The Case Against Single-Family Zoning: Why It Needs to Go

🏘️Single-family zoning perpetuates inequality and segregation in residential areas.

🌍Large setbacks and lot sizes in R1 zoning contribute to increased car use and emissions.

🏘️Removing single-family zoning can lead to a more diverse range of housing types, such as townhouses and accessory dwelling units.

🌍Diverse housing options can increase housing affordability and improve access to amenities and opportunities.

🏘️Many cities are already taking steps to eliminate single-family zoning and promote housing choice.

Why is single-family zoning considered harmful?

—Single-family zoning contributes to inequality, segregation, and harm to the environment by limiting housing choice and promoting car-dependent lifestyles.

What are the benefits of removing single-family zoning?

—Removing single-family zoning can lead to increased housing affordability, a greater variety of housing types, and improved access to amenities and opportunities.

Will removing single-family zoning destroy the character of neighborhoods?

—Removing single-family zoning does not mean all single-family homes will disappear. It simply allows for more housing options, such as townhouses and duplexes, while preserving the existing character of neighborhoods.

How can removing single-family zoning address inequality?

—Removing single-family zoning can create more opportunities for affordable housing in desirable neighborhoods, reducing the disparities in access to quality housing and amenities.

Are there any cities that have successfully eliminated single-family zoning?

—Cities like Minneapolis and states like California have made efforts to eliminate or relax single-family zoning restrictions, allowing for more housing options and promoting housing affordability.

00:00Introduction to the topic of single-family zoning and its impact on cities and communities.

08:32Discussion on the arguments against single-family zoning, including its contribution to inequality and segregation.

09:41Exploration of the environmental impact of single-family zoning, such as increased car use and emissions.

09:58Explanation of the potential benefits of removing single-family zoning, including increased housing affordability and housing choice.

09:320Examples of cities and states that have taken steps to eliminate or relax single-family zoning regulations.