Salt Lake City’s RMF-35 and RMF-45 zoning districts were intended to promote moderate-density housing, but restrictive zoning regulations have prevented meaningful development for nearly 30 years. Currently, 66% of lots are too small under existing regulations, and only 4% of lots have been developed since 1995. The proposed changes aim to remove outdated barriers and allow a wider variety of housing types while maintaining neighborhood character.
Key Proposed Changes:
- Update RMF-35 and RMF-45 districts to simplify regulations, reduce confusion, and unlock development potential on underutilized properties.
- Reduce minimum lot size and width requirements to enable more infill development.
- Allow diverse housing types such as duplexes, rowhouses, and cottage homes to increase affordability and variety.
- Lower parking mandates in areas well-served by transit to reduce unnecessary development costs.
- Revise density limits to align with the city’s housing needs and environmental goals.
- Provide incentives for affordable housing and adaptive reuse of historic buildings.
Why We Support These Changes
✅ More Housing Options – Enables a mix of housing types, helping to create new options for residents.
✅ Affordability – Reducing lot size and parking requirements makes housing more attainable at a variety of income levels.
✅ Smart Growth – Encourages development near jobs, transit, and amenities.
✅ Environmental Benefits – Supports water conservation and reduces reliance on cars.
✅ Neighborhood Compatibility – Allows gradual, context-sensitive growth.
These updates align with Salt Lake City’s long-term plans and will create more livable, inclusive communities while addressing the growing need for affordable housing.
Take action today to support this necessary policy change in the following ways:
- Sign our petition below to support the changes.
- Attend upcoming public meetings.
