Artists often have unique needs regarding living and work space.
Zoning
Zoning ordinances can determine how you can use particular spaces, including such things as whether you can both live and work in the same space, and whether you can sell out of a particular space. Zoning ordinances are put in place at the municipal – city or town – level. Examples of zoning ordinances pertinent to artists from cities that have given some thought about how to best encourage the arts are provided here as models for what can also be done in other municipalities.
An explanation of the various categories of “artist friendly” zoning in Chicago. The web page also includes links to other information useful to artists trying to locate property in which they can work.
Chicago Artists Resource [www.chicagoartistsresource.org]
Chicago Artists Resource/Artist Friendly Zoning
Boston municipal guidelines for space in which artists both live and work.
Boston Redevelopment Authority [www.cityofboston.gov/bra/
Boston Redevelopment Authority/Artist Live/Work Specific Design Guidelines
New York City requires certification that you are an artist if you want to combine living and work space in SoHo.
City of New York Department of Cultural Affairs [www.nyc.gov]
Department of Cultural Affairs/Artist Certification
Relocation Incentives
Some municipalities are going beyond zoning to try to support artists in their need for spaces in which to live and work.
Paducah, Kentucky, has put together an artist relocation incentive package that starts with zoning but goes on to include financing for up to 300% of a building’s cost, architectural services, and website design services.
Paducah Arts [www.paducaharts.com]
Paducah Arts/Artist Relocation Program