Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan Adopted 2024

PREFERRED GROWTH SCENARIO

RELATIONSHIP TO ZONING AND OTHER REGULATIONS

The Preferred Growth Scenario Map and Place Types do not explicitly address zoning. The Place Types section identifies desired land uses and a variety of other characteristics for each designation on the Preferred Growth Scenario Map. Both the map and the Place Type descriptions are generalized tools used to guide development and amendments to the City’s Land Development Code. The Preferred Growth Scenario Map is not a zoning map. This fact is emphasized in Section 213.005 of the Texas Local Government Code: A map of a comprehensive plan shall contain the following clearly visible statement: “A comprehensive plan shall not constitute zoning regulations or establish zoning district boundaries”.

Zoning exhibits a tendency to uphold the status quo which poses challenges as cities evolve and grow. Growing cities are not static; new residents move in, new businesses are established, and new technologies change the way people live. These factors create pressures that change the way land is used. The purpose of planning is to anticipate and shape change in a way that provides opportunities for new development and redevelopment while preserving the community’s historical, cultural, and environmental heritage. For example, the single-family nature of traditional neighborhoods will be preserved while welcoming multiple types of housing land uses in new developments. A comprehensive plan articulates the community’s vision for the future and zoning and other regulatory and budget tools implement that community vision. One of the questions in any zoning case should be, “Does this request comply with the comprehensive plan?” The plan’s goals, Preferred Scenario Map, Areas Plans, Neighborhood Character Studies, and Place Types provide that guidance.

San Antonio Street Historic District sign.

SAN MARCOS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2024

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