Item 6C - Staff ReportSOUTHLAKE
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
SERVICES
MEMORANDUM
April 8,2025
To: Alison Ortowski, City Manager
From: Dennis Killough, AICP —Director of Planning & Development Services
Subject: ZA25-0013, Ordinance No. 480-GGGGG amendments to the City of
Southlake Zoning Ordinance No. 480, as amended, Section 47 -
Transition Zoning District (TZD)
Action
Requested: City Council to conduct a public hearing and consider the 2nd reading of
proposed Ordinance No. 480-GGGGG.
Background
Information: As Southlake develops, the City periodically reviews its regulations to
ensure they align with the City's development priorities. The TZD is a
district of regulations originally established in 2005 to encourage well -
designed residential neighborhood developments while allowing flexibility
for mixed -use projects that blend housing, retail, offices, and civic spaces.
The purpose of this request is to review the ordinance and consider
amendments to ensure it continues to serve its intended purpose and that
it aligns with the community's long-term vision. Since its original creation
on August 2, 2005, the TZD district has undergone four amendments.
The discussion surrounding the most recent requests for TZD zoning
changes has focused on density, density calculation methods, lot area and
width, open space and adjacency standards. The amendments being
proposed provide options to address these areas.
The TZD areas are shown in green on the map below. Regardless of any
changes that are adopted to the ordinance, current property owners within
the TZD areas will remain under their existing zoning regulations that were
adopted under their zoning approval and can continue to use and improve
their property under those regulations. However, the amendments being
proposed and ultimately adopted may affect a property owner's ability to
make future changes to the TZD zoning district uses and regulations on
their property.
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Page 1
EXISTING TZD ZONING DISTRICTS
® Transition Zoning District (TZD)
Developments Il
W
LEGEND 5
SWhlahe Wy bm t Scale 1,54000
�,�n Pemel Baundarles 1 Inch = 4500 feet
TZD oe%iopments wagon dMwmnnor m.rt s
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Page 2
Citizen Input/
Board Review: Three -hundred fifty six letters (356) were sent to owners within a TZD
district and four -hundred twenty four (424) postcards were sent to owners
within 300 feet of a TZD district boundary. One (1) letter in favor and two
(2) letters of opposition have been received to date.
This item was presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and a
public hearing was held Thursday, March 6, 2025.
This item was presented to the Southlake Program for the Involvement of
Neighborhoods (SPIN) on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
This item was presented to the City Council for 1st reading on Tuesday,
April 1, 2025 and will be considered for 2nd reading following a public
hearing on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, meeting to begin at 5:30 PM.
P & Z ACTION: March 6, 2025; Approved (5-0) recommending the following:
- under 47.4.d.4, Transition District Component Requirements Option
2 - Density shall be calculated on the gross area defining the residential
"neighborhood" boundary including "neighborhood" open space area.
- under 47.6, Development Standards Option 2 - Add regulations specific
to TZD where a TZD is directly adjacent to an existing single family
residentially zoned property and neighborhoods, that address non-
residential setbacks, buffering, and screening.
- under Table 47-26, Option 2 — add a minimum lot area of 10,000 SF
- under 47.7 Performance and Design Standards
h. Open Space Standard - Option 1 Add: Detention areas shall be
excluded from the open space area credit unless designed as an aesthetic
passive recreation amenity to the neighborhood.
CITY COUNCIL
ACTION: April1, 2025; Approved (6-0),11t reading, noting that after the presentation
and discussion this evening, we are approving the following related to:
• 47.4.d.4, Transition District Component Requirements Option 2 Density shall be
calculated on the gross area defining the residential "neighborhood" boundary, including the
"neighborhood" open space area.
• 47.6, Development Standards Option 2
Add regulations specific to TZD where a TZD is directly adjacent to an existing single-family
residentially zoned property and neighborhoods that address non-residential setbacks,
buffering, and screening, as presented by staff this evening, but including an amendment
approving building lines of 50 ft., 70 ft. and 90 ft. on buildings one, two and three story
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Page 3
respectively. Also noting that the language related to evergreen vegetation, adding that
vegetation must be eight feet in height within three years and be maintained in perpetuity.
