What are zoning and subdivision ordinances?
These ordinances contain regulations for development throughout the city. The Subdivision Ordinance determines how properties are laid out for development and includes standards for public improvements, road access, and stormwater management.

The Zoning Ordinance determines how land can be used within Plano. Zoning also regulates building size and setbacks, required parking, landscaping, and many other development standards. Together, these ordinances help implement the Comprehensive Plan.

Why are these ordinances being rewritten?
The current ordinances have been updated and revised many times since first being adopted but are rooted in the development needs of a growing city with a large amount of undeveloped land. The context in Plano has since changed, with redevelopment of existing properties becoming more common. In this context, rewriting the development regulations in these ordinances will better align new development with current needs as well as the goals of the Comprehensive Plan.

What is a unified development code, or UDC?
A unified development code is a single ordinance that contains both the zoning and subdivision regulations. Having all of the development regulations together in one place makes the ordinance easier to use for everyone involved.

Who is involved in the project?
The city is working with a consultant on this project with support from a Rewrite Advisory Committee, the Planning & Zoning Commission, and City Council. There will be opportunities for public comment and the new code will be subject to public hearings prior to adoption.

How can I be involved?
Feedback on the draft code will be collected at various times through the project and all of the meetings are open to the public. Please see the Feedback & Public Meetings page for details. The project is guided by the Comprehensive Plan, which was developed through a robust public engagement process.

What is the Rewrite Advisory Committee and what is its role?
City Council appointed a group of Plano residents with expertise in subjects related to zoning and property development to a Rewrite Advisory Committee. Committee members will review draft versions of the diagnostic report and code modules, which will be refined before being presented to the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council. Meeting materials will be posted on the city website.

Where can I find the new code?
The new code will be written in pieces, or modules. Module writing and review will occur throughout 2025 and 2026, and a first draft of the complete code will be presented to the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council in late 2026. Please see the Feedback & Public Meetings page for details and links to the draft modules.

How can I stay informed?
This website will be regularly updated with draft documents for review and meeting dates and agendas. Please see the Feedback & Public Meetings page for details.

Big updates, such as drafts available for review and comment, will be announced on the city's social media and Plano City News. If you would like to receive project updates by email, please sign up at Engage Plano.