History of Smart Growth

Smart Growth was initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a variety of other organizations in 1995 in recognition of the environmental, social and economic impacts of low-density residential sprawl. The EPA also introduced 10 principles of Smart Growth.

10 Principles of Smart Growth

  1. Mix land uses
  2. Compact building design
  3. Housing choices
  4. Walkable neighbourhoods
  5. Sense of place
  6. Preservation
  7. Build on existing communities
  8. Transportation choices
  9. Community involvement
  10. Predictable, fair development decisions

The U.S. federal and state governments now provide funding based on a community's Smart Growth policies and initiatives.

In 1999, Smart Growth BC was established.

Smart Growth initiatives in Canada and the U.S. include:

Additional Smart Growth resources: