Raleigh's New Development Code - A Work In Progress

What is Raleigh's New Development Code?
Raleigh's current development code is outdated, difficult to read, and often discourages good growth. As a result of Raleigh's New Comprehensive Plan, a team of consultants was recently hired by the city to write a New Development Code for Raleigh. The New Code will offer greater clarity and predictability for developers and community members alike by removing and amending outdated policies and encouraging good growth through better zoning practices and improved urban development standards.


The City of Raleigh held three public listening sessions to brief citizens and gather public input on the code development process.  Representatives of WakeUP attended Session 3.

Objectives for the New Code from Listening Session 3:
1. Predictability of Process
Developers and community members alike should be able read the New Code. The New Code must include common language and visual diagrams to improve legibility and accessibility.
2. Form-based zoning
The current code is heavily dependent on property use (residential, public, commercial, etc.) and less dependent on form (height, scale, character, etc.). The New Code must place greater emphasis on form in order to strengthen the character of existing communities as they expand.
3. Sustainability
The current code fails to recognize the shifting trend toward sustainable development, often penalizing efforts to outfit new development with green technologies and better management practices. The New Code must encourage sustainable development through incentives and mandates for environmental efficiency.
4. Transit-oriented & Complete Streets
The Triangle is in the midst of creating a new regional transit system.  New development in Raleigh must align with future transit options and should therefore should be encouraged in areas with future transit infrastructure - bus stations, greenways, light-rail stations, and arterial roads.
5. Mixed-income housing everywhere
Affordable housing is a key issue that must be addressed as our population doubles over the next 20-25 years.  New development must provide living opportunities for citizens representing a range of income levels. A variety of housing options must be available throughout the city, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas where affordable housing options are becoming scarce with redevelopment.

Over the next eighteen months the consultant team, elected officials, stakeholders, and community members will collectively write a New Development Code. Your continued support is important in order to ensure that the New Code meets the needs of existing residents and future citizens of Raleigh - not just developers. This is a pivotal moment for our city so be sure to stay tuned for future event information and news updates regarding the New Code and other growth issues in Wake County.