The DC Comprehensive Plan, last amended 2021, sets the legally binding Future Land Use Map and Generalized Policy Map that the Zoning Commission uses to evaluate planned-unit developments and zoning map amendments.
Under DC Code 1-301.62, the Comprehensive Plan is adopted by the Council and approved by the National Capital Planning Commission. The 2021 amendments resolved long-running litigation about the Future Land Use Map's binding effect, clarifying that map designations control over conflicting zoning. The Office of Planning administers area elements for each ward and small-area plans for neighborhoods like H Street, Florida Avenue, and Bridge District. Planned-unit developments (PUDs) and zoning map amendments must be 'not inconsistent' with the plan, a standard tested in DC Court of Appeals decisions including Durant v. DC Zoning Commission.
Inconsistent PUDs are remanded by the Zoning Commission or reversed on appeal, often delaying projects two to three years and requiring redesign or reduced density.
Washington, DC
DC's Inclusionary Zoning program (Title 11 ZR58) grants up to 20% bonus density and floor-area-ratio in exchange for setting aside 8-10% of units as affordab...
Washington, DC
DC's zoning regulations allow higher density and reduced parking minimums within a quarter mile of Metro stations under Title 11 Subtitle C, supporting Compr...
See how Washington's specific plans overview rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.