The Planning Ethics of Impact Fee Equity

This session applies the concept of impact fee equity to planning ethics. We first define what is meant by equity in planning.  We then show the importance of cultivating an equity lens and how to apply it to planning practice. Through the use of four case studies, we apply an equity lens to show how impact fees often are inequitable, even though they appear proportionate.  We conclude with specific questions to help guide the design of equitable impact fees consistent with planning ethics.