Zoning & Subdivision Ordinance Update

Building a sustainable future

As the Dallas–Fort Worth region expands northward, Gainesville is prepared to support new development while maintaining the community’s unique character and values.

The Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update will modernize and streamline the City’s development regulations to align with the Guiding Gainesville 2040 Comprehensive Plan and comply with current state law. The updated ordinance will create a more user-friendly and predictable process for developers, homeowners, and property owners, supporting Gainesville’s growth. By clarifying regulations and updating standards, the ordinance will reduce the need for additional reviews or applications, such as variances. This streamlines the development process.

Stakeholder Engagement

Community input is essential to the zoning update process. Residents, business owners, property owners, developers, and other stakeholders will have multiple opportunities to participate through stakeholder workshops, digital outreach efforts, and an upcoming community survey. These activities will enable participants to review project findings, discuss key issues, and provide feedback on recommendations for the updated zoning and subdivision ordinance.

Project Philosophy

Due Diligence

The project team will review existing zoning regulations, development patterns, adopted plans, demographic trends, and community feedback. This data-driven approach ensures recommendations reflect local conditions and community goals.

Public Engagement

Public participation will be ongoing throughout the project. Feedback from workshops, meetings, and outreach will help shape ordinance recommendations and final code updates.

Transparent Review

The project will include transparent review cycles, including a formal public hearing before the Planning & Zoning Commission, followed by formal readings before the City Council prior to final adoption.

Zoning & Subdivision Advisory Committee

The Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Advisory Committee guides the project by reviewing findings, discussing policy considerations, and providing feedback to ensure the updated ordinance reflects community priorities.

The committee includes representatives from local government, city staff, business and development interests, community organizations, and regional partners. Members were appointed by the City of Gainesville at the start of the project.

Committee Members

• Barry Sullivan, City Manager
• Mike Doughty, Community Development Director
• Allen McDonald, Public Works Director
• Kevin Phillips, Chief of Police
• Jasmine Jones, Planning & Zoning Representative
• Dick Haayen, Parks Board Representative
• Nancy Brannon, Airport Board Representative
• Teresa Sprouse, Chamber of Commerce/Business Representative
• Matt Carlson, Gainesville Economic Development Corporation Executive Director

Consultant Team

Antero Group is leading project management, public engagement, ordinance analysis, and code drafting.