The study researched inclusions and limitations of zoning ordinances for energy efficient, affordable housing in upstate New York. A survey tested the acceptance level of the public toward mandates for affordable housing and energy efficient housing as discrete programs for residential development. Data was collected using interviews of key stakeholders and policy implementers in Tompkins County, New York. The Cornell Institute for Social and Economic Research conducted the survey as part of the annual Empire State Poll. There were three hypotheses, the first being that requiring energy efficient, affordable housing is an unpopular concept in New York State. The second hypothesis was that local land use regulations limit affordable, energy efficient development. The third hypothesis was that housing development that is both energy efficient and affordable is not a high priority concept for community planners. The results from the survey reveal that the residents of New York State supports housing development that is affordable and that is energy efficient. Data collected from interviews of planners, lenders and developers in Tompkins County, New York indicate local land use regulations have an impact on residential development in a variety of ways, but that affordable, energy efficient housing is a high priority in the county. This research brings forth possible solutions for changes to zoning ordinances that may encourage developers to build housing units that are affordable to a broad range of socioeconomic levels and meet the needs of a diverse community such as Tompkins County, New York.