SPECIAL CALLED MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Alejandra Flores, Chair Nadia Barrera-Ramirez, Vice Chair Betsy Greenberg Lonny Stern CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Felicity Maxwell Chris Gannon Casey Haney AGENDA Speakers signed up for public communication will each be allowed three minutes to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee regular meeting on April 15, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. C20-2025-16 Downtown Density Bonus Update Phase 1: Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to repeal regulations related to Downtown Density Bonus Program and Rainey Street Subdistrict Regulations and establish new Downtown Density Bonus 400 (DDB400) and Downtown Density Bonus 850 (DDB850) combining districts, that grant additional building height and modifies uses and site development regulations, in exchange for affordable housing and other community benefits, for properties that are located Downtown. 3. Officer Elections. Conduct elections for Chair and Vice Chair. STAFF BREIFINGS 4. Staff briefing on the April 2026 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. Presentation by Jordan Feldman, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Jordan Feldman at Austin Planning, at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee, please contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE DRAFT MINUTES WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 The Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Barrera-Ramirez called the meeting of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Vice Chair Nadia Barrera-Ramirez Commissioners in Attendance Virtually: Casey Haney Chris Gannon Felicity Maxwel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ryan Saunders requested staff address noise-related concerns regarding ACME32 and music vendors. Vice Chair Barrera-Ramirez asks Mr. Saunders to follow up via email. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Special Called Meeting on September 24, 2025. The minutes from the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee special-called meeting on September 24, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 4-0 vote. 2. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Regular Meeting on February 18, 2026. The minutes from the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee regular meeting on February 18, 2026, were approved on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second, on a 4-0 vote. DRAFT DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. C20-2024-004 Citywide Density Bonus Program. Approve a recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to adopt a new citywide density bonus program that will replace Density Bonus 90 (DB90) and Vertical Mixed Use (V) combining districts and consist of five new combining districts that allow additional height and land uses and relax site development standards and compatibility in exchange for providing affordable housing and meeting certain requirements. The staff presentation was made by Warner Cook, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. The motion to approve the recommendation to Planning Commission was approved on Commissioner Maxwell’s motion, Commissioner Haney’s second on a 4-0 vote. C20-2026-003 Amendments Related to Transit System Projects. Approve a recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) and amend Ordinance No. 20221115-048 to modify development review processes, methods to demonstrate water quality compliance, street design, and utility infrastructure design for the design and construction of certain transit system projects and related transit system infrastructure. The staff presentation was made by Donna Galati, Capital Program Consultant, Austin Project Connect, and David Marquez, Consulting …
DRAFT C20-2024-018 DDB Phase I Downtown Density Bonus Urban Design Standards These standards would apply only to projects seeking Downtown Density Bonus entitlements and are intended to implement public realm and pedestrian environment objectives that currently apply under §25-2-586. In order to participate in the proposed Downtown Density Bonus (DDB) program, projects would be required to adhere to all mandatory design standards and a minimum number of additional urban design standards from a menu of options. For Phase I of the Downtown Density Bonus update, the proposed requirements would be: - Projects zoned –DDB400 must adhere to all mandatory standards and at least 7 out of the 14 menu standards to participate in the DDB program - Projects zoned –DDB850 must adhere to all mandatory standards and least 10 out of the 14 menu standards to participate in the DDB program In future phases of the Downtown Density Bonus program update, additional combining districts may be created that have different requirements for the minimum number of urban design standards that must be met. Additionally, subdistricts may be created that provide additional urban design standards or requirements based on the unique character of specific areas (such as the Red River Cultural District). Additional design standards may be added in the future. If additional design standards are added to the menu, the minimum number of standards that must be met may be modified. The Urban Design team in Austin Planning will review site plans and determine compliance with the urban design standards. Mandatory Urban Design Standards Screening Requirements (A) Utility equipment, mechanical equipment, and solid waste collection areas, including loading docks, truck parking, outdoor storage, trash collection, trash compaction, and other service functions: a. are prohibited in the area between a building and a street; b. must not be visible from a street, adjacent property lines, or the property lines across adjacent public streets; and c. must be screened or located in a public alley. (B) This subsection applies to a site with frontage on an alley 20 feet or more wide. DRAFT C20-2024-018 DDB Phase I a. A transformer room or utility vault must be adjacent to and accessible from the alley, unless Austin Energy determines placement is required in another location. b. A pump room, sprinkler room, or other utility or mechanical room must be adjacent to and accessible from the alley unless the Fire Chief determines that placing the …
Downtown Density Bonus Phase 1 – Proposal Austin Planning | Codes & Ordinances Joint Committee | 04/29/2026 Agenda • • • Background Existing Program & Process Proposed Changes • Urban Design Standards • Community Benefits | • Downtown Density Bonus Process • Stakeholder Engagement and Timeline 2 Background City Council Resolution Downtown Density Bonus Update Resolution No. 20240718-185 in July 2024 directed staff to update the Downtown Density Bonus (DDB) program Requested: Updates to gatekeeper requirements Integration of Rainey subdistrict Creation of new subdistricts Prioritization of accessibility and shade opportunities Simplification of the affordability program Alignment of the program with the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) overlay. Downtown Density Bonus – Phase 1 In response to Senate Bill 840, Council adopted Ordinance No. 20251023-063, which amended the Central Business District Zone and directed staff to update the DDB program by June 2026 for three DDB subdistricts 4 Existing Program & Process Phase 1 - Existing Height & FAR Map After the recent adoption of the Central Business District Zone amendments and updates to the DDB, the three subdistricts in Phase 1 have the following entitlements available via the DDB program: Core Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 25:1 FAR* Rainey Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 15:1 FAR* Convention Center Subdistrict – 350ft of height and 15:1 FAR* Applicants can request Council approval to exceed these entitlements *FAR limits are only applicable to commercial developments 6 Proposed Changes Phase I – Proposed Applicability Revised to remove the Red River Cultural District from Phase I To be updated and included in Phase II of the DDB Update DDB is a voluntary program Supersedes the following overlays: Capitol Dominance Overlay Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Density Bonus Waterfront Overlay 8 Phase I – Combining Districts Each combining district will have different entitlements/requirements. Phase I will create 2 combining districts: DDB400 has +400 ft DDB850 has +850 ft Additional height is additive to the property’s base zoning height limit E.g., a CBD-DDB400 site could build up to 750 ft (350 ft base height + 400 bonus ft) Sites will be rezoned into DDB400 in Phase I. Sites will be eligible to request rezoning into DDB850 through the standard rezoning process. Max height cannot be exceeded …
