community engagement? We are a small community of mostly farm families with a couple of small
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Community Improvement Projects Boost Enthuasism
Community improvement projects succeed when you know how to plan them realistically and anticipate what is needed to pull them off. Here are some tips.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Community Mental Health Approaches Could Reduce Homelessness, Some Types of Crime
We advocate for more focused local attention to community mental health to deal with crime, homelessness, substance abuse, and more.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Community Organizations Are Vital Forces for Change
Learn how to form temporary or permanent community organizations to tackle a problem or situation in your community. The trick is focus on achievable goals, not trivia.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Community Policing Could Be Important for Your Neighborhood?
If you understand potential benefits and pitfalls of community policing, you can push your city toward better crime prevention performance.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Complete Streets Encourage More Transportation Options
Complete streets shift the emphasis from speeding cars to making roads safe for transit, pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs, and other users equal in priority.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Comprehensive Plan Contents Need to Reflect Community Character
Comprehensive plan contents should be flexible enough to respond to community uniqueness. This is true even when state law requires certain elements.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Concentration of Poverty Leads to Poor Outcomes
Making a dent in the concentration of poverty improves neighborhoods, interrupts intergenerational low-income patterns, and helps children thrive. Start today.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Conditional Use Permit Did Not State Hours of Operation
Visitor Question: There is a building that is on property that is zoned residential and is surrounded by residentially zoned property. The city does not
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Condo Complex in a PUD Zone
Visitor Question: Good Morning, I am an Appraiser working on an assignment within a condominium complex that is located in a zoned PUD district. The condo
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Condo Conversion Zoning and Subdivision
Condo conversion zoning or alternate approval process should focus on both good development practice and preventing displacement to the extent possible.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Conflict about whether we should be upscale or down to earth
Visitor Question: The weather is warming up here, and so is the temperature of our neighborhood disputes. It seems like everyone is angry about something,
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Conflict Resolution in and for Neighborhood Associations
This page explores conflict resolution for neighborhood associations, which benefits both the organization and the entire community.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Confronting the Causes of Urban Sprawl
Causes of urban sprawl include an appetite for larger private houses and insensitivity to the consequences. Weak regional controls add to the problem.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Conservation Easements Are Practical Preservation Tools
Learn how to use conservation easements to preserve open space, slow climate change, and curb urban sprawl, water pollution, and species extinction.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Consider Street Closures to Allow Other Public Uses and Meet Multiple Objectives
Street closures to allow plazas, outdoor dining, and even green space may seem radical, but you can experiment with pop-ups first to see if you like it.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Consistent Small Town Character Helpful
Small town character requires the hard work of blending historic appearance with a homemade mix of new shops, homes, artwork, and programming.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Construction business operating in residential area
Visitor Question: Is a construction business with trucks, boats, and earth moving equipment allowed in a quiet residential neighborhood? Editors Reply:
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Control Building Setbacks for Better Urban Design
Learn how building setbacks create and reinforce the character of a neighborhood, whether residential or commercial. See our commercial district examples.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Converting a storefront into a church
Visitor Question: I have a building with four addresses, 2133-2135-2137-2139 W. Manchester Ave. I want to convert 2139 into a small church. What are the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Could Residents and Landlords Collaborate to Plant Shrubs
Visitor Question: My city has no requirement for shrubs on residential properties, and rental properties often have none. At least one block in my neighborhood
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Counseling Business in a Residence
Visitor Question: My neighborhood is zoned R1-8. A neighbor moved in across the street and is conducting counseling (individual and group) out of the home.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Court Monitoring Can Expand Neighborhood Influence and Sense of Control
Court monitoring programs allow neighborhood residents to influence sentencing, present impact statements, and work to restore wholeness for victims.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Covenant Protecting Mountain View
Visitor Question: I have owned my property for 15 years. We have a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains. The original owner of my property owned 10 acres
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Covenants Not Listed on My Deed
Visitor Asks: I am trying to understand how CC & R's that were provided to me when I purchased my home can be enforced if they are not listed on my Deed?
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Covenants Require Approval But Do Not Set Up an HOA
Visitor Question: Hi - I'm considering buying a lot in a development. The deed restrictions state that if lot owners want to put up structures including
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions Expired
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: We moved to our neighborhood in Florida in 2012 and were told we are in a Deed Restricted community. Title Insurance
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
CPTED Crime Approach Favors Certain Types of Building, Landscape, and Street Design
The theory of CPTED, also known as environmental crime prevention, emphasizes fighting crime by using design principles. We say where we agree or disagree.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Create a Parklet to Add New Interest to a Street
A parklet transforms parking spaces into a sidewalk extension to provide seating, greenery, and perhaps cafe space. Find out how and when to create one.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Creative Ways for Park Clean Up!
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Website Visitor Wrote: Too many people visit parks and other outdoor locations and do not practice a leave no trace philosophy.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Crime Prevention Stems from Community Cooperation
Crime prevention is central to success in many neighborhoods. Learn the best ways to organize neighborhood watch and traffic calming.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Criminals in your neighborhood
Visitor Question:> How can you deal with criminals in your neighborhood? My neighborhood is being terrorized by a relatively few bad buys (and one bad
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction Based on Race
Visitor Question: If you have a deed restriction based on race would it be A. Voidable but the conveyance is still valid Or B. Void but the deed is
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction Enforcement Without HOA Management
Last Updated: August 7, 2020 Visitor's Question: I have a buyer who is interested in purchasing a home in a neighborhood with 2006 deed restrictions and
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed restriction for veterans only
Visitor Question: Is it possible to create a deed restriction to allow only veterans or people living with (married to or children of) veterans? Editors
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction Just Became Known After Six Years
Visitor Question: What if a two acre piece of land was purchased, and the seller and the title company stated the land had restrictions. Also on the land
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction on Property Deceased Relative Once Owned
Visitor Question: Someone contacted me about an old deed restriction on a property no longer owned by my grandfather, who passed away many years ago. The
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction Requires 30 Foot Setback
Visitor Question: A deed restriction on a particular lot recorded in the 30-s provides for a 30 foot setback. All homes on the street are built and have
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restriction Setbacks Stricter Than County
Visitor Question: Are front, rear, and side lot setbacks enforceable if deed restrictions are stricter than county rules? Editors' Reply: Yes indeed,
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Deed Restrictions and Covenants May Regulate Land Use, Aesthetics
Deed restrictions, covenants, or CC&Rs can become a major headache for both home buyers and communities.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restrictions Contradictory and Not Being Enforced
Visitor Question: Our Deed restrictions were written by the developer for lots consisting on no less than 5 acres in a rural area (zoned agriculture).
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed restrictions imposed for city code violations
Visitor Question: What authority does a city have to require a code offender to agree to a new deed with onerous restrictions and for how long? Editors
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restrictions Next Door Being Violated
Visitor Question: My neighbor and I have the same deed restrictions. (1) Restrictions say no business is allowed. However, he operates and they advertise
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restrictions on Parking on Street
Visitor Question: I have lived in our home for 18+ years not knowing there were deed restrictions about parking cars on street in front of a home. The
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Deed Restrictions Requiring Residency
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood organization (not an HOA) has sold some property with a deed restriction requiring that the owner either maintain a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Definition of a live work unit
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I was listening to planning and zoning the other night. One of the board members was arguing that live-work
Guide · Community development basics
Definition of Community Development Can Be Broad
Our definition of community development emphasizes capacity to respond to physical, social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Definition of Economic Development Corporation
Visitor Question: What is an economic development corporation? Is that the same thing as a community development corporation? Editors Say: Generally
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Definition of Urban Sprawl Relates to Urban Land Use
A definition of urban sprawl, explanation and definition of sprawl in smaller towns, and statistics and charts start to tell the story all about sprawl.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Demolition would cost town too much
Visitor Question: I am an elected official in a small rural town, where we have many demolition challenges. Our code enforcement officer has been active,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Denial of LED Sign
Visitor Question: Background: Our church council president recently went before the city planning commission to ask for 3 variances for a new LED messaging
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Density credit assignment
Visitor Question: I have been living in my home for 4 years. This lady shows up wanting me to sign some legal paperwork release of covenant and density
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Design Standards versus Performance Standards
Visitor Question: If design standards and performance standards appear in the same division of a development code, can both be used to bring a code violation
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Developer Extending Our Neighborhood
Note: When a developer proposes to extend a neighborhood and submits a plan that is quite different from the original subdivision proposal, all sorts
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Developer influencing vote on restrictive covenant
Visitor Question: A developer is trying to develop a golf course and green space which is protected by a restrictive covenant in the deed. We are soon
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Developer Revising Covenants
Visitor Question: We are in a subdivision of five lots. The developer sold the fifth lot to a charity that builds houses to donate to wounded veterans,
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Developer's Plan not filed
Visitor Question: I purchased a new home in a new seven-phase development, and in hindsight, I never received a Developer's Plan. And, to my dismay, no
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Developers plan approval
Visitor Question: Can a developer enforce restrictions that aren't deed recorded when approving a home plan for building? Editors Reply: We are sorry
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Difference between open space and preserve
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What is the difference between open space and a nature preserve? We have what the neighbors call a preserve
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Difference between regeneration and redevelopment
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: What's the difference between Regeneration and Redevelopment? Editors Reply: We have to imagine that you thought
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Difference between RPUD zoning and condominium zoning
Visitor Question: What is the difference between RPUD zoning and condominium zoning? Editors' Reply: RPUD commonly stands for Residential Planned Unit
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Diseases and Economic Development
How does the long term impact of different diseases affect economic development? Editors' Response: We will assume that you are writing from a developing
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Dissolved Village District; What's next?
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Our Village District, located in Campton,NH, was recently dissolved by the county. There was no longer any interest
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Do big streetscape projects bring maintenance headaches
Last Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm on the board of a business improvement district. Several of our board members want to see a major revamp
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Do Colorado HOA covenants ever run out and are major revisions allowed
Publish Date: June 19, 2024 Visitor Question: We live in an HOA whose covenants date back to 1977. In the covenants it states that they run with the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Do housing codes violate civil rights
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: It seems like many housing codes are very restrictive about what my neighbors and me can and cannot do on
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Do I follow original deed restrictions or all future changes too
Visitor Question: I just want to know if I have to follow and obey all deed restrictions and bylaws that I originally signed with my deed OR all the ones
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Do I need a permit to start using my house as a church?
Visitor Question: My city has planning and building departments and Conditional Use Permits. Do I need a conditional use permit to start using my residential
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Do our deed restrictions supersede a spot zoning
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: My neighbor has received a spot zoning change based on the fact that his converted garage was used as a rental
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Do You Live in a Smart City?
Smart city technologies could usher in better city planning through fast and effective prediction capabilities.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Does a CDC have to post public notices
Visitor Question: In the last year or so, a so-called CDC, a community development corporation, has been formed to work in and near the neighborhood where
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Does a foreclosure void a deed?
Visitor Question: It looks like a friend of mine is headed toward foreclosure. He hasn't been able to pay his mortgage regularly since this epidemic began
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Does approved site plan have to conform with new zoning code
Visitor Question: A storage facility submitted a site plan in 1996. They are going to erect the final building this year, 2019. We are being told that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Does church-related school require a conditional use permit
Visitor Question: Our church is currently zoned institutional and has been operating for over 50 years. We would like to add a small private school but
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Does civil rights violation make all covenants void
Visitor Question: Do all covenants become void if one covenant is now illegal? The City Council is telling me that since our documents still have the Caucasian
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Does Foreclosure Erase Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: If a piece of undeveloped rural property had deed restrictions placed on it and was then foreclosed on and later re-sold, are the deed
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Down Town Vacant Lot Clean Up
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in Detroit Michigan and we have different groups of volunteers to try and clean the streets of Detroit.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Down zone of property without notice
Visitor Question: Must a landowner be personally notified that his property is being Down-zoned? I bought two parcels of property totaling about 120 acres
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Downtown Redevelopment Needs Government, Business
To jump-start an aging town center, a plan, organizational structure, realistic expectations, and plenty of patience are required. Here are the major tenets of downtown redevelopment.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
E-Waste Recycling Needs A Combination of Local, Corporate Programs
More e-waste recycling would retrieve valuable metals and recyclable plastic and glass from electronics, but also keep heavy metals out of landfills.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Eco City
Last Reviewed: June 19, 2024 Visitor Writes: I've had this concept floating around my head for some time. It's really a half dozen of the 'Sustainable
Guide · Economic & rural development
Economic Development Incubator Helps Start-Ups
An economic development incubator provides local entrepreneurs with support, business advice, and shared facility economies. The goal is job creation.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Effects of Urban Sprawl: Costs, Health, Environment
Remedying the effects of urban sprawl could bring new urban core investment, more walkable communities, quality open space, and lower utility and public sector costs.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Elected officials and a CDC
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We have a CDC (community development corporation) in our city that has created a roadmap for the development
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Elected Officials and Ordinance Enforcement
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is it legal for the Mayor or city council member to enforce city ordinances but not obey them on their own properties?
