Lee Sands

Lee Sands

Local Government Policy Analyst

lee@libertas.institute

Lee is the Local Government Policy Analyst at Libertas Institute, drawing on his research and entrepreneurial experience to inform and assist elected officials and the general public. He focuses on issues most relevant to local governments, such as land use, taxation, and business regulation. His work addresses the regulatory hurdles that matter most to families, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

A native of rural northeast Florida, Lee moved to Provo, Utah in 2004. Before joining Libertas, his path ran through the private sector in technical writing, journalism, and small business, giving him firsthand experience navigating the regulatory environment he now works to improve. He graduated from BYU and attended the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, the outdoors, history, and creative pursuits.

Lee Sands's Articles

Zoning is the mother lode of city rules. Going far beyond describing that factories are not allowed in the middle of neighborhoods, zoning laws contain a striking level of regulatory detail that often goes on for hundreds of pages.
Despite politicians from different parties often having stark political differences, increasingly their assessments of America’s housing market woes are aligned.
With its support of detached ADUs, Bluffdale sets an example for municipalities across the state. Should other cities consider similar measures?
How did squatting start, and why do we still have issues with it in the modern-day United States?
This bill ensures fairness for those in the construction process by stipulating that cities and counties cannot change the permit requirements after a permit has been issued.
Child entrepreneurs who open a lemonade stand, wash cars, or operate other occasional businesses now have another hurdle removed.