GCS Form-Based Code

A METHOD TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE GREEN COVE SPRING’S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

The City of Green Cove Springs is soliciting community input on the development of a new form-based code for the downtown area. Unlike traditional zoning codes which focus on separating land uses, form-based codes focus on the character, design, and placement of structures.

To learn more about the benefits and components of form-based codes, please review the Frequently Asked Questions included at the right of this page. Additionally, if you would like to share your thoughts on the development of form-based regulations for the downtown, please participate in the public engagement opportunities identified below!

Document Library

View project documents and meeting summaries below.

Project Timeline

Follow along with the process of the Form-Based Code

Timeline item 1 - complete

June 16, 2023

Project Kick-Off
Timeline item 2 - complete

June - August 2023

Research Existing Conditions
Timeline item 3 - complete

July 2023

Stakeholder Interviews (Round 1)
Timeline item 4 - complete

August 8, 2023

Public Workshop #1
Timeline item 5 - complete

August - October 2023

Develop a Master Plan for the FBC Area
Timeline item 6 - complete

September - December 2023

Draft Development Standards for the FBC Area
Timeline item 7 - complete

January 18, 2024

Stakeholder Interviews (Round 2)
Timeline item 8 - complete

January 18, 2024

Public Workshop #2
Timeline item 9 - complete

January - February 2024

Finalize FBC
Timeline item 10 - active

March - April 2024

Adoption Hearings

FAQs

Check out some frequently asked questions about the project below.

Form-Based Codes are a set of rules that guide how buildings and streets should look and function in a certain area. They focus on the physical appearance and design of buildings and their surroundings, rather than just their use. These codes help create attractive and cohesive communities by ensuring that buildings fit well with each other and with the overall character of the neighborhood. They also include guidelines for things like building heights, setbacks, materials, and even the placement of windows and doors.

There are many benefits of implementing a form-based code over a traditional ('Euclidean’) zoning code. Some of the benefits include:

Ensuring development conforms to the existing and/or desired character of the community, rather than being focused on the intended use;
Fostering development patterns which enhance walkability and support alternative modes of transportation, such as biking or transit; and
Resulting in a more predictable and sustainable system for accommodating future growth.

The specific form-based code area has not been defined. The Interactive Map on this website depicts a black boundary representing the study area. As we analyze existing conditions within this study area and the future vision for the downtown, we will determine which sites will be subject to the form-based code.

Recognizing the need for urban design standards for the Downtown area which promote walkability, economic development, and historic preservation, the Plan recommended the implementation of a form-based code. This project is intended to implement that recommendation.

Contact Us

Need assistance or have project-related questions? Feel free to reach out to the Green Cove Springs Development Services Department through the channels below.

Name	Mike Daniels, Development Services Director
Phone	904-297-7500
Email	mdaniels@greencovesprings.com

A METHOD TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE GREEN COVE SPRING’S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN​

Document Library

A METHOD TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE GREEN COVE SPRING’S HISTORIC DOWNTOWN