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Emphasize Good Local Government Relations
A program of positive local government relations helps neighborhoods or community organizations increase the likelihood of a responsive city hall. Here’s how.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Empowering illiterate women
Visitor Asks: Why is everything about the youth? What about those women that are encouraged to study further, if after that we are not going to give them
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Empty parking lot at a big strip center
Visitor Question: When you stop and look at it, a huge strip center near my house is really ugly. Mostly my husband and I don't pay attention, but one
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Enacting An Existing Building Code Helps, But You May Need More
A standard existing building code is a very useful addition that allows alternatives to new construction standards for older buildings.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Encourage young entrepreneurs
I'm a chamber of commerce director in a small city. We have a couple of twenty-somethings who have written successful apps for the iPhone. I met one at
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Enforcing Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions
Visitor Question: How do you enforce a subdivision's Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions absent a Homeowners' Association? Editors Reply: If there
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Engaging Communities for Development
Visitor Question: How do you engage communities in development? Editors Reply: Since you are writing from Africa, we will do our best to answer in that
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Entrepreneurs Can Use the HUB Zone in Urban Core Areas
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Visitor Comment: A really cool tool for businesses in the 'hood is the HUB zone program, which the U.S. Small Business Administration
Guide · Economic & rural development
Entrepreneurship Support Promotes Job Creation
Communities should cultivate entrepreneurship support to help start-ups as a major economic development strategy. Locally grown businesses are likely to stay.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Environmental impact of large reflective solar panels
Visitor Question: Currently the world is trying to move away from conventional sources of energy. For that, a better option seems to be solar energy. The
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Environmental Justice Is A Matter of Fair Distribution
Learn how neighborhoods, planning commissions, and communities can further environmental justice among economic, racial, and ethnic groups.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Essential Steps in Strategic Planning for Communities
Visitor Question: What are the most important steps in a strategic planning process for a community? Is it necessary to do a SWOT analysis? Editors'
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Establishing a new location for church
Visitor Question: Does a proposed church location have to be a certain number of feet away from a bar/strip club? Editors Reply: We cannot give you a
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Excavations next door
Visitor Question: We purchased our property and moved in one year ago. Although there is no active HOA, there are CCRs that do run with the land. The
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Excessive regulation of boat docks
Visitor Question: Our dock (considered as one) has two hoists on it. We have been using it this way since we've lived here (20 plus years). Now, our City
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Existing barn and application of deed restriction
Visitor Question: We’re in Texas. We owned a home and a property across the street from the home for 19 years, and built a 2400 square foot barn across
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Existing Businesses in an Incorporation
Visitor Question: Our City incorporated in 2008. Many Rural Home Businesses had operated from home successfully for more than forty years. The home business
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Expired covenants and no HOA
Visitor Question: Our rural Colorado subdivision let the HOA expire after 20 years in 2000. But the covenants are still publicly recorded. How do these
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Exploring the Definition of Sustainable Development
The definition of sustainable development can be applied at the town or neighborhood scale.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Family reunion rental in single-family zoning?
Visitor Question: A 17,000 square foot home is under construction as a single family residence in our quiet residential area. It has come to our attention
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Fear for the future of our small rural village
What is a sustainable future for a small village of 3,500 that is primarily estate lots, agricultural land and forest and located just 15 minutes from
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Fear of Rural Zoning Shouldn't Prevent Planning
In many states, the idea of rural zoning would stir up controversy overnight. And perhaps rightfully so. It's more important to decide which aspects of agricultural heritage to preserve.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Federal funding equity for communities of color
Visitor Question: What types of grassroots community advocacy are effective to assure that federal funds to cities and states are equitably distributed
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Feel harassed by code enforcement officer
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I was given a code violation for graffiti on my fence. Every year I have had to correct this. This year in around
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Felt needs community development theory
Visitor Question: What is felt needs theory in community development? Editors Reply: Felt needs is an idea about a change that is considered necessary
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Fewer homeowners and tenants are keeping up homes
Visitor Question: I live in Spokane, WA. I am new here and find this city has a lot of people who are neglecting their landscapes and houses in once very
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Fighting Hotel Zoning
Visitor Question: My neighborhood has changed considerably over the years. I live in a residential community that allows hotels; however, there is only
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
File a Neighborhood Complaint
Visitor Question: How does one go about filing a neighborhood complaint? My wife and I live in a medium-sized city in a nice neighborhood. Most of the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Filing a Deed Restriction
Visitor Question: Can an individual homeowner file his own Deed Restriction or is it always necessary to have a lawyer do it? I was under the impression
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Finding a Manufacturer of small community event artifacts?
I was recently asked to serve as a volunteer on the Recreation Advisory Board (5 board members) in our small rural community of 1900 people. Someone came
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Five Big Ideas for Sister Cities
Here we explore the five big ideas for sister cities, pairs of towns across international boundaries agreeing to myriad types of exchanges.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Flag violates deed restrictions
Visitor Question: We live in a development that has deed restrictions and community standards. Isn't that their job to enforce the restrictions and standards?
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Flood Prevention Basics for Communities: What Can You Control?
True flood prevention relies on a watershed approach. In the meantime, this page explains terms and suggests effective local steps to reduce damage.
Guide · Community development basics
Following Community Development Principles Can Lead to Progress
Explore three key community development principles: creating distinctive places, critical mass in development and programming, and diversified community appeal.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
For sale sign in motor coach
Visitor Asks: We live in a deed restricted community in Citrus County. We are allowed to store our motorhome on the lot. I have a for sale sign in the
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Formerly Boarded Up House Found New Life
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Editors Note: We had to change our site visitor's original title for this piece, due to some technicalities about the way
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Funds to fix up an abandoned house
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Visitor Question: We found an abandoned house that's in not too bad of shape. The former owners left quite a bit of junk.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Garage violates deed restriction
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: We have a neighbor that is putting up a huge garage on a property that has a deed restriction. He received a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas station and historical property
Visitor Question: Hi. Can I sue my city for disregarding their own ordinance about gas stations too close to homes and in view of an historical landmark?
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas station in residential area
Visitor Question: I've seen that in residential areas where a gas station is near neighborhood homes, the gas station causes problems of daily living.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas Station Next to My House
Visitor Says: Hi my name is Yanci Arreola. I've lived in Safford AZ for 3 years. About 2 years ago we had a realtor come up to us trying to buy our property.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Give a Neighborhood Tour To Increase Awareness or Even Raise Money
Organizing a neighborhood tour is no small feat. Depending on your goal for the tour, we give you some pointers.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Good Annexation Policy Leads to Rational Service Boundaries and City Planning
Annexation may be a tool to reduce the likelihood of future blight, to bring zoning and subdivision regulation consistency throughout a growing urban area, and to help control sprawl and random growth. This article includes a sample…
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Government Housing Assistance Overview
Learn how each major government housing assistance program can help you find solutions for your community.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Grandfather Clause Permitting Outdoor Storage of Fertilizers
Visitor Question: The business next to mine is claiming they can store Milorganite, fertilizers and the like outside under tarps because of a grandfather
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Grandfathered deed restrictions
Visitor Question: There is a 450 square foot home in a neighborhood where the homeowners association (HOA) just updated deeded restrictions on house size
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Grandfathered housing development zoning
Visitor Question: Does the owner have any legal problems if his density is more than the R-3 zoning? The owner wants to rezone his property to R-4 to match
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Grandfathered Zoning
Visitor Question: I bought a house that is ten feet from the south side property line and is angled to the north. This allows room to add a detached garage
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Green Communities Address Livability, Climate Change
Green communities contribute to sustainability by addressing climate change impacts, energy savings, water pollution, transportation, and development patterns.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Green Home Construction Provides Lasting, Pretty Housing
If you can’t find an existing home to meet your needs, learn about the many emerging green home construction options are available.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Halloween Carnival: One of the Best Street Parties
For the past 3 years we have done a neighborhood Halloween carnival. Games are set up with small prizes. You can sell tickets to play the games. Food and
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Handling Homelessness, Both Occasional and Chronic
Improve neighborhood image and help people reclaim their lives by understanding more about homelessness. Learn how to help individuals and improve systems.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Hazardous tree
Visitor Question: My neighbor has a hazardous water oak tree that is over 100 years old that is 15 feet from my small house. I paid for two separate certified
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Healthy Tree Canopy Offers Aesthetic, Health, and Social Benefits
Planting and maintaining a high-quality tree canopy, both on public and private property, enhances air and water quality but also provides social benefits.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Heir Property Owners Need Clear Title
Heir property is common in some American neighborhoods. When a person dies without a will, heirs probably lack clear title. Houses in limbo harm neighborhoods.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Helping Neighborhood Associations Thrive
Neighborhood associations solve problems while building a sense of community. Plus they are just plain fun if leaders provide a hospitable space. Learn how.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
High Cost of Flood Insurance Is Ruining Our Neighborhood
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: The cost of flood insurance has just about tripled in the last year around where I live. We did have a destructive
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
High taxes but no traffic or code enforcement
Visitor Question: Why does the intersection of Fleetwood Avenue and Gramatan Avenue not have a traffic sign? Cars speed up that road and NEVER stop at
Guide · Economic & rural development
Higher Education and Economic Development Complement One Another
A community can rev up the links between higher education and economic development. Here are some ideas about how.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA board getting too powerful
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: What is the best way to campaign for being elected to my HOA board? I think the board we have now is making
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA inconsistent on setback
Visitor Question: As we are about to start building in a neighborhood with 60 year old restrictions, a new POA (property owners association) has been formed.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA jurisdiction over backyard
Visitor Question: The Board Members of my HOA (home owners association) say they have no jurisdiction over people’s back yards. A neighbor had a junk yard
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA Restriction Requiring a Golf Course
Visitor's Question: I live in Michigan in a community covered by an HOA and a restriction agreement. The property was developed in 1956 to include 400
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA Review of Window Replacement
Visitor Question: I live in an HOA with deed restrictions in Florida. We have one Master Association with rules that we have to abide by. Our Master Association
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
HOA versus basketball goal
Visitor Questions: Q1. How can I get a provision for basketball goals changed from the deed? I asked my HOA and they told me they didn't know! Q2. I heard
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Holiday decorations stay up too long
Visitor Question: We have a problem in our smaller city with people leaving their holiday decorations up for way too long. For example, as I am writing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Home church with sail sign
Visitor Question: I have a neighbor that is holding church services in their home on Sundays, but now they have a large sign that looks like a sail advertising
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Home Occupation Zoning - Getting Neighborhood Support
Visitor Question: I am interested in amending the Residential Zoning code of our village to allow home-based businesses. I have a personal feeling that
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Homeless Person Unable to Save for Permanent Housing
Visitor Question: I am a homeless recovering addict that is bettering my life, but do not even know where to begin in my search for housing. I am currently
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Homeowners rights with code enforcement
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in North Miami and I have this code officer harassing me because of a code violation report to them by
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
House Exempted from HOA
Visitor Asks: Hello, I just bought a house in a subdivision with an HOA (homeowners association). The owner told me the house is not a part of the HOA
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Housing Affordability Requires Community Resolve
Housing affordability, where rents and home buying costs match wages, is a moral obligation. Equity will come when all communities show a healthy income mix.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Housing Decline Needs Quick Neighborhood Attention
Leaders can’t neglect housing decline or allow property owners to postpone maintenance.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Housing help for people on disability
Visitor Question: Does the government help single moms that are disabled get a HUD home? Editors' Answer: Most likely the fact that you're a single mom
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How A Faith Based Community Development Corporation Differs from Other CDCs
Faith based community development corporations usually operate similarly to other CDCs, but often have a different vision, mission, and ethics lens.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How a neighborhood association can build a coalition
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood association does not seem to be getting very far with city hall. We want them to pay more attention to our issues. Some
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
How can a city create a CDC?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm interested in having our city create a community development corporation for a part of our community that
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How can a community improve a neighborhood
Visitor Question: What are some ways in which a community can get involved in improving a neighborhood? Editors' Reply: Juan, you ask a question we just
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How can we discourage groups of teenagers in the mall?
