Zoning

Zoning divides the city into distinct districts for the purpose of ensuring compatible land use patterns, minimizing conflicts between uses, protecting property values and enhancing the urban environment. Each zoning district defines the uses allowed and other characteristics such as height, density and setbacks. Zoning Highlight on Process Map

Zoning requests require public hearings before the Plan Commission and City Council.

Responsibilities

  • The Plan Commission is comprised of Garland citizens appointed by the City Council.
  • The Plan Commission evaluates the following applications:
    • Changes in Zoning (Planned Development Districts)
    • Specific Use Provision
    • Variances to Development Standards
    • Waivers to Sidewalk Construction
    • Waivers to Pedestrian and Utility Easements
  • The Plan Commission is the final decision maker on plats and certain variances and waivers.
  • Some actions of denial of the Plan Commission can be appealed to City Council.
  • The City Council is the final decision maker on matters of zoning, specific use permits and certain variances and waivers.
  • The Board of Adjustment makes decisions on requests for variances to the Zoning Ordinance regarding parking, building and lot dimensions, and legal nonconforming issues.
  • View the Pre-Filing 2023 Application Schedule (PDF) and 30-Day 2023 Filing Schedule (PDF)
  • Some Zoning cases require the submittal of Schematic Engineering Plans prior to the Zoning submittal. If Schematic Engineering Plans are required per the Pre-submittal meeting notes, refer to the Technical Standards Manual Section 2.3 for requirements.  Note, Schematic Engineering Plans shall be submitted directly to the Engineering Department.

Additional Resources