Huntsville City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 2

Zoning Districts

2.100 THE DISTRICTS

The City’s zoning districts are listed in Table 2-1 and Table 2-2.

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.200 ZONING DISTRICT MAP

2.201

Establishment

The location and boundaries of the zoning districts are shown on a geographic coverage layer that is maintained as part of the City’s geographic information system (GIS). This geographic coverage layer constitutes the City’s Official Zoning Map. The Official Zoning Map, including all notations, references, data and other information shown on it, is adopted and incorporated into this UDO and has the same legal force and effect as the UDO.

2.202

Available for Inspection

The map that is officially on file at City Hall is available for public inspection. This map shall control in the event of a conflict between the official map and any other reproduction of the map.

2.203

Maintenance, Updates, and Publishing

The City Planner is responsible for directing revisions to the Official Zoning Map to reflect its amendment as soon as possible after the effective date of any zoning map amendment. No unauthorized person may alter or modify the official map.

2.204

Map Interpretations

Where any uncertainty exists about a zoning district boundary, the City Planner is authorized to refer the matter to the Board of Adjustment for a determination or make an administrative interpretation using the following rules of interpretation:

2.204.A
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following lot lines will be construed as following those lot lines.
2.204.B
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following a street, alley, or railroad line will be construed as following the centerline of the street, alley or railroad right-of-way.
2.204.C
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following the shoreline or centerline of a river, stream, lake or other water body will be construed as following the actual shoreline or centerline of that water body.
2.204.D
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately parallel to, or as an apparent extension of, a feature described above will be construed as being actually parallel to, or an extension of, the feature.
2.204.E
If a boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map is inconsistent with a description included within an amending ordinance, the amending ordinance governs.

2.205

Classification of Annexed Land

Territory annexed to the City will be classified in the MR zoning district, with the Residential Protection Overlay, unless otherwise provided by the annexation plan adopted by City Council.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.300 LOT AND SETBACK REGULATIONS

Principal uses and structures in all zoning districts are subject to the lot and setback regulations of Article 5.

Effective on: 2/22/2023

2.400 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS

2.401

Simple Living Residential District

2.401.A
Purpose
The Simple Living Residential (SLR) District provides for a variety of different types and arrangements of housing that may be constructed or manufactured on or off-site and which may be placed on individual lots or a common lot. This district may accommodate manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, recreational vehicle parks, tiny homes on individual lots, or cottage court formats. Neighborhoods may serve as permanent or temporary residences.
2.401.B
Applicability
The SLR District may be applied in a zone change request within a residential land use category on the Future Land Use Map, as deemed appropriate. These residential use types provide options that contribute to the overall availability of housing choice in the City. They may be appropriate on smaller infill properties suitable for this scale of development, when the adjacent uses and natural environment provide for compatibility, and in locations proximate to employment areas.
2.401.C
Land Uses
The following land uses, as depicted in Figure 2-1, SLR District Residential Uses, are permitted in the SLR District, subject to the standards of this Section:
1. 1.
  Manufactured home park or subdivision;
2. 2.
  Recreational vehicle park;
3. 3.
  Tiny house community; and
4. 4.
  Residential and nonresidential land uses permitted as of right or by Conditional Use Permit according to Table 4-1, Use Table.

Figure 2-1: SLR District Residential Uses

Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision	Recreational Vehicle Park

Tiny House Community

2.402
Lot and Setback Regulations
1. 2.402.A
  Residential Uses
  Dimensional requirements for new residential development in the SLR District shall comply with the standards in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, below.
2. 2.402.B
  Nonresidential Development
  Proposed new mixed use and nonresidential development in the SLR District shall comply with the requirements of the MU District in Section 5.300, Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot Size and Building Setback Requirements.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

