2.3 Urban growth boundaries
7 min read•august 20, 2024
Urban growth boundaries are planning tools that contain urban sprawl and promote efficient land use. They establish a clear line between urban and rural areas, directing development inward while preserving agricultural and natural spaces beyond the boundary.
UGBs offer benefits like preserving open spaces, encouraging compact development, and reducing infrastructure costs. However, they also present challenges such as potential housing price increases and limitations on economic growth. Successful implementation requires careful planning and stakeholder engagement.
Definition of urban growth boundaries
- Urban growth boundaries (UGBs) are planning tools used to contain urban sprawl and promote efficient land use by designating specific areas for urban development
- UGBs establish a clear boundary between urban and rural lands, directing growth inward and preserving agricultural and natural areas beyond the boundary
- Typically, UGBs are implemented through zoning regulations and land use policies that restrict development outside the designated urban area
Benefits of urban growth boundaries
- UGBs contribute to sustainable urban planning by encouraging efficient land use, protecting natural resources, and promoting compact, walkable communities
Preservation of open spaces
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- By restricting urban sprawl, UGBs help maintain open spaces, such as farmlands, forests, and natural habitats, beyond the urban boundary
- Preserving these open spaces provides ecological benefits, including biodiversity conservation, water resource protection, and carbon sequestration
- Open spaces also offer recreational opportunities and contribute to the overall quality of life for residents (parks, trails, and scenic views)
Encouragement of compact development
- UGBs promote infill development and higher-density housing within the designated urban area, leading to more compact and efficient land use patterns
- Compact development reduces the need for extensive infrastructure (roads, utilities) and encourages the use of alternative transportation modes (walking, biking, public transit)
- Higher-density development within UGBs can also foster vibrant, mixed-use neighborhoods with a strong sense of community
Reduction in infrastructure costs
- By concentrating development within a defined area, UGBs can help reduce the costs associated with extending and maintaining infrastructure (roads, water, sewer) to far-flung suburbs
- Compact development within UGBs allows for more efficient provision of public services (schools, healthcare, emergency services), as resources can be concentrated in a smaller area
- Lower infrastructure costs can result in cost savings for and taxpayers
Challenges of urban growth boundaries
- While UGBs offer many benefits, they also present some challenges that must be addressed to ensure their effectiveness and equitable implementation
Potential for increased housing costs
- Restricting the supply of developable land through UGBs can lead to increased land and housing prices within the urban boundary
- Higher housing costs may disproportionately impact low-income and middle-income households, potentially exacerbating issues of housing affordability and displacement
- Strategies to mitigate these effects may include , affordable housing mandates, and for developers
Limitations on economic growth
- UGBs may constrain economic growth by limiting the availability of land for commercial and industrial development
- Businesses may face challenges in finding suitable locations within the urban boundary, potentially leading to reduced job creation and investment
- Balancing economic development goals with the objectives of UGBs requires careful planning and coordination with the business community
Difficulty in predicting future growth
- Establishing an appropriate size and location for an UGB requires accurate projections of future population growth and land use needs
- Underestimating growth can lead to land shortages and development pressure, while overestimating growth can result in an oversupply of land and inefficient use of resources
- Regular monitoring and adjustment of UGBs based on changing demographic and economic conditions are necessary to ensure their long-term effectiveness
Implementation of urban growth boundaries
- Successful implementation of UGBs requires a comprehensive approach that involves establishing clear criteria, engaging stakeholders, and regularly reviewing and adjusting the boundary as needed
Establishing boundary criteria
- Criteria for defining the UGB should be based on factors such as population growth projections, land use needs, infrastructure capacity, and environmental constraints
- A data-driven approach using geographic information systems (GIS) and other analytical tools can help inform the boundary delineation process
- Consistency with state and regional planning goals and policies is essential to ensure the UGB aligns with broader sustainable development objectives
Collaboration with stakeholders
- Engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including local governments, community organizations, developers, and residents, is crucial for building support and ensuring the UGB reflects diverse interests
- Public participation through workshops, surveys, and hearings can help gather input and address concerns about the impacts of the UGB on different groups
- Collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions is necessary to ensure a coordinated approach to growth management across the region
Periodic review and adjustment
- Regular monitoring and evaluation of the UGB's performance are essential to assess its effectiveness in achieving sustainable planning goals
- Periodic reviews should consider factors such as land use patterns, housing affordability, economic development, and environmental impacts
- Adjustments to the UGB may be necessary to accommodate changing growth projections, address unintended consequences, or respond to new planning priorities
Urban growth boundaries vs urban service areas
- Urban service areas (USAs) are similar to UGBs in that they define the extent of urban development, but they focus specifically on the provision of public services and infrastructure
- USAs delineate the area within which a city or county plans to provide urban services (water, sewer, roads) over a specified time horizon
- While UGBs are primarily concerned with controlling urban sprawl and preserving open spaces, USAs are more focused on ensuring efficient and cost-effective delivery of public services
- In some cases, UGBs and USAs may be used in conjunction to promote both growth management and efficient service provision
Case studies of urban growth boundaries
