Los Angeles recently delayed a state housing mandate, sparking a direct conflict between state and local control over urban development. This move challenges state efforts to boost housing options, specifically delaying 2026 city building code changes meant to address the housing shortage, according to Planetizen.
State governments push for streamlined housing development and preemption of local zoning. Yet, many municipalities resist these mandates, often finding their own, sometimes radical, solutions to increase housing supply. North Carolina's Senate Bill 445, for instance, aims to shift land-use control from local governments to the state, according to WRAL.
Cities Take Bold Steps to Boost Density
Cities are boldly challenging traditional zoning. Chicago officials, for example, aim to permit multiunit housing of up to eight units in every neighborhood, according to chicagobusiness. A proposed ordinance there would also allow developers to construct buildings up to five stories with a single stairwell and exit on each floor, according to Block Club Chicago. The permitting of multiunit housing up to eight units in every neighborhood and the proposed ordinance allowing five-story buildings with a single stairwell signal a significant shift towards flexible urban planning, prioritizing housing needs over long-held building standards.
States Invest Heavily in New Housing Programs
States are stepping up with substantial financial support to accelerate housing supply. Michigan's MI Home Program, for instance, plans to build or rehabilitate 10,000 homes over five years, investing $160 million annually for a total of $800 million, according to fox2detroit. Michigan's MI Home Program's investment of $160 million annually for a total of $800 million aims to bypass local regulatory hurdles and tackle housing shortages head-on.
Streamlining Design and Incentivizing Construction
Direct financial grants and standardized designs are becoming key strategies. Michigan's MI Home Grant offers up to $100,000 for new construction and $30,000 for rehab per dwelling unit, according to fox2detroit, making development more appealing. Additionally, the City of Rogers, AR provides a portfolio of over 15 professionally designed plans for various home types. Up to $100,000 for new construction and $30,000 for rehab per dwelling unit from Michigan's MI Home Grant, and over 15 professionally designed plans from the City of Rogers, AR, cut costs, speed up construction, and make housing development more accessible for builders.
By the end of 2026, cities like Chicago will likely see initial development projects testing new single-stairwell ordinances, providing crucial data on their safety and effectiveness.
Your Questions About Housing Code Changes, Answered
What are the new building codes for housing in 2026?
New building codes in 2026 vary significantly by location. For instance, Chicago is considering allowing five-story buildings with a single stairwell to increase density. Other areas might see changes related to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or lot size minimums to encourage more diverse housing types.
How will building code changes affect housing prices in 2026?
Building code changes could impact housing prices by reducing construction costs for developers. Simplified processes or pre-approved designs can make building new homes more efficient. This might lead to increased housing supply, potentially stabilizing or even lowering prices in areas with high demand, but market forces remain complex.
Are there new zoning laws related to housing shortages in 2026?
Yes, many jurisdictions are implementing new zoning laws to combat housing shortages in 2026. Chicago aims to permit multiunit housing up to eight units in every neighborhood. Other cities are revising single-family zoning rules or encouraging denser development near transit hubs to maximize land use and create more homes.
