Council adopts major changes to Duluth’s Unified Development Code to speed housing

Duluth City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 19, a comprehensive set of amendments to Chapter 50 (the Unified Development Code) designed to simplify form districts, pare back overlapping design standards and allow more housing types by right in R1 and R2 neighborhoods.

Planning commissioners and local business groups urged the changes during public comment. Nicholas Bayuk, who identified himself as a planning commissioner, told the council the amendments will modernize the code and reduce costs and delays that make building in Duluth difficult: “These are thoughtful and workable changes that are gonna move Duluth in the right direction.” Council leaders described the vote as a multi‑year effort to remove soft costs that impede housing production.

Supporters said the package advances missing‑middle housing, streamlines permitting and preserves walkable, pedestrian‑friendly streets while making it easier for infill, accessory structures and small multifamily projects to proceed. Councilors indicated that further work remains — for example, sustainability standards were pulled for later consideration once a sustainability coordinator and updated guidance are in place.

The ordinance passed by roll call and will be implemented by the Planning and Economic Development department; councilors asked staff to monitor outcomes and return with needed clarifications and future amendments.