In this special Halloween edition of Building Connections, we're treating you to October's development updates. As the spookiest month draws to a close, it’s not too late to share this newsletter (or your Halloween candy) with others who might have an interest in Development Services Department (DSD) news. 

New DSD Webpages Offer Easy Access to

Development Guidance, Resources 

We have two new webpages to help navigate the development process. The new Understanding the Development Process page clarifies the step-by-step process, from creating a project to occupancy. The newly improved Forms & Applications page offers one-click access from the left navigation of any DSD webpage to the correct documents to support successful applications.  



As DSD continues to grow to serve Austin’s changing needs, our website resources will evolve with us to help all customers, from first-time users to veteran builders, understand what to expect and access the information and resources they need. If you have any feedback on our website, email us. 

Council Updates City’s Parkland Dedication Requirements

Update from the Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Austin’s parkland dedication program promotes health, safety and general welfare of Austinites and commuters who work here. On Sept. 15, Austin City Council updated the parkland dedication requirements for new developments by amending the City of Austin FY 2023 budget and City Code Chapter 25-1, initiating parkland dedication (PLD) requirements for commercial development, and amending existing requirements for residential development.  

The parkland cost factor for residential units for FY 2023 has been capped at 10 percent over the previous fiscal year. Council also amended the existing Residential Parkland Development requirements for commercial developments to: 

• Lock in rates at the time of a permit application for the duration of the review cycle 
• Expand applicability of the affordable housing waiver 
• Clarify the credit for dedicated parkland within the 25-year floodplain 

Beginning in January 2023, subdivisions, site plans or building permits that propose increased commercial square footage also will be required to dedicate parkland or pay fee-in-lieu consistent with their impact on the park level of service. Affected commercial uses include office, retail/restaurant, industrial/warehouse and hotels. 

For more information, including the revised fee schedules and opportunities for future engagement, visit AustinTexas.gov/PLD. 

Nature in the City Invites You to Schedule Tree-Off Time

Now that cooler fall weather is here, it’s time to plant trees in Austin! Trees planted October through January have a chance to establish roots in their new homes before the heat of summer arrives. A small investment today can provide benefits to our city for decades. Learn how to choose a tree and plant it correctly by visiting this Nature in the City article. 

Get Tree Smart Lunch & Learn Wait List Available

DSD has experienced a tremendous response to the Community Tree Preservation Division Get Tree Smart Lunch and Learn Series. The recently added November and December sessions quickly reached capacity. We encourage you to add your name to the online waitlist for your preferred session if you have not already done so, and we will notify you if a spot becomes available.  



These sessions are open to all Austinites and those involved in projects inside the city limits. The presentation will cover information that is relevant to permit holders and those connected with development and landscaping industries. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions of the City Arborist and other DSD tree personnel. 

Upcoming Key Dates

Nov. 5: Roots & Wings Festival Ends 

Nov. 10: Get Tree Smart Lunch & Learn (waitlist available) 

Nov. 11: Veterans Day (City offices closed) 

Nov. 24-25: Thanksgiving Holidays (City offices closed) 

Nov. 28: November Building Connections 

Dec. 8: Get Tree Smart Lunch & Learn (waitlist available)