Visitor Question: We have too many big groups of teenagers traveling in packs in our shopping mall. They are loud, they run over old ladies, and they
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
How Can We Get Young People Interested in Voting?
Visitor Question: Our little suburb has been plagued with some terrible elected city council people for several years now. Every time there is an election
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How Can We Prevent Catastrophic Flooding?
Visitor Question: I'm finding what happened in Asheville, North Carolina in Hurricane Helene to be truly horrifying. As a minor official in my home community,
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How can we reduce minor traffic accidents in the neighborhood?
Visitor Question: The craziest thing is happening around here. In the last couple of years we are having way too many fender benders in our neighborhood.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How community can evaluate their parks
Visitor Question: We need to know what to look for when evaluating our neighbourhood parks? What should we look for. Editors' Reply: We think neighborhood
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How do you give a neighborhood character?
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood seems plain. What can we do about it? Editors' Reply: We elaborate on both neighborhood character and small town character
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How do you shop around for green technology and energy savings?
I am curious to hear how people who visit this site go about finding the right company to work with for embracing renewable energy sources (solar, wind,
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How does the capital magnet fund work?
Published: July 5, 2024 Visitor Question: I am new on the board of a fairly large nonprofit community development and housing organization. At our recent
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How does zoning pertain to condos?
Visitor Question: I am wondering whether the zoning law covers our condos. If so, how does that work? It seems like my large community is sort of self-governing,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How far can the city go in forcing citizens to obey codes?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Our city is really gonzo about forcing citizens to keep their property code worthy. Every person up and down
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How Far from Property Line Should Trees Be
Visitor Question: How far from someone's property line does someone have to be in order to plant large growing trees? Editors Reply: In most places, the
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How Form-Based Code Differs from Traditional Zoning
A form-based code replaces all or part of a zoning ordinance with standards defining scale, mass, and placement of buildings instead of rigid land use classes.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How HOA Can Enforce Covenants
Visitor Question: I'm under contract to purchase a property in a gated community that has an HOA (homeowners association) and have actually read all 42
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How is community development a process
Visitor Question: Someone recently commented to me that community development is a process and that I need to be patient. I find that frustrating because
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How is neighborhood stability related to personal health
March 20, 2025 Visitor Question: Lately our city has been making a lot of noise about how come our black residents don't have as good of health outcomes
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
How Long a New CDC Will Need Grants for Operations
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: How long should a foundation expect to provide operating support for a new CDC? Is there research on the average
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How many people can legally attend a residential fellowship
Visitor Question: Hi, I am curious as to how many people can attend a residential fellowship. There are no monetary offerings, but we do host a church
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How Neighborhood Demographics Affect Housing and Service Needs
Understanding neighborhood demographics trends over time helps communities see where they’re headed, and then figure out strategies to reach the desired future.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How often do cities update their zoning maps
Visitor Question: Is there some sort of schedule when cities are required to update their zoning maps? It seems like the zoning gets applied here, and
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How Power Mapping for Neighborhoods Can Be Helpful
We explain power mapping for neighborhoods, including when, why, and how to use this tool to help your community reach policy objectives.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How registering empty properties helps curb appeal
Visitor Question: Our community has a number of abandoned and dilapidated buildings that need to be taken down or repaired. Please tell me about the article
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How rezoning affects property value
Visitor Question: I currently live in a subdivision that is divided into 5 acre tracts and zoned as rural residential. Currently a rezoning R-1 has been
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to Abolish Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: In 1968 the subdivision that I live in filed a Declaration of Restrictions. In the restrictions it states, Restrictions shall be automatically
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to add deed restrictions
Visitor Question: How can we add restrictions? Editors Reply: Generally speaking, the process should be deciding exactly what you think you want to add,
Guide · Economic & rural development
How to Approach Commercial Corridor Redevelopment
Commercial corridor redevelopment along major roads and highways improves a community's image and increases the likelihood of business success.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to Be Sure House Not Covered by Restrictions
Visitor Question: The house I am buying is the only house built on estate land. The owner of the house bought this lot and another 24 acres of land from
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How to become an urban planning consultant
Visitor Question:How does one go about becoming an urban planning consultant? Are there any educational or licensing requirements? Editors' Reply: We
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to Change Covenants
Visitor Question: We live in an enclave of 8 homes with a loosely created covenant system from 1995 when the homes were built. Many of the covenants are
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to convert commercial property to residential
Visitor Question: A friend of mine owns a building that is currently considered commercial property and wants to change it to residential. The land itself
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How to deal with a business that is never open
Visitor Question: We are a little township still with 3,000 people in Crockett, Ca.94525 (bay area). There is a business name removed in the center of
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How to establish a historical designation of your neighborhood
Visitor Question: In searching for ways to improve established neighborhoods - would it be possible to call a neighborhood historic if it was only started
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Fight City Hall, or a Village or Town Board
Learning how to fight city hall is a skill that community organizations must master. Respectfully challenge local government with both facts and emotion.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Fundraise for Your Neighborhood Organization
Discovering how to fundraise for a neighborhood association while having fun together and supporting your mission will keep your group strong.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Get City to Enforce Ordinance
Visitor Question: The City where I live has a definite zoning ordinance (Code 82.15) that states commercial vehicles are not to be parked in residential
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to get more fixed income housing built
Visitor Question: My mom, Edith Metzger Booser, organized a team in Middletown PA which succeeded in changing a junk yard into a lovely high-rise apartment
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to get our city to condemn an empty building
Visitor Question: I live in a very rural town in North Eastern Washington State. There is nothing for the children (or adults) to do. We have found the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to get our city to fix the sidewalks
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: One of the best virtues of my hometown is that it is very easy to walk to stores, restaurants, bars, and all
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
How to get people interested in our neighborhood plan
Posted: September 29, 2024 Visitor Question: Several of us who are very active in our neighborhood association have finally managed to convince the city
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How to get rid of a bad planning commissioner
Visitor Question: One person on our city plan commission is just perpetually unprepared for the meeting and uninformed. She comes up with some of the stupidest
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to grandfather a room addition
Visitor Question: How do you grandfather an add-on to a house? I recently bought a house that had a patio enclosed without permits. Not knowing, I let
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to grandfather a room addition
Visitor Question: I bought my house in 1980. It has 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Recently someone reported to the city that I had people living in my garage.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Justify Rezoning My Home to Commercial
Visitor Question: I am trying to sell my home, but I want to rezone to commercial because of my location. I am surrounded by business. Both neighbors are
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Object to Neighbor's Variance
Visitor Question: I live in a condo and my building got a use variance to build to full lot coverage in 2005. My condo is in the residential zone (R-1)
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Organize a Neighborhood Parade Without Irritating Lots of People
Understanding how to organize a neighborhood parade will save you lots of aggravation. We share our experience about what you need to consider.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Organize Re-Zoning Opposition
Re-zoning opposition is more effective if you have some tools besides your anger. Learn how the process works.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Organize Your Neighborhood Association Structure
Figuring out how to organize your neighborhood association may take several meetings. This discussion will flow naturally into your legal structure and bylaws.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to own an abandoned house
Visitor Question: If you can't afford an abandoned house and it's an eye sore to the block how can you purchase the house or assume ownership? Editors'
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
How to Plan a Successful Community Mural Project
Learn the steps for painting a successful community mural. If you avoid pitfalls, this project can initiate revitalization or reinforce neighborhood identity.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Plead My Case on a Re-zoning
Visitor Question: There are 7 property owners with 8 lots in our subdivision (we are all on 6-8 acre lots). One of the property owners wants to develop
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How to regulate food trucks
Visitor Question: I am on the City Council in a nice suburban community with some office parks. Recently food trucks have been parking at lunch time outside
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How to remove a 30 year old deed restriction
Visitor Question: The deed restriction prohibiting commercial development on property I bought in 1993 seems to no longer apply and appears to be an unfair
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
How to renew interest in a neighborhood association
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood used to have a very active neighborhood association, and I think we need to have one again. The incorporation papers
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to rezone residential property for more units
Visitor Question: I have property which includes three rentals. The buildings are very old. I would like to tear them down and build 4-5 small efficiency
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
How to Select an Economic Development Project
Visitor Asks: What are the secrets to figuring out a good economic development project for my city? We need the jobs and shopping. Editors Reply You're
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Start a Neighborhood Association: First Steps
When you decide to start a neighborhood association, give the community a picture of what the membership of such a group might accomplish.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
How to Start a Petition That Will Make the Right Impact
This page gives 7 tips on how to start a petition and reveals 5 techniques to avoid.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to stop a variance
Visitor Question: My town has been underhanded about a piece of property that the Catholic Church owns and now wants to profit off this land by building
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to stop construction of a three story building
Visitor Question: How does a town stop the construction of a three-story building? Currently, the first request by the applicant to the town was denied,
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
How to Tame Big Box Stores If You Can't Ban Them
Negative impacts of big box stores, such as large warehouse stores or other giant retail spaces, can be blended into the cityscape through good design.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How To Understand Land Use Zoning and Codes Aimed at Health, Safety, Welfare
Land use zoning and other codes are locally enacted to create health, safety, positive environments, and general community order.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
How will we know when we have enough affordable housing
Visitor Question:I'm an elected city councilperson in a smallish suburb; I'm in my first term in office. We have some people complaining about not enough
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How Zoning Regulations Work
Key concepts, conventions, definitions, and terms important to interpreting zoning regulations and principles are explained. The basis of the code in land use planning is stressed.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Huge increase in condo fees
March 15, 2025 Visitor Question: Our COA has recently raised our assessment drastically. We have been used to paying $104 per month, with a small discount
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Ideal composition of a CDC board of directors
Visitor Question: We are trying to start a new CDC to help us dig out of the urban mess in our neighborhood. The three of us who are working the hardest
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Ideal Neighborhood Character Blends Order, Uniqueness
If you work to improve the thirteen most important factors in neighborhood character, your community will be unstoppable.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Ideal vision of rural development
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: What is the ideal vision of rural development? We are having an uproar here about what it means to stay rural,
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Illegal Dumping: A (not) Love Story
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Website Visitor Writes: Having the unfortunate duties of looking over trash from a municipal aspect involves a lot of difficult
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Illegal Fence Disagreement
Visitor Question:I purchased a single family home last year with one acre. The home borders 13 acres of open fields that went with the house before the
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Illegal Spot Zoning and Illegal Use of Land
Visitor Question: In 2017, the son of a township board member lived on property that was zoned A-1 Agricultural, which is one of the four Residential types
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Impact of developer out of business on deed restrictions
Visitor Question: If the original incorporation, that established a deed restriction when it sold off land to new buyers years ago, has been shut down
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Impact of drilling large wells on neighboring properties
Our township has just rezoned a rural area to allow high-density residential for an area where existing home are on acre lots. All of our wells are fed
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Importance of Community Beautification
Why is community beautification important? Editors Reply: If the street, public area between the street and the private property line, and all of the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Improper Notification of Zoning Variance
Visitor Question: My question is about a zoning variance. In this town you must notify all neighboring properties within 150 feet. One neighboring property
Guide · Housing & revitalization
In Small Towns, Rural Areas, and Large Vacant Land Parcels, Try Cluster Housing
Cluster housing groups homes into a cost-effective conservation subdivision that preserves open space.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Incentive Zoning as a Tool for Public Purposes
This page describes applications of the incentive zoning technique, in which zoning requirements are lessened as a trade-off for specified public benefits.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Inclusionary Zoning Keeps Housing Costs Down
Inclusionary zoning means assuring that the local zoning ordinance is flexible enough to allow production of new below-market-rate housing.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Indigenous Culture and Community Development
How would you apply the concepts of indigenous culture to community development? Editors Reply: Thanks for that question. First, let's define indigenous
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Indoor Sprinkler System Required in Covenants
Visitor Question: I recently purchased a complete subdivision in Idaho. On the cc's&r it states each facility must have an indoor sprinkler system. The
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Industrial Wind Turbines in R1 District
Visitor Question: Penn Forest Township is a rural municipality in Carbon County, PA. Two applications were submitted seeking to erect 30+ wind turbines
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Infill Housing Increases Neighborhood Vitality
Infill housing replaces vacant lots with scattered new construction. It improves the look of the block, uses existing utilities, and builds market for retail.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Infrastructure and Subdivisions
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Does the infrastructure have to be installed before lots can be sold in a subdivision? Editor's Reply: The answer
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Innovative Ideas to Unite a Community
Visitor Question: Our community has become really divided. We had a political scandal involving very bad behavior by our mayor. He was forced to resign,
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Innovative New City Hall Complex Re-Uses Agricultural Buildings
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website Visitor Wrote: The new Hutto, Texas, City Hall will recycle a former cotton gin and grain silos in a green design that
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Invest in City Hall or other land uses
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: When you have 60 acres empty in the middle of town, does it make sense to invest in the city hall over housing?
