SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Greene County Commission adopted a new zoning ordinance on Nov. 3, 2025 that explicitly prohibits discriminatory zoning and restrictive covenants in unincorporated Greene County. It reaffirms that housing and land-use decisions must support equal opportunity for all residents.
The provision aligns county zoning regulations with the Missouri Human Rights Act and the Federal Fair Housing Act and is intended to erase any doubt about the County’s longstanding commitment to nondiscriminatory land-use planning.
Presiding Commissioner Bob Dixon said the measure is a proactive clarification of existing protections. “Missouri and federal law already prohibit discriminatory enclaves and exclusionary development. We are bringing that clear language into our local code so there is no ambiguity for developers or residents. Greene County serves all people with respect and dignity, and we welcome lawful investment that strengthens our community.”
The new zoning ordinance states that no zoning, map, classification, or practice may intentionally or effectively exclude housing opportunities based on protected classes such as race, color, religion, or national origin. The proposal also affirms the County’s authority to reject any discriminatory zoning requests.
This change was prompted after a self-proclaimed “whites only” private community, based in northeast Arkansas, was rumored to be considering starting a chapter in Greene County. County officials emphasize that no group has filed for, applied for, or otherwise requested information on developing a discriminatory community in Greene County. The zoning ordinance is a clarifying step to make existing protections unmistakably clear in County code.
The zoning ordinance, drafted at the request of the County Commission, was recommended unanimously by citizens serving on the seven-member Greene County Planning Board at its monthly meeting on Oct. 21 and was given final approval by the Commission at its monthly County Court session on Nov. 3, taking effect immediately.