2.403
SLR District Use Standards
1. 2.403.A
  Recreational Vehicle Park
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
2. 2.403.B
  Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
3. 2.403.C
  Tiny House Community
  1. 1.
    Building Standards. A tiny house that is part of a tiny house community shall be built to the City's residential building code.
  2. 2.
    Maximum Floor Area. A tiny house shall consist of a total maximum floor area of 600 square feet, excluding any loft space.
  3. 3.
    Permanent Foundations. Tiny houses that are part of a tiny house community shall be constructed on a permanent foundation. Tiny houses on wheels or other non-permanent foundations are prohibited from being part of a tiny house community but may be placed on a lot within a RV park or manufactured home park.
  4. 4.
    Tiny Houses. A Prefabricated tiny house shall have proof of inspection by a recognized agency and is required to be skirted.
2.404
Open Space
The following shall apply to required open space in the SLR District:
1. 2.404.A
  Open Space
  Open space shall be provided at the minimum required in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, and shall include a central green lawn or garden area, playground, or plaza as a central focal point of all dwellings.
2. 2.404.B
  Walkways
  Common improvements of the common area shall include pedestrian walkways connecting each dwelling unit to a community-wide sidewalk network, shared parking areas or garages.
3. 2.404.C
  Buffer Requirements
  The site shall provide a buffer around the perimeter that preserves existing vegetation and incorporates landscape materials, berms, or a wall or fence to provide a visual buffer from adjacent development. See Section 7.500, Buffers.
2.405
Garages
The following garage structure requirements shall apply to a residential use in the SLR District:
1. 2.405.A
  Access
  If provided, detached garages serving more than one dwelling unit shall be accessed via a private drive or alley.
2. 2.405.B
  Bays
  A detached garage building shall not exceed four car bays unless it is screened by a buffer required in Section 7.500, Buffers.
3. 2.405.C
  Design
  Detached garage buildings shall be consistent in architecture and design to the principal dwellings.
2.406
PD District
Refer to Section 12.400, Planned Developments.
1. 2.406.A
  Minimum Area
  Each PD district established must have a minimum contiguous area of at least 5 acres.
2.407
MU District
1. 2.407.A
  Generally
  In addition to the applicable standards in this UDO, buildings in the Mixed Use (MU) District shall comply with the following standards.
2. 2.407.B
  Percentage of Residential
  1. 1.
    Horizontal Mixed Use. For a horizontal mixed-use development, a maximum of 60 percent of the land area of the development shall consist of permitted residential uses. A Building Permit for residential construction shall not be approved for the development until Building Permits have been approved for a minimum of 20 percent of the planned nonresidential development on the approved Master Development Plan.
  2. 2.
    Vertical Mixed Use. For a vertical mixed-use building, residential uses are prohibited on the first floor; however, there shall be no minimum or maximum percentage of mixing of permitted residential or nonresidential uses based on floor area.
3. 2.407.C
  Enhanced Building Form and Design
  1. 1.
    360-Degree Architecture. No particular architectural style is mandated. However, the architectural style of the front facade shall be expressed on all four sides of the building.
  2. 2.
    Detailing. All buildings shall contain architectural details that promote good design, which shall include a minimum of three of the following:
    a.
    Entry portico;
    b.
    Chimneys or cupolas;
    c.
    Transom windows;
    d.
    Dormers;
    e.
    Window canopies;
    f.
    Eaves in excess of 18 inches;
    g.
    Covered porches (extending along 50 percent of the building facade and projecting a minimum of four feet from the face of the building);
    h.
    A minimum of 80 percent of each facade visible from a public right-of-way, public park or open space, or residential use is composed of masonry, natural stone, or other material approved by the City Planner;
    i.
    Decorative window shutters; or
    j.
    Other features approved by the City Planner.
  3. 3.
    Awnings and Canopies. Awnings and canopies, if installed, shall meet the following standards:
    a.
    Awnings and canopies shall be attached and integral to the principal structure;
    b.
    Awnings and canopies shall not obstruct any portion of any window except that transom windows may be located under awnings and canopies;
    c.
    Canopies shall have columns, beams, and/or brackets of adequate size to give both structural and visible means for support; and
    d.
    A minimum clearance of eight feet from finished grade to the bottom of the awning or canopy is required and it shall not exceed 16 feet in height.
  4. 4.
    Blank Walls. Except where necessary to accommodate the future expansion of a building intended for construction within two years, blank walls are not allowed. No building wall may include an area that is larger than 15 feet tall by 25 feet wide that does not include one or more of the following:
    a.
    Windows;
    b.
    Doors;
    c.
    Building wall offset that complies with the building wall offset requirements in Section 3.400;
    d.
    Sign(s), in accordance with Article 8;
    e.
    Architectural details that relieve the appearance of the blank wall;
    f.
    A canopy or an arcade;
    g.
    Vines or other plantings on wall trellises that cover at least 60 percent of the facade elevation; or
    h.
    Other methods approved by the City Planner.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

