Memphis UDC

The controversy over the amendments to the Memphis Unified Development Code [zoning code] appears to be winding down. On July 17, 2012, the Memphis City Council approved most of the suggested amendments, and added a few of its own. For the most part, the changes to the UDC, originally adopted in 2010, are fairly minor, and designed to add flexibility to the regulation and administration of the zoning regulations. There certainly has been some opposition, quite vocal at times, but generally the recommendations of the Planning Director, Josh Whitehead, seemed to have been accepted by both developers and neighbors. In particular, there were negotiations with the neighborhood interests to reach a compromise; those negotiations seem to have been very successful.

The County Commission must also approve the proposed amendments. The UDC is used throughout the County, not just within the jurisdiction of the city. Take a look at the article from the Memphis Commercial Appeal.