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Involvement Is Still Everything
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website Visitor Says: We blogged, we texted, we e-mailed, we animated on our Web site. Still we had 9 people show up at our meeting
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Is a church parking lot a common area
Visitor Question: Our condo association wanted to have an event on a large church parking lot that is really central to our residents. The church refused.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Is a gate a fence
Visitor Question: We purchased a one acre home lot. In our deed it states no fence across the 20' pipeline easement on the back of my property. If a 20'
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Is business community development consultant a good option
Visitor Question: Hi there. I have completed my degree in community development studies some 4 years back. However I have not managed as yet to find suitable
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Is code enforcement required to provide translation
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is code enforcement required to provide translation of violations? Code enforcement took $470 from my friend
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Is downtown ideal for a recreational facility?
Visitor Question: The City Council of my community (population 12,500) has purchased a long- abandoned building and parking structure, which occupied almost
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Is it legal for town to buy vacant building
Is it legal for a town or city to purchase a vacant building within its city limits, or do they need to form a committee to make this purchase? Editors'
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Is There a List of Current CDCs
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Is there a list of current CDCs? A central registry? How do I find out whether the need I want to address is
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Is Urban Sprawl a Problem
Visitor Question: Do you consider this a problem? Why or why not? What are you doing to help solve or prevent this problem? Do you have any suggestions
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Junk yard in the city limits
Visitor Question: I'm just at the end of my rope trying to figure out what to do about a junk yard that is down the street from me. It isn't a surprise
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Kennedy Gardens Neighborhood in Action
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 The neighborhood involvement and participation for the past several years has been outstanding. Editors Reply: Wow, Javier, thanks
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Kennel Preventing Occupancy Permit Issuance
Visitor Question: I purchased an old house with two kennels built, ONE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE HOUSE AND ONE ADJACENT TO THAT BUILDING. It is zoned light industrial.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Lack of Enforced Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: A double wide mobile home was put on property that wasn't supposed to be there. It's been there for fifteen years and owned by two different
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Lack of Enforcement of Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: If Deed Restrictions have not been enforced, do they lose their validity in California. There is no HOA; it is simply a height of a
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Subsidence Needs to Become a City Planning Issue
Land subsidence, the term for sudden or gradual sinking, is a community planning issue. Development approvals can lead to dewatering.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Classifications Can Vary With Your Needs
The land use classifications or categories for use in your city plan are not written in stone. Here are some ideas to help you decide what designations to use.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Planning Principles for Commissions, Boards, and Residents
Follow these land use planning principles to build an attractive, well-functioning community.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Planning Tips for Cities and Towns
Land use planning focuses on mapping enough land for each future community need. Explore mixing uses judiciously instead of segregating them.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Landmarks and city development
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Website Visitor Wrote: Are landmarks essential the city's development? What happens if a city seems to have few landmarks?
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Learning How to Promote Your Neighborhood: An Essential Skill
When you think hard about how to promote your neighborhood, take advantage of the many possible initiatives explored here.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Legal Problems Due to Starting Petition
Visitor Asks: What are the legal repercussions of starting a petition? Can I be sued if I start a petition against a rezoning for a certain development?
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Legislative Intent in Amending Zoning Code
Visitor Question: Is it necessary for a municipality to explicitly state its legislative intent when amending its zoning code? A municipality has indicated
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Let Them Eat Art street party
Let Them Eat Art, an apparently annual event in Maplewood, Missouri, an inner ring suburb of Saint Louis, is among the best street parties we've attended.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Let's Talk About Your Rural Development Question, Even If You Are In Denial
We answer your rural development question submitted on this page. What do you need to know about economic development, quality of life, or other subjects?.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Lifting deed restrictions on rural property
Visitor Question: I want to buy a piece of property in metes and bounds in the country. There are now three tracts: (1) 32 acres of woods, (2) 12 acres
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Limestone Heritage Festival -- Bedford, Indiana
Every year, Bedford Indiana is host to an awesome festival called the Limestone Heritage Festival. The entire weekend is filled with events for people
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Limit on Subdivision
Visitor Question: A deed states: ... the premises herein conveyed (can) not be subdivided or utilized for the purpose of multi-family dwelling(s)....
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Local Community Action Agencies Offer Poverty Aid
Community action agencies are private organizations relying on Community Service Block Grant funds to craft poverty programs. Learn how to evaluate them.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Local Design Guidelines Regulate Building Appearance
Local design guidelines are the most legally defensible way for local governments to regulate materials, colors, and other design choices for buildings.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Locating Vacant Properties and Owners
Visitor Question: HOW DO I LOCATE VACANT PROPERTIES AND THEIR OWNERS (IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA)? THANK YOU. Editors' Reply: We don't know of a foolproof way
Guide · Economic & rural development
Location Quotient Shows Local Economic Strengths
You can find the location quotient to compare a community's proportion of jobs in various economic sectors to state or national percentages.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Locked Out of Home in Probate
Visitor Question: My house is in probate, and the electric and water were turned off. I live in an old historic home. They won't allow me to live there
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Making Safe Parks for Everyone
A steady stream of happy users leads to safe parks. A clean and appealing landscape attracts visitors who will serve as your eyes on the park.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Making Small Cell Technology as Unobtrusive as Possible
Small cell technology supports broadband access and connectivity among devices and objects, bringing many community advantages, but the aesthetics are poor.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Making Urban Sprawl Solutions More Popular
Building an unlikely coalition to support urban sprawl solutions bolsters political will to avoid short-term thinking and embrace vibrant, cohesive metro areas.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Management company hired by HOA did not respond
Visitor Question: We purchased a new home with CCRs. We sent a certified letter to the HOA company asking for a waiver on the jet ski being parked in the
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Manufactured Housing: Solution or Problem?
Here is some help in deciding if manufactured housing, once called a mobile home or trailer, is an affordable hero or a blighting villain to the community.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Membership superstore to benefit the community
Visitor Question: I am from Pakistan, and I want to solve my community's problems. I want to open a superstore and have community people buy everything
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Minimum hours of operation in commercial zone
Visitor Question: I live in a town that has a lot of vacant buildings in the historic downtown core. It is zoned commercial but because rents are so low,
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Minor Grandchild Inherits Abandoned House
Visitor Question: My son has been deceased for two years. His daughter is a minor. The minor's mom is my deceased son's ex-wife. She (the ex-wife) first
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Mixed-Income Housing Leads to Vibrant Neighborhoods
A mixed-income housing stock increases equity and makes a neighborhood accessible to young and marginalized people, renews street life and energizes civic life.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Mixed-Use Development Delivers Multiple Community Benefits
Mixed-use development blends residential land uses with commercial and possibly office or institutional tenants. Learn how to maximize walkable environments.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Monitoring Community Development
Visitor Question: How do you monitor and evaluate a strategy for community development? Editors Reply: Thank you for a great question. We think that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
More Church Zoning Questions
At Useful Community Development we are receiving many questions about zoning for churches or church-related land uses. We already have answered several
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Most influential factors in neighborhood attachment
Visitor Question: An article about beatification said that beauty is one of the three most influential factors in neighborhood attachment. What are the
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Motivate Youths in Rural Communities
How can we motivate youths? Editors' Reply: Usually when adults ask how to motivate rural youth, or urban youth for that matter,they mean how can I motivate
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Moving into an Abandoned Home
Can you move into an abandoned home and assume the taxes and mortgage? It seems like a good way to make sure the houses that now are abandoned are getting
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Multiple CDC's
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is it possible to have 2 CDC's? If one just patronizes senior citizens and home owners. And the new one wants
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Multiple Gas Leaf Blowers
Visitor Question: What should you do when your quiet urban/suburban community allows landscaping services to operate two or more gas power blowers along
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Multiple undeveloped rural parcels in agriculture area, ag economy is CAFO
There are multiple parcels in the county (various sizes, 1-10 acres) platted in early 1980's. Since then, mega dairies have been built in the same zone
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Must heir sign to change deed restriction
Visitor Question: I was approached by a realtor who sold property beside my parents' home. There's a restriction saying no mobile home. I was asked to
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Must Screened Porches Be Clean
Visitor Question: Can I be told I have to clean up my screened-in porch? Editors’ Reply: Yes, both your neighbors and your homeowners’ association, if
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Name of town should be changed
Visitor Question: The name of our town, Depue, Illinois, needs to be changed. This town is a beautiful place and has a beautiful lake that is named after
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Neglected Property Cleanups Often Become Difficult Projects; Make Them Easier
Many neighborhoods find they need to organize neglected property cleanups. This happens in great suburbs and challenged neighborhoods. Here are some tips.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Neighbor harassment
Visitor Question: Our daughter lives in a house we own. She received a violation complaint about items on her porch. These items were buckets and so forth
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Neighbor repairing multiple vehicles in back yard
Visitor Question: My neighbor's new husband began towing multiple vehicles to her home. We stopped him from placing one car on the street in front of our
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Neighbor Singles Me Out on Infraction
Visitor Question: The deed restriction states that we cannot have a fence on the front yard of the house. Various neighbors have fences on the front yard
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Neighbor Tree Trimming Issue
Visitor Question: I am trying to purchase my home. Branches from a tree behind my house have grown over the roof of my house. Please tell me how I can
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Neighbor's Deed Restriction On My Property
Visitor's Question: My neighbor subdivided his Massachusetts lot 40 years ago creating my adjacent lot. His deed restricts my building any structures
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Neighborhood Advocacy Can Advance Your Agenda
Position your organization for effective neighborhood advocacy for new legislation and programs that you need from your city or state government.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Neighborhood Break-Ins
Visitor Question: My normally quiet neighborhood has experienced one actual day-time break-in and one rattling of the door to see if it was locked. This
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Neighborhood commercial to commercial zoning
Visitor Question: Without any notice, the township rezoned us from neighborhood commercial to straight commercial. We found out because of our tax increase.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Neighborhood HOA FL
Visitor Question: My neighborhood association deed of restrictions indicates no signs (realtor, etc) can be displayed in front yards. Is this really enforceable?
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Neighborhood Plans Build Excitement, Purpose
Neighborhood plans work wonders if you need to solidify residents or your city around specific goals. Find out what it takes to prepare one.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Neighborhood Solar Solutions Could Be Cost-Effective
Neighborhood solar arrays on rooftops or underused spaces can generate reduce resident energy bills. In spite of political opposition, it's a good solution.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Neighborhood Watch Can Lower Your Crime Rate
Neighborhood watch programs are the most popular method for organizing citizens to prevent or deter crime, as crime and suspicious activity rise on a block.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
New Construction Causes More Noise, Emissions and Traffic
Visitor Question: We need help against having all this construction. Once these buildings are finished we will have more people looking for parking, as
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
New Residence on Narrow Lot
Visitor Question: What size lot is necessary for new residential structures in the Treme, District 2? I am interested in whether one can build between
Guide · Housing & revitalization
New Urbanism Ideal for Redevelopment, Infill
New urbanism, also called traditional neighborhood development, makes great communities through better design, walkability, neighborliness, and job-housing fit.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Nine Better Stream Cleanup Tips
These stream cleanup tips will show you how to sidestep the obstacles to a fun outing and water quality improvement.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
No animals except pets?
