Palm Springs Seeks Input on First Zoning Code Overhaul in Nearly 40 Years

Palm Springs is holding a community meeting Monday evening as part of its effort to update the city's zoning code for the first time since 1988.

The meeting runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center. A virtual session is scheduled for February 4 at 2:00 p.m. via Zoom. Spanish and ASL interpretation will be available at both events.

The "Zone Palm Springs" project aims to modernize regulations governing how land can be developed and used across the city. According to city documents, the state of California requires Palm Springs to add 2,600 new housing units by 2029—but only 848 have been built so far. Officials say the outdated code makes it harder and more expensive to build housing, workplaces, and community spaces.

Key proposals under consideration include allowing buildings up to five stories along commercial corridors like Tahquitz Canyon and South Palm Canyon, increasing maximum heights downtown to seven stories, reducing parking requirements, and streamlining single-family zoning districts from five to two.

The city says failing to meet state housing mandates could jeopardize funding for roads, sewers, affordable housing programs, and public facilities like the library and swim center.

A full draft of the proposed zoning code is expected in spring 2026, followed by public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council. Residents can learn more or sign up for updates at engagepalmsprings.com/zoneps or contact the Planning Department at ZonePS@palmspringsca.gov.