C20-2024-018 REZONING AND ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2024-018 Downtown Density Bonus (DDB) Update Description: Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to create Downtown Density Bonus 400 Combining District (DDB400) and rezone property generally located west of north Interstate 35, east of Nueces Street, south of E 11th Street, and north of Lady Bird Lake to apply DDB400 and to create Downtown Density Bonus 850 Combining District (DDB850). Background: Initiated by City Council Resolution No. 20240718-185 and Ordinance No. 20251023-063. The Downtown Density Bonus program, or the DDB program, was first adopted by Ordinance 20130627-105 in 2013 to promote a vibrant, dense, and pedestrian-friendly downtown area while also encouraging the development of affordable housing and other community benefits. In Texas, local governments are not allowed to use zoning laws to require affordable housing. For this reason, bonus programs are an effective way for the City to encourage private developers to provide affordable housing units in exchange for increased entitlements, such as greater height or floor-to-area ratio (FAR) above a development’s base zoning. The Downtown Density Bonus program leverages Downtown's growth to create a more vibrant city center and provide benefits for the city as a whole. Since the program’s original adoption, the DDB program regulations were amended in 2014, 2019, 2023, and 2025 by the following ordinances: Ordinance No. 20140227-054, Ordinance No. 20191031-037, Ordinance No. 20230504-030, Ordinance No. 20230504- 031, Ordinance No. 20231029-052, and Ordinance No. 20251023-063. Most of these ordinances added clarifying language or maps, with the exceptions being those from 2014 and 2025. The 2014 amendment allowed properties within the Rainey Street Subdistrict to participate in the program, as well as added additional community benefit options development could choose from, such as achieving a 3-star Austin Energy Green Building rating, preservation of a historic structure on-site, the provision of a public plaza, and many other benefits. The 2025 amendment updated the program’s language and eligibility map to reflect the updated maximum base height allowance of 350 feet for properties zoned as Central Business District (CBD). Since its adoption in 2013, the DDB program has facilitated the development of over 8,000 planned and built housing units, and 90% of eligible projects have used the program. Additionally, the program has generated over $13 million in affordable housing fees-in-lieu (FIL) that go towards the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which is roughly 40% of the total FIL generated from all Density …
Draft Memorandum To: Alan Pani, City of Austin From: Darin Smith, Luke Foelsch, and Kaavya Chhatrapati; Economic & Planning Systems Subject: Downtown Density Bonus Program Update Analysis EPS #251105 Date: March 27, 2026 Economic & Planning Systems, Inc. (EPS) was retained by the City of Austin (“City”) to analyze a potential recalibration of the City’s Downtown Density Bonus Program (DDB) in light of anticipated updates to the existing Downtown Plan and recently updated height limits in the Downtown area. Since its adoption in 2013, the DDB has been a widely- utilized voluntary incentive mechanism to secure affordable housing or in-lieu fee payments when a developer seeks to achieve additional density above existing zoning standards. The City seeks to study a recalibration of the program’s in-lieu fee levels to ensure they remain appropriately balanced to produce the desired level of community benefits without stifling new development. This memorandum presents the Key Findings, summarizes the analytic approach and its results, then presents recommendations to inform adjustments to the City’s Downtown Density Bonus Program. Key Findings 1. Current market conditions are unfavorable for new construction, but these factors can be expected to improve. Both residential and commercial building types Downtown have higher vacancies and lower rents today than were achievable just a few years ago, while construction costs have continued to escalate. These dynamics have caused a lull in new development and land transactions in Downtown Austin, and calibrating a density bonus program based on these current market conditions is challenging because pro formas do not suggest feasible projects under either base zoning or with added height/density. However, as supply and demand rebalance in Downtown Austin, high-rise construction will likely be feasible again and developer interest in the density bonus program may mirror the program’s past appeal and success. Downtown Density Bonus Program Update Analysis Page 2 2. The existing DDB fees represent only a small fraction of project costs and therefore are not among the primary determinants of a project’s feasibility. Across the prototypes and scenarios tested, market conditions regarding rents, vacancies, and construction costs drive swings in feasibility, while the current DDB in-lieu fees at $5 to $12 per bonus square foot are small relative to overall costs and value gaps. Under unfavorable market conditions (as seen in today’s market), the fee level is not the cause of infeasibility. Under the more favorable market conditions as witnessed a few years ago, …
Active Code Amendment Cases April 2026 Case Number Name Description Initiated By Resolution - Click on square for initiating document Stage Status Lead Department Sub Department N/A Crestview TOD Update Amend the Lamar Blvd./Justin Lane “Crestview” TOD Station Area Plan and regulating plan to match the height limits achievable with a density bonus in Phase 1 of the ETOD Overlay and align the density bonus program to match other elements of Phase 1 of the ETOD Overlay if recommended. City Council 20240321-034 Development and Engagement Will be addressed by TOD Updates/Rezonings. Austin Planning C20-2026-005 Middle Residential Zoning Districts Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to create residential zoning districts that support a range of missing middle housing types. City Council 20260326-040 Development and Engagement Anticipating review and adoption by March 2027. Austin Planning C20-2026-004 Mixed Use Zoning Districts Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to create mixed-use base City Council 20260326-040 zoning districts that support a range of building scales, prohibit auto-oriented uses, and encourage high-quality pedestrian-oriented urban design. Development and Engagement Anticipating review and adoption by December 2026. Austin Planning C20-2026-003 Amendments Related to Transit System Projects Amend the 2022 Transit System Ordinance to add additional streamlining elements with a focus on project specific technical regulation. Review and Adoption C20-2026-002 Slope Protection for Steep Slopes Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to require mitigation for development proposed within areas identified for potential slope instability. City Council 20220609-061 Development and Engagement C20-2025-018 Downtown Parks Overlay District Modification Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify the Downtown Parks Overlay District requirements. Planning Commission C20-2025-017 UNO Site-Specific Amendment Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to change the designation of properties located at 900-908 West 22nd Street from the Outer West Subdistrict to the Inner West Subdistrict within the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) boundaries. Planning Commission Development and Engagement Development and Engagement In Process - COJC 4/15/2026 Planning Commission 4/28/2026 City Council 5/21/2026 ➡ ➡ ➡ In Process - COJC 6/17/2026 Planning Commission 6/23/2026 City Council 7/23/2026 ➡ ➡ ➡ Will be addressed by Downtown Density Bonus Update Phase 1. Austin Project Connect Austin Watershed Protection Austin Planning Timeline to be determined. Austin Planning C20-2025-016 Downtown Density Bonus Update Phase 1 C20-2025-015 Coffee Shop Land Use Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to repeal regulations related to Downtown Density Bonus Program and Rainey Street Subdistrict Regulations …
