Major changes are coming to St. Louis Park’s urban landscape as the city council has approved zoning ordinance amendments to reshape the housing framework. According to Zoning Administrator Gary Morrison, the updates include consolidating residential districts and promoting inclusive housing, marking a key step toward more diverse and accessible living options.

Acknowledging the growing demand for housing, the council’s March 3, 2025, vote reduced five residential districts to four. The changes allow a mix of single, two, and three-unit dwellings in former single-unit zones, with restrictions ensuring not all lots can host three-unit homes. It’s a step toward more inclusive housing options.

An updated zoning map has also been approved, outlining the new neighborhood districts. According to Gary Morrison, these amendments aim to expand housing options and reimagine community spaces. The new plan, set to take effect on March 28, 2025, will guide both residents and developers moving forward.

The council's decision didn't come without public input, officials have been adamant that the voices of the citizens played an integral part, but it was clearly a lengthy and complex conversation with various stakeholders engaging actively in the dialogue "Thank you to everyone that provided input during the process," states Morrison , "All comments were appreciated, informed city decisions, and made a difference." The new ordinance and corresponding zoning map are available for public viewing on the expanding neighborhood housing options webpage.

For those looking to ponder the future fabric of their community districts or possibly entertain ideas of development, the city encourages utilizing the resources provided; citizens are welcome to peruse the detailed guidelines and maps that lay out the upcoming changes in structure and policy, as a means of finding clarity and perhaps opportunity in this new paradigm of neighborhood zoning.