Just Adopted! Objective Design Standards

Newark City Council held a public hearing on September 10, 2026 to consider Objective Design Standards and other zoning text amendments.

Newark City Council unanimously adopted Objective Design Standards and related zoning text amendments to provide applicants with clear, measurable expectations and streamline development approvals.

Objective Design Standards (ODS) apply to residential development and mixed-use projects. The intent of ODS is to provide applicants and developers with a clear understanding of the City’s expectations for project design and a streamlined, objective, and efficient project review process.  

Newark’s ODS project implements several Housing Element programs aimed at developing more homes for more people, reducing and removing development constraints, and increasing access to affordable housing.

The ordinance, including ODS and related text amendments to Title 17 of Newark Municipal Code, take effect November 7, 2026.

For more information, visit the City’s Objective Design Standards website (link).