ATHENS, Ohio — Several recent Athens Planning Commission meetings have included the topic of recovery housing. The planning commission would like to inform the public that no changes to the zoning code, or other city code, related to this topic will be recommended to city council at this time.
While initial assessments by city officials over the winter of 2025-2026 were such that a change in law was considered, city officials have increased their understanding of how recovery houses should function and have found that no such changes will be necessary at this time.
City officials believe current state and local laws are sufficient, and they will establish processes to work close with state officials, when required, to effectively regulate this use in the city in the future.
John Kotowski
Chair, Athens Planning Commission
Andrew Stone
City Service-Safety Director