In a piece of property we are looking at in an agricultural town, this deed restriction was placed on this and several other properties on the street by
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
No Building Permit
Visitor Question: A residential homeowner and their contractor built a patio roof onto an existing detached garage. And an extension of the patio roof
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
No current HOA board members
Visitor Question: Our deed restrictions have no expiration date and run with the land. But the starting board retired and a new board was never installed.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
No Successor Developer so there is no architectural control
Visitor Question: I live in a neighborhood in Texas that was developed 30 years ago. The original deed restrictions state that changes to the property
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Noise from mosque in residential area
Visitor Question: Hello. I have been a resident of a six-story building for 20 years. A month ago the private two-story house in between our three buildings
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Noise Ordinance
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: We are thinking about having a noise ordinance, because we are tired of boom boxes, marital arguments that
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Non-functioning HOA
Visitor Question: In the State of Ohio, the developer has deeded the common properties to the HOA. Included in the common properties is a vacant lot to
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Nonprofit Board Development Trains, Equips Community Leaders
Nonprofit board development for community organizations can improve the capacity of leaders to work together, produce results, and increase inclusiveness.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Nonprofit Housing Developers Fill Market Gaps
Nonprofit housing developers, or community housing or development corporations, build or renovate housing where markets fail to meet community needs..
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Nonprofits opposing variance applications
Visitor Question: Can a nonprofit organization send a representative employee to oppose a variance application without hiring an attorney? Editor Reply:
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Not Enforcing Town Code
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: Our town of Southeast NY has a law stating there shall be no parking of exposed commercial vehicles in residential
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Not Informed About Covenants and Restrictions
Visitor Question: What happens when the sellers check the box on the sellers disclosure that says there are no covenants and restrictions and then you
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Nothing for older kids to do
Visitor Question: I looked at your community improvement ideas, but our problem is something different. We need something for the kids to do. Once they
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Notice to property owner when building posted unsafe
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can the city say a building is unsafe without going inside, and can it put a sign on your building without notifying
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Nuisance rental property
Visitor Question: I have contacted both the landlord and City Council about a tenant that lives near me. The tenant engages in drug activities, violence
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Numerous Small Town Ordinance Violations
Visitor Question: The neighbors got together and revoked the CC&R's during a law suit to clean up the properties. We are now under the local County's
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Objection to neighbors variance
Visitor Question: I live in a small town in New Jersey. The town is only a mile wide and long. New people bought a home next to ours; it is on a corner
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Old building needs love
Visitor Question: We have a beautification fund in our town that started as a result of junk cars sitting on abandoned lots. Almost the whole town (about
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Old industrial site and redevelopment
Last Reviewed: May 23, 2024 Visitor Question:Is ownership of an old industrial site a constraint to redevelopment? I've been told that this commercial
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Open Space Helps to Define Community Form
Community open space confers environmental and social benefits, preserves beauty, and delights folks in urban areas. Produce a vigorousl open space plan.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Opposing a Proposal for Apartments and Businesses
Visitor Question: We live in a new residential neighborhood. Now a developer wants to rezone to commercial. He wants to add apartments and businesses on
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Opposition to Code Violation Reporting
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: For over thirty years, a few activists in our neighborhood have gotten good results from systematically reporting
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Opposition to Deed Restrictions
Last Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm against deed restriction rules. Because I don't believe people should be forced to do things around
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Ordinance says zoning cannot interfere with deed restriction
Visitor Question: There is a provision in our township's zoning ordinance which states zoning regulations cannot interfere with or impair a deed restriction.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Overnight stay in a place of worship
Visitor Question Our mosque sits in a commercial district and received zoning approval as a place of worship. The application was simple, and it states
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Paid to rezone then city did blanket rezoning
Visitor Question: I paid to have my property zoned for a secondary suite. Then the city arbitrarily did a blanket rezone and established the same zoning
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Park Cleanup: It Starts With One Peace, Inc. We Are Changing The World!
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Website Visitor Wrote: We have 3 simple Rules at It Starts With One Peace: 1. Turn the Water OFF while brushing your teeth.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Parking for a small business district
Visitor Question: We have a nice business district of maybe five good blocks of small, mom and pop, mostly locally owned businesses and restaurants. We
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Percentage of home owners needed to extend restrictions
Visitor Question: I live in a deed restricted neighborhood. In Florida what is the lowest percentage of owners needed to extend the restrictions? Ours
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Percentage required to extend or renew deed restrictions
Visitor Question: My neighborhood deed restrictions expire next year. I am writing from Florida. How many of my neighbors must vote Yes in order to keep
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Permit for Church Services in a Home
Last Updated: August 8, 2020 Visitor Question: I have a neighbor that is holding church services in his home and we can not park our car. Do they need
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Permitted Uses on Nonprofit Property
Visitor Question: Our nonprofit owns and is located on property that was formerly charter school property. Initially, the land was zoned with a special
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Persuading city to care about vacant multi family building
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in a state with a libertarian tradition, and one ugly result of this is my city does nothing to enforce
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Plan for Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities
Naturally occurring retirement communities result when people of similar ages remain in a neighborhood they grow older. NORCs raise new public issues.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Plan the First Meetings of a Neighborhood Association
When you start to plan the first meetings of a neighborhood association, you might be baffled. Here are some ideas on the initial, second, and third meetings.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Planning and Implementing a Local Historic District
Preserving a local historic district improves the odds that a neighborhood will retain its historic, cultural, and architectural context. Property values rise.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Planning Commissioners' Decisions and Conditional Use Permits
Visitor Question: Can Planning Commissioners legally reference the General Plan as a basis for their decisions on a conditional use permit? Editors Reply:
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Planning Commissions and Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: Should Planning Commissions ignore deed restrictions, since they are agreements between private properties and the Town Government is
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Pool Violation Allowed to Continue
Visitor Question: My neighbor had his pool cage destroyed by Hurricane Irma and has not rebuilt it. He has received a violation and a notice to appear.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Power of HOA after covenants expire
Visitor Question: Where does an HOA derive its authority/powers? Does the HOA have any authority or powers if the land covenants expired? Specifically,
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Practical Suggestions for Home Business Zoning
In light of technological advances, it's time to lighten restrictions on home business zoning. Here are some suggestions for permissive and restrictive laws.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Process for Updating Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: Are there specific requirements that need to be followed when getting a home owners approval on updating a deed restriction, i.e., signature
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Process to rezone property to industrial
Visitor Question: The property I am asking about is on a busy road that connects to the second busiest road in the county. It backs up to the interstate.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Project Management Cycle in Community Development
Visitor Question: How should local communities manage projects using a results based approach? Editors Reply: For the benefit of other visitors, we
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Promise to Planning Board Not Kept
Visitor Question: What recourse do I have if a developer agreed in a planning board public meeting to make a deed restriction on clearing of buffer in
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Promoting Community for Retirement
Our tiny Village in west New York state has much to offer. However the employment opportunities are not available. What we do have to offer are very
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Property rezoned after purchase
Visitor Question: I purchased a 1 acre piece of property in west central Georgia on 7/6/2018 through the Property for Sale-Georgia State Properties Commission
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Property Upkeep Code to Protect Neighborhood Quality
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We live in a neighborhood of single family homes. Because we are in the county and not the city, the International
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Proposed new regulations contradict covenants
Visitor Question: We have Deeds and Restrictions set up in our community currently. Our new board members will not pay to have them rewritten; however,
Guide · Community development basics
Public Health and Community Development Now Are Converging
Learn why public health and community development are interwoven, and how to make the most of this relationship.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Pumpkin Festival Connects Residents
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website Visitor Writes: In 2021 the Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri, was able to resume its annual Pumpkinfest. Although
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Punishment for not correcting serious code violations
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A legitimate complaint was made against a neighbor's property for serious and dangerous code violations, which
Guide · Community development basics
Purpose of Community Development: Some Ideas
What is the purpose of community development, a visitor asked. This is our answer to the why question, explaining the importance and significance of the topic.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Quality City Planning Is Setting a Community Up for Success--And Results
Good city planning for land use, transportation, public services, prosperity, and amenities can help any community.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Questions and Answers About Planning and Community Development Terms
There are plenty of planning and community development terms and acronyms to keep new and experienced activists confused. Ask your question here.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Questions and Answers on Economic Development Issues
This page allows visitors to pose questions about their community's economic development issues. See editor answers on increasing prosperity.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Quit Claim Deed Received for Adjoining Lot
Visitor Question: I purchased a neighboring piece of property from the county at auction. Though the advertisement did state that the lot could not be
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Rallying the youth besides elders to help publish a small town historical book & how?
Should we rally the youth to get involved with helping to publish a historical book for a small rural town? How? Mayor Julia M. Meacham of Weldon NC
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Read the Cleanups Questions and Stories from Other Places to Help You Plan
Let others know about how you organized a cleanup, what worked and didn't. If you have a question about this kind of project, ask it here.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Reciprocal easements
Visitor Asks: If reciprocal easements are on the plat of a single family development and some owners don't want their easement and have the board vote
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Recognition as a Community Development Corporation
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We are in planning to establish a Community Development Corporation in the State of Florida. We have a 501(c)3.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Recreation Zones--Benefits and Detriments
Visitor Question: What is the purpose of a recreation zone? Is it to prevent certain uses or to enhance multiple use? Editors' Reply: Let's hope we're
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Recycling Buildings Through Re-Use Makes Great Spaces
Recycling buildings may sound strange, but the practice of finding an adaptive reuse of vacant structures prevents demolition, reduces solid waste, and enlivens an existing community asset.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Redevelopment of Obsolete Land Uses in Your Community
Redevelopment of vacant, abandoned, or underutilized land can bring economic and social benefits to a neighborhood or city. Here we introduce the potential.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Regenerative Design Encourages Us to Think Beyond Environmental Sustainability
The emerging field of regenerative design, a perspective of restoring the earth instead of merely maintaining what we have, is explored in an interview.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Regional Competitiveness Impacts Your Local Economy
Communities often ignore regional competitiveness, a major factor in how successful economically they will be without major interventions.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Regional Governance Structure Impacts Quality of Life for Neighborhoods
Learn how regional governance, the quality of the decision making in a metro area, influences what happens in your neighborhood.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rehab Center in Residential Neighborhood
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: An application has been submitted to our land use board asking that a private residential property be rezoned
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Relationship of human health to the environment
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question:Are people healthy if the environment is healthier? Editors' Reply: A healthy environment tends to lead to healthier
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Removal of deeded basketball court
Visitor Question: I live in a townhouse development in which a basketball court was originally in the property deed. The court had been a huge nuisance
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Renter involvement in the neighborhood
Visitor Question: We seem to have a great deal of difficulty in involving any renters in our neighborhood association and meetings. They are always welcome,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Renting a commercial building for a church
Visitor Question: We opened a home based new church/mission in Colton, CA City. Now the number of members has grown to about 24 people, thank God, and
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Replacement of Non-Conforming Structure
Visitor Question: Is it possible (i.e. legal) to tear down a non-conforming structure (over 95%, Ordinance says over 75% replacement must fully comply
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Reporting no hunting deed restriction violation
Visitor Question: When the Deed Restriction states that there shall be no hunting on the properties connected to the covenant what agency do you report
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Resident told to hire a lawyer to get codes enforced
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I have a neighbor who extended his driveway onto my property and a neighbor who built a pad for his boats, damaging
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Residential care zoning laws
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm trying to become a licensed caregiver. When I went to my local office to receive a zoning letter, they
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Residential to Commercial Rezoning
Visitor Question: I live on a major road on the outside of a subdivision. There are businesses across the street from me. My question is how do I have
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Resolve Your Deed Restriction Question Right Away
This page provides a form for visitors to send their HOA, deed restriction, or covenant questions. The editor will answer on this website.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Responsibility for Outlots in a Subdivision
Visitor Question: I am a second owner in a 52 house subdivision created 18 years ago. I have lived here 10 years and just received information from the
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Restoring an historic "town square"
Visitor Question: I live in an urban city that annexed an area of the county many years ago that, for a short while, was an independent town. It was created
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Restricting Times of Church Worship
Visitor Question: A church in our town has been approved to buy an old college campus church. During the C.U.P. process they wanted a condition, The church
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restriction may prohibit son from building house
Visitor Question: My question deals with a restriction which apparently will prohibit my son from having a house built on my property. My wife and I bought
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restriction on Commercial Use Versus Rental Property
Visitor Question: In our HOA we have a covenant against commercial use of a lot or home in our neighborhood, which is in Kentucky. This is a lakefront
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restrictions differ within the development
Visitor Question: Can the HOA restrict homeowners whose back yards face a street by not allowing fences, sheds etc., and not restrict other home owners
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Restrictions for land conservation
Visitor Question: I'm selling a small piece of property which has a house on it. I'm also planning to deed a 2-acre piece of land to my sister. I am
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restrictions Not Listed in Deeds for Last 30 Years
Visitor Question: Our planned community had a land owner who filed for plats and recorded covenants and restrictions that govern the property. This happened
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restrictions on renting
Are there restrictions on who I could rent to? Editors' Reply: First, our answer will pertain only to the U.S. Other countries will have different laws.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Restrictions unknown for six years
Visitor Question: Hi We purchased our home six years ago. We were told by our real estate agent (friend) and the sellers (new friends) that there were
Guide · Economic & rural development
Retail Attraction Strategies for Bringing in Stores You Want
Successful retail attraction strategies now need to rely on uniqueness and experiences; mom and pop stores will survive only if they adapt to these new realities.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Retention Pond Ownership and Maintenance
I live in a subdivision in Cobb County Georgia. The subdivision contains 2 lakes. The HOA and Covenants were established in 1989. Up to 2007 the lakes
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoned Property Not Following Regulations
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Visitor Question: If the Township granted a zoning amendment that would violate the new zoning district, for example changing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning an entire town?