Huntsville City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 2

Zoning Districts

2.100 THE DISTRICTS

The City’s zoning districts are listed in Table 2-1 and Table 2-2.

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.200 ZONING DISTRICT MAP

2.201

Establishment

2.202

Available for Inspection

The map that is officially on file at City Hall is available for public inspection. This map shall control in the event of a conflict between the official map and any other reproduction of the map.

2.203

Maintenance, Updates, and Publishing

2.204

Map Interpretations

2.204.A
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following lot lines will be construed as following those lot lines.
2.204.B
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following a street, alley, or railroad line will be construed as following the centerline of the street, alley or railroad right-of-way.
2.204.C
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following the shoreline or centerline of a river, stream, lake or other water body will be construed as following the actual shoreline or centerline of that water body.
2.204.D
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately parallel to, or as an apparent extension of, a feature described above will be construed as being actually parallel to, or an extension of, the feature.
2.204.E
If a boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map is inconsistent with a description included within an amending ordinance, the amending ordinance governs.

2.205

Classification of Annexed Land

Territory annexed to the City will be classified in the MR zoning district, with the Residential Protection Overlay, unless otherwise provided by the annexation plan adopted by City Council.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.300 LOT AND SETBACK REGULATIONS

Principal uses and structures in all zoning districts are subject to the lot and setback regulations of Article 5.

Effective on: 2/22/2023

2.400 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS

2.401

Simple Living Residential District

2.401.A
Purpose
The Simple Living Residential (SLR) District provides for a variety of different types and arrangements of housing that may be constructed or manufactured on or off-site and which may be placed on individual lots or a common lot. This district may accommodate manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, recreational vehicle parks, tiny homes on individual lots, or cottage court formats. Neighborhoods may serve as permanent or temporary residences.
2.401.B
Applicability
The SLR District may be applied in a zone change request within a residential land use category on the Future Land Use Map, as deemed appropriate. These residential use types provide options that contribute to the overall availability of housing choice in the City. They may be appropriate on smaller infill properties suitable for this scale of development, when the adjacent uses and natural environment provide for compatibility, and in locations proximate to employment areas.
2.401.C
Land Uses
The following land uses, as depicted in Figure 2-1, SLR District Residential Uses, are permitted in the SLR District, subject to the standards of this Section:
1. 1.
  Manufactured home park or subdivision;
2. 2.
  Recreational vehicle park;
3. 3.
  Tiny house community; and
4. 4.
  Residential and nonresidential land uses permitted as of right or by Conditional Use Permit according to Table 4-1, Use Table.

Figure 2-1: SLR District Residential Uses

Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision	Recreational Vehicle Park

Tiny House Community

2.402
Lot and Setback Regulations
1. 2.402.A
  Residential Uses
  Dimensional requirements for new residential development in the SLR District shall comply with the standards in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, below.
2. 2.402.B
  Nonresidential Development
  Proposed new mixed use and nonresidential development in the SLR District shall comply with the requirements of the MU District in Section 5.300, Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot Size and Building Setback Requirements.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

