Get the Look

Towns that alter zoning and municipal codes to enforce a specific visual aesthetic—often called “aesthetic zoning” or “design overlays”—do so to preserve historical charm, control rapid development, or boost tourism.

Well-known examples that have shaped their visual identity through code include: 

Ideas

If you are interested in how local governments pull this off, you can review design guidelines and zoning codes established by the City of Sacramento Historic and Cultural Resources element, or check out how urban planners study these frameworks via resources like the Strong Towns Action Lab. 

Solvang, California

This city famously changed its building codes to resemble a Danish village. To maintain this strict “Danish Capital” aesthetic, all new commercial and municipal buildings are required to feature traditional Danish architecture, half-timbering, and specific rooflines. 

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The city enforces the “Historical Style Ordinance,” requiring all buildings in designated historic zones to be constructed in the Pueblo Revival or Territorial styles. This code dictates everything from flat roofs to the specific earth-tone colors of stucco, ensuring the entire city maintains its iconic Southwestern look. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Famous for its fairy-tale aesthetic, this town has a unique municipal code that bans chain restaurants, parking meters, and street addresses (residents use descriptive names instead). Building codes strictly dictate rustic, storybook architecture to preserve its secluded, village-like charm. 

Jackson, Wyoming

To blend in with its surrounding mountain environment, the town enforces strict design guidelines that require buildings to use natural materials like heavy timber, native stone, and board-and-batten siding.