Zonability

City of Austin rules for zoning using "compatibility" as a tool have changed. Leigh talks about the new changes including the distance change and the districts impacted. This subject may warrant another video with a few use case examples but for now, just becoming aware of the change is the purpose of this video.

City of Austin changed the meaning and use of three important zoning districts: SF-1, SF-2 and SF-3. Where only one house would be allowed, now it can be up to 3 homes and all on the same lot with a minimum size of 5,750 sf.

There are two sides to the same coin and as a real estate professional, it is critical to know how these two perspectives come into play when it comes to assessing a property's potential.

It is optional zoning for many commercially zoned properties in City of Austin that has many moving parts to consider such as: removing the Conditional Overlay (if any existed), mitigating existing base zoning district requirements and adding 30 feet in height - all in a trade off to meet the city's affordable housing rules.

Many zoning ordinance changes are in effect or will be shortly; this video is the first of a series geared to help the busy real estate professional get a big picture view.

Leigh explains Small Lot option to subdivide to a 1,800 sf lot for a house in City of Austin; this is a new subdivision rule that will go into effect in August. The "how to" covers some helpful tips.

Guest speaker, Leigh Budlong creator of Zonability, shows how to navigate the changes in the City of Austin. Breakdown of talk: Getting people into meeting, Leigh starts talk, minute 2 -Zoning basics -Future Land Use New rules in Austin, minute 31 -3 homes one lot -DB90 -Compatibility, minute 38 -Subdividing to 1800 sf for 1 house Recap, minute 42 Questions/wrap up, minute 47

City of Austin's new zoning rules that include SF-1, SF-2 and SF-3 (up to 3 units per lot) and DB90, an optional zoning district to rezone and add to allow for housing with a bonus on CS, CS-1, GR, LR and LO zoning districts. NOTE: if the property already has "MU" they can already add housing. The difference is the "bonus" size/height associated with DB90. Owners must provide units that meet the City of Austin's requirements for their Affordable Housing Program.

On May 17, 2024 during a special city council meeting, the new land use rules were approved and are NOT yet in effect but we'll be watching for more information. For now, Zonability Reports will add some new messaging for subdividing lots for single family and will keep you posted on the new overlay zoning district associated with Project Connect, the rail line.

Zonability Reports will show "airport overlay" zoning when its available but not all cities use zoning for their airports - plus sometimes the airport is actually in the city next door. What do you do to find out if a property has airport noise impacts? Leigh helps you with these easy tips.

Learn some basics by knowing what to ask a city planner. Use this handy set of questions and leverage zoning in your next real estate deal!