Gadsden Council Enacts Temporary Ban on Manufactured Homes to Align Future City Development

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The Gadsden City Council has enacted a temporary moratorium on the placement of manufactured homes outside of established mobile home parks, marking a pivotal move in the city's ongoing efforts to modernize its zoning ordinances. The measure, which will last for 12 months or until new zoning guidelines are implemented, aims to halt new applications for these homes while the city develops a comprehensive plan for growth.

“This is not a permanent ban,” clarified District 5 Councilman Jason Wilson. “We are working with a third party to overhaul our zoning throughout Gadsden. Until this project is complete, we want to pause and ensure our efforts don’t overlap with our new zoning maps. This moratorium is temporary and will lift once we have clearly defined guidelines,” Wilson explained.

This strategic pause coincides with the city’s recent completion of the GROW Gadsden plan—a comprehensive roadmap set to shape Gadsden’s development trajectory over the next 20 to 30 years. According to Michael Rodgers, Public Affairs Coordinator for the City of Gadsden, the next critical step is the rezoning effort, an endeavor designed to replace outdated zoning regulations last updated in the 1970s.

“There’s been substantial evolution nationwide in how zoning is approached, from determining what belongs in business versus residential districts,” Rodgers noted. “Our planning commission and city council are collaborating with consultants to develop a new zoning plan. As part of this, we’ll define where mobile homes and alternative housing options fit.”

The moratorium extends to tiny homes and converted storage containers, reflecting Gadsden’s broader consideration of alternative housing forms. Rodgers highlighted that while these options have garnered interest, it’s essential for the city to evaluate their compatibility with Gadsden’s long-term vision.

“For many, manufactured homes represent affordable living options,” Rodgers acknowledged. “However, we must balance affordability with a thoughtful vision for our community. We want to attract new residents, but we also need to ensure our decisions align with the city’s future growth. It’s a balancing act, and our administration is working swiftly to finalize zoning updates that foster sustainable development.”