2.403
SLR District Use Standards
1. 2.403.A
  Recreational Vehicle Park
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
2. 2.403.B
  Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
3. 2.403.C
  Tiny House Community
  1. 1.
    Building Standards. A tiny house that is part of a tiny house community shall be built to the City's residential building code.
  2. 2.
    Maximum Floor Area. A tiny house shall consist of a total maximum floor area of 600 square feet, excluding any loft space.
  3. 3.
    Permanent Foundations. Tiny houses that are part of a tiny house community shall be constructed on a permanent foundation. Tiny houses on wheels or other non-permanent foundations are prohibited from being part of a tiny house community but may be placed on a lot within a RV park or manufactured home park.
  4. 4.
    Tiny Houses. A Prefabricated tiny house shall have proof of inspection by a recognized agency and is required to be skirted.
2.404
Open Space
The following shall apply to required open space in the SLR District:
1. 2.404.A
  Open Space
  Open space shall be provided at the minimum required in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, and shall include a central green lawn or garden area, playground, or plaza as a central focal point of all dwellings.
2. 2.404.B
  Walkways
  Common improvements of the common area shall include pedestrian walkways connecting each dwelling unit to a community-wide sidewalk network, shared parking areas or garages.
3. 2.404.C
  Buffer Requirements
  The site shall provide a buffer around the perimeter that preserves existing vegetation and incorporates landscape materials, berms, or a wall or fence to provide a visual buffer from adjacent development. See Section 7.500, Buffers.
2.405
Garages
The following garage structure requirements shall apply to a residential use in the SLR District:
1. 2.405.A
  Access
  If provided, detached garages serving more than one dwelling unit shall be accessed via a private drive or alley.
2. 2.405.B
  Bays
  A detached garage building shall not exceed four car bays unless it is screened by a buffer required in Section 7.500, Buffers.
3. 2.405.C
  Design
  Detached garage buildings shall be consistent in architecture and design to the principal dwellings.
2.406
PD District
Refer to Section 12.400, Planned Developments.
1. 2.406.A
  Minimum Area
  Each PD district established must have a minimum contiguous area of at least 5 acres.
2.407
MU District
1. 2.407.A
  Generally
  In addition to the applicable standards in this UDO, buildings in the Mixed Use (MU) District shall comply with the following standards.
2. 2.407.B
  Percentage of Residential
  1. 1.
    Horizontal Mixed Use. For a horizontal mixed-use development, a maximum of 60 percent of the land area of the development shall consist of permitted residential uses. A Building Permit for residential construction shall not be approved for the development until Building Permits have been approved for a minimum of 20 percent of the planned nonresidential development on the approved Master Development Plan.
  2. 2.
    Vertical Mixed Use. For a vertical mixed-use building, residential uses are prohibited on the first floor; however, there shall be no minimum or maximum percentage of mixing of permitted residential or nonresidential uses based on floor area.
3. 2.407.C
  Enhanced Building Form and Design
  1. 1.
    360-Degree Architecture. No particular architectural style is mandated. However, the architectural style of the front facade shall be expressed on all four sides of the building.
  2. 2.
    Detailing. All buildings shall contain architectural details that promote good design, which shall include a minimum of three of the following:
    a.
    Entry portico;
    b.
    Chimneys or cupolas;
    c.
    Transom windows;
    d.
    Dormers;
    e.
    Window canopies;
    f.
    Eaves in excess of 18 inches;
    g.
    Covered porches (extending along 50 percent of the building facade and projecting a minimum of four feet from the face of the building);
    h.
    A minimum of 80 percent of each facade visible from a public right-of-way, public park or open space, or residential use is composed of masonry, natural stone, or other material approved by the City Planner;
    i.
    Decorative window shutters; or
    j.
    Other features approved by the City Planner.
  3. 3.
    Awnings and Canopies. Awnings and canopies, if installed, shall meet the following standards:
    a.
    Awnings and canopies shall be attached and integral to the principal structure;
    b.
    Awnings and canopies shall not obstruct any portion of any window except that transom windows may be located under awnings and canopies;
    c.
    Canopies shall have columns, beams, and/or brackets of adequate size to give both structural and visible means for support; and
    d.
    A minimum clearance of eight feet from finished grade to the bottom of the awning or canopy is required and it shall not exceed 16 feet in height.
  4. 4.
    Blank Walls. Except where necessary to accommodate the future expansion of a building intended for construction within two years, blank walls are not allowed. No building wall may include an area that is larger than 15 feet tall by 25 feet wide that does not include one or more of the following:
    a.
    Windows;
    b.
    Doors;
    c.
    Building wall offset that complies with the building wall offset requirements in Section 3.400;
    d.
    Sign(s), in accordance with Article 8;
    e.
    Architectural details that relieve the appearance of the blank wall;
    f.
    A canopy or an arcade;
    g.
    Vines or other plantings on wall trellises that cover at least 60 percent of the facade elevation; or
    h.
    Other methods approved by the City Planner.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

