Fort Wayne Zoning Amendments and 'a LOT to LOVE 2026' Initiative Target Housing Supply

Fort Wayne approved zoning amendments effective November 7, 2025, that permit Zero Lot Line housing, reduce minimum lot sizes and allow Freestanding Accessory Dwelling Units as a Special Use. These rules apply citywide and are designed to facilitate new residential construction on existing lots. Residents looking to build or modify homes may encounter fewer restrictions on lot configuration when seeking permits.

Zoning and Lot Sales Changes

The City of Fort Wayne is also implementing the 'a LOT to LOVE 2026' initiative, which sells discounted city-owned vacant lots for infill housing development. Phase 2 application review begins March 30, 2026. Property owners and builders in established neighbourhoods can apply to purchase these lots at reduced prices to add housing units on underused parcels.

Four new affordable housing developments are anticipated to complete during Program Years 2025-2026, adding 87 affordable units, many designated as Permanent Supportive Housing. The Village Premier project in Southeast Fort Wayne includes 208 workforce housing units at 50-60% AMI, with plans for 65 affordable senior units at 30-60% AMI in future phases. These projects directly increase the number of units available to households that meet income criteria.

Funding and Next Steps

Fort Wayne is slated to receive $4,029,194 in HOME-ARP funding to address homelessness and increase housing availability. The allocation supports the development of units that serve residents experiencing housing instability. Local households seeking supportive or affordable options may gain access to these units once completed.

City staff will review applications for the next phase of lot sales starting March 30, 2026. The four developments are expected to finish within the 2025-2026 program period. Residents can monitor city planning department updates for application windows and project timelines that affect local housing supply.