In less than 3 weeks on April 18, 2017, the City of Austin will release draft zoning maps changing zoning categories and land use rules on almost every parcel of land. The map will determine on your neighbors’ and your property what can be built, where it can be built, how much can be built, and how the building can be used. There may be important changes to your zoning, the commercial uses allowed, parking, building design, and other issues.

It is important that you become informed and engaged and make sure the new Land Development Code (CodeNEXT) and maps serve your family and neighborhood. Please send this piece around to friends and neighbors.

 

Get Prepared. Here are Some Key Things for You to Know.

1. Are you in a Transect or Non-Transect Zone? Unlike the current Code, the draft CodeNEXT creates two different zoning systems. Each has different rules. One is called Transect Zones, and the other Non-Transect Zones. You first need to find out by looking on the new draft maps, available on the City’s web site April 18th, whether you are in a Transect or Non-transect zone.

There will no longer be familiar single family lot categories (SF-2 and SF-3) as in the past for our neighborhoods. Transect lots will have design requirements focusing on the form of buildings. (The theory, which is controversial, is that what a building looks like is more important than what it is used for).  Non-Transect lots will not be subject to these design rules.  Both types of zoning will have new business uses, parking requirements, and other rules that apply depending on your new zoning category.

2. What new zoning categories now would apply? Once the maps are released, you will need to look online and find your property’s current zoning and then determine which new proposed Transect or Non-transect categories would apply to you. Once you know the new code category, you can look up the use and other rules that would apply to you. You also will want to know what would apply around you, because the zoning may vary from one property to another in your neighborhood.

Some Possible Issues to Look for:

1)  The Impact of New Zoning on Your Neighborhood. The new categories are different than the old categories. They may allow more development of your property and neighborhood. Do you want that or not?

2) Duplexes, Granny Flats, and small apartments. More single-family neighborhoods in Non-Transact zones are likely to allow granny flats (auxiliary dwelling units) and duplexes than in the past. Some Transact Zones, will allow fourplexes and small apartments, unlike current law. This may cause demolition of existing housing and may increase property values and taxes. Is this something you want?

3) More Business Uses. More restaurants/bars, medical practices, multi-family complexes, and other business uses will be allowed in single-family neighborhoods in Transact Zones.

4) Reduced Parking Requirements. In most zones, only one parking space per unit will be required, from the usual 2 spaces today. Is this what your neighborhood wants?

5) More Administrative Decisions. More decisions would be decided by the Planning Director and not elected Council members. Time deadlines for hearing will be shorter. Are you comfortable with this?

Get Involved. Band Together with neighbors.