- Examining real-world examples of UGBs can provide valuable insights into their implementation, benefits, and challenges in different contexts
Portland, Oregon
- Portland's UGB, established in 1979, is one of the most well-known and successful examples of growth management in the United States
- The UGB has helped preserve agricultural lands and natural areas, promote compact development, and support a thriving public transit system
- However, Portland has also faced challenges related to housing affordability and the need to expand the UGB to accommodate population growth
Boulder, Colorado
- Boulder's UGB, known as the "blue line," was established in 1958 to protect the city's scenic mountain backdrop and limit development in sensitive areas
- The UGB has been credited with preserving open spaces, promoting infill development, and maintaining Boulder's unique character
- Challenges have included high housing costs and the need to balance growth with environmental protection
Lexington, Kentucky
- Lexington's UGB, established in 1958, has been instrumental in preserving the city's iconic horse farms and rural landscape
- The UGB has encouraged compact development and revitalization of the downtown core, contributing to a vibrant urban environment
- Lexington has faced pressure to expand the UGB to accommodate growth, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and adjustment
Integrating urban growth boundaries into comprehensive plans
- To be effective, UGBs should be integrated into a community's comprehensive plan, which guides long-term land use, transportation, and infrastructure decisions
- The comprehensive plan should articulate the goals and policies related to growth management, open space preservation, and sustainable development that the UGB is intended to support
- Aligning the UGB with other elements of the comprehensive plan, such as transportation and economic development strategies, can help ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to planning
- Regular updates to the comprehensive plan should consider the performance of the UGB and make necessary adjustments to ensure its continued effectiveness
Legal considerations for urban growth boundaries
- Implementing UGBs requires a solid legal foundation to withstand potential challenges and ensure enforceability
- State-enabling legislation may be necessary to grant local governments the authority to establish and enforce UGBs
- Zoning regulations and land use codes must be updated to reflect the UGB and provide clear guidance on permitted development within and outside the boundary
- Legal challenges to UGBs may arise from property owners or developers claiming infringement on property rights or seeking to develop outside the boundary
- Careful drafting of UGB policies and regulations, along with a transparent and inclusive planning process, can help mitigate legal risks
Monitoring the effectiveness of urban growth boundaries
- Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to assess the performance of UGBs and make data-driven decisions about their adjustment and implementation
Measuring changes in land use patterns
- Tracking changes in land use within and outside the UGB can provide insights into the effectiveness of the boundary in containing urban sprawl
- GIS analysis can be used to monitor the rate and location of development, identify areas of infill and redevelopment, and assess the preservation of open spaces
- Comparing land use patterns before and after the implementation of the UGB can help quantify its impact on growth management
Assessing housing affordability
- Monitoring housing prices and affordability within the UGB is crucial to ensure that do not exacerbate housing challenges
- Tracking metrics such as median home prices, rent levels, and the supply of affordable housing units can help identify potential issues and inform policy responses
- Comparing housing affordability within the UGB to regional and national trends can provide context for evaluating the UGB's impact
Evaluating environmental impacts
- Assessing the environmental outcomes of the UGB can help determine its effectiveness in preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable development
- Monitoring indicators such as air and water quality, biodiversity, and carbon emissions can provide insights into the UGB's environmental performance
- Comparing environmental conditions within and outside the UGB can help quantify the benefits of growth management for ecological health
Future of urban growth boundaries in sustainable planning
- As cities continue to grow and face challenges related to sprawl, resource conservation, and climate change, UGBs are likely to remain an important tool for sustainable planning
- Advances in geospatial technology and data analytics may enable more sophisticated approaches to defining and monitoring UGBs
- Integration of UGBs with other sustainable planning strategies, such as and green infrastructure, can help create more resilient and livable communities
- Sharing best practices and lessons learned from successful UGB implementation can support the wider adoption of growth management policies in cities around the world
Key Terms to Review (18)
Compact City Theory: Compact city theory promotes the idea of developing urban areas that are densely populated and efficiently designed to minimize land use while maximizing accessibility and sustainability. This concept emphasizes mixed-use development, public transportation, and green spaces, creating a vibrant urban environment that reduces reliance on cars and encourages walking and cycling. By concentrating resources and activities in a smaller area, compact cities aim to reduce urban sprawl and promote more sustainable living.
Density Bonuses: Density bonuses are incentives offered by local governments to developers that allow them to increase the allowable density of a project beyond what is typically permitted under existing zoning regulations. These bonuses are often tied to specific benefits that developers must provide, such as affordable housing, green space, or community amenities. By encouraging higher density development, municipalities aim to promote sustainable growth, reduce urban sprawl, and address housing shortages while still ensuring that community needs are met.
Exclusionary Zoning: Exclusionary zoning refers to land-use regulations that intentionally restrict certain types of development, often to maintain the socio-economic status of a neighborhood. These regulations can include minimum lot sizes, prohibitions on multi-family housing, and strict building codes, which together create barriers for lower-income individuals and families seeking housing. This practice can lead to segregation and limit affordable housing options in certain areas, affecting urban growth patterns and community diversity.
