Overview
Mixed use zoning districts and development are based on the concept of integrating multiple, compatible land uses within a defined area to create a more balanced, efficient, and sustainable community. Rather than separating residential, commercial, employment, and recreational uses into isolated areas, mixed use planning seeks to create places where different uses can work together to support the daily needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.
At its core, mixed use planning focuses on creating a relationship between different land uses while still considering compatibility, community character, and long-term growth. When thoughtfully implemented, mixed use development can provide opportunities for housing, employment, services, and recreation to exist in closer proximity, potentially reducing travel demands and creating more connected communities.
Several principles commonly guide mixed use planning efforts:
- Balancing Community Needs. Mixed use districts are intended to accommodate a variety of community needs by allowing residential, commercial, recreational, and employment opportunities within the same area. The goal is to create a balanced environment where different uses support one another while minimizing conflicts between incompatible activities.
- Efficient Use of Land. Mixed use development can help communities make better use of limited land resources by allowing multiple activities to occur within the same area. This approach can be especially valuable in communities experiencing population growth, increasing development pressures, or limited availability of developable land. In Utah, where many communities are facing continued growth and housing challenges, mixed use concepts are often considered as one potential strategy for accommodating future needs.
- Supporting Long-Term Economic Vitality. By integrating compatible land uses, mixed use areas can encourage economic diversity and create opportunities for businesses, residents, and community services to support one another. Well-planned mixed use areas can help promote local investment, provide additional employment opportunities, and create places that remain active and viable over time.
In Utah, local officials should understand how mixed use concepts relate to the Land Use, Development, and Management Act (LUDMA), found in §10-20/§17-79 of Utah State Code (as amended). While State law does not establish a specific mixed use zoning district requirement, mixed use concepts are incorporated into broader planning requirements, particularly those related to general plans and moderate income housing strategies.
For certain municipalities and counties, the moderate income housing element of the general plan requires communities to identify realistic strategies for meeting housing needs over a five-year planning period. Mixed use development is often considered one potential approach because it can support additional housing opportunities while also improving access to employment, services, and transportation options.
Ultimately, mixed use zoning is not simply about allowing multiple uses within the same district. Successful mixed use planning requires careful consideration of compatibility, design, infrastructure capacity, and the community’s long-term vision for growth. When thoughtfully implemented, mixed use development can help communities create more efficient, connected, and resilient places.
Content Contributors: Jones and DeMille Engineering, Inc, Hansen Planning Group, LLC / Rural Community Consultants
Special Note: This material was developed by civiclinQ for the Land Use Academy of Utah (LUAU). Funding for the development of this material was provided by through the Land Use Training Fund, which is administered by the Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman , utilizing a portion of the 1% surcharge on all building permits in the State of Utah.
The role of this organization in administering funding is primarily administrative and should not be viewed as legal advice. Always consult your legal representative when addressing land use activities.
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