Description
Developing a toolkit with model zoning provisions that support VMT reduction supports sustainable urban development and saves local agencies time and effort researching best practices. A zoning toolkit could include model ordinances for density bonuses, reduced parking requirements, standardized bicycle parking and amenities, transit-oriented design standards, and complete streets standards, among others.
Implementation Details
- Establish a regional working group with planning staff from local jurisdictions to research zoning practices that encourage VMT reducing land use strategies appropriate for the character of the Coachella Valley.
- Facilitate quarterly technical meetings to share General Plan updates, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) streamlining approaches, and local transportation analysis thresholds.
- Maintain a shared best-practices repository using Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) resources.
- Collaborate with regional and state agencies to link VMT reduction with funding prioritization and regional performance targets.
Mitigation Potential
Updated zoning codes that shift land use toward VMT-efficient land use patterns begin to reduce VMT as new development is created. Land use is one of the biggest factors influencing VMT, and large scale change comes from addressing land use factors. While there is no quantification available for this strategy, it is closely linked to other land use strategies and may encourage or advance strategies that reduce VMT.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
Incorporate equity criteria into zoning guidance, such as density bonuses for affordable housing near transit and anti-displacement policies. Provide tailored technical assistance to small and under-resourced jurisdictions. Encourage anti-displacement policies alongside VMT reduction zoning reforms.
Funding Sources
Unlikely to require additional funding but will require staff time. Funding sources include the Regional Early Action Planning Grants Program (Southern California Association of Governments / Western Riverside Council of Governments) and the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program: Sustainable Communities: Competitive and Technical (Caltrans).
Examples/Case Studies
Sacramento SB 743 Toolkit
Sacramento’s toolkit supports cities with zoning reforms to align land use policy with SB 743 implementation goals and support consistent VMT modeling approaches
LADOT Transit Oriented Communities Toolkit
Establishment of TOD guidelines and best practices generally for all station areas through a review of best practices regarding land use, urban design, and transportation, giving suggestions to zoning and county/city owned land.