[Massplanners] Form Based Codes - a few quick research questions

[Corrin Meise-Munns]

Longmeqadow is also interested!

On Mon, Dec 16, 2024 at 12:00 PM <massplanners-request at masscptc.org> wrote:

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>    1. Form Based Codes - a few quick research questions (Amy Dain)
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> Message: 1
> Date: Sun, 15 Dec 2024 13:25:33 -0500
> From: Amy Dain <dainresearch at gmail.com>
> To: Mass Planners <massplanners at masscptc.org>
> Subject: [Massplanners] Form Based Codes - a few quick research
>         questions
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> CABNe33vhdMpSFN0WzNQBEu47tAQrBxeoz2iXSjugmCThURB27g at mail.gmail.com>
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> Hi Mass Planners:
>
> I'm working on a report about the use of zoning tools to affect the design
> and aesthetics of buildings and neighborhoods. I've got a short section on
> form-based codes. I'm interested in your experience with form-based codes,
> and your feedback.
>
> I know that Somerville, Brookline, and Bridgewater have adopted variations
> of form-based codes, with Brookline and Bridgewater including them in their
> MBTA-Communities zoning. I know some others have adopted "form-based-light
> zoning", including regs on roof dimensions and maximum building footprint.
>
> What other communities have adopted form-based codes in MA?
>
> How have these worked in practice? Challenges and successes to report?
>
> Do they make a positive difference in design outcomes?
> Have they facilitated more efficient permitting, or not?
> Have property owners/developers reported ease of use of the codes?
> Have there been problems in adoption and implementation?
>
> How different are form-based codes from conventional as-of-right zoning? Is
> the main difference the specification of more dimensions than just setbacks
> and height and min lot size? Have form-based codes been adopted with or
> without density limits (units per acre or units per building)?
>
> How important is the inclusion of diagrams for form-based codes -- is that
> a key part of the innovation in zoning practice?
>
> I have found the promotional language around them vague... about regulating
> form instead of use... but I am not sure the key innovation is really that
> they don't regulate use... aren't the tables of use regulations still in
> effect with the form based codes, consistent with conventional zoning?
>
> Are there other questions I should be asking about them, that I have left
> off from this list?
>
> Thank you for sharing your insights!!
>
> Also, I am happy to chat if it is easier for you to share the information
> verbally! Name a time, and I will give you a call!
>
> Amy Dain
> Dain Research
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-- 
*Corrin Meise-Munns* *(she/her)*
Assistant Town Manager / Director of Planning & Community Development
Town of Longmeadow, MA
(413) 565-4110
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