Zoning decisions shape the places we live. They determine what kind of housing is built, how affordable communities are, and whether neighborhoods are walkable or car-dependent. Good zoning can create vibrant, diverse communities, while bad zoning can lead to skyrocketing housing costs, empty storefronts, and cities designed for cars instead of people.
Many communities today face serious challenges:
- Housing is too expensive because zoning laws limit how much and what type of housing can be built.
- Neighborhoods aren’t walkable, forcing people to rely on personal vehicles for everything.
- Vacant storefronts and underused commercial spaces make areas feel empty and uninviting.
- Zoning rules are outdated and don’t support the way people want to live today.
This is where Yes My City (YMC) comes in. YMC is Elliott Killian’s planning philosophy for smarter zoning and smarter growth. Instead of rigid, outdated zoning rules, YMC promotes flexible, community-focused zoning that allows for gradual, people-centered development. The goal? More housing, stronger neighborhoods, and better cities for everyone.
The Case for Upzoning R1 to R2
Many communities are struggling with high housing costs and a lack of affordable options—and outdated R1 zoning is a big reason why. R1 zoning restricts land use to single-family homes only, limiting housing choices and driving up costs by preventing more efficient land use.
Upzoning R1 to R2 is a simple, effective solution that allows for a mix of single-family and two-family homes, making neighborhoods more affordable, diverse, and adaptable without the need for large, high-density developments.
Why R2 Zoning is Better for Communities
- More housing options – R2 zoning allows duplexes and two-family homes, creating a natural increase in housing supply.
- Affordability without massive developments – Instead of relying on large apartment complexes, R2 lets communities grow gradually.
- Supports multi-generational living – Families can live together or rent out a unit for extra income, making homeownership more sustainable.
ADUs: A Smart, Small-Scale Solution
Another way to create affordable housing is by allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—small, secondary homes built on the same lot as a main house. ADUs provide:
- Affordable rental units for students, seniors, or young professionals.
- Extra income for homeowners who want to rent out space.
- More flexibility in how people use their property.
To make ADUs practical, zoning laws need to change. Adjusting setback rules and height limits will allow more homeowners to build these small, functional living spaces.
By upzoning R1 to R2 and allowing ADUs, communities can increase housing supply, lower costs, and create more livable, flexible neighborhoods—all while preserving the character of residential areas.
Improving R4 Zoning: More Flexibility, Better Design
R4 zoning is meant to allow for denser housing, but in many places, outdated restrictions make it inefficient. By modernizing R4 zoning, communities can create more housing, improve walkability, and support smart growth without sacrificing livability.
Expanding R4 Zoning for Smarter Growth
- Increase building coverage limits (75%-100%) – More land can be used for housing while still managing stormwater with modern green infrastructure.
- Limit heights to 5 floors – This creates density without overwhelming neighborhoods, keeping a balance between space and livability.
Encouraging Mixed-Use Without Forcing It
Many zoning rules require commercial space in new developments, but this often leads to vacant storefronts and higher housing costs. Instead of forcing commercial use, zoning should allow flexible spaces that can adapt to community demand, whether that’s shops, co-working spaces, or additional housing.
Reducing Car Dependency
- Encourage public transit hubs – Making transit easily accessible improves mobility and reduces the need for personal vehicles.
- Update parking requirements – Many zoning codes require more parking than people actually need, adding unnecessary costs to housing. Instead, policies should reflect real-world transportation trends, reducing parking mandates in areas with good transit options.
By improving R4 zoning, cities can build more housing, support local businesses, and create walkable, people-friendly neighborhoods—without unnecessary restrictions that slow down progress.
The Benefits of Smarter Zoning
Updating zoning laws isn’t just about adding more housing—it’s about building better, more livable communities. Smarter zoning creates flexibility, affordability, and sustainability while keeping neighborhoods vibrant and people-friendly.
More Housing Without Large, Disruptive Developments
By allowing small-scale housing growth—like duplexes, ADUs, and mixed-use buildings—communities can increase housing availability without relying on massive apartment complexes. This keeps neighborhoods balanced while making housing more accessible.
Increased Property Value and Homeowner Flexibility
Zoning that allows ADUs, duplexes, and expanded building coverage gives homeowners more options. They can expand their homes, rent out space, or adapt their property to fit their needs—all while increasing its value.
Encouraging Sustainable Building Practices
Modern zoning can incentivize eco-friendly design, such as stormwater management, green roofs, and energy-efficient buildings. This allows communities to grow while reducing environmental impact.
Providing Rental Income and Multi-Generational Housing
Smarter zoning supports affordable rental options, giving homeowners the ability to earn extra income while providing housing for students, seniors, or young professionals. It also makes multi-generational living easier, keeping families together while maintaining privacy.
With smarter zoning, communities can grow in a way that benefits everyone—more housing, better flexibility, and a stronger, more connected neighborhood.
Conclusion: Smarter Zoning for Better Communities
Zoning plays a huge role in shaping our neighborhoods, and Yes My City (YMC) is about making smarter, more flexible choices for the future. By upzoning R1 to R2, improving R4 zoning, and allowing ADUs, we can create more housing without massive developments, support homeowners, and make communities more livable.
Smarter zoning means lower housing costs, better walkability, and more opportunities for people to live, work, and thrive in the same space. It’s time to move beyond outdated zoning rules and build cities that work for people—not just policies.
The future of our communities starts with zoning that supports growth, sustainability, and real human connection. With YMC, we can create cities that are affordable, flexible, and designed for the way people actually live.