Huntsville City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 2

Zoning Districts

2.100 THE DISTRICTS

The City’s zoning districts are listed in Table 2-1 and Table 2-2.

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-1: Zoning Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
Residential
Medium Density Residential (MR)	General Residential	This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC) and Management (M)
High Density Residential (HR)	Multi-Family Residential	This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.	Management (M)
Simple Living Residential (SLR)	General Residential	This designation is for small lot living in a variety of structure types and arrangements including site-built homes, manufactured homes and manufactured home parks, recreation vehicles, tiny homes, and cottage courts.	Management (M)
Nonresidential and Mixed Use
Industrial (IN)	Industrial	This designation accommodates uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially “heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration, light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing. Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.	Management (M)
Mixed Use (MU)	Corridor Mixed Use	This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near high-profile roadway corridors as well as other locations to accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical "big-box" developments that will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that cater to serving a smaller area where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-residential and mixed-use developments are adjacent to residential neighborhoods, site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.	Management (M)
Public and Institutional (PI)	Public/Institutional	This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2) buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational aspects of the public use. This is for all public and institutional facilities.	Management (M)
Downtown (D)	Downtown Area Mixed Use	This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, make these areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.	Downtown (D)
Planned Development (PD)	N/A	This designation is intended to allow a diverse mixture of residential and/or nonresidential uses and structures that function as cohesive and unified projects. The districts encourage innovation by allowing flexibility in permitted use, design, and layout requirements in accordance with a Unified Development Ordinance. This should provide benefits by providing opportunities for employment and services closer to residences.	Planned Development (PD)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

Table 2-2: Overlay Districts
Zoning District	Future Land Use Category	Purpose	Former Zoning District
I-45 Overlay (I-45-O)	N/A	This designation is established to recognize the corridor as a unique area that promotes a mix of uses that may include commercial, retail, office, and special areas, along the corridor.	New
Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)	N/A	This designation is for an area bounded by the right-of-way of Veteran's Memorial Parkway beginning at its most southern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45 and ending at the most northern end at the intersection of the west feeder road of IH-45	Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlay (VMPO)
Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect the municipal airport and the surrounding area from the encroachment of incompatible land uses that may present hazards to users of the airport as well as persons living or working in the airport vicinity.	Airport Hazard Overlay (AHO)
Residential Protection Overlay (RP-O)	N/A	This designation is intended to protect property values by conserving the overall character and function of previously existing single-family detached house residential areas of the City.	Neighborhood Conservation (NC)

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.200 ZONING DISTRICT MAP

2.201

Establishment

2.202

Available for Inspection

The map that is officially on file at City Hall is available for public inspection. This map shall control in the event of a conflict between the official map and any other reproduction of the map.

2.203

Maintenance, Updates, and Publishing

2.204

Map Interpretations

2.204.A
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following lot lines will be construed as following those lot lines.
2.204.B
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following a street, alley, or railroad line will be construed as following the centerline of the street, alley or railroad right-of-way.
2.204.C
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately following the shoreline or centerline of a river, stream, lake or other water body will be construed as following the actual shoreline or centerline of that water body.
2.204.D
A boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map as approximately parallel to, or as an apparent extension of, a feature described above will be construed as being actually parallel to, or an extension of, the feature.
2.204.E
If a boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map is inconsistent with a description included within an amending ordinance, the amending ordinance governs.