Greenfield development: Greenfield development refers to the process of constructing new buildings and infrastructure on previously undeveloped land, typically in rural or suburban areas. This type of development often contrasts with infill or brownfield development, as it involves land that has not been used for urban purposes. Greenfield projects can spur economic growth but may also raise concerns about environmental impact and urban sprawl.
Growth Management Policies: Growth management policies are strategic frameworks implemented by governments to regulate urban development, ensuring that it aligns with environmental sustainability, infrastructure capacity, and community needs. These policies often include measures such as zoning regulations, land use planning, and public investment in infrastructure to manage the pace and direction of growth effectively. By promoting a balanced approach to development, these policies aim to prevent urban sprawl and encourage more sustainable land use practices.
Habitat Preservation: Habitat preservation refers to the protection and maintenance of natural environments in order to safeguard the plants and animals that reside within them. This practice is essential for maintaining biodiversity, supporting ecosystems, and mitigating the impacts of urbanization and climate change. By conserving habitats, we can ensure the survival of various species and promote ecological balance in increasingly developed areas.
Inclusionary Zoning: Inclusionary zoning is a land use regulation that requires or incentivizes developers to include a certain percentage of affordable housing units in new residential developments. This approach aims to promote a diverse and equitable community by ensuring that low- and moderate-income households have access to housing in areas that are often dominated by higher-income residents, thus fostering inclusive and equitable design, shaping zoning regulations, influencing urban growth boundaries, and supporting affordable housing strategies.
Land Use Planning Theory: Land use planning theory refers to the framework and principles guiding the organization and management of land resources to promote sustainable development and efficient land use. This theory encompasses various approaches and methodologies that help planners anticipate future needs, address environmental concerns, and balance economic growth with social equity. It is crucial in establishing guidelines for zoning, urban design, and land conservation, ensuring that land use decisions align with broader community goals and sustainable practices.
Local governments: Local governments are the administrative bodies that govern a specific geographic area, such as a city, town, or county, and are responsible for providing public services, enforcing laws, and implementing policies. They play a crucial role in land use planning, zoning regulations, and the management of local resources, which connects directly to urban growth boundaries and waste management strategies like waste-to-energy and anaerobic digestion. Their authority allows for tailored solutions that address the unique needs and challenges of their communities.
Mixed-use development: Mixed-use development refers to a type of urban planning that integrates different uses within a single building or a designated area, such as residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This approach promotes a vibrant community by reducing the need for long commutes, encouraging walking, and fostering social interactions among residents and visitors.
New Urbanism: New Urbanism is an urban design movement that promotes walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods that prioritize community and sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of human-scale development, where residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are integrated, fostering vibrant communities and reducing reliance on cars.
Portland's Urban Growth Boundary: Portland's Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) is a regional land use planning tool designed to control urban sprawl by delineating a specific area where urban development is permitted while protecting rural land outside the boundary. This boundary helps to manage growth in a sustainable manner, aiming to encourage higher density development, preserve natural resources, and maintain the quality of life for residents. The UGB has become a model for other cities seeking to implement smart growth strategies and balance urbanization with environmental preservation.
Smart Growth: Smart growth is an urban planning approach that promotes sustainable and environmentally friendly development by encouraging compact, mixed-use communities, efficient transportation, and the preservation of natural resources. This method seeks to create livable neighborhoods that reduce reliance on automobiles, protect open spaces, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
Sustainable land use: Sustainable land use refers to the management and utilization of land resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This involves balancing environmental protection, economic viability, and social equity, aiming to minimize negative impacts on ecosystems while maximizing benefits for communities. Key components include promoting efficient resource use, protecting natural habitats, and integrating community input into planning processes.
Transit-Oriented Development: Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a planning strategy that focuses on creating high-density, mixed-use communities centered around public transportation hubs. By integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within walking distance of transit stations, TOD aims to promote sustainable living, reduce reliance on cars, and enhance accessibility.
Urban Growth Boundary: An urban growth boundary (UGB) is a regional boundary set in place to control urban sprawl by delineating where urban development is permitted and where it is not. This tool helps to promote sustainable land use by encouraging higher density development within the boundary while preserving rural and undeveloped land outside of it. UGBs aim to create a clear distinction between urban and rural areas, which can enhance the quality of life, reduce environmental impacts, and improve infrastructure efficiency.
Urban Planners: Urban planners are professionals who develop plans and programs for land use in urban areas, focusing on creating sustainable and functional communities. They analyze various factors, such as environmental impacts, economic viability, and social equity, to create strategies that guide the development and growth of cities. Urban planners work to balance the needs of current residents with future growth, ensuring that urban spaces remain livable and efficient.
Vancouver's land use policies: Vancouver's land use policies are a set of regulations and guidelines aimed at managing the development and utilization of land in the city to promote sustainability, livability, and community well-being. These policies incorporate urban growth boundaries to control urban sprawl, preserve green spaces, and enhance public transportation systems, ultimately aiming for a balanced approach to urban development.