Full Citation

Title: Subdividing the Unzoned City: An Analysis of the Causes and Effects of Houston’s 1998 Subdivision Reform

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2020

ISBN:

ISSN: 0739-456X

DOI: 10.1177/0739456X20935156

NSFID:

PMCID:

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Abstract: Houston is known for its lack of Euclidean-style zoning, but the city still has various ordinances that control land use. In 1998, Houston reformed its subdivision rules to allow for parcels smaller than five thousand square feet citywide. In this paper, we discuss the unique land-use rules in place in Houston prior to reform and the circumstances that led to reform, including the “opt out” provisions, which mediated homeowner opposition to substantial increases in housing density. We then analyze the effects of reform. After relief from large lot requirements, post-reform development activity was heavily concentrated in middle-income, less dense, underbuilt neighborhoods.

Url: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0739456X20935156

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Gray, M. Nolan; Millsap, Adam A.

Periodical (Full): Journal of Planning Education and Research

Issue:

Volume:

Pages: 1-17

Data Collections: IPUMS NHGIS

Topics: Housing and Segregation, Land Use/Urban Organization

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