Lead Case # Code Amendment APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2026 2027 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVE CODE AMENDMENTS April 2026 PLAN C20-2024-004 Citywide Density Bonus Program APC C20-2026-003 Amendments Related to Transit System Projects PLAN C20-2025-016 Downtown Density Bonus Update Ph. 1 WPD C20-2026-002 Slope Protection for Steep Slopes PLAN C20-2024-003 East Riverside Corridor Plan Update PLAN C20-2024-018 Downtown Density Bonus Update Ph. 2 PLAN C20-2026-004 Mixed Use Zoning Districts PLAN C20-2026-005 Middle Residential Zoning Districts PLAN C20-2025-014 TOD Updates/Rezonings Timelines To Be Determined PLAN C20-2018-004 Mirrored Glass WPD C20-2022-025 Greenfield Drainage for Redeveloped Sites PLAN C20-2023-023 Notification Modification PLAN C20-2023-031 Front or Side Yard Parking Filing Deadlines PLAN C20-2023-032 Mobile Food Establishment Filing Deadlines PLAN C20-2023-036 Tenant Notification & Relocation Ph. 2 PLAN C20-2024-012 NBG Regulating Plan (Bonus Program) DSD C20-2024-013 Relocating Non-Zoning Regulations PLAN C20-2024-020 Preservation Bonus Update Ph. 2 PLAN C20-2025-004 Life Science Land Use APH C20-2025-005 Tobacco Sales Use PLAN C20-2025-011 SB 840 Related Updates to 25-2 (Ph. 1) PLAN C20-2025-012 SB 840 Related Updates to 25-2 (Ph. 2) PLAN C20-2025-017 UNO Site-Specific Amendment Suspended/Indefinitely Postponed PLAN C20-2022-003 South Central Waterfront Comb. Dis. & DB TPW C20-2023-040 Eliminate Min. Parking Requirements Ph. 2 PLAN C20-2024-010 UNO Update PLAN C20-2024-005 UNO Height Restrictions PLAN C20-2024-017 Planned Development Area 2 (PDA2) PLAN C20-2024-022 DB for Commercial Hwy. & Industrial (DB240) Staff Recommends Addressing These Items Through More Comprehensive Code Amendments CHART KEY Lead Department Address by Citywide Density Bonus: PLAN C20-2023-007 Town Zoning PLAN C20-2025-002 DB90 Fee-In-Lieu Address by Downtown Density Bonus Update Ph. 1: PLAN C20-2025-018 Downtown Parks Overlay District Modif. Address by Downtown Density Bonus Update Ph. 2: PLAN C20-2024-008 Downtown Parking Modifications Ph. 2 Address by Middle Residential Zoning Districts: PLAN N/A HOME Future Phases PLAN C20-2023-016 Single Family Ownership Bonus Program PLAN C20-2025-015 Coffee Shop Land Use Address by Mixed Use Zoning Districts: PLAN C20-2022-018 Noxious Land Uses Address by TOD Updates/Rezonings: PLAN N/A Crestview TOD Update Note: Schedule presented is subject to change based on future changes to priorities, resources, commission and community bandwidth, and additional analysis related to the complexity of particular amendments. DSD Austin Development Services PLAN Austin Planning APC Austin Project Connect APH Austin Public Health TPW Austin Transportation and Public Works WPD Austin Watershed Protection Land Development Code Amendment Process Initiation Development and/or Engagement …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Alejandra Flores, Chair Nadia Barrera-Ramirez, Vice Chair Betsy Greenberg Lonny Stern CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Felicity Maxwell Chris Gannon Casey Haney AGENDA Speakers signed up for public communication will each be allowed three minutes to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Special Called meeting on September 24, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee meeting on February 18, 2026. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. C20-2024-004 Citywide Density Bonus Program. Approve a recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to adopt a new citywide density bonus program that will replace Density Bonus 90 (DB90) and Vertical Mixed Use (V) combining districts and consist of five new combining districts that allow additional height and land uses and relax site development standards and compatibility in exchange for providing affordable housing and meeting certain requirements. 4. C20-2026-003 Amendments Related to Transit System Projects. Approve a recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) and amend Ordinance No. 20221115-048 to modify development review processes, methods to demonstrate water quality compliance, street design, and utility infrastructure design for the design and construction of certain transit system projects and related transit system infrastructure. 5. Officer Elections. Conduct elections for Chair and Vice Chair. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. …
Special Called Meeting of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee September 24, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Permitting and Development Center (PDC) – Room #2103 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating in the video conference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison, Jonathan Lee, at (512) 974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS Alejandra Flores (Chair) – Present Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (Vice Chair) – Present Betsy Greenberg – Present Lonny Stern – Absent Felicity Maxwell – Present Alice Woods – Present CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers signed up prior to commencement of the meeting will be allowed to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of July 16, 2025, meeting minutes. No comments. Approved unanimously. Motion by Commissioner Greenberg, 2nd by Vice Chair Barrera Ramirez. Commissioners Maxwell and Stern absent. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Senate Bill 840 Briefing. Staff briefing on Senate Bill 840, a law passed by the 2025 Texas State Legislature that requires cities to allow multifamily and mixed-use development in commercial zoning. City staff: Jonathan Lee, Senior Planner, Austin Planning, (512) 974-7232, Jonathan.Lee@austintexas.gov, and Stevie Greathouse, Division Manager, Austin Planning, Stevie.Greathouse@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7226 Stevie Greathouse, Austin Planning, presented. 3. C20-2025-010 CBD Amendments. Discussion and possible action to recommend amendments to City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to establish a maximum building height limit within the Central Business District (CBD) zoning district and to amend the Downtown Density Bonus Program (DDBP) and Rainey Street Subdistrict regulations to modify allowable maximum building height when participating in the DDBP. City staff: Stevie Greathouse, Division Manager, Austin Planning, Stevie.Greathouse@austintexas.gov, (512) 974-7226 Stevie Greathouse, Austin Planning, presented. Commissioner Greenberg moves to limit height to 220ft. Motion fails due to lack of second. The committee did not make a recommendation on this item. 4. Schedule of Active Code Amendments Briefing. Staff briefing on the September 2025 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. City staff: Jonathan Lee, Austin Planning, (512) 974- …
CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE DRAFT MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 The Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Flores called the codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Alejandra Flores, Chair Betsy Greenberg Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Felicity Maxwell Lonny Stern Casey Haney joined the commission late at 6:47 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee meeting on December 2025. 17, The minutes from the Codes and Ordinance Joint Committee regular meeting on December 17, 2025, was approved unanimously on a 4-0 vote on a motion by Commissioner Greenberg, seconded by Chair Flores. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to the Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to rezoning applications. that give notice of zoning and the posting of signs The motion to approve the recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to the posting of signs that give notice of zoning and rezoning DRAFT CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 applications was approved on Commissioner Greenberg’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Maxwell on a vote 4-0 with the following changes: a. Revert 25-1-136 (B) to current code b. Change 25-1-136 (E) to “Require at least one street sign on every street frontage and require at least one sign every 200 feet along street frontage up to a maximum of three signs and a total of ten total.” c. Only applicable for the subject tract STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing on the February 2026 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. Presentation by Jordan Feldman, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. Jordan Feldman presented. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS The motion to approve an election for Chair and Vice Chair at the April 15, 2026, meeting was approved unanimously on a 5-0 vote on a motion by Chair Flores, seconded by Commissioner Greenberg. ADJOURNMENT Chair Flores adjourned the meeting at 6:53 …
Citywide Density Bonus Program Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Briefing | April 15, 2026 Agenda ▪ Housing Affordability in Austin ▪ Density Bonus Programs ▪ What We’ve Heard ▪ Citywide Density Bonus Program Proposal ▪ Next Steps + Q&A Source: City of Austin 2 Housing Affordability in Austin Austin's Affordability Challenges Because Austin has seen population growth over recent decades and housing production has not kept up with this growth, housing costs have increased, making it more difficult for residents to find affordable housing. Affordable housing is a priority in policy initiatives for the City, including the City's historic investment in Project Connect. Source: City of Austin 4 Project Connect Project Connect includes investment in new light rail, a second commuter rail, and new high-frequency, high- capacity bus rapid transit (BRT) lines. New transit investment is often tied to housing development nearby, but new units can be unaffordable to those who rely on transit most. Policy efforts can increase the proportion of affordable housing in project areas so that new transit can meaningfully serve all Austinites. Source: CapMetro 5 Austin's Affordable Housing Needs ▪ The 2017 Austin Strategic Housing Blueprint set a goal of creating 60,000 new affordable units over 10 years while preserving existing affordable housing. ▪ The Blueprint advocates for the use of various strategies and tools, including: o Public subsidies and grants o Public-private partnerships o Fee waivers o Tax incentives o Density bonuses 6 Austin's Affordable Housing Needs ▪ Affordability is measured using Median Family Income (MFI). ▪ These figures help determine income limits for affordable housing programs, ensuring that rent levels or home sales prices are aligned with what families at various income levels can afford. Austin MFI Level Annual Income (4-person household) Monthly Rent Limit (2-bedroom) 30% 50% 60% 80% $40,150 $903 $66,900 $1,506 $80,280 $1,807 $104,200 $2,345 100% $133,800 $3,010 120% $160,550 $3,612 Source: City of Austin, US Department of Housing and Urban Development 7 Austin's Affordable Housing Needs ▪ A recent housing gap analysis found that, generally: Austin MFI Level Annual Income (4-person household) Monthly Rent Limit (2- Bedroom) o Households at 80% MFI and above ($104,200 for a four-person household) are able to find rental housing that is affordable to them. o The greatest need is at and below 50% MFI ($66,900 for a four-person household). 30% 50% 60% 80% $40,150 $903 $66,900 $1,506 $80,280 $1,807 $104,200 $2,345 100% $133,800 $3,010 …
ORDINANCE NO. 20221115-048 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE TITLE 25 AND CHAPTER 9-2 TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN TRANSIT SYSTEM PROJECTS AND RELATED TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: Project Connect is the City's high-capacity transit system expansion, PART 1. which will ultimately consist of a light rail network, an expanded bus system, transportation terminals and stations, maintenance facilities, and all associated improvements necessary for operation of the transit system. To facilitate the construction ofthis critical transportation infrastructure, certain modifications and waivers to City Code are necessary to ensure the construction of a high-capacity transit system. This ordinance and the attached Exhibits A and B consist of the PART 2. "Transit System Project Regulations". Development ofthe Transit System Project shall conform to the limitations and conditions set forth in this ordinance. If this ordinance and the attached exhibits conflict, this ordinance controls. Except as otherwise provided by this ordinance, all other rules, regulations, and ordinances of the City apply. PART 3. The attached exhibits are incorporated into this ordinance in their entirety as though set forth fully in the text of this ordinance. The exhibits are as follows: A. Transit System Project Map B. Light Rail Construction Noise and Mitigation Plan Requirements PART 4. Definitions. A. Transit System Project means a transportation project generally depicted on Exhibit A with any related appurtenances, including but not limited to a rail and public transit line, rail station, or a transportation terminal, funded by a public entity. B. Unless otherwise specifically defined, all terms in this ordinance shall have the meaning established in Title 25 of Code of the City of Austin, Texas (the .,Land Development Code"). Page 1 0f 3 A Transit System Project for light rail lines or any associated PART 5. infrastructure necessary to construct the light rail lines must comply with a noise and mitigation plan approved by the City that meets the requirements listed in Exhibit B. To the extent there is a conflict with Chapter 9-2 (Noise and Amplified Soundj, the approved noise and mitigation Plan will control. PART 6. Transit System Uses A. The use of a site for a traction powered substation is a Local Utility Service use as described in City Code Section 25-2-6(28). B. The use of a site for the provision of maintenance, repair, vehicular or equipment servicing, material storage, or similar activities for …
