The City of St. Louis Prepares for Major Zoning Upgrade to Shape Future Development
The City of St. Louis is on the brink of a significant transformation as it prepares to revamp its zoning regulations. This modernization, known as the Zoning Upgrade, will be the first major overhaul of the city’s zoning code since the 1950s. The project website contains more information about this exciting endeavor.
Before the official launch event on September 3rd, the City is inviting residents to apply for the Zoning Upgrade Community Advisory Committee. This 12-member committee will play a crucial role in shaping the new zoning code by providing community insights, reviewing materials, and supporting engagement efforts throughout the process.
“Our zoning code should reflect our city’s identity and our vision for the future,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a zoning framework that promotes growth, equity, sustainability, and thriving neighborhoods in St. Louis. After the devastating tornado on May 16th, it is even more crucial to have zoning policies in place that support recovery and provide housing, amenities, and resources for our residents to rebuild their lives.”
The Planning and Urban Design Agency (PDA) and the Zoning Section of the Building Division will lead the comprehensive process of overhauling the city’s zoning code. This 18-month project will involve a phased approach, including:
- A thorough audit and diagnostic of the current zoning code, guided by the recently approved Strategic Land Use Plan, neighborhood plans, public and stakeholder input, and best practices from local and national experts.
- Public workshops, webinars, and educational events as part of the “Code Connect” series.
- Drafting and sharing new zoning code modules for public review and input, with the ultimate goal of enacting them through an ordinance.
- Incorporating feedback from an advisory committee of residents and working groups with experience in zoning and related topics, including City staff and professionals from various sectors and industries in St. Louis.
“Our aim is to create a zoning code that is easy to understand, fair, and effectively implemented,” said Zoning Administrator Mary Hart Burton. “The Advisory Committee will play a crucial role in ensuring that the new code reflects the perspectives and expertise of St. Louis residents from all corners of the city.”
The committee members will be selected through a lottery system from the pool of completed applications. To apply, visit zoup-stl.com. The deadline to apply is September 12th.
The Zoning Upgrade will be officially launched with a public event featuring an introduction to the project and a panel discussion with zoning experts from across the country. The event will be moderated by Dara Eskridge of InvestSTL, and residents will have the opportunity to share their thoughts and priorities and sign up to participate in the process moving forward.
The launch event will take place on Wednesday, September 3rd at 5:30 p.m. at the Visitor & Education Center in Forest Park.
