Planning and Zoning Code Audit 2025

The attached docuemnt aims to audit the existing Newport Kentucky Planning and Zoning Code found in Chapter 153 (Planning) and related appendix (Zoning) of the Codified Ordinances. The city embarked on this process as they considered modernizing its planning, zoning, and subdivision regulations to ensure that its land use regulations address modern activities, various administrative and interpretation issues, and generally make the code easier to understand. This document was developed following discussions with staff and the consultant's experience drafting regulations for communities across Kentucky and the nation.

This report intends to summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the existing regulations in terms of usability, organization, and substantive standards and provide options for improvement. This document also includes a proposed outline for a reorganized code. That suggested outline would completely reorganize the regulations into a code that will improve usability by staff, residents, business owners, and city officials.

It is important to remember that this audit does not necessarily identify every issue or individual problem with the existing regulations but focuses on broader issues that will direct before any text amendments. Once staff and city officials have had an opportunity to review and provide feedback on this document, the city can decide on the next steps toward a modern planning and zoning code.

Newport Code Audit 2025