Affordability Impact Statement Transit System Projects Amendments Case number: C20-2026-003 Initiated by: Resolution No. 20211029-003 Date: 4/2/2026 Proposed Regulation The proposed amendment changes the Transit System Ordinance (20221115-048) adopted in 2022 to add additional streamlining elements with a focus on project-specific technical regulation. The local justification of this ordinance is to streamline the review process for Light Rail to help the efficiency of the funds and resources devoted to the effort. The ordinance streamlines local regulations and criteria for the Light Rail project, while not changing the intended outcomes of these regulations and criteria. This project-specific ordinance only affects the departments that perform reviews and the affected department’s utilities. Watershed Protection, Development Services, Austin Water, Austin Energy, Transportation Public Works, and Planning have been directly involved with the drafting of their sections of the revised ordinance, ensuring the changes will streamline reviews, especially that of variances, and reduce review time/effort. Proposed changes include: • There are technical spacing requirements for utilities - project specific/constrained criteria, project specific criteria for water quality. • Allowing for the Limits of Construction within a site plan to be non-contiguous. • Reviewing Heritage Trees administratively rather than by Commission (borrowed from school district ordinance). • Revoke an unused 4th street ordinance that limited utilities. • Requiring that the construction of the light rail itself comply with the Project Connect Design Criteria (PCDC) for sidewalk standards. 1 Land Use/Zoning Impacts on Housing Costs The proposed changes would have neutral impacts on housing costs. Impact on Development Cost The proposed changes would have neutral impacts on development costs. Impact on Affordable Housing The proposed changes would have neutral impacts on affordable housing: Overall Impact The proposed changes would have a neutral overall impact: • The proposed amendment applies only to Transit System Projects and does not alter the intended outcomes of existing criteria or regulations. Its primary effect is to streamline project‑specific technical reviews for the Light Rail program, reducing staff time and administrative effort while aligning with citywide goals for regulatory efficiency and implementation of Project Connect. • While streamlining transit projects can indirectly support broader affordability goals by improving access to reliable transportation, this amendment does not directly affect housing development, costs, or affordability. Other Policy Considerations • None at this time. Manager’s Signature ______________________________________________________________ 2
WORKING DRAFT FOR AMENDMENT TO PROJECT CONNECT ORDINANCE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE CHANGES PART 1. On November 15, 2022, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20221115-048 (the “Original Ordinance”), approving the Transit System Project Regulations to facilitate the construction of Project Connect (“Project”), the City’s high-capacity transit system expansion. PART 2. The attached exhibits are incorporated into this ordinance in their entirety as though set fully in the text of this ordinance. The exhibits are as follows: Exhibit A and A-1: Transit System Project Map Exhibit C: Preliminary Water Quality Treatment Map PART 3. This ordinance and the attached exhibits amend the Original Ordinance as amended for the Transit System Project Regulations, modifying conditions and replacing any likewise named or identified exhibits in the Original Ordinance as amended. Development of and uses for the Transit System Project shall conform to the limitations and conditions set forth in this ordinance and in the attached exhibits. If this ordinance and the attached exhibits conflict, this ordinance controls. Except as otherwise specifically provided by this ordinance, all other rules, regulations and ordinances of the City of Austin (“City”) apply to a Transit System Project. PART 4. This ordinance repeals Ordinance No. 000309-114. PART 5. Code Modifications. The following code modifications apply to a Transit System Project. (A) General Requirements and Procedures (1) City Code Section 25-1-21(108) (Definitions, Site) is modified to provide that a site can be a noncontiguous area and may cross a public street or right-of-way. (2) The Director of Austin Development Services may allow development to be reviewed and approved in multiple layers within one overall site plan. (B) Transportation (1) City Code Section 25-6-171 (Standards for Design and Construction) is modified to allow Project Connect Design Criteria to supersede any conflicting requirements in Chapter 25-6 (Transportation), subject to final approval by the City Traffic Engineer or Director of Austin Transportation and Public Works. (2) Notwithstanding any provision in Title 25 (Land Development) excluding Chapter 25- 2 (Zoning), the planting of street trees in the right-of-way shall follow the criteria of this subsection. WORKING DRAFT FOR AMENDMENT TO PROJECT CONNECT ORDINANCE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE CHANGES (a) Street trees planted in the right-of-way can have a horizontal clearance from the outer edge of the root barrier to the outer edge of an existing storm drain that is running parallel to the light rail alignment of: (i) five feet; or (ii) three …
Transit System Projects Ordinance Amendment Austin Project Connect | April 15, 2026 Transit System Projects Ordinance Response to: Resolution No. 20211029-003 which directed staff to: • Review City Code, criteria manuals, and permitting procedures to identify impediments to the design, construction, implementation, and operation of Project Connect • Develop new regulations and procedures to address those impediments Foundational ordinance approved by Council on Nov. 15, 2022 Established home for Transit System Project regulations Modified permitting tools to accommodate Austin Light Rail Anticipated additional impediments would be identified as project progressed Amendments address these issues and support the project as it enters final design 2 Components of this Ordinance 1. Site Plan Modification 2. Removal of Outdated Utility Policy 3. Austin Light Rail Streetscape Standards 4. Austin Light Rail Water Quality Compliance Program 5. Administrative Review of Heritage Trees 6. Administrative Rule Modifications 3 1. Site Plan Modifications To facilitate the permitting process for Austin Light Rail site plans will be allowed to have non-contiguous limits of construction (LOC). Refresher: Site Plan Layers Tool Modified from Fast Tracks tool. Allows construction to begin on permitted layers while future layers in design. Provides variety of options for efficient permitting and scheduling of project. 4 2. Removal of Outdated Utility Policy In 2000, utilities policy was passed in preparation for a potential future light rail system with an earlier alignment. This policy does not support the current Austin Light Rail alignment. Because this policy is obsolete and to prevent confusion, a recission is being issued. 5 SDf 3. Light Rail Streetscape Standards Project Connect Design Criteria Purpose: Contain back-of-curb streetscape standards for Austin Light Rail The Transportation Criteria Manual (TCM) acknowledges that tailored standards for Project Connect may be needed to align with highly localized contextual design. Provide a consistent design for pedestrian and bicycle facilities, street tree and furniture zones, and associated setbacks and buffers Identify priorities based on the character and needs of each segment along the light rail alignment Respond to constrained and unique conditions Reduce the need for waivers and align adjacent development with the Austin Light Rail design 6 3. Light Rail Streetscape Standards Illustrates typical street cross sections that will be built in the ROW (often constrained) by the Light Rail project In most cases, the …
