ACAR Provides Testimony at Public Hearing on Zoning

The City of Akron is considering changes to its residential zoning rules that would make it easier to use land for housing.

What would change?

The ordinance would:

• Remove minimum lot-size requirements for residential uses, as long as required yard space is met.
• Reduce the required side and rear yards for single-, two- and three-family homes.
• Reduce the amount of open space required for apartment buildings.
• Reduce the minimum width for residential driveways from 10 feet to 9 feet.

The changes would not remove zoning rules. Homes would still need to be allowed in the zoning district and meet other city requirements.

What does this mean for REALTORS®?

For REALTORS®, the changes could create more opportunities for homes to be built on existing lots that do not meet today’s minimum lot-size rules. That can give buyers and sellers more options and make better use of land that already has roads, utilities, and other infrastructure in place.

It also supports a broader goal: creating more housing choices at different price points.

Where does ACAR stand?

ACAR supports the ordinance. Our public policy calls for reducing barriers to homeownership, increasing housing supply, and updating outdated zoning rules.

We believe Akron can create more housing opportunities while still maintaining reasonable standards for safety, access, and neighborhood character.

ACAR supports these changes as one step toward a stronger and more flexible housing market in Akron. Testimony in support was shared during the public hearing on September 28, 2026.