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Council discusses tree-preservation amendments and larger incentives for multifamily developments
Summary
Staff previewed redlines to the Unified Development Code clarifying tree-preservation applicability (including cottage communities), protections for tree drip/root zones and a proposed increase in parking-incentive caps for multifamily projects that preserve protected trees; the item is set for evening consideration with revised redlines.
City staff reviewed proposed redlines to the Unified Development Code (UDC) that clarify tree-preservation applicability, protect root/drip zones and increase incentives for multifamily projects that preserve protected trees.
Staff said the revised language explicitly includes cottage-community developments within the residential standards for tree preservation and mitigation. The draft ordinance also contains a provision protecting the drip/root zone of Cross Timbers oak trees from impervious paving, intended to prevent construction practices that would kill heritage trees.
On development incentives, staff described a proposed change to increase the allowable reduction in required enclosed garage parking for multifamily projects that preserve more than the baseline protected-tree percentage. Richard Gertson, Assistant Director, explained the draft increases the prior proposed cap (a maximum 25% reduction in required enclosed garage parking) to permit a reduction up to 50% of the enclosed garage requirement, with a percent-for-percent credit for preservation above the 10% protection threshold. Gertson said remaining covered-parking obligations would be structured as tuck-under garages rather than detached garages.
Council members asked for clarifications about cottage-community standards, porch encroachment allowances, minimum unit sizes and setbacks. Staff confirmed the redline clarifies cottage communities will follow residential tree-preservation standards; staff also noted applicants may request deviations and that some multifamily incentive language had been adjusted after Planning & Zoning Commission input.
Several councilmembers requested additional materials from applicants for related zoning cases, including elevations, typical lot layouts and floor plans, and asked staff to confirm rear setbacks and fence/wall materials where developments abut existing neighborhoods. Staff said they will ask applicants for typical lot layout drawings and appropriate clarifications and that the tree-protection restrictions (on paving within root zones) appear in the ordinance before council tonight.
Ending: The UDC amendments and related redlines are on the evening agenda; staff will seek council direction and applicants may present further drawings or request continuances if additional design work is needed.