City of Austin COJC Meeting Backup: April 15, 2026 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2026-003 Transit System Projects Ordinance Amendment Description: Amend the 2022 Transit System Projects Ordinance to add additional streamlining elements with a focus on project specific technical regulation. Background: On October 29, 2021, City Council approved Ordinance No. 20211029-003 directing staff to review City Code, criteria manuals, and permitting procedures to identify impediments to the design, construction, implementation, and operation of Project Connect to add streamlining elements with a focus on project specific technical regulation. The foundational ordinance for Transit System Projects, Ord. No. 20221115-048, was approved by Council on November 15, 2022. The Transit System Projects foundational ordinance created a central location for transit- specific regulations, expanded permitting options, clarified uses, and provided a programmatic approach to construction noise mitigation. Summary of Proposed Code Amendment: 1. Modifies site plan requirements to accommodate permitting tools for the light rail permitting process. 2. Recission of obsolete utility ordinance from 2000. 3. Establishes back-of-curb streetscape standards for light rail. 4. Establishes a water quality compliance program for light rail. 5. Establishes administrative review of heritage trees for Transit System Projects. 6. Incorporates administrative rule modifications that proactively address constrained right of way conditions where compliance will be challenging and ensures consistency in expiration of site plan components. Proposed Text Amendment(s): See attached draft ordinance. Staff Recommendation: Recommended Staff supports the proposed amendments to Ordinance No. 20221115-048. The amendments will further support Resolution No. 20211029-003 which directed staff to review City Code, criteria manuals, and permitting procedures to identify impediments to the design, construction, implementation, and operation of Project Connect to add streamlining elements with a focus on project specific technical regulation. Board and Commission Action: April 15, 2026 – To be considered by Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee. April 15, 2026 – To be considered by Environmental Commission. April 28, 2026 – Tentatively scheduled for consideration by the Planning Commission. May 21, 2026 – Tentatively scheduled for City Council action. Council Action: Sponsor Department: Austin Project Connect City Staff: Donna Galati, donna.galati@austintexas.gov, 512-974-2733
WORKING DRAFT FOR AMENDMENT TO PROJECT CONNECT ORDINANCE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE CHANGES PART 1. On November 15, 2022, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20221115-048 (the “Original Ordinance”), approving the Transit System Project Regulations to facilitate the construction of Project Connect, the City’s high-capacity transit system expansion. PART 2. The attached exhibits are incorporated into this ordinance in their entirety as though set fully in the text of this ordinance. The exhibits are as follows: Exhibit A and A-1: Transit System Project Map Exhibit C: Preliminary Water Quality Treatment Map PART 3. This ordinance and the attached exhibits amend the Original Ordinance as amended for the Transit System Project Regulations, modifying conditions and replacing any likewise named or identified exhibits in the Original Ordinance as amended. Development of and uses for the Transit System Project shall conform to the limitations and conditions set forth in this ordinance and in the attached exhibits. If this ordinance and the attached exhibits conflict, this ordinance controls. Except as otherwise specifically provided by this ordinance, all other rules, regulations and ordinances of the City of Austin (“City”) apply to a Transit System Project. PART 4. This ordinance repeals Ordinance No. 000309-114. PART 5. Definitions (A) Austin Light Rail means the light rail system generally depicted on Exhibit A-1 with any related appurtenances funded by a public entity. PART 6. Code Modifications. The following code modifications apply to development applications for the Austin Light Rail. (A) General Requirements and Procedures (1) City Code Section 25-1-21(108) (Definitions, Site) is modified to provide that a site can be a noncontiguous area and may cross a public street or right-of-way. (2) The Director of Austin Development Services may allow development to be reviewed and approved in multiple layers within one overall site plan. (B) Transportation (1) City Code Section 25-6-171 (Standards for Design and Construction) is modified to allow Project Connect Design Criteria to supersede any conflicting requirements in Chapter 25-6 (Transportation), subject to final approval by the City Traffic Engineer or Director of Austin Transportation and Public Works. WORKING DRAFT FOR AMENDMENT TO PROJECT CONNECT ORDINANCE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE CHANGES (2) Notwithstanding any provision in Title 25 (Land Development) excluding Chapter 25- 2 (Zoning), the planting of street trees in the right-of-way shall follow the criteria of this subsection. (a) Street trees planted in the right-of-way can have a horizontal clearance from the outer edge of …
S 1St StEMartinLutherKingJrBlvdE38ThStSLamarBlvdWMartinLutherKingJrBlvdN Lamar BlvdW38ThStAirportBlvdW6ThStW15ThStS 6Th StWRiversideDrE15Th StCarsonCreekBlunnCreekEastBouldinCreekShoalCreekCountryClubCreekWallerCreekTannehillBranchBoggyCreek7112901833535CountryClub EastBlunn CreekWalnutCreekEastBouldinCreekCountryClub WestWilliamsonCreekTannehillBranchColoradoRiverBartonCreekShoal CreekFort BranchHarpersBranchJohnson CreekWaller CreekTaylorSloughSouthCarson CreekLittleWalnutCreekLady BirdLakeWestBouldinCreekBoggy CreekDeliberative Draft: Not for Distribution2/24/202600.51MilesAustin Light Rail Phase 1 Water Quality TreatmentWatershed BoundaryLight Rail RoutePotential Location for Water Quality PondsLegendStreams & CreeksDeliberative Draft: Not for Distribution2/24/2026E Riverside DrS Congress AveLake BirdLakeColoradoRiverNotes:1. Potential locations for water quality ponds are identified per the FinalEnvironmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Proposed water quality ponds aresubject to change during final design.2. Additional treatment measures may include innovative/distributedinfrastructure such as bioswales, vegetative filter strips, and rain gardens.3. Comprehensive water quality treatment plan will be coordinated betweenAustin Transit Partnership (ATP) and Austin Watershed Protection (AWP).Trinity StS Pleasant Valley RdMontopolis DrGuadalupe StW 3rd St
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Alejandra Flores, Chair Nadia Barrera-Ramirez, Vice Chair Betsy Greenberg Lonny Stern CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Felicity Maxwell Chris Gannon Casey Haney AGENDA Speakers signed up for public communication will each be allowed three minutes to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee meeting on December 17, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to the Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to the posting of signs that give notice of zoning and rezoning applications. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing on the February 2026 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. Presentation by Jordan Feldman, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Jordan Feldman at Austin Planning, at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee, please contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE DRAFT MINUTES DECEMBER 17, 2025, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 Some members of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, contact Jordan Feldman at (512) 974-7288, Jordan.Feldman@austintexas.gov. