Technology may determine the future of zoning

On Behalf of | Oct 16, 2018 | land use & zoning

Zoning, or the division of land into zones designated for certain types of use, can be a very complex and contentious process. Many parties have conflicting interests that they seek to protect through zoning. When city officials gather to determine zoning, the going can be slow. Technology can expedite the process and help ensure fairness. A startup out of Florida is influencing how cities plan zoning in our digital era.

 

New era, new technology

Every day, innovators develop new technology to help with nearly every field imaginable. Zoning is no different. Recently, Gridics, a company based in Florida, developed software that helps urban planners by rendering city lots in 3D. With a click, users can create 3D buildings to test certain zoning parameters.

The software is already in use by two major Florida cities—Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. The next frontier for this technology is New York City, where it will help engineers navigate NYC’s incredibly complex zoning codes. Municipalities and the real estate industry can be slow to adopt technological advances, but this is a sign of progress.

What will this mean for the future of zoning?

Zoning law remains a hot point for developers, property owners and public officials. As technology evolves, people in Florida and other states may use it to make the zoning process simpler. Because zoning can cause many legal disputes, technology may make these disputes easier to resolve. In the meantime, any Florida resident involved in a zoning issue may need to consult professionals who have experience in zoning law.