July 21, 2025

Regulating Design: Zoning and the Shaping of Cities

Regulating Design: Zoning and the Shaping of Cities

In this episode of ON CITIES, host Carie Penabad speaks with notable lawyer Jeff Bass on the relationship between urban design and its pivotal tool, zoning regulations. The conversation will explore the historical evolution of zoning in America, unveiling its hidden influence on the physical and social fabric of our communities. Bass will delve into the ways that regulatory frameworks wield the power to shape cities and landscapes, foster community cohesion and dictate the interplay between public and private space. Do not miss this conversation, as we navigate the ongoing debate between creativity and control in the design of the built environment. Tune in on Friday, September 1, 2023 at 11:00 AM EST, 8:00 AM PST on the Voice America Variety Channel https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/4119/on-cities ; and find all previous episodes on Spotify, Apple iTunes or your favorite podcast platform.

Jeffrey S. Bass is a founding member of Shubin Bass law firm, based in Miami. He represents municipal and county government, universities, businesses, and individuals in all manner of conflicts involving the use and development of real property, property rights, entitlements, constitutional law, zoning disputes, historic preservation, local government law, business disputes, regulatory conflicts, environmental disputes, and trust and estate litigation. Beyond the foregoing, Jeff frequently serves as a counselor to large institutions and national law firms seeking to navigate Florida's complex regulatory regimes with respect to zoning, land use, and development. In 2021, Best Lawyers named Jeff Lawyer of the Year in litigation, land use, and zoning. In addition to his practice, Jeff pioneered a course on the regulation of design at the University of Miami School of Architecture and within the University of Miami’s Masters in Real Estate Development program. He also lectures throughout the State of Florida on land use and litigation issues. On September 29, 2008, the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission awarded the Carnegie Medal for Outstanding Act of Heroism to Jeff for risking his own life to successfully rescue an unconscious and badly injured near-drowning victim in the waters off of Key Largo, Florida. For this life-saving rescue, Jeff was also recognized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners.