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A Nearly decade-long zoning re-write finalized
Since 1958, the District of Columbia has stuck to a zoning code that has not kept up with recent trends in housing, development and urban living. The DC Office of Zoning (DCOZ) in 2008 began what was originally planned under DC Mayor Vincent Gray as a five-year zoning re-write, which stretched well beyond its original projection. Finally, the Zoning Re-write 2016 (ZR-16) will take effect on Tuesday, September 6, 2016.
DCAR has kept a close eye on the re-write process and submitted our testimony to guide the commission in protecting DC REALTOR® interests. Additionally, we called on our members to voice their feedback and concerns. Particularly, we asked our members to give their input on issues regarding accessory apartments, alley lot rules and vehicle parking.
The final Order for ZR-16 was published last March in the DC Register, and the Order is available on the Office of Zoning website as well as the OP Zoning Regulations Review website. In June DCOZ hosted an Open House at One Judiciary Square to set the stage for DCOZ to formally announce the release of the 2016 Zoning Handbook and Zoning Map – two key companion tools to ZR-16. Additionally, cases can be submitted and reviewed at the Interactive Zoning Information System.
What DC Realtors® should know
DCAR focused on the provisions in the Zoning Commission’s proposal affect residential units. We submitted public comments particularly on accessory apartments. The final ZR-16 addresses Accessory Apartments under “Subtitle U-Use Permissions,” while parking is noted at “Subtitle C-General Rules.” Alley lot regulations can be found at “Subtitle B-Definitions, Rules of Measurements, and Use Categories.”
DC REALTORS® are encouraged to contact the commission for questions related to specific issues addressed in ZR-16. DCOZ is located at One Judiciary Square, 441 4th Street NW, Suite 200S, Washington, DC 20001. Office hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, except on District holidays. You can send questions via Ask DCOZ or by calling (202)727-6311.
About: The District of Columbia Association of REALTORS® (DCAR) is a state-level Association representing 2,700 residential REALTORS® who are licensed in the District of Columbia. We serve our members as the resource for real estate matters in Washington, DC.
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