Contact Information:

Planning Services
Dr. Mae Jackson City of Waco Development Center
401 Franklin Ave.
PO Box 2570
Waco, Texas 76702-2570

Phone: (254) 750-5650
Fax: (254) 750-1605
E-mail: planning@ci.waco.tx.us

Land Use In Cities

The City of Waco has adopted a Comprehensive Plan to guide development of all property within the city. This plan includes a Land Use Plan which takes into account existing land use, development trends, and policies, which guide zoning decisions in the form of a map of proposed land use patterns. Each lot is assigned a specific zoning classification to further regulate development.

The Need For Zoning

Zoning requirements are enacted to promote the public health, safety and general welfare within a community. By regulating the way property is developed, cities protect these interests while providing citizens with a guide to the future uses for property within the city.

Land Use And Zoning Changes

When an owner wants to change the use of his property to a purpose not permitted in the current classification assigned to the property, he must apply for a change in classification.

Filing An Application For Change

Applications for changes in land use and zoning are filed with the City of Waco Department of Planning Services. Planning Services then reviews the request and obtains comments from other City Departments. The current fee is $200.

Public Hearings

Notices of the public hearing are published in the local newspaper and all property owners within 200 feet of property proposed for change are notified by mail.

Meeting Of The Plan Commission

The Plan Commission holds the initial public hearing on the request for the change in land use or zoning. At this time:

• Staff makes a recommendation
• The applicant presents evidence in support of the requests
• Other parties may present information (including petitions) in support or in opposition to the change.

Recommendations Made To City Council

City Council Makes The Final Decision

The City Council holds a second public hearing on the request at which time the applicant, supporters, and opponents again present their evidence. At this time, the Council makes the final decision to grant or deny the request. They may uphold or reverse the Plan Commission's recommendation. On occasion, they may even send a case back to the Plan Commission if they feel that the issues need broader study.