Goal 2:

The State of Ohio should unleash market potential by helping communities modernize and correct outdated zoning regulations.

Provide Financial and Technical Assistance to Local Governments to Correct Outdated Zoning Codes.

Many zoning codes in the state of Ohio have not been updated since the 1940s or 1950s. Focused mainly on single-family residential zoning, these zoning codes prevent the development of housing types that consumers are demanding, thus holding back towns and cities from growing. Many states, including Georgia and Michigan, provide support to communities to assist with the expensive and labor-intensive work of updating local zoning regulations to meet 21st Century demand. Ohio should look to emulate the Michigan Housing Readiness Program which provides grants for eligible activities including costs associated with the adoption of land use policies, master plan updates, zoning text amendments, and similar actions to encourage increasing housing supply and affordability. Beyond offering financial assistance, the state can also offer technical assistance in the form of model policies, consultants who are field experts, and peer learning opportunities to aid cities in developing modern zoning codes.