Visitor Question: What criteria should be used when rezoning an entire town (e.g. criteria for each zoning district) ? Editors Reply: That is a big subject.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning commercial social club to a restaurant
Visitor Question: I'm turning a commercial building that used to be a social club and other public events building into a restaurant. I have a meeting
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Rezoning directly conflicts with deed restriction
Visitor Question: I own a single family home in Los Angeles. Recently, because the home is close to a recently completed urban rail line, the city, as
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning from business to residential
Visitor Question: A friend inherited an office from her father. She has been renting it to an attorney. It is located in a residential area, but has been
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning happens during construction
Visitor Question: What are the options of a developer of an apartment building under construction and the zoning changes to single family houses? Editors
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning historic home to commercial
Visitor Question: I live in a town of about 17,000 in a semi-rural setting. Our county is almost finished with a community plan update which focuses on
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning When Deed Restrictions Prohibit Activity
Visitor Question: Can township zoning appeals rezone a 1/2 acre lot in the middle of residential develop to agricultural? I am in Ohio without an HOA.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Right to stay in same government housing apartment
Let's say a tenant has been living in government housing and the management had stopped the tenant's mail coming to the tenant apartment that she has lived
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Rights of Property Owners Next to Deeded Subdivision
Visitor Question: We live next to a deeded subdivision. The property that adjoins ours in the back has numerous poultry. Their deed says no poultry. Since
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Robust Community Engagement Increases Support
Community engagement and public participation for city planning processes may include meetings, open houses, charrettes, surveys, focus groups, and more.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Role of Community Development Organizations in Conflict Resolution
Visitor Question: What are the causes of conflict and what is the role of community development organisations in their resolution? Editors Reply: The
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Role of food pantries in community development
Visitor Question: All of the recent publicity about the important contributions that food pantries make to our communities has me wondering about whether
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Role of Natural Resources in Economic Development
Visitor Question: Would you please discuss the role of natural resources in socio-economic development and how have they been utilized in their abundance
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Role of planning in built subdivisions
Visitor Question: I am finding it to be very confusing why the city planning department has anything to do with our neighborhood organization. They seem
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Rule Breaking Neighbors Going to Sell
Visitor Question: How do I get the neighbors to fix /comply with our rules before they sell? I do not want to start any bad relationship with the next
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rural code enforcement inconsistent
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in rural Iowa and city codes are just coming into service. While I sometimes wonder who thought some
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Rural Community Development Builds Capacity
Rural community development focuses on increasing problem-solving capacity, a sound economic base and school system, essential businesses, and clean-up.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Rural community opposes wedding venue
Visitor Question: I live in a rural community where there is a house that has sold to an individual that intends to transform this home into a wedding
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Rural deed restriction
Visitor Question: People just bought a 4.146 acre tract rural property, and there's a deed restriction saying no mobile homes. The new owners just placed
Guide · Economic & rural development
Rural Economic Development Includes Diversifying
Rural economic development entails creating new markets for the agricultural base and diversifying the economy to provide new opportunities.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Rural Housing Challenges Include Quality, Quantity, Cost
Rural housing issues and solutions are discussed, including cluster design, farmworker shelter, and increased supply and affordability.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Sale to Town with Deed Restriction
Visitor Question: I am one of 27 owners of a condo complex near the beach. The complex owns a sizeable lot in front of the building which protects our
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Saving Abandoned House from Demolition
Visitor Question: Hi. My in-laws have been taking care of the house next to them for the last 15 years, as in keeping the yard mowed and trimmed. This
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Saw the New Page about Recycling Buildings
Visitor Question: I was doing a search and I found the page about recycling buildings. I guess it is new because when I was doing a paper about this topic
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Searching for Measurement Scales, Questionnaires, and Surveys for a Thesis
Visitor Question: I am a student in the process of writing my thesis. My topic is Sense of Community and Community Development. I am in search of an instrument,
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Selecting and Supervising City Planning Consultants
Hiring and supervising city planning consultants properly is an art you should master if your community needs professional expertise.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Selective enforcement of deed restrictions
Visitor Question: I live in Gulf Gate, Sarasota. After living in this neighborhood and the same house for 20 years we decided to replace an old 4 foot
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Senior Care Home in Subdivision
Visitor Question: Hello we are planning to open a licensed home for seniors. We have been told it is allowed in subdivisions that have covenants/restrictions
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Senior Citizen Volunteers Offer Reliability and Maturity
In the face of budget cuts, neighborhoods, community organizations, and governments can continue to provide essential services through wise use of senior citizen volunteers.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Septic tanks
I live in Phelan, California and I have neighbors who moved in across the street and have a mobile home. They've lived there for two years and have no
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Serial Pest in the Neighborhood
Visitor Question: We have a member of our community who has a slight mental disability, but more behavioral problems, who constantly abuses people. The
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Several Pieces of Public Art on the Same Theme Can Make Your Town Memorable
When you learn how to establish a public art theme, you give your community the best bang for its buck and also maximize the impact of your selections.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Shade Structures Can Soften a Severe Environment or Create a New Destination
Shade structures are no substitute for trees, but sometimes you need artificial ways to shield pedestrians from heat. The good news is they can be pretty too.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Share Your Civic Engagement Question
This civic engagement question and answer page responds to visitor concerns about apathy, youth motivation, and the need for more robust citizen participation.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Shopping Center Redevelopment Usually Should Focus on Mixed Use
Mostly vacant malls are candidates for mixed-use shopping center redevelopment. Make your community less vulnerable to passing trends by diversifying land use.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Shopping Center Renovation: What To Try
Shopping center renovation may pay off if a clear market still exists. If you must have retail to replace a tired mall, this page makes suggestions.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Short Term Rental Zoning May Be Strictly Regulated or Not
Short term rental zoning provisions should address potential problems before they happen. See our list of potential regulations..
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Shortage of Accommodations in a Rural Area
Visitor Question: We are in a small town in a rural area. We are not near a major highway and do not have any big industries or anything. We do have a
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Should a business district manager help an individual business
Visitor Question: I own a restaurant in a popular neighborhood of our city. We have an organized business district that collects a small tax, and the district
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Should Family Farm Zoning Have Been Revealed
Visitor Question: Neighbors are claiming a property was sold to them without being told it had a family farm designation, and now they want to break the
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Should only residents of the Village sign petition
Visitor Question: We live on a lake where about 50% of the houses around the lake are in one Village and the other 50% are in another Village. One of
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Should the HOA board give notice of meetings?
Visitor Question: Some of my neighbors and I are having an issue with our HOA. They are threatening to make new rules that pertain to only the six or seven
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Should you always remove graffiti in your neighborhood
Visitor Question: In the past I've always regarded it as a necessity to get rid of graffiti as soon as it happens. I thought it signals a low-quality neighborhood
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Shrinking Cities Can Make Abandoned Homes an Asset
Shrinking cities face population loss and abandoned buildings. Serious economic reinvention, interim land use changes, and aggressive leaders are needed.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Sign Regulation Can Enhance Community Appearance
Sign regulation, within the zoning ordinance or as a stand-alone law, can improve the appearance of a city's commercial streets dramatically. Start here..
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Significance of Community Edges
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I wonder about whether the term edge or community edge is really important. I hear this discussed sometimes
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Significance of Strong Institutions in Governance
Visitor Question: What is the significance of institutions and institutional checks in local governance processes? Editors Reply: Institutions lend the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Signing Deed Restriction
Visitor Question: Does the new owner of certain property especially in a subdivision need to sign the Deed of Restriction for it to be enforceable? I am
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Signs of neighborhood decline
Visitor Question: What are the signs of neighborhood decline? I have been in a nice enough neighborhood for about 25 years. My next door neighbor has been
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Slum Lords Took Over Our City
I live in a small town, Connellsville, Pennsylvania. Our city government has been run by the Good Old Boy network for many years now, with special interest
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Small southeastern rural town future
I'd like to know your views on small rural towns (pop. 2500 or less) futures, in re-identifying themselves and developing a sustainable economy based historical
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Small Town Sprawl Is Costly Too
Small town sprawl often occurs as highway development dilutes historic downtowns and urban land uses make rural inroads. Learn what smaller cities can do.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Small waterfront development in rural town
Published: August 9, 2024 Visitor Question: My town has 32 acres now owned by the town that it wants to develop. The town council only seems to be able
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Solutions to Concentrated Poverty Require Smart Programs
Solutions to concentrated poverty fall into two broad categories: lower-income people moving to mixed-income areas, or raising neighborhood quality of life.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Sound Community Planning Process Based on Six Steps
A community planning process includes data collection and analysis, generating alternatives, choosing a desired future, and writing an actionable plan.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Special assessments for capital expenditures
Visitor Question: Our master deed states that a majority of owners must be present to vote on special assessments. Proxy voting is not in our master deed
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Special exception for commercial tree company
Visitor Question: A commercial tree company has filed for a special exception next door to me in our rural residential town. It would be completely out
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Spot Zoning for Rendering Plant
Visitor Question: Application for a rendering plant requires a re zone to heavy industrial of the proposed site. Miles of surrounding property is zone
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Start a Community Based Non Profit Organization
Visitor Question: Is an organization limited to one scope? I want our community to have a day care for single and working parents, a land bank (not sure
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Start a Community Garden for Fun, Food, Beauty, Belonging
Start a community garden as a stellar team-building activity that can provide quality food and help neighbors bond in urban, suburban, and small town places.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Start Thinking About Driverless Cars and City Planning
Your city can save money and a mad scramble later if you start now to consider how driverless cars and city planning may relate in the next few decades.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
State Law Versus HOA Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: Our HOA wants to change our deed restrictions. There's a chapter in our present deed restrictions that states that it takes a majority
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Steps in a community diagnosis project
Visitor Question: What are the steps in starting a community diagnosis project? Our neighborhood group wants to start an assessment and diagnosis of conditions
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stop construction on vacant land next door.
