Form-based code adopted by Kingston, New York

In August 2023, the city of Kingston fully repealed their zoning-based planning scheme and replaced it with a full form-based code instead.

The wonder of form-based code systems is that they focus on the facades of buildings and the relationship of a building to public space, rather than the type of land use going on behind.

Also part of the comprehensive update to the Kingston planning scheme was also:

• ending minimum parking requirements

• making dual occupancies permitted city-wide

• making 'missing middle' housing permitted city-wide

• making many types of mixed-use development permitted, including corner stores and neighbourhood businesses.

• streamlining development approvals through a new minor site plan review process

Kingston proves local government can seek to be a model for comprehensive change and progress. Particularly, as many of the reforms achieved in Kingston are now on the reform agenda here in Australia.

https://engagekingston.com/kingston-forward