- CONTACT INFORMATION
- cityplanning@amarillo.gov
- 806-378-6290
-
Planning Department
Simms Municipal Building
Second Floor
808 S. Buchanan
P.O. Box 1971
Amarillo, TX 79101 -
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Planning Proposals
The City continually works to build on positive updates to planning codes, making development smoother, supporting orderly growth, and providing more flexible options for future housing. These proposals are shared for informational purposes and community engagement. Any proposals explored will follow the standard City Council process for consideration before implementation.
Proposed Additional New Zoning District: Moderate Density (MD-1)
The City of Amarillo Planning Department is introducing Moderate Density (MD-1), a new zoning district that allows for smaller residential lots and improves development buffers around single-family homes. MD-1 zoning also fills gaps in current zoning options, ensuring that single-family developments have adjacent zoning that provides flexibility while avoiding higher-density or congested developments and maintaining the character of existing neighborhoods.
This proposed ordinance amendment DOES NOT:
- Change the existing zoning of any property in the City
- Force the change of existing zoning on any property
- Change any of the existing development standards
- Allow new land uses to be permitted in existing zoning districts
- Prohibit any land use that is currently allowed within existing zoning districts
What is Moderate Density — MD-1?
- Smaller Lots: As small as 3,400 square feet (previous minimum was 5,000)
- Housing Types: Single-family detached, single-family attached, and duplexes
- No Apartments: Provides an alternative to high-density apartments or commercial developments next to existing neighborhoods
Key Benefits
- Flexible and Optional – Does not change existing zoning; it is simply an additional tool for developers to choose.
- More Housing Choices – Offers homebuyers a smaller, more affordable option while maintaining neighborhood character.
- Better Neighborhood Transitions – Provides a buffer between homes, apartments, businesses, and higher-density areas.
- Thoughtful Growth and Planning – Aligns with Amarillo’s long-term vision for development.
Allowed Land Uses for Proposed MD-1
- Single-Family Detached (reduced lot sizes)
- Single-Family Attached
- Duplex
- Manufactured Home Type C
- Day Care Center by SUP
MD-1 Single-Family Development Standards — Attached
Lot Width Min: 25ft; 20ft if no more than 4 attached units. [MD-2 is 20ft]
Lot Area Min: 2,500sf; 2,000sf if no more that 4 attached units. [MD-2 is 2,000ft]
Lot Depth Min: 100ft [same as MD-2]
Lot Coverage Max: 65% [same as MD-2]
Front Yard Setback: 15ft [same as MD-2]
Rear Yard Setback: 10ft [same as MD-2]
Interior Side Yard Setback: 4-10-171(b)(5) [same as MD-2]
Side on Street Setback: 10ft* 4-10-170(b)(5&6) & 171(b)(5) [same as MD-2]
Required Off-Street Parking: 2 spaces [same as MD-2]
MD-1 Single-Family Development Standards — Detached
Lot Width Min: 40ft; 35ft if rear loaded by alley; SUP for smaller
Lot Depth Min: 85ft
Lot Area Min: 3,400sf
Lot Coverage Max: *Same as R-3*
Front Yard Setback: *Same as R-3*
Rear Yard Setback: *Same as R-3*
Interior Side Yard Setback: *Same as R-3*
Side on Street Setback: *Same as R-3*
Required Off-Street Parking: *Same as R-3*
Supporting Amarillo’s Vision for Thoughtful Growth
This initiative advances the goals outlined in the adopted Comprehensive Plan — City Plan: Vision 2045. By introducing MD-1 as an additional zoning option, the City is providing a framework that encourages thoughtful, well-planned growth and aligns with Amarillo’s long-term development priorities.