Gaithersburg, MD

Gaithersburg, a diverse and rapidly evolving city in the Washington, D.C. metro area, embarked on a landmark rewrite of its zoning ordinance—the first comprehensive update since 1965. Under the banner “Retool Gaithersburg,” the City engaged ZoneCo to lead this transformation, with the aim of making the zoning code easier to use, better aligned with modern development realities, and fully capable of supporting housing diversity, infill redevelopment and equitable outcomes.

The rewrite addressed an ordinance that had become dense, difficult to navigate, and out-of-date relative to current housing types, commercial models and community aspirations. ZoneCo’s methodology began with a detailed code audit and process mapping: identifying inconsistencies, overlapping review procedures, antiquated definitions and structural barriers to infill and adaptive reuse. Public engagement followed: focus groups, virtual kickoff meetings, surveys and multiple community touchpoints were used to capture resident, business and stakeholder concerns. The City launched a dedicated project web-site and outreach initiative to promote transparency and engagement throughout the 18-month process.

ZoneCo’s team organized the rewrite around several guiding principles: clarity of structure, objective standards, context sensitivity and equity. The new code reorganizes Chapter 24 of Gaithersburg’s municipal code, replacing opaque text with plain-language purpose statements, consolidated use tables, and graphic illustrations that help users understand dimensional rules and application processes at a glance.

Substantively the update introduced a new zoning district—MCD (Mixed-Commercial Development)—designed to facilitate employment-focused redevelopment in strategic locations. In addition, use definitions were modernized, eligibility for adaptive reuse improved, and review procedures streamlined to reduce discretionary steps and increase predictability for smaller, compliant projects. Importantly, the code rewrite did not alter the existing zoning map; instead the structure now supports future rezoning and master plan updates in a modular, manageable way.

Equity and housing diversification were core themes. Recognizing the need to better accommodate housing choice—from smaller townhomes to accessory dwelling units—ZoneCo ensured the code eliminated unnecessary regulatory gaps and introduced clear pathways for infill. The graphic-rich code supports users of varying experience, lowering the barrier to understanding for residents, developers and staff alike. Public process features expanded notification and transparent follow-through, and metrics embedded in the implementation plan track key outcomes such as permit timelines, variance requests and housing uptake.

Implementation was built into the scope—ZoneCo delivered staff training, user-friendly guides, checklists and a digital version of the new ordinance to ensure the City and its partners transition smoothly. The code officially was approved July 15, 2024 and took effect August 5, 2024—marking a significant milestone for the City.

For Gaithersburg, the Retool effort represents more than a refreshed document—it reframes zoning as a practical tool for investment, equity and sustainability rather than an obstacle. By partnering with ZoneCo, the City has created a foundation for the next generation of growth: a code that is readable, fair, visually accessible and aligned with community values. As municipalities across the region confront housing supply, technological change and demand for transparency, Gaithersburg’s example showcases how thoughtful code modernization can deliver clarity, responsiveness and community empowerment.