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Alejandra Flores, Chair – Present in person Nadia Barrera-Ramirez, Vice Chair – Present virtually Betsy Greenberg – Present in person Lonny Stern – Present virtually Felicity Maxwell – Present virtually Alice Woods – Absent Casey Haney – Present in person AGENDA CALL TO ORDER: 6:00pm PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Speakers signed up for public communication will each be allowed three minutes to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee meeting on November 19, 2025. Minutes approved 5-0-1 on a motion by Commissioner Greenberg, seconded by Commissioner Haney, with Commissioner Stern abstaining and Commissioner Woods absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS DRAFT 2. Approve a recommendation to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to authorize signs with off-premise advertising on kiosks and infrastructure located in the City’s right-of- way and to change requirements related to relocating existing non-conforming off-premise signs transportation improvements. Presentation by Patricia Link, Division Chief, Austin Law. (a/k/a billboards) when required because of relocation is Motion by Commissioner Stern, second by Commissioner Maxwell, to amend Section 25-10- 105 to remove C(1) and change C(2) to C(1) to remove the restriction on the dimensions of signs allowed in the public right of way, passes with Commissioner Greenberg against and Commissioner Barrera-Ramirez recused. Motion by Commissioner Greenberg, seconded by Chair Flores, to clarify Sections (B)(c), and (B)k of 25-10-152 passes on a 5-0-1 vote, with Commissioner Barrera-Ramirez recused. Motion by Commissioner Maxwell, seconded by Commissioner Haney, passes 4-1-1, with Commissioner Greenberg against and Commissioner Nadia Barrera-Ramirez recused. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing on the November 2025 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. Presentation by Jordan Feldman, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. …
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 DRAFT (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) PART 1. Division 1, Article 6 of City Code Chapter 25-1 (General Requirements and Procedures) is amended to add a new Section 25-1-136 to read: § 25-1-136 REQUIREMENTS FOR RECORD OWNER POSTED SIGNS. (A) The record owner shall post and maintain a sign required by this title. (B) A sign must be posted not later than the 11th day before the date of the first occurrence at which: (1) (2) the Historic Landmark Commission holds a hearing on the proposed zoning or rezoning change; or the Land Use Commission holds a hearing on the proposed zoning or rezoning change. (C) The record owner must maintain a sign until Council makes a final determination on the proposed zoning or rezoning change. (D) Each sign must: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) state the type of change being proposed; include the case number; include the name and telephone number of the staff person to contact for additional information; be posted on the property subject to the proposed change; be visible from a public street; be at least 24 inches long by 48 inches wide; and be placed with less than 200 feet of separation from another required sign posted for the same application. (E) The record owner must post: (1) one sign every 200 feet along each street frontage; or (2) three signs along every street frontage regardless of street length; or (3) a maximum of 10 signs total regardless of the length or number of street frontages. (F) The record owner must verify the placement of a sign in the manner prescribed by the director of Planning. 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 (G) If the director of the Planning Department finds that a sign is placed incorrectly or is not being maintained, the record owner must correct the sign within three business days after receiving notice. (H) The record owner may remove a posted sign the day after the city council …
Zoning Sign Posting Austin Planning | Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee February 18, 2026 Why are we here? House Bill 24 was approved by the 89th Texas State Legislative Session in 2025. HB 24: Increased the threshold that certain petitions must meet to become valid, and reduced the impacts of such protests; and Made significant changes to zoning sign posting requirements. 2 House Bill 24 at a glance 1. Establishes minimum dimensions for zoning signs. 2. Changes the duration of time that the sign must remain posted. 3. Allows municipalities to require the applicant to post a sign. 3 House Bill 24 at a glance Austin LDC Staff shall post signs No minimum dimensions Sign shall be posted within 14 days of application filing Sign may not be removed before the earliest date on which action may be taken on the application Signs must be posted every 200 feet, with a maximum of three per street frontage HB 24 Zoning Commission or applicant shall post sign At least 24” x 48” Sign shall be posted at least 10 days before the land use commission public hearing Sign must remain posted and maintained until final action is taken by City Council One sign required 4 Proposed Code Amendment Create a new code section: § 25-1-136 Requirements for Applicant-Posted Signs § 25-1-135 Posting of Signs will remain for non-zoning signs Amend § 25-2-261 Notice of Application Filing to reference § 25-1-136 The applicant shall post zoning signs required by Title 25 5 Proposed Code Amendment A sign must: specify the type of action pending, the file number, and the name and telephone number of the person to contact for additional information; be posted on the property affected by the proposed change; be visible from the street; be at least 24 inches long by 48 inches wide; and be spaced not more than 200 feet apart from another sign for the same application. If the street frontage of the subject property is less than 200 feet in length, only one sign is required. Not more than three signs are required per street frontage regardless of the length of the street frontage. Not more than 10 signs are required per proposed change regardless of the site area. 6 Proposed Code Amendment The sign must be posted not later …
City of Austin COJC Meeting Backup: February 18, 2026 File ID: xx-xxxx ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REVIEW SHEET Amendment: C20-2025-019 Zoning Sign Posting Description: Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development Code) to modify current requirements and establish new requirements related to the posting of signs that are posted to provide notice of zoning and rezoning applications. Background: On June 20, 2025, House Bill 24 (HB 24) was approved in the 89th Texas State Legislative Session. HB 24 made changes to the requirements related to certain zoning and rezoning applications. Staff is proposing a code amendment to bring the Land Development Code into alignment with State Law. The most significant proposed changes are an increase to the minimum sign dimensions and a requirement that the applicant post signs. Summary of Proposed Code Amendment: 1. Create a new section of the Land Development Code: § 25-1-136 (Requirements for Applicant-Posted Signs) which describes procedures and requirements related to the posting of zoning signs, including: • The applicant shall post zoning signs required by Title 25 • A sign must: o specify the type of action pending, the file number, and the name and telephone number of the person to contact for additional information; o be posted on the property affected by the proposed change; o be visible from the street; o be at least 24 inches long by 48 inches wide; and o be spaced not more than 200 feet apart from another sign for the same application. • If the street frontage of the subject property is less than 200 feet in length, only one sign is required. Not more than three signs are required per street frontage regardless of the length of the street frontage. Not more than ten signs are required per proposed change regardless of the site area. • The sign must be posted not later than the 10th day before the date that: o the historic landmark commission holds a hearing on the proposed change, if required; or Page 1 of 2 City of Austin COJC Meeting Backup: February 18, 2026 File ID: xx-xxxx o the land use commission holds a hearing on the proposed change. • The applicant must maintain the sign until the date of a final determination on the proposed change by the City Council. • The applicant must provide verification of the placement of the sign in the manner prescribed by the responsible director and …
