Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Innovation In Construction topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission recommends ordinance to regulate 3D-printed and other alternative construction methods
Summary
On May 19, 2026, the City of Whitehouse Planning and Zoning Commission recommended ordinance 26-0526-01 to City Council; the measure creates local standards for innovative construction methods — including on-site 3D-printed construction — requiring code compliance and engineer-stamped plans. The Commission voted to forward the ordinance by voice vote.
The City of Whitehouse Planning and Zoning Commission on May 19 recommended that City Council consider ordinance 26-0526-01, which would establish local rules for innovative and alternative construction methods, including on-site 3D-printed construction and additive manufacturing.
Staff presented the proposal to the Commission, saying the measure is intended to "stay ahead of emerging construction industry trends, including 3D‑printed construction, additive manufacturing and other innovative or alternative structural systems," and to ensure such projects are reviewed for safety and code compliance, the Staff member said. The ordinance would allow these methods only when performed on‑site for structures permitted by zoning and when all adopted building codes and city requirements are satisfied. It also clarifies that it does not authorize off‑site manufactured, modular or prefabricated housing unless otherwise permitted by law.
Commission members asked for clarifications about scope and precedent. One member asked whether the draft targets alternative materials or alternative construction techniques; the Staff member replied the intent is to provide a broad standard that covers multiple methods but that plans would still need engineer stamps and normal code review. A commissioner asked whether other Texas cities had adopted similar measures; the Staff member cited activity in larger markets such as Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth and said the city is aiming to be proactive rather than reactive.
A Commission member moved to recommend the ordinance to City Council as written; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote with no opposition. The recommendation forwards the ordinance to Council for its formal consideration.
If Council takes up the ordinance, the local standards would be used to review any future proposals that rely on emerging construction technologies, while the staff and commissioners said existing zoning, density and dimensional rules would remain unchanged. The Commission did not receive public comment on this item at the meeting.
