AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Receive a staff presentation and hold discussion on proposed amendments to the San Marcos Land Development Code and Design Manual.
Body
Meeting date: October 14, 2025
Department: Planning & Development Services
Amount & Source of Funding
Funds Required: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Funds Available: N/A
Account Name: N/A
Fiscal Note:
Prior Council Action: On August 19, 2025, City Council provided initial authorization to update the Land Development Code (LDC). This update will help implement the Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan (approved on October 15, 2024), improve development processes, align with state law, and address new types of development.
City Council Strategic Initiative:
Quality of Life & Sense of Place
Economic Vitality
Environmental Protection
Comprehensive Plan Element (s): [Please select the Plan element(s) and Goal # from dropdown menu below]
☐ Economic Development - Choose an item.
☐ Environment & Resource Protection - Choose an item.
☐ Land Use - Choose an item.
☐ Neighborhoods & Housing - Choose an item.
☐ Parks, Public Spaces & Facilities - Choose an item.
☐ Transportation - Choose an item.
☐ Core Services
☒ Not Applicable
Master Plan:
Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan
Background Information:
The City of San Marcos is updating its Land Development Code (LDC) and Design Manual-the set of rules that guides how the city grows and develops. On August 19, 2025, City Council provided initial authorization to update the LDC. This update will help implement the Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan (approved on October 15, 2024), improve development processes, align with state law, and address new types of development.
The Land Development Code establishes the rules and regulations which guide development within the City limits and its Extra-territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). These regulations cover various aspects, including:
• Land uses permitted in different zoning districts;
• The subdivision of property including the layout of lots;
• Setbacks and density;
• Parking requirements;
• Landscaping and tree standards;
• Infrastructure requirements;
• Environmental regulations; and
• Site/building design requirements.
Staff is bringing these proposed changes to the Commission’s attention to provide an opportunity for review and comment. The proposed amendments to the Land Development Code and Design Manual are included on the city website for public review and comment. Within the Commission packet is a justification table outlining the purpose and rationale for each amendment.
To view all the proposed edits, please visit <https://smtx.konveio.com/land-development-code-updates>.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
The Historic Preservation Commission received an informational update at the October 2 Regular Meeting; no action occurred at that meeting.
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommendation:
N/A - This item is an informational update; no action is occurring at this meeting