Author M. Nolan Gray and Planetizen Editorial Director James Brasuell recently discussed zoning abolition and other concepts discussed in Gray's book, "Arbitrary Lines," published recently by Island Press.
The discussion recorded for the video above, between M. Nolan Gray and James Brasuell, digs into the key concepts and critiques presented in the newly published book, Arbitrary Lines: How Zoning Broke the American City and How to Fix It.
As noted by Brasuell early in the discussion, Arbitrary Lines takes a significant step beyond the work of previous books that have introduced criticism of U.S. zoning codes by proposing the end of zoning. Gray explains four key critiques of zoning and its outcomes—criticisms that are under-appreciated and misunderstood even by many in the planning profession. The discussion also gets into the details of how Gray believes land use regulation can continue after the end of zoning.
For more background on the book, see also an excerpt published by Planetizen as well as a book review written by Planetizen blogger Michael Lewyn.
FULL STORY: Arbitrary Lines Nolan Gray's Conversation with Planetizen
Book Review: Arbitrary Lines
In addition to attacking zoning laws' limitations on housing, Gray argues that zoning fails to limit nuisances.
Four ‘Low-Hanging Fruit’ Zoning Reforms
An excerpt from the latest book on zoning argues for four approaches to reform that can immediately improve land use regulation in the United States.
Zoning for Good
A new book highlights the power of zoning to change communities for the better.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
The 120 Year Old Tiny Home Villages That Sheltered San Francisco’s Earthquake Refugees
More than a century ago, San Francisco mobilized to house thousands of residents displaced by the 1906 earthquake. Could their strategy offer a model for the present?
Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
BLM To Rescind Public Lands Rule
The change will downgrade conservation, once again putting federal land at risk for mining and other extractive uses.
Indy Neighborhood Group Builds Temporary Multi-Use Path
Community members, aided in part by funding from the city, repurposed a vehicle lane to create a protected bike and pedestrian path for the summer season.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Clanton & Associates, Inc.
Jessamine County Fiscal Court
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service