Homer Title 21 Update
Working Together to Improve Homer’s Zoning Code
Purpose
The City of Homer is revising its zoning policies, found in Title 21 of the City Code. Zoning code governs how land in a municipality is used and establishes rules on how properties function. Zoning is a tool to achieve the intent and future land use goals set by the comprehensive plan. A well-written code provides the Planning Commission and staff with tools to effectively regulate development, protect and enhance the community, and clearly communicate development processes and requirements to applicants, such as residents, builders, developers, and businesses.
Current Happenings
Want to learn more and share your thoughts? Join us at one of the following Homer Planning Commission meetings, where we’ll be discussing Title 21 Updates.
The project team is also initiating stakeholder conversations with Homer-area professionals, including builders, developers, realtors, and businesses that use and engage with the code on a regular basis. These conversations will discuss issues encountered, identify sections of the code that are most confusing, identify what’s working/not working with the approval and permitting process, and more.
Project Goals
The following are preliminary goals developed for the Title 21 update, based on input from City staff and the Homer Planning Commission.
These goals will be further refined as the project progresses.
Streamline development processes and increase predictability
Increase code clarity and flexibility
Better align the code with community plans
Consider natural hazards and preserve natural features
Simplify, reorganize, and add visuals to make the code more user friendly
Timeline
This project is Phase 2 of a two-phased community development effort. Phase 1 is the update to the City’s Comprehensive Plan, currently being finalized. To learn more about the Homer Comprehensive Plan Update, visit homercompplanupdate.com
Launch Phase 2
Project kickoff
Develop work plan
Background Review
Compile inputs
Gather initial feedback from Planning Commission and City staff
Code Audit
Review existing code
Identify needed updates
Stakeholder Dialogues and Code Structure
Meet with key stakeholders to gather input
Proposed code type and structure
Code Drafting
Gather input from the public on potential changes
Internal drafting of updated Title 21
Staff and legal counsel review proposed draft
Public Review Draft and Finalize Code
Release proposed updated code for 30 day review
Consider and incorporate revisions based on feedback
Adopt Code
Adoption process TBD
Ongoing: Monthly updates and/or work sessions with the Planning Commission and City Council
Related Resources
Background Documents
- Homer City Code: Current Title 21
- Homer Comprehensive Plan: find the most current draft here
Planning Commission and City Staff Engagement Results
- April 16, 2025 Planning Commission Work Session
- March 5, 2025 Planning Commission Regular Meeting
- February 6, 2025 Staff Listening Session
About the Team
Who is Leading the Process?
The City of Homer is leading the process. The Homer Planning Commission is helping advise and steer the update. Technical assistance and code drafting is provided by a planning consultant team, Agnew::Beck and Stantec.
- Agnew::Beck serves as the project’s lead consultant, managing stakeholder involvement, public engagement, and revised code approval. Agnew::Beck is also the lead consultant on the Homer Comprehensive Plan Update.
- Stantec leads code review and development of code revisions, as well as producing maps and final code language for approval.