2.205

Classification of Annexed Land

Territory annexed to the City will be classified in the MR zoning district, with the Residential Protection Overlay, unless otherwise provided by the annexation plan adopted by City Council.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024

2.300 LOT AND SETBACK REGULATIONS

Principal uses and structures in all zoning districts are subject to the lot and setback regulations of Article 5.

Effective on: 2/22/2023

2.400 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS

2.401

Simple Living Residential District

2.401.A
Purpose
The Simple Living Residential (SLR) District provides for a variety of different types and arrangements of housing that may be constructed or manufactured on or off-site and which may be placed on individual lots or a common lot. This district may accommodate manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, recreational vehicle parks, tiny homes on individual lots, or cottage court formats. Neighborhoods may serve as permanent or temporary residences.
2.401.B
Applicability
The SLR District may be applied in a zone change request within a residential land use category on the Future Land Use Map, as deemed appropriate. These residential use types provide options that contribute to the overall availability of housing choice in the City. They may be appropriate on smaller infill properties suitable for this scale of development, when the adjacent uses and natural environment provide for compatibility, and in locations proximate to employment areas.
2.401.C
Land Uses
The following land uses, as depicted in Figure 2-1, SLR District Residential Uses, are permitted in the SLR District, subject to the standards of this Section:
1. 1.
  Manufactured home park or subdivision;
2. 2.
  Recreational vehicle park;
3. 3.
  Tiny house community; and
4. 4.
  Residential and nonresidential land uses permitted as of right or by Conditional Use Permit according to Table 4-1, Use Table.

Figure 2-1: SLR District Residential Uses

Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision	Recreational Vehicle Park

Tiny House Community

2.402
Lot and Setback Regulations
1. 2.402.A
  Residential Uses
  Dimensional requirements for new residential development in the SLR District shall comply with the standards in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, below.
2. 2.402.B
  Nonresidential Development
  Proposed new mixed use and nonresidential development in the SLR District shall comply with the requirements of the MU District in Section 5.300, Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot Size and Building Setback Requirements.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

Table 2-3: SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Min. Setbacks (Feet)				Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Housing Type	Min. Open Space (Percent of Site)	Min. Site Area (Acres)	Min. Lot or Pad Area (Feet)	Min. Lot or Pad Width (Feet)	Street	Street Side	Side	Rear	Min. Building Or Vehicle Separation (Feet)	Max. Height (Feet)
Manufactured Home Park/ Detached House Subdivision	10	5	4,000	40	20	15	5	10	10	35
Manufactured Home²	10	N/A	3,500	35	20	15	5	10	10	35
Recreational Vehicle Park	5	5	1,200	25	50¹	50¹	25	25	10	15
Tiny House Community	15	1	1,200	25	20	15	5	10	10	35
TABLE NOTES: 1. No recreational vehicle parking pad shall be closer than 50 feet from any exterior property line. 2. Manufactured homes placed on a legal nonconforming lot outside a manufactured home park or subdivision.

