Smart Growth Policies

Actions undertaken by states, regions and localities to achieve smart growth are not always easy to learn about, nor are examples immediately available. This database highlights numerous policies and programs that states and localities nationwide have implemented to further smart growth. The policies in this database represent a variety of approaches ranging from formal legislative or regulatory efforts to informal approaches, plans, and programs. These actions represent real and innovative ways for communities to realize smart growth.

There are three ways to search the database: by Smart Growth Principle, by State, or by Keyword

View All Policies

View Policies by Smart Growth Principle:
(See a glossary of Principles)

Community and Stakeholder Collaboration in Development Decisions Compact Building Design Direct Development Towards Existing Communities Distinctive and Attractive Places Mix Land Uses Predictable and Cost Effective Development Decisions Preserve Open Space and Farmland Range of Housing Choices Variety of Transportation Choices Walkable Neighborhoods

View Policies by State:

AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WY

Smart Growth Policies Keyword Search

Enter keywords to search policy summaries, policy titles, locations, and contact information. Searches are inclusive, so entering more than one word will return any record with either of the search terms. If you want to search for a specific phrase, use quotation marks (e.g. "Smart Growth").

This policy database is a living document. If you know of an action in your community or state that you would like us to consider adding, please click on the following link: Suggest an example.