Form-Based Zoning: A New Approach for Future Development in Downtown

Published on April 24, 2026

The Arlington City Council officially adopted the Downtown Form-Based Zoning (FBZ), marking an important milestone for Downtown Arlington. The ordinance was approved unanimously, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening Downtown as a welcoming, walkable and vibrant place for the community. 

The new zoning district focuses on creating a more predictable and streamlined development process while emphasizing the quality of streets, buildings and public spaces. As part of the Unified Development Code, the Form-Based Zoning ordinance will stand as its own article, bringing all Downtown regulations into a single, streamlined section.  

For Downtown, this means a stronger foundation for the kinds of places people want to see: walkable streets, active ground-floor spaces, thoughtful transitions near neighborhoods and opportunities to reuse and reinvest in existing buildings. The zoning is designed to support both small-scale improvements and larger projects, helping Downtown grow in a way that feels connected and well-integrated. 

"This is a defining moment for Downtown Arlington—the result of deliberate effort and clear direction," Gincy Thoppil Director of Planning & Development Services. "We’ve put in place a framework that will guide growth thoughtfully and shape better streets, better buildings, and a more connected Downtown experience."

The Form-Based Zoning also supports local businesses by making it easier to adapt and reuse existing spaces as needs change over time. This flexibility can help reduce vacancies, support business turnover and keep storefronts active, contributing to a more vibrant street experience. 

This zoning approach is designed to protect the character of existing neighborhoods within and around Downtown. By establishing clear expectations for building form and transitions, it helps ensure that new development complements surrounding areas while supporting a walkable and comfortable environment. 

With this new framework in place, Arlington is well-positioned to support continued momentum in Downtown, including new housing, retail, dining, office space, and public destinations. 

This adoption builds on years of planning, community input and the vision established in the 2018 Downtown Master Plan. With Form-Based Zoning now in place, Downtown Arlington is better positioned to grow as a place where people want to live, work, learn and gather.