How do you develop skills and competencies for land use and zoning staff or partners?

1 Learn the basics

The first step to developing skills and competencies for land use and zoning is to learn the basic concepts and terminology. You should familiarize yourself with the different types of land use categories, such as residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and mixed-use. You should also learn the common zoning tools and techniques, such as zoning districts, overlays, variances, special permits, site plan review, and environmental impact assessment. You can find online courses, books, articles, and podcasts that cover these topics, or you can attend workshops and seminars offered by professional associations, local governments, or universities.

2 Research the local context

The second step to developing skills and competencies for land use and zoning is to research the local context of your project. You should find out the specific land use and zoning regulations that apply to your site, as well as the relevant plans, policies, and goals of the community. You should also identify the key stakeholders and decision-makers involved in the land use and zoning process, such as the planning board, the zoning board, the city council, the neighborhood association, and the public. You can access these information sources through online databases, maps, reports, and public records, or you can contact the local planning department or agency.

3 Analyze the opportunities and challenges

The third step to developing skills and competencies for land use and zoning is to analyze the opportunities and challenges that your project faces. You should evaluate how your project aligns with the existing and desired land use and zoning conditions, as well as how it impacts the surrounding environment, infrastructure, and community. You should also anticipate the potential issues and objections that your project may encounter, such as density, height, parking, traffic, noise, aesthetics, affordability, and sustainability. You can use various tools and methods to conduct this analysis, such as SWOT analysis, feasibility studies, market analysis, site analysis, and impact analysis.

6 Apply and adapt your knowledge

The sixth step to developing skills and competencies for land use and zoning is to apply and adapt your knowledge to different situations and scenarios. You should be able to use your land use and zoning knowledge to solve problems, make decisions, and create value for your project and the community. You should also be able to adapt your land use and zoning knowledge to different contexts, challenges, and opportunities, as the land use and zoning field is constantly evolving and changing. You can enhance your application and adaptation skills by taking on new or diverse projects, experimenting with new or alternative solutions, and reflecting on your successes and failures.