Form-based codes are widely recognized as tools to improve the character of a place, encourage physical activity, and strengthen resilience to climate change. While most people who are familiar with form-based codes believe that the places these codes regulate tend to perform better economically than those regulated by more conventional, use-based codes, evidence to support this premise has been primarily anecdotal.
"Zoned In: Economic Benefits & Shared Prosperity with Form-Based Codes" by Smart Grwoth America summarizes case studies and economic data to compare conventional versus form-based code. The three biggest lessons gleaned from this review are that form-based codes:
- Produce better economic outcomes for everyone involved
- Bring positive impacts for equity and equitable development
- Provide a regulatory framework for good smart growth development