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“Expanding Housing Options” project mark next to a photo of a townhouse.

Expanding Housing Options

What is Expanding Housing Options?

Expanding Housing Options is a change to zoning rules that would give property owners in lower-density neighborhoods more options for how they use their property. The changes would make it possible to build more types of housing, like smaller homes and townhomes, while still preserving the character and unique qualities of each neighborhood.

This initiative does not require anyone to build new housing. Instead, it provides flexibility—whether a homeowner wants to add a second unit, create space to age in place, build starter homes for future generations, or simply leave their property as it is. Any new housing that is built should fit the scale of the neighborhood and be priced at attainable levels, whether for rent or ownership.

The goal is to create gentle infill opportunities that fit in with the character of low-density Salt Lake City neighborhoods.

To learn more about the specifics of the proposal, click the “Learn More & Engage” button or continue reading the information below.

Share Your Input

Click the "Learn More & Engage" button to learn more and share your comments!

This is the first of many opportunities to provide feedback on this project. Public comment is expected to remain open for at least several months, after which the Planning Commission and City Council will both hold public hearings on the project. Additional public engagement events will be scheduled in the coming months.


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The proposal includes several key components:

  • Creating new zoning regulations that would allow small single-family dwellings, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes (up to four units) on smaller lots.
  • Modifying the R-1, R-2, SR-1 & SR-1A development standards, including lot dimensions, setbacks, building heights, lot coverage allowances, and other changes.
  • Changes to the flag lot standards.
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The proposal does not:

  • Eliminate single-family zoning or the R-1, R-2, SR-1 and SR-1A districts. 
  • Prohibit the construction of new single-family homes. 
  • Require all new construction or expansions to follow the Small Lot Dwelling standards.
  • Remove any Historic Overlay protections.
  • Modify the zoning map.

Why is the City Proposing This?

The City Council asked the Planning Division to prepare amendments to the single- and two-family zoning districts. These amendments are focused on two primary goals: making housing more attainable and providing more housing options for families at all stages of life.

Map of Identified Properties

To navigate the map, click on the icons on different corners of the page. The Layers and Map legend is shown on the left-hand corner, which can be toggled to display certain data information and views of the map. 

2 weeks left

Phases

Phases overview
Background
Proposal Review & Public Input
Next Steps
Council Review
Council Public Input
Council Decision

Council Review

July 1, 2026 - July 31, 2026

Once the proposal is sent to the City Council, Council Members and staff review it to understand what it would do and how it might affect residents and neighborhoods. This includes briefings from City departments, background information, and a review of public input gathered earlier in the process.

As the proposal moves forward, we will post updates here about Council meeting dates and the next steps in the review process as soon as they are scheduled.

Learn more on the Council’s website

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