Lubbock City Zoning Code
ARTICLE 39
04 SUBDIVISION STANDARDS
§ 39.04.001 Purpose.
a.
Generally.
This Article sets out regulations for the substantive review of subdivisions of land to serve the needs of all public and private interests within the City and surrounding areas.
b.
Statement of policy.
Texas law allows cities to coordinate the platting, replatting, and conversion of raw land into subdivisions, including streets, alleys, and development parcels. This process, also known as platting, has long-range impacts on the development of Lubbock. The regulations of this Article are formulated to serve the needs of all public and private interests within the City and surrounding areas. Lubbock citizens are entitled to live in a city with healthy and safe development patterns. The development sector should be free to create that environment in a positive business atmosphere and accept the public responsibility of his or her profession. The regulations of this Article include not only protection for the subdivider's needs, but also the wants and needs of Lubbock citizens in the future.
c.
Purposes.
The purposes of this Article are to:
1.
Health and safety. Require healthy and safe development patterns;
2.
Economic development. Promote economic development;
3.
Future needs. Protect the subdivider's and citizens of Lubbock's needs in the present and in the future;
4.
Harmonious development. Provide for the harmonious development of the City, for the coordination and alignment of streets within subdivisions with other existing or planned streets, or with other features of the City;
5.
Open space. Provide for appropriate open space for recreation, public facilities, light, and air;
6.
Capital improvements projects. Ensure conformance of development plans with the capital improvements projects that the City undertakes;
7.
Compatibility. Ensure that development is compatible with and properly integrated into existing and future neighborhoods;
8.
Acceptance and maintenance. Assure that facilities to be accepted and maintained by the City government are properly located and constructed;
9.
Infrastructure. Facilitate adequate provision of transportation, potable water, wastewater, drainage, schools, parks, and other public requirements; and
10.
Contamination protection. Protect groundwater and surface water resources from contamination.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.002 Applicability.
a.
Generally. This Article shall apply to land where any subdivided piece is less than or equal to five acres within the City limits and to all plats and all subdivisions of land where any lot is less than or equal to 10 acres in area within the City's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) as defined in Texas Local Government Code Chapter 212.
b.
Requirement to plat.
Except as set forth in Subsection e., Exemption from Platting, below, the owner or owners of a tract of land within the City limits or in the ETJ who divides the land into two or more parts shall have a plat of the subdivision prepared in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code, Title 7, Chapter 212.004. Plats within the extraterritorial jurisdiction shall also come under the authority, review, and approval of the Lubbock County Commissioners Court in accordance with Chapter 232 of the Texas Local Government Code.
c.
Compliance with UDC required to subdivide.
Unless a subdivision is specifically exempted from the requirements of this Article, it shall be unlawful for any person or entity to take any of the following actions until an appropriate plat is approved and recorded in conformity with this Article:
d.
Requirements for building permit.
1.
Generally. Building Permits will be issued only on whole lots and tracts illustrated on recorded subdivision plats.
2.
On or after June 26, 1975. For plats recorded on or after June 26, 1975, a Building Permit may be issued on a legally described portion of a platted lot that is wholly owned and the owner(s) of the remainder of the platted lot(s) will not consent to a replat. Under these circumstances, the issuance of a Building Permit is subject to approval by the Director of Planning. The Director of Planning's denial of a permit may be appealed to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
3.
Water and wastewater. A Building Permit shall not be issued on a platted lot or tract, or any portion authorized under the procedure in Subsection d.2., On or after June 26, 1975, above, until such time as water and public wastewater service has been installed, accepted, and is operational as determined by the City Engineer or a Waiver or Delay is authorized in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements, or Section 39.07.045, Delay of Improvements, and the platted lot or tract is made accessible by way of an all-weather surface to the satisfaction of the Fire Marshal in accordance with the International Fire Code.
4.
Structures. Building Permits may be issued by the Building Official for construction or improvement of structures on a tract other than a lot in a duly recorded subdivision as follows:
A.
