Bastrop officials plan new development code system

Epling added that the Bastrop Development Code, unlike the B3 Code, will be a Euclidean-based zoning ordinance, which separates land use by type, and will focus on the following areas:

• Clearly named zoning districts with development standards, such as lot size, setback and building height
• A comprehensive landscape ordinance and a review of the tree mitigation ordinance
• A consolidated minimum off-street parking table for commercial uses
• Special districts and overlays
• Sidewalk and access/connectivity standards
• An updated sign code

The Development Services Department presented a second draft of the Bastrop Development Code to Bastrop City Council on Dec. 16.

Updates to the initial draft include:

• A district matching the certified Main Street Program area that ties it to future design guidelines
• More specific driveway spacing and access management standards
• Refined traffic impact analysis thresholds and clarification on when TIAs may be required
• The addition of an agricultural use table and definitions to distinguish home gardens, community gardens and urban farms from one another
• The requirement of conditional use permits for higher-intensity urban farming in certain districts
• Allowing one accessory dwelling unit—a secondary, smaller living space on the same property as a main house—in single-family districts and up to two ADUs in rural and mixed-use districts

A third and final draft of the Bastrop Development Code will be presented during a public hearing at a future Bastrop City Council meeting.