Planning and Zoning Commission (In-Person) (Sep 2, 2026)

Asheville Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Recap: Affordable Housing, Parking Changes, and Future Planning Directions

On September 2nd, 2026, the Asheville Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) held a busy meeting that touched on significant changes impacting our city’s future. Here's a breakdown of what happened and why it matters to you:

1. Big Decisions Made:

• Green Light for Affordable Housing on Tried Street: The PZC unanimously approved a conditional rezoning request from Asheville Habitat for Humanity. This means that 23 affordable housing units – a mix of townhomes and single-family homes – will be built on property located at 99999 Tried Street and 990 W Chapel Road. This project is a key step towards addressing Asheville’s critical shortage of affordable housing options for residents earning 80% or below the area median income.
• Approved Minutes & Set the Stage for Future Discussions: The PZC approved the minutes from their previous meeting, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about how to best address housing affordability and other critical issues facing our city.

2. What Was Discussed – The Big Picture:

• Parking Changes & Missing Middle Housing: Commissioners discussed recent decisions made by City Council regarding parking requirements and zoning regulations related to "missing middle" housing (duplexes, townhomes, accessory dwelling units). The Council voted to eliminate minimum off-street parking requirements and allow duplexes in more residential areas, aiming to increase housing options and reduce development costs. The PZC acknowledged the potential impact of these changes on neighborhoods and discussed how to best integrate them into our city’s planning efforts.
• Lot Sizes & Starter Homes: Commissioner Anzollitto presented data comparing Asheville’s minimum lot sizes to those in other cities, highlighting the potential for increased housing affordability and starter home construction. This sparked a discussion about whether current zoning regulations are contributing to high land costs and limiting housing options. The Commission agreed to further explore this topic, potentially revisiting lot size requirements in the coming months.
• Planning for a New Comprehensive Plan: The PZC received an update on the upcoming rewrite of Asheville’s Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This is a major undertaking that will shape our city’s future for years to come. Public engagement opportunities are expected to begin in October/November, so stay tuned for ways to get involved!

3. What Residents Had to Say:

• The meeting included a public hearing regarding the Habitat for Humanity project, where supporters voiced their enthusiasm for providing much-needed affordable housing options.
• While no significant opposition was raised, the PZC emphasized their commitment to ensuring that any development aligns with neighborhood character and addresses community concerns.

4. What Happens Next – Action Items & Timelines:

• City Council Review of Comprehensive Plan/UDO Authorization: City Council will consider authorizing the rewrite of our Comprehensive Plan and UDO on September 8th.
• RS2/RS4 Zoning Discussion: The Housing and Community Development Committee will meet on September 15th to discuss regulations related to RS2/RS4 zoning districts.
• PZC Annual Report: The PZC will begin drafting an annual report to City Council, outlining their accomplishments and policy recommendations.
• Continued Lot Size Discussions: The PZC will continue exploring lot size regulations, potentially revisiting the topic at their next meeting.

5. Why This Matters to You:

These discussions and decisions have a direct impact on the future of our city. The approval of the Habitat for Humanity project will provide much-needed affordable housing options, while ongoing conversations about parking regulations and lot sizes could significantly influence the type of housing available in our neighborhoods. The Comprehensive Plan rewrite will shape how our city grows and develops for years to come, so it's important to stay informed and participate in the process.

Stay Informed:

• Visit the City of Asheville Planning & Zoning Commission website (ashevillenc.gov/pzc) for meeting agendas, minutes, and other resources.
• Follow the City of Asheville on social media for updates and announcements.
• Consider attending future PZC meetings to voice your concerns and participate in the planning process!