• 47.6 - Table 47-2, 4.0 Block and Lot Standards Option 2
Adding that the minimum residential neighborhood lot area will be 10,890 SF, 0.25 acre.
• 47.7 Performance and Desiqn Standards - h. Open Space Standard Option 1
Add - Detention areas shall be excluded from the open space area credit unless designed as
an aesthetic passive recreation amenity to the neighborhood subject to staff and ultimately
City Council approval.
Attachments: (A) Pages with Redline Changes
(B) Ord. No. 480-GGGGG
Section 47 — Transition Zoning District (TZD)
Presentation
Staff Contact: Dennis Killough (817) 748-8072
Jenny Crosby (817) 748-8195
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Page 4
Attachment A
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG
TZD - Amendment Proposals
red line/st
Section 47.4.d Transition Zoning District Component Requirements
4. Uses in the neighborhood shall be to the density and scale that is appropriate based on
the context and character of the proposed district. Residential density in the Transition Zoning
District shall not exceed two (2) dwelling units per gross acre. add Density shall be calculated
on the gross area defining the residential "neighborhood" boundary including "neighborhood"
open space area.
Section 47.6 Development Standards
Add 47.6.d - Where the "TZD" district boundary is directly adjacent to any lot or tract of land
with single family residential zoning of SF-20A, SF-2013, SF-30, SF1-A, SF-1 B, SF-2, RE-5
RE-7, R-PUD, any non-residential use components shall provide:
1. A minimum building setback from adjacent residential property of 50 feet for a one-story
building, plus an additional 20 feet for each additional building story.
2. A minimum 10 foot wide F-1 bufferyard per Section 42 of the Zoning Ordinance No. 480,
as amended, or solid evergreen vegetative screen reaching a height of 8 feet or greater
within three years, shall be provided and maintained in perpetuity along the common
boundary of the TZD district and the single family residential boundary.
3. Mechanical Equipment Screening: All non-residential buildings must be designed such that
no mechanical equipment (HVAC, etc.) or satellite dishes shall be visible. This shall include
equipment on the roof, on the ground or otherwise attached to the building or located on
the site. Rooftop mechanical equipment and / or other rooftop appurtenance screening
shall be accomplished by construction of architectural feature which is integral to the
building's design and ensures that such equipment is not visible. All rooftop mechanicals
or architectural features described herein shall be shown on the required building
elevations at the time of site plan approval.
4. Trash Receptacles and Recycling Receptacles: No trash receptacles or recycling
receptacles shall be located within fifty feet (50') of single family residential property. Trash
and recycling receptacles shall be four sided with a gate and located outside bufferyards,
and to the side or rear of the principal building. They shall be screened by a minimum
eight -foot (8') solid masonry screen and shall utilize similar masonry materials to the
building's facades.
Section 47.6 Development Standards
Table 47-2 4.0 Block and Lot Standards Add minimum lot area under "Neighborhood"
column: 10,890 SF Lot Area, 0.25 Acre
Section 47.7 Performance and Design Standards
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment A
Page 1
h. Open Space Standard
6. Add: Detention areas shall be excluded from the open space area credit unless designed
as an esthetic passive recreation amenity to the neighborhood subject to staff and
ultimately City Council approval.
A detention area designed as an aesthetic recreational amenity should resemble a natural
landscape feature, seamlessly integrating with the development through the use of
curvilinear shapes, native and/or adapted vegetation, and natural materials. The following
are general guidelines:
• Gentle side slopes (4:1 or flatter) for safe and accessible grading are preferred over
steeper slopes with walls or protective fencing.
• Minimize concrete and impervious surfaces to the maximum extent practicable.
• Include walking loops and connections to trails.