Visitor Question: The property next door to me was recently purchased by a developer who intends to build a house. The land is 2 sq ft short of being
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stopping an unwanted business
Visitor Question: I live in a small rural village. The downtown area is a mix of small businesses and residential. There is a developer who wants to
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stormwater code enforcement
Visitor Question: What happens if the municipal codes are not enforced and the violation negatively affects the surrounding property? A qualified engineer
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Strangers Using Common Ground by Lake
Visitor Question: I want to know do you have any suggestions on how to curtail this problem? We are one of 10 homeowners along a small lake in Illinois.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Street Hierarchy Is Meant to Organize Subdivisions, But It's No Way to Develop
A street hierarchy is common in suburbs. The idea of traffic progressing from less to more important streets contrasts with the older pattern of a street grid.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Street Parties Build Community, Market Your Neighborhood
Successful street parties build neighborhood community and generate excitement about your area. This page also encourages site visitors to submit stories.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Strip Mall Redevelopment To Become an Even Bigger Issue
Strip mall redevelopment will increase in importance for residents and neighborhoods, as vacancy rates and suburban blight increase. Read what to do next.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Subdivision Regulation Sets Standards for Buildable Lots
Subdivision regulation establishes standards for land to be divided and offered for sale. Good local standards protect both local government and home buyers.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Subdivision sells small park to create revenue to improve large park
Visitor Question: My subdivision owns a small park (1 acre) and a large park (6 acres). We have limited revenue. My question is what requirements would
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Suburban Retrofit Retains Property Value, Residents
Suburban retrofit means revamping outdated 1950s and 1960s suburbs, with their run-down strip centers, dying malls, cul de sacs, and traffic gridlock, to give them a viable future.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Suburban Sprawl, Its Causes, and Its Effects on Your Area
Suburban sprawl can devastate urban, suburban, and rural areas. Effects of this development pattern on your community's issues and economics are wide ranging.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Suitable Zones to Build Private School
Visitor Question: In Contra Costa (East Bay), can I build a private school in a very-low-density,residential-zoned land with multiple lots? Editors' Reply:
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Summer Newsletter Ideas for Your Neighborhood's Editor
The best summer newsletter ideas often come by taking a walk. If you are stuck, we give you our best suggestions on spicing up your publications.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Sustainable Development Practices for Communities
Discover sustainable development practices that you can implement at the local level to benefit your community and its residents.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Sustainable development presentation to local government and developers
Visitor Question: Do y'all have a presentation outline for someone to present to local government officials to get them interested in the topics of sustainable
Guide · Organizations & leadership
SWOT Analysis Suggestions for Communities
SWOT analysis for communities helps them spot and decide what to do about their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. We show you how.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Systematic Down Zoning and How to Critique It
Down zoning can be a tool for good or ill. We explain affordable housing and economic development considerations.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Tailor Volunteer Appreciation in Community Organizations to the Audience
This page details some ideas for volunteer appreciation in community organizations, which may differ from recognition initiatives in other nonprofits.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Take a Long Look at Community Poverty
Learn to organize a town or city to address community poverty, simply because poverty represents a lost opportunity for economic development and vitality.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Taking Possession of Abandoned House
My mother had got married to this guy and she passed away. He has abandoned the house. How do I go about getting back into my home? Editors Reply: The
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Tear Downs and Out-of-Scale Replacement Homes
Before the recession, tear downs in modest neighborhoods often allowed large new out-of-scale homes to be erected in their stead. Here's what to do if this fits your locale.
Guide · Economic & rural development
The Definition of Economic Development Is Not So Obvious
The definition of economic development consists only of activity that it brings outside money into your community. Selling snacks to each other doesn’t qualify.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
The Importance of Correct Scale for Public Sculpture
The wrong scale for public sculpture sets the wrong tone for the whole block--or neighborhood. Don't ruin the effect!
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
The Kids Can City Project
Reviewed: June 19, 2024 Visitor Writes: I decided to make an ideal city called Uberstin for my Kids Can school project. I wanted to design a city where
Guide · Housing & revitalization
The Problem with Gentrification Is Displacement
Gentrification is the process of neighborhoods becoming unaffordable to those who currently live there. This page shows strategies to prevent displacement.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Thoughts About Zoning and Social Justice
We explore the associations between zoning and social justice, asking how land use rules harm racial equity and if they always do.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Threatening behavior by code officers
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Three code officers came to my place, carrying weapons on the first visit. All of my permits are up to date.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Timing of an Accessory Structure
Visitor Question: Are there any examples of ordinance language that restricts the building of an accessory structure (garage, pole barn, shed) before a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Tiny house village on church property
Visitor Question: Is it legal to build a community of tiny houses for the homeless on church property if it is zoned r-1 (residential) and the property
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
To Avoid Contract Zoning, Define Your Standards Well
Contract zoning occurs when a local government illegally grants a rezoning in exchange for particular promises about how the land will be developed.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Too Many Apartments and Group Homes
Visitor Question: Our County and City have repeatedly put sober living homes, homes for the previously chronically homeless and mentally ill along with
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Too many parking lots in big city downtowns
Last Reviewed: June 10, 2024 Visitor Wrote: More and more parking lots are taking up space in the downtown areas of major cities, it seems to me. I travel
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Too much trash in and near the creek
March 18, 2025 Visitor Question: A group I'm involved with plans to try to clean out a little creek that runs right through the park in my neighborhood.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Top 7 Tips For Regional-Scale Large Park Cleanups
This collection of large park cleanup tips outlines an approach to volunteer projects in big regional parks.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Tourism and Economic Development Go Together
A strong tourism and economic development strategy building on the experience economy can boost business opportunities in your community.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Tourist Attraction for Communities
What must be done in the community in order to inspire tourists? Editors Answer: Nduh, we have a whole page on tourism and economic development, and
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Tower Zoning Can't Be Prohibited Everywhere
Tower zoning is controversial because of perceived aesthetic, environmental and fall hazard issues. Learn what the federal government allows locals to regulate.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Town codes not enforced
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: The town I live in is not enforcing the written codes such as parking lot requirements and snow removal. Does
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Toxic Waste Scary, But Cleanup Is Possible
If you understand the term toxic waste and learn about their cleanup, your community can overcome problem sites over a period of years.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Traffic Calming Devices Can Increase Safety
Traffic calming slows auto traffic to increase the safety and appeal of your community. We urge that you figure out how to reduce or disperse traffic.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Transfer of Development Rights Can Preserve Farmland and Natural Areas
A transfer of development rights from agricultural land to more urban land is a fair, private transaction that helps prevent sprawl. We discuss pros and cons.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Transit and Sprawl Interactions Depend on Existing Urban Form of a City
This page provides 6 discussion questions about relationships between transit and sprawl, to encourage dialogue about how the two interact in your city.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Transit Expansion or Better Transit Operation
Visitor Question: Some people in our metro area are grappling with the question of whether it is better to expand our light rail system's length or spend
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Transit Oriented Development Attracts Business, Residents
Transit oriented development, usually a mixed-use project adjoining and including a transit stop, reduces transportation costs and potentially housing cost while offering many economic and social benefits.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Transportation Planning Determines Future Roads, Shapes Development Patterns
This page describes our experiences with the transportation planning process in simple terms helpful to local communities of interest..
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Truck parking at residence
Visitor Question: My family and I have lived in a neighborhood with no HOA in Atlanta, Georgia for 3.5 years. My husband is a truck driver and has always
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Trust in Police Grows When Both Community and Officers Make the Effort
Trust in police sustains and rebuilds itself only with intentional hard work. We explore steps to restore cooperation between community and law enforcement.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Try a Maker Space As a New Economic Development Idea
The maker space concept applies to both youth and others seeking a designated space for tinkering, leading to homegrown economic development.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Try Art in Public Places for Creating a Memorable Space
Choosing your art in public places wisely can make you a hero or shero, but doing too little or too much can make you a villain. Learn about managing the selection process.
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Two Countries, Two Cities, Two Neighborhoods and One People!
Visitor Contribution: The names Calexico and Mexicali are both city names taken from the names California and Mexico. This two cities are separated by
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Typical Percentage of Land Uses
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: What proportion of the land in cities and towns typically is taken up by each type of land use? Editors
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Ugly Chain Link Fence Can Be Neutralized
An ugly chain link fence can really detract from the appearance of a block. Wire mesh fencing are common in some neighborhoods, but visitors see rusty barriers.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Unbanked People Feed the Payday Loan Store Problem
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website Visitor Writes Many people in our community have lost their bank accounts because of one bounced check. Other older people
Guide · Economic & rural development
Understanding the Economic Base for Your Community
Attract and support the economic base businesses that bring new money into your community. Learn to distinguish those from local consumption businesses.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Unenforceable Parking Restriction
Visitor Question: My condominium association is a two unit association within a two-family home. I am the Declarant who created the association and still
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Unit above me caused water leak in my bathroom
Visitor Question:The unit above me has caused a fifth water leak in my master bathroom. I reported it to code enforcement. They gave her three days to
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Unkempt businesses
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Visitor Question: How do you get a business owner to take some pride in their property and make it look presentable.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Unknowingly purchased a rental home with a deed restriction
Visitor Question: I purchased a home that I was using as a rental with cash. Everyone knew I was an investor and how this house was going to be used.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Unlicensed Short Term Rentals
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I operate an Airbnb in Colorado. My town recently enacted an ordinance for STR to require a license and a 10%
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Urban Design Principles Address Form and Function
Consistent use of 11 urban design principles helps civic and community leaders improve both appearance and functioning of neighborhoods and blocks.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Urban Sprawl and Public Health: How They Are Related
Urban sprawl and public health are intertwined because dispersed development patterns discourage exercise, while aggravating air pollution.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using an Apartment to Conduct Church Services
Visitor Question: Can my neighbor legally use her rented apartment to conduct church services for more than 50 people in Connecticut every Sunday? Editors
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using building as a church
Can any building be used as a church? Editors Reply: The practical answer to this question is no. In theory, as you know if you read our church zoning
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using Church Land for Homeless Program
Visitor Question: We have a significant issue with homelessness in our area, and in particular we have many families with children experiencing homelessness.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Vacant Building Registration Provides Data, Revenue, and Incentives for Building Re-Use
Vacant building registration ordinances lead to better data, revenue to address related issues, and importantly, a big incentive to reuse buildings promptly.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Validity of Unenforced Covenants
Visitor Question: If a violation of a covenant is allowed to exist without any action on the part of the HOA, is the covenant still valid the next time
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Village created dumping ground
Visitor Question: We were annexed into the village and then the village created a dumping ground for dirt piles with dump trucks going in and out next
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Vines on home: code violation or landscaping enhancement?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A single-family home in my neighborhood has vines covering much of the exterior. The growth appears uncultivated
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Violent Extremism and Terrorism as Hindrance to Community Development
Visitor Question: What are the impacts of violent extremism and terrorism from a community development perspective? Editors' Reflection: Thank you for
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Visualizing Outdoor Sign Types for Planning Commissioners
Planning commissioners need to understand various outdoor sign types. Here we explain and illustrate common categories.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Volume of runoff water
Visitor Question: When land is developed, what is the maximum area of inpermeable surface allowed for a given area of land? A developer bought an old
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Volunteerism Fulfills Community, Individual Needs
Volunteerism meets many community service and service learning needs, while also fitting goals of teens, senior citizens, scholarship seekers, and job seekers.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Water Conservation at the Community Level
Water conservation at the community level can save on energy needed for purification and delivery. Use drama and humor to inspire enthusiasm for this issue.
Guide · Housing & revitalization
Waterfront Redevelopment Usually Takes Years But Pays Rich Dividends
Waterfront redevelopment requires careful planning, but making your waterway a focal point instead of a grungy back door creates a new amenity and new wealth.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Watershed Planning Improves Water Quality, Reduces Floods
Watershed planning sets the stage for clean water throughout your drainage basin. It also allows development of detailed strategies to prevent floods.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What a Community Development Program Actually Does
Visitor Question: What is the main function of the community development? And what does community development program actually do to further develop the
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What Are Consistency Requirements in Planning
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I attended the meeting of my city's planning commission the other night. I am trying to get appointed to the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What are livable communities?
