While the essential features of inclusionary zoning policy tend to be similar across jurisdictions, municipalities have considerable discretion over the specific terms of the ordinance. This flexibility allows decision-makers to tailor inclusionary zoning policies to the community and strike a balance between meeting local housing needs and both attracting and maintaining the economic viability of new development.

Photo credit: Lynn Schmid, Chelsea Investment Corporation.

Click on the links below for an overview of the key features of inclusionary zoning policies related to affordability requirements or incentives: Circumstances that trigger inclusionary requirements Terms of the set-aside of affordable units Location of affordable units

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You are currently reading: Affordability Provisions All inclusionary zoning policies contain basic components specifying when and how the policy is applied, including whether participation is mandatory or voluntary, the income level(s) targeted and the share of units that must be set aside as affordable. Other pages in this section: Incentives and Cost Offsets Mandatory inclusionary zoning policies frequently include provisions, such as density bonuses, designed to "offset" any foregone revenue associated with the inclusionary requirements. In a voluntary inclusionary zoning program, similar concessions are provided as incentives for participation. Other Considerations Few housing policies have generated as much attention and controversy as inclusionary zoning. Beyond the basic mechanics of the ordinance, there are other key issues that communities thinking about inclusionary zoning should consider. Click here to view more resources on inclusionary zoning.