Lead Case # Code Amendment FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2026 2027 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVE CODE AMENDMENTS February 2026 AP N/A New Zoning Districts Study AP C20-2025-019 Zoning Sign Posting Updates AP C20-2024-004 ETOD Overlay (Ph. 2) + Citywide Density Bonus AP C20-2025-016 DDB/Downtown Amendments Ph. 1 AP C20-2024-003 East Riverside Corridor Plan Update AP C20-2025-013 New Zoning Districts AP C20-2024-018 DDB/Downtown Amendments Ph. 2 AP C20-2025-014 TOD Updates/Rezonings Timelines To Be Determined AP C20-2018-004 Mirrored Glass AWP C20-2022-025 Greenfield Drainage for Redeveloped Sites AP C20-2023-023 Notification Modification AP C20-2023-031 Front or Side Yard Parking Filing Deadlines AP C20-2023-032 Mobile Food Establishment Filing Deadlines AP C20-2023-036 Tenant Notification & Relocation Ph. 2 AP C20-2024-012 NBG Regulating Plan (Bonus Program) ADS C20-2024-013 Relocating Non-Zoning Regulations AP C20-2024-020 Preservation Bonus Update Ph. 2 AP C20-2025-004 Life Science Land Use AP C20-2025-011 SB 840 Related Updates to 25-2 (Ph. 1) APH C20-2025-005 Tobacco Sales Use AP C20-2025-012 SB 840 Related Updates to 25-2 (Ph. 2) AP C20-2025-017 UNO Site-Specific Amendment APR C20-2026-TBD Park Improvement Permitting Suspended/Indefinitely Postponed AP C20-2022-003 South Central Waterfront Comb. Dis. & DB ATPW C20-2023-040 Eliminate Min. Parking Requirements Ph. 2 AP C20-2024-010 UNO Update AP C20-2024-005 UNO Height Restrictions AP C20-2024-017 Planned Development Area 2 (PDA2) AP C20-2024-022 DB for Commercial Hwy. & Industrial (DB240) Staff Recommends Addressing These Items Through More Comprehensive Code Amendments CHART KEY Lead Department Address by Citywide Density Bonus: AP C20-2023-007 Town Zoning AP C20-2025-002 DB90 Fee-In-Lieu Address by New Zoning Districts: AP C20-2022-018 Noxious Land Uses AP N/A HOME Future Phases AP C20-2023-016 Single Family Ownership Bonus Program AP C20-2025-015 Coffee Shop Land Use ADS Austin Development Services AP Austin Planning APH Austin Public Health APR Austin Parks and Recreation ATPW Austin Transportation and Public Works AWP Austin Watershed Protection Land Development Code Amendment Process Initiation Development and/or Engagement Review and/or Adoption Amendments with Scheduled Review & Adoption Dates Address by DDB/Downtown Amendments Ph. 1: AP C20-2025-018 Downtown Parks Overlay District Modification Address by DDB/Downtown Amendments Ph. 2: AP C20-2024-008 Downtown Parking Modifications Ph. 2 Dates for Review and Adoption City Council Planning Commission Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Address by TOD Updates/Rezonings: AP N/A Crestview TOD Update Other Icons Substantial Benefit to Housing Capacity/Cost N/A No Case Number TBD To Be Determined Note: Schedule …
Name Description Initiated By Resolution Stage Status Lead Dept Sub Dept Active Code Amendment Cases February 2026 City Council 20240321-034 Development and Engagement Will be addressed by TOD Updates/Rezonings. Planning Case # N/A Crestview TOD Update C20-2025-019 Zoning Sign Posting Updates Amend the Lamar Blvd./Justin Lane “Crestview” TOD Station Area Plan and regulating plan to match the height limits achievable with a density bonus in Phase 1 of the ETOD Overlay and align the density bonus program to match other elements of Phase 1 of the ETOD Overlay if recommended. Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to the posting of signs that give notice of zoning and rezoning applications. C20-2025-018 Downtown Parks Overlay District Modification Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify the Downtown Parks Overlay District requirements. Planning Commission C20-2025-017 UNO Site-Specific Amendment Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to the change the designation of properties located at 900-908 West 22nd Street from the Outer West Subdistrict to the Inner West Subdistrict within the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) boundaries. Planning Commission HB 24 Development and Engagement Development and Engagement Development and Engagement In Process - Planning COJC 2/18/2026 Planning Commission 3/10/2026 City Council 3/26/2026 ➡ ➡ ➡ Will be addressed by Downtown Density Bonus/Downtown Amendments Phase 1. Timeline to be determined. Planning C20-2025-016 DDB/Downtown Amendments Phase 1 Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify the Downtown Density Bonus program for Core and Rainey subdistricts. City Council Development and Engagement Anticipating review and adoption by May 2026. Planning C20-2025-015 Coffee Shop Land Use C20-2025-014 TOD Updates/Rezonings C20-2025-013 New Zoning Districts C20-2025-012 SB 840 Related Updates to 25- 2 (Phase 2) C20-2025-011 SB 840 Related Updates to 25- 2 (Phase 1) Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to create a new land use for coffee shops and cafes, expand zoning districts to include more uses, and adjust certain zoning tools to encourage neighborhood scale development. Amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to update regulations within the 3 existing TOD boundaries (Plaza Saltillo, MLK, and N. Lamar / Justin Blvd.) to align with ETOD Policy Plan and other recent code amendments such as parking modifications, ETOD Overlay Phase 1, etc. Identifies gaps in base zones and proposes new zones to fill those gaps, including missing middle and mixed-use transit-supportive base zones that could be used …
CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 REGULAR MEETING OF THE CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE APPROVED MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER (PDC), ROOM 2103 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78752 The Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Flores called the codes and Ordinances Joint Committee Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Alejandra Flores, Chair Betsy Greenberg Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Felicity Maxwell Lonny Stern Casey Haney joined the commission late at 6:47 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Codes and Ordinances Joint Committee meeting on December 2025. 17, The minutes from the Codes and Ordinance Joint Committee regular meeting on December 17, 2025, was approved unanimously on a 4-0 vote on a motion by Commissioner Greenberg, seconded by Chair Flores. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Approve a recommendation to the Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to rezoning applications. that give notice of zoning and the posting of signs The motion to approve the recommendation to Planning Commission to amend City Code Title 25 (Land Development) to modify existing requirements and establish new requirements related to the posting of signs that give notice of zoning and rezoning CODES AND ORDINANCES JOINT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 applications was approved on Commissioner Greenberg’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Maxwell on a vote 4-0 with the following changes: a. Revert 25-1-136 (B) to current code b. Change 25-1-136 (E) to “Require at least one street sign on every street frontage and require at least one sign every 200 feet along street frontage up to a maximum of three signs and a total of ten total.” c. Only applicable for the subject tract STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing on the February 2026 Schedule of Active Code Amendments Gantt Chart. Presentation by Jordan Feldman, Principal Planner, Austin Planning. Jordan Feldman presented. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS The motion to approve an election for Chair and Vice Chair at the April 15, 2026, meeting was approved unanimously on a 5-0 vote on a motion by Chair Flores, seconded by Commissioner Greenberg. ADJOURNMENT Chair Flores adjourned the meeting at 6:53 p.m. …