2.403
SLR District Use Standards
1. 2.403.A
  Recreational Vehicle Park
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
2. 2.403.B
  Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision
  Refer to Section 4.200, Supplemental Use Regulations.
3. 2.403.C
  Tiny House Community
  1. 1.
    Building Standards. A tiny house that is part of a tiny house community shall be built to the City's residential building code.
  2. 2.
    Maximum Floor Area. A tiny house shall consist of a total maximum floor area of 600 square feet, excluding any loft space.
  3. 3.
    Permanent Foundations. Tiny houses that are part of a tiny house community shall be constructed on a permanent foundation. Tiny houses on wheels or other non-permanent foundations are prohibited from being part of a tiny house community but may be placed on a lot within a RV park or manufactured home park.
  4. 4.
    Tiny Houses. A Prefabricated tiny house shall have proof of inspection by a recognized agency and is required to be skirted.
2.404
Open Space
The following shall apply to required open space in the SLR District:
1. 2.404.A
  Open Space
  Open space shall be provided at the minimum required in Table 2-3, SLR District Lot Size and Building Setback Standards, and shall include a central green lawn or garden area, playground, or plaza as a central focal point of all dwellings.
2. 2.404.B
  Walkways
  Common improvements of the common area shall include pedestrian walkways connecting each dwelling unit to a community-wide sidewalk network, shared parking areas or garages.
3. 2.404.C
  Buffer Requirements
  The site shall provide a buffer around the perimeter that preserves existing vegetation and incorporates landscape materials, berms, or a wall or fence to provide a visual buffer from adjacent development. See Section 7.500, Buffers.
2.405
Garages
The following garage structure requirements shall apply to a residential use in the SLR District:
1. 2.405.A
  Access
  If provided, detached garages serving more than one dwelling unit shall be accessed via a private drive or alley.
2. 2.405.B
  Bays
  A detached garage building shall not exceed four car bays unless it is screened by a buffer required in Section 7.500, Buffers.
3. 2.405.C
  Design
  Detached garage buildings shall be consistent in architecture and design to the principal dwellings.
2.406
PD District
Refer to Section 12.400, Planned Developments.
1. 2.406.A
  Minimum Area
  Each PD district established must have a minimum contiguous area of at least 5 acres.
2.407
MU District
1. 2.407.A
  Generally
  In addition to the applicable standards in this UDO, buildings in the Mixed Use (MU) District shall comply with the following standards.
2. 2.407.B
  Percentage of Residential
  1. 1.
    Horizontal Mixed Use. For a horizontal mixed-use development, a maximum of 60 percent of the land area of the development shall consist of permitted residential uses. A Building Permit for residential construction shall not be approved for the development until Building Permits have been approved for a minimum of 20 percent of the planned nonresidential development on the approved Master Development Plan.
  2. 2.
    Vertical Mixed Use. For a vertical mixed-use building, residential uses are prohibited on the first floor; however, there shall be no minimum or maximum percentage of mixing of permitted residential or nonresidential uses based on floor area.
3. 2.407.C
  Enhanced Building Form and Design
  1. 1.
    360-Degree Architecture. No particular architectural style is mandated. However, the architectural style of the front facade shall be expressed on all four sides of the building.
  2. 2.
    Detailing. All buildings shall contain architectural details that promote good design, which shall include a minimum of three of the following:
    a.
    Entry portico;
    b.
    Chimneys or cupolas;
    c.
    Transom windows;
    d.
    Dormers;
    e.
    Window canopies;
    f.
    Eaves in excess of 18 inches;
    g.
    Covered porches (extending along 50 percent of the building facade and projecting a minimum of four feet from the face of the building);
    h.
    A minimum of 80 percent of each facade visible from a public right-of-way, public park or open space, or residential use is composed of masonry, natural stone, or other material approved by the City Planner;
    i.
    Decorative window shutters; or
    j.
    Other features approved by the City Planner.
  3. 3.
    Awnings and Canopies. Awnings and canopies, if installed, shall meet the following standards:
    a.
    Awnings and canopies shall be attached and integral to the principal structure;
    b.
    Awnings and canopies shall not obstruct any portion of any window except that transom windows may be located under awnings and canopies;
    c.
    Canopies shall have columns, beams, and/or brackets of adequate size to give both structural and visible means for support; and
    d.
    A minimum clearance of eight feet from finished grade to the bottom of the awning or canopy is required and it shall not exceed 16 feet in height.
  4. 4.
    Blank Walls. Except where necessary to accommodate the future expansion of a building intended for construction within two years, blank walls are not allowed. No building wall may include an area that is larger than 15 feet tall by 25 feet wide that does not include one or more of the following:
    a.
    Windows;
    b.
    Doors;
    c.
    Building wall offset that complies with the building wall offset requirements in Section 3.400;
    d.
    Sign(s), in accordance with Article 8;
    e.
    Architectural details that relieve the appearance of the blank wall;
    f.
    A canopy or an arcade;
    g.
    Vines or other plantings on wall trellises that cover at least 60 percent of the facade elevation; or
    h.
    Other methods approved by the City Planner.

(Ord. No. 2024-20, 09/03/2024)

Effective on: 9/13/2024