DEPARTMENT: Development Services Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Michael Shannon, PE, CBO
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT: UDC Zoning Amendments
SUMMARY:
Make recommendations on amendments to Chapter 35, Unified Development Code, of the City Code of San Antonio, Texas, Section 35-343 Infill Development Zone, Section 35-310.05a Single-Family Residential, and Section 35-341 Mixed Use District.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Pursuant to a City Council Request (CCR) jointly submitted by Council Districts 1 and 7, Development Services staff was asked to review current Infill Development Zone regulations and bring forth possible recommendations to improve development standards that protect the essential character and integrity of San Antonio's established neighborhoods.
DSD staff organized an IDZ Task Force, consisting of 15 members from both neighborhoods and the development community. The Task Force met seven times to discuss proposed changes to current "IDZ" regulations. The Task Force also recommended changes to the "MXD" Mixed Use District regulations, and recommend adoption of two new small-lot single-family residential zoning categories.
During the first PCTAC meeting, several members expressed concern over specific regulations related to design requirements, size limitations, and allowances for minor amendments. Subsequently, DSD staff reconvened the IDZ Task Force, which has since recommended edits to the draft ordinance to address these concerns.
ISSUE:
Current IDZ regulations, while broadly permissive, have led to conflict between the development community and the neighborhoods that they are attempting to build in. Currently, "IDZ" development standards are minimal and lack important detail. As a result, "IDZ" has garnered a reputation as an unpredictable development tool.
The proposed amendments to the "IDZ" regulations require more detail from applicants seeking that zoning district and give the public a much better understanding of the propos...
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