Update on Transforming Site Plan Review Initiative



Our work Transforming Site Plan Review continues, and you will see the impacts of this work throughout this month’s newsletter, including the implementation of a new digital signature process and a story from Transportation and Public Works on their process improvements. 

A few weeks ago, we announced the implementation of 19 different initiatives as part of Transforming Site Plan Review, and in the coming weeks, you will hear more about improvements to the completeness check process, redefining the case manager role, review meetings, prioritization of applications, and re-review and comment resolution processes. 

If you have any questions about this project, please visit our website or email us. 



Building Safety Month Connects Personal Safety and Building Codes

It is almost time for Building Safety Month! Throughout May, Austin will participate in the 44th annual Building Safety Month, a worldwide campaign presented by the International Code Council, its members, and partners to promote building safety. This year’s campaign, themed “Mission Possible,” addresses how building safety impacts everyone on a personal, global, and local level. 

Here at home, Austin builds on national and international building codes that improve Austinites’ daily lives and make our city safer. We invite you to visit our Building Safety Month page for a variety of tips, educational resources, insight from Austin building safety professionals, and highlights on people and communities who are making a difference in building safety. Together we are all responsible for building safety. Thank you for everything you do to help support this mission. 

Input on More 2024 Technical Building Codes

The City of Austin plans to accept feedback on proposed amendments to seven technical building codes from May 15 through June 16. These include the International Residential, Property Maintenance, Energy Conservation, Fire, and Wildland-Urban Interface codes from the International Code Council (ICC), as well as the Uniform Mechanical and Plumbing codes from the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). DSD plans to host a webinar on Monday, May 20, beginning at 11:30 a.m., to discuss updates to the model codes and proposed local amendments. To participate, register on Zoom.

Please note the engagement dates for the Energy Conservation Code may change depending on final publication of the 2024 model code by ICC. The public input period for the 2024 International Building Code and International Swimming Pool and Spa Code ended on April 26. We will consider stakeholder feedback when finalizing all proposed amendments for Austin City Council consideration in September. Check the project webpage for updates.

Bedroom Window Requirements Become Effective May 20

New requirements for bedroom windows in commercial building projects go into effect May 20, 2024. The ordinance, passed by the Austin City Council on April 18, requires access to natural light for all sleeping rooms in new commercial building projects. Sources of natural light can include exterior windows or natural light borrowed from other rooms, either through windows or glazed doors on common walls. These requirements do not affect residential projects or building projects submitted for review before May 20. If you have questions about the new requirements and how they affect your next project, please email us.

Formal Signature Process Update

As part of Transforming Site Plan Review, our teams have had the opportunity to consider the individual steps of site plan review within the context of the overall process. In that vein, a review by the team assigned to Initiative 13 (formalize and publish permit signing order) found the existing process required applicants to circulate digital plans. This circulation came at a great time cost to applicants and presented challenges with reconciling versions of plans among staff.

Site plan review staff from all reviewing departments collaborated to implement a streamlined process in which DSD case managers will route approved site plans for signatures. After the required signatures are affixed, applicants will receive final copies. Applicants currently in the signature phase of their project have already been incorporated into the new process. Beginning May 1, all applicants will utilize their case manager to facilitate the signature process. 

If you have feedback about the new signature review process, please email us.

Transportation and Public Works Improves Development Process

A Message from Transportation and Public Works

The Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) has worked over the past year and a half to improve not only its site plan review process but also its full formal review process for efficiency.

Based on the findings of a report on the City of Austin’s site plan review process and state legislation, TPW consolidated all development review within one group: the Transportation Development Services Division. This team provides review services on all aspects of transportation associated with a proposed development or redevelopment. The result is that TPW staff’s review process is now 4-5 days faster.

You can find more information on the work of the Transportation Development Services team at TPW’s website.

June Webinar to Gather Input on Recommended Changes to Tree Protections

As part of the HOME Initiative – Phase 1 ordinance passed in December 2023, the Austin City Council directed the City Manager to recommend improvements to better preserve non-regulated trees and increase tree planting. DSD has crafted recommendations to address these goals.

Join a webinar on Tuesday, June 4, beginning at 11:30 a.m., to learn more and provide feedback on the proposed recommendations. To participate, register on Zoom. Staff plans to present recommendations to the City Council this fall.

City Adds More Opportunities to Learn about Transit Supportive Code Amendments

A Message from the Planning Department

Austin residents have more opportunities to learn about proposed code updates that aim to increase housing options throughout the city and support the Project Connect light rail investments. The City has added two new in-person open houses to the calendar ahead of the City Council’s May 16 vote on the draft HOME – Phase 2 amendments.

• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m. Anderson High School, 8403 Mesa Dr. (Register here.)
• Wednesday, May 8, 6-8 p.m. George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina St. (Register here.)

At both events, staff will be available to discuss the proposed amendments, which would: 

• Reduce the minimum amount of land needed to build one home. 
• Modify compatibility rules that limit the height of buildings adjacent to single-family homes. 
• Encourage transit-supportive development and affordable housing along the Project Connect Phase 1 Light Rail corridors and Priority Extensions. 
• Create a new Electrical Vehicle Charging Use that would define where EV charging facilities could be located and prevent them from becoming concentrated within active or residential areas.  

Learn more information about each of the proposed code amendments at speakupaustin.org/ldcupates.  

Development-Related Webinars Return for Austin Small Business Week

Today, April 29, begins Austin Small Business Week, an annual program offered by the Economic Development Department’s Small Business Division. That means there is still time to join two free webinars presented by members of DSD’s Development Process Team. 

The Commercial Development Process: From Start to Finish

Tuesday, April 30, 2-3 p.m.

Know every step, from zoning to inspections, to get your commercial development project started right. 

Learn more and register.

What to Know Before You Buy or Lease

Wednesday, May 1, 2-3 p.m.

Get tips to use before buying or leasing a commercial property for your business. 

Learn more and register.

This is DSD’s fourth year in a row to offer these free classes to help small businesses in our community succeed. Reserve your spot today!

Virtual Stakeholder Meetings Scheduled for June 11-12

During two virtual stakeholder meetings in June, DSD will provide a variety of updates about the development process and our services. 

Site and Subdivision Plan Review and Inspections 

Tuesday, June 11, 2-3:30 p.m. (Register here.)  

Building Plan Review and Inspections

Wednesday, June 12, 2-3:30 p.m. (Register here.) 

We encourage you to attend one or both meetings, depending on your interests, experiences, and questions. If you have questions, contact us at DSDCommunications@austintexas.gov.  



Austin Celebrates Continued Tree City USA Designation

On April 18, the Urban Forestry team at DSD was presented with a proclamation from the City Council, once again recognizing Austin as a "Tree City USA", a title we've held for over 30 years. This designation, awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation, reflects Austin’s commitment to preserving and nurturing our urban forest.

These investments not only strengthen our community's resilience but also contribute to creating a healthier and more vibrant community for everyone. We're proud to be part of a city that prioritizes the well-being of its residents and the environment. 

Upcoming Dates

The Commercial Development Process: From Start to Finish – April 30

What to Know Before You Buy or Lease – May 1

Commercial Environmental Inspections Lunch & Learn – May 1

HOME – Phase 2 Meeting, Anderson High School – May 6

HOME – Phase 2 Meeting, Carver Museum and Cultural Center – May 8

Tree Smart Brown Bag Lunch & Learn – May 15

2024 Technical Codes Webinar – May 20

New Bedroom Window Requirements in Effect – May 20



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