The Land Use Review Division reviews and permits site plan and subdivision applications for compliance with Chapters 25 and 30 of the Land Development Code.
The site plan and subdivision review process follows administrative procedures set forth by state law and/or local code requirements. Most of Austin's development regulations are codified in the City Code, Technical Criteria Manuals, and Standard Details and Specifications.
Subdivision Application Process Changes and HB 3167
On September 1, 2019, the City’s subdivision application process changed significantly to comply with the requirements of House Bill (HB) 3167 passed during the recent 86th Session of the Texas Legislature. Learn more about the changes to subdivision development applications.
Site Plan and subdivision applications are reviewed for requirements which include zoning, design standards, subdivision, drainage/floodplain, water quality, transportation, environmental review, erosion control, and mitigation and/or protection of protected or heritage trees.
Review of plans is also coordinated with other city departments such as Austin Energy, Austin Water Utility, Austin Fire, Department of Public Works, Right-of-Way (ROW), Utility Coordination, and Accessibility.
In addition, reviews are coordinated with agencies such as the county, school districts, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Capital Metro and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
View the Site Plan Review Process Flowchart
View the Subdivision Review Process Flowchart
Atlas 14 & Flood Risk
The National Weather Service has completed a historical rainfall study, called Atlas 14. This study shows that Central Texas is more likely to experience larger storms than previously thought.
Read Flood Risk and ATLAS 14: OVERVIEW to see what the City is doing.
Review the Guidance Document for Proposed Atlas 14 Code Amendments and Drainage Criteria Rules.
The Environmental Review program of the Land Use Review Division performs a comprehensive review of a proposed development's impact on the environment prior to permitting.
Elements of the review include the following:
- Tree and Natural Area protection
- Landscaping
- Construction on slopes
- Erosion protection
- Impervious cover
- Critical Environmental Features
