National Zoning Atlas

The National Zoning Atlas (NZA) is a U.S.-focused initiative that makes zoning information easier to access, understand, and use. It digitizes zoning codes and maps, bringing detailed information about land-use rules across thousands of jurisdictions into a centralized, publicly accessible resource. Through its interactive map and Zoning Snapshots, the NZA helps advocates, policymakers, researchers, and the public examine how zoning shapes housing, communities, economies, and the environment.

The Atlas standardizes zoning information so users can compare rules across places. Its research team reviews zoning codes and geospatial files, including older hand-drawn maps, and records more than 200 regulatory characteristics for each zoning district. The organization also publishes analysis and research, advocacy resources, state atlas materials, zoning primers, a glossary, tutorials, and teaching materials. These offerings support informed discussion and evidence-based efforts to improve zoning. By translating complex local regulations into clear, actionable data, the NZA aims to help communities identify barriers and opportunities and pursue zoning changes that support more housing choices, stronger economies, healthier environments, and better-connected communities.