The National Zoning Atlas is an innovative brand that aims to digitize, demystify, and democratize over 30,000 U. S. Led by Professor Sara Bronin and housed at Cornell University Legal Constructs Lab, this collaborative of researchers is working on regional and statewide atlases across the country.

So, what exactly is the National Zoning Atlas? It is a comprehensive online map that helps us better understand the often complex and influential zoning laws adopted by local governments across the United States. It combines legal research, data science, digital humanities, social science, and computer science to provide a user-friendly platform for exploring key attributes of these regulations. But why is this project important? Zoning laws have direct impacts on housing, transportation, the environment, economic and educational opportunities, and even our food supply.

However, they are often daunting and hard to comprehend for ordinary people. The National Zoning Atlas seeks to bridge this information gap, enabling broader participation in land use decisions, identifying opportunities for zoning reform, and promoting equitable outcomes. The project utilizes manual reviews of zoning code texts and maps, as well as grant funding from the National Science Foundation and the U.

S. Department of Housing and Community Development, to automate the digitizing process. By making this information accessible and free to view, the National Zoning Atlas empowers individuals and communities to navigate zoning regulations, compare jurisdictions, and contribute to national planning for important aspects such as housing production, transportation infrastructure, and climate response.

Join the collaborative effort and explore the free atlases to gain valuable insights into zoning regulations in your area and beyond