• Provide seating areas and/or gathering spaces like picnic spots and fishing areas.
Acceptable Open Space Credit
Vol
Excluded from Open Space Credit
Section 47.10 Amendments to Approved Plans or Regulations Established in a Transition
Zoning District Ordinance
Add Section 47.10d. Transition Zoning Districts adopted prior to the effective date of
Ordinance No. 480-GGGGG, shall remain subject to the uses and regulations of the specific
ordinance for that Transition Zoning District, unless specifically changed under the provision
of this ordinance.
Section 47.5 Schedule of Uses
Table 47-1 — Other Uses — Correct asterisk reference to "Accessory Building i` from Section
45.16 to 45.15.
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG
Attachment A
Page 1
ORDINANCE NO. 480-GGGGG
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 480, AS AMENDED, THE
COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SOUTHLAKE,
TEXAS; SECTION 47 — TRANSITION ZONING DISTRICT (TZD);
PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE CUMULATIVE OF ALL
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR
A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS HEREOF; PROVIDING A SAVINGS
CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET FORM;
PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Southlake, Texas is a home rule city acting under its charter
adopted by the electorate pursuant to Article XI, Section 5 of the Texas Constitution and
Chapter 9 of the Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the city has adopted Ordinance No. 480, as amended, as the
Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for the city; and
WHEREAS, the city council has determined that it is appropriate and in the best
interest of the city to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its residents
by amending Ordinance No. 480 as provided herein; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council have given
published notice and held public hearings with respect to the amendment of the zoning
ordinance as required by law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS:
ZA25-0013, 480-GGGGG Attachment B
SECTION 1
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.4.d Transition Zoning District Component Requirements, is hereby amended to by
changing Section 47.4.d.4 as follows:
4. Uses in the neighborhood shall be to the density and scale that is appropriate based on the
context and character of the proposed district. Residential density in the Transition Zoning District
shall not exceed two (2) dwelling units per gross acre. Density shall be calculated on the gross area
defining the residential "neighborhood" boundary including "neighborhood" open space area.
SECTION 2
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.6 Development Standards, is hereby amended to by adding Section 47.6.d. as
follows:
47.6.d. - Where the "TZD" district boundary is directly adjacent to any lot or tract of land with
single family residential zoning of SF-20A, SF-2013, SF-30, SF1-A, SF-1 B, SF-2, RE-5 RE-7,
R-PUD, any non-residential use components shall provide:
1. A minimum building setback from adjacent residential property shall be 50 feet for a one-
story building, plus an additional 20 feet for each additional building story.
2. A minimum 10 foot wide F-1 bufferyard per Section 42 of the Zoning Ordinance No. 480,
as amended, or solid evergreen vegetative screen reaching a height of 8 feet or greater
within three years, shall be provided and maintained in perpetuity along the common
boundary of the TZD district and the single family residential boundary.
3. Mechanical Equipment Screening: All non-residential buildings must be designed such that
no mechanical equipment (HVAC, etc.) or satellite dishes shall be visible. This shall include
equipment on the roof, on the ground or otherwise attached to the building or located on
the site. Rooftop mechanical equipment and / or other rooftop appurtenance screening
shall be accomplished by construction of architectural feature which is integral to the
building's design and ensures that such equipment is not visible. All rooftop mechanicals
or architectural features described herein shall be shown on the required building
elevations at the time of site plan approval.
4. Trash Receptacles and Recycling Receptacles: No trash receptacles or recycling
receptacles shall be located within fifty feet (50') of single family residential property. Trash
and recycling receptacles shall be four sided with a gate and located outside bufferyards,
and to the side or rear of the principal building. They shall be screened by a minimum
eight -foot (8') solid masonry screen and shall utilize similar masonry materials to the
building's facades.
