Smart Growth America has announced the tenth annual award for achievement in the writing and implementation of form-based codes. Thanks to the generosity of the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust, FBCI and Smart Growth America will recognize exemplary form-based codes that have been adopted by localities.
Form-based codes are municipal zoning codes that shape development by defining characteristics of building form, streets, and open space as opposed to relying on use as an organizing principle. Or, put another way, they’re a tool for defining the kind of place you want to create, rather than what happens inside the building. They allow a community to implement their vision for what kind of place they want to be and create a more predictable environment for development. A form-based zoning code fosters predictable built results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form—rather than separation of uses—as the organizing principle for the code. Form-based codes often serve as the regulatory framework for smart growth in communities across the country. Click here to learn more about SGA’s strategic partner, the Form-Based Code Institute.
The award jury’s considerations will include how the code addresses the following questions:
Will the code deliver a predictable street character (public space)?
Is the code implementable and relatively easy to use?
Does this code have relevant and distinguishing features that advance the practice?
Will this code promote good urbanism (has it resulted in high-quality development activity)?
Submissions are due on March 16th, 2018. Details can be found on the FBCI website, including the application form and instructions, previous winners, the 2018 Awards Jury, and eligibility requirements.