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