Inclusionary Zoning
Field(s):
Community Development, Economic Development, Housing Planning, Land Use & Law
Region of Focus:
General, North America
Inclusionary zoning is a policy tool that requires or incentivizes developers to include a percentage of affordable housing units in new residential developments. This approach aims to promote socioeconomic diversity, address housing shortages, and ensure that low- and moderate-income households can access housing in high-opportunity areas.
Inclusionary zoning programs often provide density bonuses, fee waivers, or other concessions to offset the costs of affordable units.
While effective in creating mixed-income communities, inclusionary zoning must be carefully designed to avoid discouraging development or exacerbating housing costs.
Last update:
September 10, 2025
