What is CodeNEXT exactly and how will it affect me? That is a question you may be asking as every property owner in Austin will receive a postcard from the City of Austin with basic information about CodeNEXT and a list of scheduled hearings for public comment. This information is provided by ABOR.
CodeNEXT, as you’ve likely heard, is the City of Austin’s revision to its land development code, which determines what can be built, where, and how much. CodeNEXT is Austin’s opportunity to shape the future of our city and provide stronger tools to address housing affordability, transportation, environmental protection, and preserve the things that make this city so unique and special.
What’s the current proposal?
The current version of the proposed code, known as Draft 3, is available for review and comment online. If you are interested in how CodeNEXT could affect a particular property, you can use the City’s Zoning Comparison Tool to see how the zoning could change under Draft 3.
Under the current code draft, entitlement for most properties in core residential neighborhoods do not significantly change. The current Draft 3 proposal reduces the minimum lot size for some residentially-zoned lots and allows some attached housing options, but it doesn’t generally permit more units on a lot than what is allowed under current zoning.
How will this impact properties in Austin?
Land use issues are complicated and many of the changes are hard to decipher. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the City of Austin Planning and Zoning staff online or by phone at (512) 974-3583. I am available to you for questions any time at the contact info below or The City of Austin Planning and Zoning staff is also holding office hours, which can be booked through their website.
Jennifer Cote Blog 