Webinars

Form-based codes offer a streamlined administrative process. They put the emphasis on creating great and lasting places that attract and retain prosperity within a community. If you are considering switching to a form-based code, or have done so already, this session will provide you with answers to common administrative concerns,…more

The SmartCode form-based code has been adopted in municipalities throughout the U.S. and utilized in various capacities – testing the tool’s adaptability and versatility. This webinar is led by two practitioners who discuss the code, pros and cons, successes and failures. They draw upon their experiences creating codes for towns…more

Corridors are carriers of life in a region, passageways serving as edges and connectors. Kaizer Rangwala discusses the particular challenges of planning for corridors, man-made and natural. From a theoretical framework, he moves to trends and various contemporary visions for corridors, considering the critical role of form-based codes to engage…more

Daniel Parolek shows how to create a zoning code/form-based code that has form-based and use-based standards side by side, thus creating an effective hybrid code and not a compromised hybrid FBC. He discusses lessons learned from recent citywide and countywide form-based code projects.

Municipalities, big and small are recognizing the importance of creating, maintaining, and preserving a distinctive and vibrant place to promote a restorative economy and environment. Planning and zoning offices, local universities, and not-for-profit agencies are responding by setting up urban design studios or by engaging a town designer to assist…more

Scott Polikov, President of Gateway Planning Group in Austin, Texas, demonstrates how a form-based approach allows communities to leverage the near term market without sacrificing flexibility and creativity over time. Of interest to developers, architects, community development specialists, elected officials and all others striving to create places of high value.

Stefan Pellegrini shows how form-based codes may be used to preserve and guide development in small towns and rural communities, looking at towns as small as 5,000 people, with applications to even smaller towns and unincorporated communities. He discusses strategies to help rural communities build the basic infrastructure for development…more

George Proakis continues the conversation about smaller towns and villages, focusing on strategies for the traditional town center. He draws upon his own work using form-based codes to conserve the historic character of New England communities while revitalizing them and spurring new development. George shows the unique power of FBCs…more

Two experts offer insights into how to treat historic districts within form-based codes, using case studies from small town and large urban areas. Viewers learn more about the relationship of historic preservation to form-based coding, and when they’re a good match.

This 90-minute session by three experts, including a planner, a city designer and an attorney, is an ideal introduction for planners, commissioners, council members, architects, developers, consultants, interested citizens and all others concerned with community planning and the land development process.

Geoffrey Ferrell and Jason Beske demonstrate how to begin to build a desirable place where the existing urban fabric is less than ideal (“sub-urban”). Case studies taken from a suburban town center and shopping center redevelopment.

This 2-hour webinar covers key elements of sustainable design that may be regulated by form-based codes, including storm water and waste water conservation, renewable energy systems, urban agriculture, green roofs, landscaping, community-based transportation and community participation strategies. Instructors use specific case studies.

Even the best form-based code only makes a difference once it gets adopted. In this 90-minute session, Jennifer Hurley presents principles and tools for positive community engagement that can help get your code through the political process. She discuss the fine points of engagement formats, dealing with challenging situations, and…more

A FREE joint webinar between the Form-Based Codes Institute and the State Smart Transportation Initiative. Speakers discussed the steps taken to rethink parking policies and prioritize people in public spaces in Hartford, CT and Atlanta, GA. A full recording and recap of the webinar are available HERE.  

A FREE, joint webinar between the Form-Based Codes Institute and the National Charrette Institute. Speakers shared their experiences using NCI charrette workshops to develop form-based codes in Norman, OK and Arlington County, VA. A full webinar recording and recap are available HERE.

Arlington County board member Chris Zimmerman shares the experiences he’s gained over the years with the administration of a successful form-based code. Chris will describe the challenges presented by the Columbia Pike code as a code specifically for a built-up area. He will discuss the adaptations that were made, the…more

Form-based codes are introduced to attorneys and public officials by attorneys Sam Poole and Dan Slone and planner Bill Spikowski. Poole summarizes the historical antecedents of form-based codes and their similarities with early zoning in the United States. Spikowski explains how cities and counties integrate form-based codes into their existing…more

Cincinnati’s Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls speaks directly to public officials – elected and appointed – including those serving on committees, commissions and community councils. She presents the strategic case for form-based codes, explaining why they are important for her city, and how she has persistently pursued their use to help…more

Street design and land use regulation are inseparable parts of a whole in Form-Based Codes.Victor Dover and John Massengale, co-authors of the book Street Design: The Secret to Great Cities and Towns, draw upon the many lessons and excellent examples they have discovered worldwide.

A FREE, joint webinar between Smart Growth America’s Economic Development team and the Form-Based Codes Institute. Speakers discussed how different communities are using form-based codes to support small-scale manufacturing businesses. A full webinar recording and recap are available HERE.