Reviewed: June 13, 2024 Visitor question: I'm new to the planning commission. One member keeps talking about making our community more livable, and I'm
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What are some transportation strategies for the disabled
Visitor Question: What are some of the best ways for communities to address the transportation needs of people who are disabled, or differently abled?
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What are the rules for an eviction
Visitor Queston: I'm the new director of a struggling neighborhood organization. This past week I had two questions about how an eviction happens, one
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
What can a suburb do about business closings?
Our suburb was always a beautiful place, mostly built in the 1970s and early 80s, until just recently. We never had any trouble, we had all the conveniences
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What can we do about a problem gas station
Visitor Question: Our neighborhood is experiencing a crisis because we are so very tired of a service station half a block from my house where every kind
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What can we do about people selling drugs in our neighborhood?
Since the people hanging out and selling stuff in our neighborhood don't live here, how can we handle this? They just walk around, avoid the police, and
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does blue infrastructure mean?
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: At our town's zoning commission meeting, I heard some visiting big shot talk about how we need to preserve and
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
What does credible messenger mean for a CDC?
Visitor Question: Someone at our CDC board meeting last night kept reinforcing the need for a credible messenger. What exactly does that mean? I understand
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does planning term ETJ mean
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Our medium-sized city is updating our comprehensive plan. I went to a hearing and a work session and jotted
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does polycentric region mean?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I have become interested in what our regional planning council is doing because I am concerned about the need
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a biophilic city?
Visitor Question: I'm rather new on our city's planning commission. Other members have mentioned biophilic city a couple of times, and I don't know what
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a capital improvements plan?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What exactly is a capital improvements plan? I was just elected to a city council and am now trying to catch
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What is a capital stack in community development?
Visitor Question: I'm on a committee the mayor appointed to look into what we need to do to get more moderately priced housing built in our little city.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What is a CDFI
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: I heard that a CDFI can be important in neighborhood revitalization. What is that anyway? Must have something
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a digital twin in city planning
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I am on our city's planning commission. I don't understand exactly what a digital twin is, but I know that our
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What Is a Flag Lot
Last Updated: August 8, 2020 Visitor Asked: Like some other people said on here, I'm new to the zoning board in the last six months. Last night someone
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What is a successor developer
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What exactly is a successor developer? We heard that the developer of our subdivision is looking for one. Our
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a transect in planning?
Published: June 15, 2024 Visitor Question: There are some rumblings in my community about possibly moving from zoning, which is so complex for the average
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a water trail?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm one of those new planning commissioners you wrote about in your newsletter. The latest term I heard at a
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What is abolitionist housing policy
Visitor Question: Last night I attended my second meeting as a member of the city's community development advisory board. One woman is quite knowledgeable,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is agrivoltaics and why is it significant
Visitor Question: I'm in New Jersey and am very interested in a possible new comprehensive plan or something similar that my county is discussing. This
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is BRT?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm a new planning commission member. At my very first meeting last week, the commission was talking about BRT,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is Resiliency Planning
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What does resiliency planning mean? I am a plan commission member, and I was sitting in my second meeting when
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What Is Tactical Urbanism
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I understand tactical, and as a newer resident of a large city, I hope I am beginning to understand urbanism.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What is the smallest lot size we should have in our suburb?
April 15, 2024 Visitor Question: We are a typical American suburb developed in the 1950s and 1960s. Our climate is moderate and our city is thriving economically.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What qualifies a church as a Faith Based Community Development Center?
Visitor Question: What qualifies a church as a Faith Based Community Development Center? Outside of the entities listed below, is there anything else?
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
What should we do about an ugly bioswale?
Published: April 19, 2024 Visitor Question: Our town wanted to have some better flood control along a creek that is ordinarily very small. The problem
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What to do about feral cats
Visitor Question: My very small town, population around 300, is being overrun with cats that are not taken care of. Some call them feral cats. I don't
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What to do after deed restrictions have expired
Visitor Question: I purchased a home 2 years ago here in Florida. I was told it was deed restricted until about May of 2018. That's when through social
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What's the best way to get a grocery store?
Visitor Question: What can we do to attract a real grocery store? Most of us are kind of poor, so it's several miles. Editors' Reply: First of all,
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
What's Up with Choice Neighborhoods?
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Editor's Note: Obviously this question is a few years old, but the information in our answer is still pertinent. Visitor Question:The
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
When a bicycle trail must cross a major road
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Our group of cycling enthusiasts is pressuring our city government to extend a popular bicycle trail for some
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
When deed restrictions and HOA rules contradict
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: My deed restrictions clearly state I can position a structure to the front lot line, provided I follow the defined
Guide · Housing & revitalization
When to Start an Urban Community Land Trust
The urban community land trust is a perfect tool for boosting home ownership in lower-income areas or for countering rapidly rising housing costs.
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Where development projects get money
Last Reviewed: June 11, 2024 Visitor Question: How do real estate developments get the money they need? Do all of the funds come from people's pocketbooks,
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Where to build my house
Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Wrote: I recently stumbled upon this website that sells plans for small homes. I found one that I want to build. It is
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Where to Find Deed Restrictions
Visitor Question: Others have mentioned deed restrictions, such as you can't park you camper in your driveway, or boats, or utility trailers. My question
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Where to Find Easement Information
Last Updated: August 29, 2020 In this article we explain how to find a description and probably a diagram of a driveway easement. Your county courthouse
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Which zoning district typically has greater setbacks
Visitor Question: Out of employment zones, commercial zones, and residential zones which one is most likely to have higher values for setbacks AND why?
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Who Is a Community Developer
Site Visitor Asks These Questions: 1. what is community 2. development means what in community 3. what is community planning 4. U.N definition for community
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Who is responsible for knowing deed restriction rules
Visitor Question: I live in a deed restricted neighborhood, and when I first moved into the neighborhood I had Culligan's water softener company come out
Visitor question · Economic & rural development
Who Regulates CDCs?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Who has the authority to regulate what a CDC does? The one that is active in my neighborhood is now proposing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Why aren't streams included in zoning?
Visitor Question: Where are streams and creeks in the zoning guidelines? Editors' Reply: That's an excellent question, and the main reason seems to be
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Why do community development projects fail
Visitor Question: I was just wondering why community development projects funded by our taxpayer dollars sometimes seem to fail miserably. What are the
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Why is a fire damaged house taking so long to demolish
Visitor Question: A house down the street caught on fire, and because nobody was around at the time, it was burned really badly. Clearly it cannot be repaired
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Why is zoning important
Visitor Question: I'm curious about why zoning is important in small cities. Wouldn't people make good decisions by themselves without zoning laws? Editors'
Guide · Neighborhoods & public spaces
Why It Just Makes Sense to Consider Fountains as Community Projects
Fountains as community projects are worth your consideration. This page explores some possibilities.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Why School Site Selection Is A Planning Tool
School site selection should be integrated with community planning. Large schools in the wrong place add to traffic, poor parental involvement, and sprawl.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Why Start a Community Development Corporation
Start a community development corporation (CDC) to advance vital work in housing, economic development, social programs, and clean-up.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Why Stormwater Runoff Determines Water Quality
Stormwater runoff delivers most pollutants found in streams and rivers. Here we discuss BMPs that could improve water quality and lessen erosion and flooding.
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Why won't people come to our community development meetings?
Visitor Question: When you ask people what is best about our little suburb close to the city, often they say it's the variety of people. When poked a little
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Wildfire Prevention Is Partially a Community Responsibility
Homeowner preference for natural settings near forests and wilderness has increased the need for wildfire prevention. We explore local community approaches.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Will Autonomous Vehicles and Transit Help or Hinder Each Other?
How autonomous vehicles and transit interact will dictate the survival of transit. There are compelling social reasons that transit should take the lead.
Guide · Economic & rural development
Will the Benefits of a Business Improvement District Make the Assessment Worth It?
One of the chief benefits of a business improvement district is building and maintaining a better commercial area than the city's standard level of service.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Wind Turbine Zoning May Be Controversial
Wind turbine zoning, including commercial and rooftop generation, will be common topics of discussion in the next few years. Learn more here.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Winter Newsletter Ideas and Social Media Tips
For fresh winter newsletter ideas or prompts for your social media during colder months, this page provides some useful cues.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Witchcraft store
Visitor Question: We have a rented retail storefront on the main street of our town. It sells all sorts of items used by witches and wiccans. What if
Visitor question · Environment, transportation & sustainability
With So Much Vacant Land, Maybe It's Time for an Urban Forest
Reviewed: June 4, 2024 Website Visitor Writes: Vacant land where there used to be industry, foreclosed houses, or old city neighborhoods seems to be in
Guide · Economic & rural development
Working Smart on Business Attraction for Your Community
Communities may be too passive about business attraction. We outline the best straightforward but demanding steps to take to recruit a particular business.
Guide · Organizations & leadership
Writing a Homeowner Newsletter or E-Mail
A sharp homeowner newsletter or e-mail keeps your organization "top of mind" for residents and businesses. These pointers help you start.
Guide · Environment, transportation & sustainability
Yimby Conversation Gaining Momentum
YIMBY is an acronym for Yes In My Backyard. The concept reacts to the NIMBY phenomenon that opposes dense or mixed-income housing.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
You Can Ask Your Zoning Questions Here
This page allows visitors to ask zoning questions. Answers from the editors and possibly other visitors will appear in this hand-selected and edited forum.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Young For-Profit Housing Developer
Visitor Question: Can a for-profit housing developer build and manage both market rate housing and low-income government subsidized housing? Editors'
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Your Housing Questions Answered
Answers to visitor-submitted housing questions, whether oriented to rental or ownership, are provided in one convenient location.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Your Rural Code Enforcement Will Work Best When You Explain the Rationale
Rural code enforcement requires a strong element of persuasion about why the regulations are important. Here are some tips.
Visitor question · Housing & revitalization
Zoning Administrator Splits Lot Contrary to Covenants
Visitor Question: Can a municipality's employee (the zoning administrator) subdivide a lot within a PUD (Planned Unit Development)? Our covenants state
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning Board of Appeals reverses course
Visitor Question: The code is clear in West Bloomfield, MI. It states that if you own multiple lots and sell off a nonconforming lot (70 foot minimum width)
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning Changes on Private Property
Last Updated: August 8, 2020 Visitor Question: Can a city change my private property zoning classification without my permission? Editors' Response:
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning definition changes after development platted
Visitor Question: The housing area I am building in now is zoned R36. At the time all of my neighbors built their houses, the offsets from property lines
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning for Bed and Breakfast Inns May Enliven Neighborhood
Zoning for bed and breakfast uses gives communities control over any potential problems. These establishments can add character and prosperity to towns.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning for Church Next Door
Visitor Question: A pastor is running a church out of his home in a neighborhood,and there are problems with traffic and kids acting like nuisance bullies.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning for More Long Term Rentals
Visitor Question: How would a commercial zone condo association change its zoning laws to be more of a subdivision with longer rentals (no short term)
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning of a small church.
Visitor Question: We are interested in buying a lot to build a home on that is situated next to a small church that sits on 2 acres. My question is, if
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning of house not disclosed
Visitor Question: I found out after I closed on my house that it is in a zone for redevelopment. It was never disclosed. Do I have any recourse? I never
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning ordinance has outdated public category
Published: October 2, 2024 Visitor Question: Our zoning ordinance has not been updated in decades, long-time residents tell me. The city officials I have
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning Ordinance Rewrite
Visitor Question: Our township in Pennsylvania just did a zoning ordinance rewrite. The township manager keeps saying it made just minor changes; yet they
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning Permit for Signs?
Visitor Question: What is the necessity of a zoning permit for signs, as compared to just a building permit? I am the planning and zoning director of
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning setbacks for replacing a structure
Visitor Question: We are planning a remodel of our home and part of our plan is to rebuild our garage and make it wider. The garage would not move closer
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Zoning Variances Offer Relief Under Unique Circumstances
Zoning variances are granted by boards of appeals or adjustment. These should be granted only in cases of unique hardship due to irregular parcels.

Original guidance from A Good Community: How to Make and Keep It, owned and edited by Nancy Thompson (formerly Useful Community Development), shared with permission. Community Compass notes and updates are our own and have not been reviewed by Nancy Thompson.