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment B
SECTION 3
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.6 Development Standards, is hereby amended to by changing Table 47-1 4.0
Block and Lot Standards as follows:
Table 47-2 4.0 Block and Lot Standards Add minimum lot area under "Neighborhood"
column to read: 10,890 SF Lot Area, 0.25 Acre
SECTION 4
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.7 Performance and Design Standards, is hereby amended to by adding to Section
47.7.h., Open Space Standards, subsection 47.7.h.6 as follows:
Section 47.7h. 6. Detention areas shall be excluded from the open space area credit unless
designed as an esthetic passive recreation amenity to the neighborhood subject to staff and
ultimately City Council approval.
A detention area designed as an aesthetic recreational amenity should resemble a natural
landscape feature, seamlessly integrating with the development through the use of
curvilinear shapes, native and/or adapted vegetation, and natural materials. The following
are general guidelines:
• Gentle side slopes (4:1 or flatter) for safe and accessible grading are preferred over
steeper slopes with walls or protective fencing.
• Minimize concrete and impervious surfaces to the maximum extent practicable.
• Include walking loops and connections to trails.
• Provide seating areas and/or gathering spaces like picnic spots and fishing areas.
Acceptable Open Space Credit Excluded from Open Space Credit
SECTION 5
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.10 Amendments to Approved Plans or Regulations Established in a Transition
Zoning District Ordinance, is hereby amended to by adding subsection 47.10.d. to read as
follows:
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment B
Section 47.10d. - Transition Zoning Districts adopted prior to effective date of Ordinance No.
480-GGGGG, shall remain subject to the uses and regulations of the specific ordinance for
that Transition Zoning District, unless specifically changed under the provision of this
ordinance.
SECTION 6
Ordinance 480, as amended, the City of Southlake's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance
Section 47.5 Schedule of Uses, is hereby amended to correct Table 47-1 — Other Uses —
asterisk reference to "Accessory Building * " changing the reference from Section 45.16 to
45.15.
SECTION 7
This ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the City of
Southlake, Texas, except where the provisions of this ordinance are in direct conflict with the
provisions of such ordinances, in which event the conflicting provisions of such ordinances
are hereby repealed.
SECTION 8
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs and sections of this ordinance are severable, and if any phrase,
clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional
by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such
unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences,
paragraphs and sections of this ordinance, since the same would have been enacted by
the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any such unconstitutional
phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section.
SECTION 9
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to
comply with or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of this ordinance shall
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment B
be fined not more than Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for each offense. Each day that
a violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 10
All rights and remedies of the City of Southlake are expressly saved as to any and all
violations of the provisions of Ordinance No. 480, as amended, or any other ordinances
affecting zoning yard regulations which have accrued at the time of the effective date of this
ordinance; and, as to such accrued violations and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal,
whether pending in court or not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this
ordinance but may be prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 11
The City Secretary of the City of Southlake is hereby authorized to publish this
ordinance in book or pamphlet form for general distribution among the public, and the
operative provisions of this ordinance as so published shall be admissible in evidence in all
courts without further proof than the production thereof.
SECTION 12
The City Secretary of the City of Southlake is hereby directed to post the proposed
ordinance in its entirety on the City website together with a notice setting out the time and
place for a public hearing thereon at least ten (10) days before the second reading of this
ordinance, and if this ordinance provides for the imposition of any penalty, fine or forfeiture
for any violation of any of its provisions, then the City Secretary shall additionally publish
this ordinance in the official City newspaper one time within ten (10) days after passage of
this ordinance, as required by Section 3.13 of the Charter of the City of Southlake.
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment B
SECTION 13
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and
publication as required by law, and it is so ordained.
PASSED AND APPROVED on the 1st reading on the 1st day of April 2025.
MAYOR
F-AdaI*II
CITY SECRETARY
PASSED AND APPROVED on the 2nd reading on the 15t" day of April 2025.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY SECRETARY
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
CITY ATTORNEY
DATE:
ADOPTED:
EFFECTIVE:
ZA25-0013, Ord. 480-GGGGG Attachment B