National Municipal Code Reform
Unlock Housing. Streamline Approvals.Modernize Your Code.
Code for Keys helps local governments identify barriers in their development regulations and approval processes—and provides practical solutions that work.
Outdated zoning codes and cumbersome approval processes are among the most overlooked barriers to housing production. Code for Keys brings a structured, practical approach to diagnosing those barriers and building the path forward—for your community, your staff, and your applicants.
What We Do
Three Core Services
Code Audit
A systematic review of your zoning ordinance, UDO, or subdivision regulations to identify barriers, inconsistencies, and outdated provisions that slow housing production.
Learn moreApproval Process Review
An end-to-end analysis of your development review workflow—from application intake to final approval—to find bottlenecks, redundancies, and opportunities for streamlining.
Learn moreImplementation Roadmap
A prioritized, actionable plan that translates audit findings into concrete ordinance amendments, process changes, and staff training steps your team can actually execute.
Learn moreThe Stakes
When Codes Fall Behind, Communities Pay the Price
Most local governments didn't set out to limit housing or slow development. But regulations written decades ago—or layered with amendments over time—can create unintended consequences that affect everyone.
1 in 3
Housing Supply
Local governments report that their own codes unintentionally restrict the types of housing most needed in their communities.
40%+
Staff Burden
Of staff time in many planning departments is spent navigating ambiguous code provisions and managing applicant confusion.
6–18 mo.
Developer Uncertainty
Typical delay range when applicants encounter unclear standards, inconsistent interpretations, or redundant approval steps.
How It Works
A Clear, Four-Step Process
01
Diagnose
Understand your community context, goals, and current regulatory landscape.
02
Audit
Systematically review your codes and approval processes against best practices.
03
Recommend
Deliver clear, prioritized findings with actionable amendment language.
04
Implement
Support adoption through staff training, public engagement, and redline drafts.
Ready to Modernize Your Code?
Whether you're facing a housing crisis, a backlogged permit queue, or simply know your code is overdue for an update—we can help you take the next step.