The Rockwall City Council unanimously approved a specific-use permit on Oct. 20 (Z2025-064) allowing Shipman Fire Protection to construct a four-story office building with a tower element at La Jolla Point that exceeds the commercial-district height limit.

Under the Unified Development Code the commercial district maximum building height is 60 feet; the applicant requested up to 91 feet to the tower element (81 feet to the eave). Staff noted the council previously granted a height exception of up to 120 feet on adjoining property owned by the Rockwall Economic Development Corporation in 2024. Planning & Zoning had recommended approval 7-0.

Architect Phil Craddock, representing Shipman Fire, said the taller tower element is intended as a design reference to traditional fire towers. "The tower ... is to simulate the sort of look of a fire tower," he said. Owner Clay Shipman said the building will serve as corporate offices for Shipman Fire, which has established operations in Rockwall.

Staff recommended approval with conditions that require conformance to the concept plan and building elevations submitted with the application. Councilmember Vincent (motion) moved to approve and Councilmember Thomas seconded; the ordinance passed unanimously. The approved SUP will allow the developer to proceed to site-plan and building-permit review subject to the conditions in the ordinance.