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A significant aspect of DPZ’s
work involves its innovative use of planning regulations and codes. Both generic
(such as the SmartCode) and project-specific
(such as DPZ’s Urban and Architectural
Regulations), these codes are provided to make projects more successful and
to ease their implementation.
The SmartCode
was created by DPZ to replace existing zoning ordinances that encourage
single-use development at the expense of neighborhood viability. Most
municipalities across the
U.S. are currently enforcing such suburban-era codes and
need to enact a SmartCode or similar ordinance if
they wish to make New Urban communities possible. Dealing with all aspects of
design—including building disposition and configuration, street and
landscape standards, parking, and architecture—the SmartCode was designed for municipalities that have
embraced the smart growth agenda and are seeking the tools to make it
happen. This particular code has
already been implemented in several jurisdictions and was released
nationally in 2003.
The Urban and Architectural Regulations are specific to
each DPZ project and comprise a portion of each charrette report. The Urban Regulations control those
aspects of private buildings that affect the spatial quality of the pubic
realm, while the Architectural Regulations codify local design traditions
and building techniques. Many
projects include Landscape Regulations as well, if they are deemed
appropriate.
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