BLACK mobile logo

detroit

politics

Detroit eyes zoning overhaul to boost housing

October 1, 2025

Detroit is considering significant zoning amendments that would expand residential districts to allow multi-unit buildings, modify dimensional requirements for vacant lots, permit more accessory units, and reduce parking requirements. The Detroit Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and vote this Thursday on whether to recommend these changes to the City Council, which would need to authorize them by November 25. These amendments primarily focus on the R2 zoning district, which comprises 25% of Detroit's lots, half of which are vacant.

Who is affected

  • Detroit residents, particularly those in R2 zoning districts
  • Small-scale developers and builders focusing on infill projects
  • Transit users and businesses along transit corridors
  • Current and prospective homeowners facing housing price pressures
  • Property owners with vacant lots

What action is being taken

  • The Detroit Planning Commission is holding a public hearing and expected to vote on recommending zoning changes
  • The City Council is reviewing potential zoning amendments before their November 25 deadline
  • City departments are advocating for zoning reform to remove barriers to development
  • Detroit Department of Transportation is supporting the zoning updates to enhance transit viability
  • Strong Towns Detroit is promoting the elimination of "arbitrary rules that hold the city back"

Why it matters

  • The current zoning rules are barriers to redeveloping vacant parcels in R2 districts, which make up 25% of all lots in Detroit with half being vacant
  • The changes would increase housing supply and help reduce price pressures
  • Higher density development would support transit improvements and local businesses
  • Small developers would have more opportunities for infill projects in neighborhoods
  • According to Deputy Chief Operating Officer Andie Taverna, the changes would offer more development opportunities to increase housing supply

What's next

  • The Planning Commission will vote Thursday on whether to recommend approval to the City Council
  • If recommended, the City Council would need to authorize the changes by November 25 before concluding the year's legislative session

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com