What does "incentive zoning" allow developers to obtain?

Incentive zoning is a land-use planning tool that provides developers with certain benefits or "bonuses" in exchange for contributions to public amenities or community goals. This approach allows municipalities to encourage the development of specific types of projects that align with community needs while also offering developers the opportunity to enhance their projects’ value through these incentives.

For example, a developer might receive additional height allowances, increased density, or reduced parking requirements if they include parks, affordable housing, or other public services in their project plans. This system creates a win-win situation: developers can maximize their return on investment, and the community benefits from the enhancements provided.

Other options indicate misunderstandings of incentive zoning; tax exemptions are typically tied to specific legislative measures rather than zoning incentives. Land is rarely provided for free as it involves ownership, and shorter permit approval times are generally not a direct outcome of incentive zoning but may depend on other regulatory processes.