street with storefronts and living spaces

Form-Based Codes 101: Introduction

This course defines form-based codes, explains why they were invented, and distinguishes form-based codes from conventional "use-based" zoning ordinances—all with an emphasis on placemaking and walkability. We will provide an overview of the development of form-based codes, their mandatory and optional component parts, and the importance of making form-based codes context or place-specific.

  • Preview Course PREVIEW

Course Info

  • Duration 7 video lessons (74 Mins)
  • Published Published
    2015
  • 4.40
Play Video

Preview Course Preview Course

Browse Course Chapters

  • Chapter Locked
    1.
    Welcome
    Chapter Duration 4 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    2.
    Why Form-Based Codes?
    Chapter Duration 12 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    3.
    What Are Form-Based Codes?
    Chapter Duration 11 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    4.
    Components
    Chapter Duration 11 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    5.
    Diverse Applications
    Chapter Duration 7 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    6.
    Common Misconceptions
    Chapter Duration 17 mins
  • Chapter Locked
    7.
    Common Mistakes
    Chapter Duration 9 mins

Course Description

This course defines form-based codes, explains why they were invented, and distinguishes form-based codes from conventional "use-based" zoning ordinances—all with an emphasis on place-making and walkability (i.e., physical form and character). We will provide an overview of the development of form-based codes, their mandatory and optional component parts, and the importance of making form-based codes context or place-specific. The course also describes a range of contexts for the use of form-based codes and concludes with some common misconceptions about form-based codes and some common mistakes in their preparation or use.

At the end of this course, you will understand how form-based codes shape community growth and character and whether form-based codes are an appropriate tool for regulating development in your community.

Completion of all of the courses in this FBC 101 sequence is a prerequisite to taking FBCI's two-day onsite advanced courses, FBC 201 (Urban Design and Placemaking with Form-Based Codes) and FBC 301 (Formulating, Adopting, and Administering Form-Based Codes), which lead to a certificate of completion from FBCI. More information on these courses is available on FBCI's website, www.formbasedcodes.org.

Learn these skills

  • Development
  • Land Use
  • Regulations
  • Urban Design
  • Walkability
  • Zoning Codes

AICP CM

This course is approved for 1.25 AICP CM credits. 

AIA CES

This is 1.25 LU.

LA CES

This course is eligible for 1.25 PDH, LA CES/non-HSW.

CNU-A

This course is approved for 1.25 CNU-A credit.

Meet Your Instructor

Mary Madden

Mary Madden

Mary Madden has nearly 20 years of experience in the fields of urban planning and design, community development, and historic preservation at the federal, state, and local levels.

Meet Instructor
Victor Dover

Victor Dover

Victor Dover is a town planner and urban designer with 29 years of leadership in the reform of planning, regulation and development.

Meet Instructor
Tony Perez

Tony Perez

With 30 years of experience, Tony works with communities to establish and translate policy direction into clear and implementable development standards that deliver the expected vision. 

Meet Instructor

Join thousands of urban planners on Planetizen Courses

This was a great introduction. We have a couple of areas in our City that would thrive with form-based code. Familiarizing our executive staff, elected, and appointed officials is made easier with this material. Thank you.
- Denice T.
5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review
An excellent introduction to form-based codes with an effective combination of dialogue and graphics.
- David T.
5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review
A valuable course for both planner and urban designers, especially those residing outside the U.S.
- Sitangika S.
5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review
Very good overall introduction to form-based codes. Well-organized enough detail to help me grasp the concept without being overwhelming.
- Mark M.
5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review 5 Star Review

Master Urban Planning Skills With A Planetizen Courses Subscription.

Try Free Courses
Computer

High quality video lessons developed by experts.

Analytics

Complete course work to receive a certificate from Planetizen.

Certificate

Test your comprehension with course quizzes.

Cloud

Access reading lists, articles, and other materials prepared by instructors.