Council delays decision on driveway-surface rules; staff to clarify definitions

The Rowlett City Council postponed Jan. 7 a proposed amendment to the code of ordinances that would allow specific alternative materials for residential parking surfaces in screened side yards and rear yards. Community Development Director Corey Grama presented the draft ordinance and examples; the item was moved to the next regular meeting so staff can tighten definitions.

Grama outlined three alternative surface options staff proposed for rear yards and screened side yards: concrete pavers (manufacturer-rated for vehicular traffic), a grid/paver system with turf not exceeding 25% of the surface, and asphalt. A fourth option — decomposed granite with a binder (no loose material) — was proposed for limited use. Grama said approaches that touch a city street or alley would still be required to be concrete and that building-permit review would remain in place.

Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Schinder and Council Member Shoop questioned the ordinance’s language about whether a surface behind a building line should be allowed even if visible from a public street, and asked staff to define the term “approach” and how the rule would apply to corner lots. Mayor Pro Tem Wingett expressed concern about unintended consequences that could encourage builders to substitute asphalt for concrete on new construction.

Council Member Shoop moved to postpone the item to the next meeting so staff could return with clarified definitions; Council Member Bowers seconded and the motion carried unanimously. Staff said the building-permit process and submittal requirements would continue and that the community development team will revise the draft and return at the next meeting.