Installation of any sign, support, fence, or other structure not intended or designed to shelter or enclose persons or movable property;
C.
Permits issued for the installation of and/or work on building systems, such as electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), irrigation systems, fire suppression systems, etc.;
E.
Accessory structures, as defined in Division 10.2, Definitions;
H.
Other work as determined appropriate by the Director of Planning and the City Engineer.
e.
Exemption from platting.
Certain divisions of land may be exempt from platting in accordance with Texas Local Government Code Chapter 212.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.003 Design principles.
a.
Generally.
1.
Application. The principles of this Section shall be applied to the maximum extent practicable.
2.
Granting a waiver. An administrative body may require a proposed subdivision plat to comply with applicable provisions of this Section in order to justify the granting of a Waiver in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements.
b.
Compatibility.
The proposed subdivision plat shall be designed in a way that:
1.
Buffering. Provides appropriate space for bufferyards and transitions between land uses or obvious changes in density or intensity alongside rear lot lines as set out in Division 3.4, Trees, Landscaping, and Buffering;
2.
Environment. Protects and preserves the environmental resources to the benefit of the subject property and abutting properties;
3.
Connectivity. Provides appropriate, context-sensitive vehicular and pedestrian linkages, providing access while protecting neighborhood integrity and individual property values;
4.
Common open space. Maximizes the access to and benefit of common open spaces by providing for a connection to or continuation of the open spaces of abutting or adjacent properties and providing for sufficient frontage and access to such open spaces;
5.
Access. Minimizes interference with existing access to adjacent and nearby properties, unless new and improved access is provided by the proposed development; and
6.
Level of service. Does not reduce the level of service of public infrastructure that is provided to surrounding development.
c.
Connectivity.
Subdivisions are to be designed as a group of interconnected residential neighborhoods with appropriate commercial and industrial and public facilities. Space for religious, recreational, educational, and shopping facilities to serve the residents of and visitors to the area should be provided and designed as an integral part of each neighborhood, as appropriate.
e.
Street arrangement.
The general arrangement of streets should conform to the functional street classification system and the network alignments of the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan.
f.
Tree preservation.
Where not required for preservation, trees and other plant materials should be preserved where practicable.
g.
Renewable resources.
The blocks, lots, and buildable areas of a subdivision should be designed to take full advantage of sun and shade, and, where appropriate, wind, and other sources of renewable energy.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.004 General improvement standards.
a.
Additional provisions.
In addition to the requirements of this Article and Article 39.07, Development Review Procedures, all subdivisions shall comply with the following:
1.
Code of ordinances. All applicable provisions of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances;
2.
Public health, environment, railroads, and utilities. The rules of the City of Lubbock Health Department, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other applicable agencies;
3.
State roadways. The rules of the Texas Department of Transportation, if the subdivision or any lot within it abuts a state-maintained roadway;
4.
Standard specifications. The City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, Drainage Criteria Manual, Master Sewer Plan, and Master Drainage Plan; and
5.
Any other applicable state, county, or federal regulations.
b.
Transportation safety.
All projects undertaken on or near public rights-of-way shall be controlled in accordance with the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD). Traffic control plans and measures, including, but not limited to, signing, marking, barricading, flagging, detouring, and closure shall all be conducted in accordance with TMUTCD criteria prior to lane closures.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.005 Street network and design.
a.
Generally.
Streets serve several major functions, including traffic and pedestrian movement and drainage. The subdivider shall consider the impact of any proposed development on each of these functions.
b.
Conformance to thoroughfare plan.
The arrangement, character, extent, width, grade, and location of all major streets shall conform to the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan.
c.
Street layout.
New and substantially improved streets in a subdivision shall be planned and laid out in accordance with the following standards.
1.
General design. Streets shall be designed to integrate as much as possible with the topography and natural resources of the site, to discourage the use of through-traffic where inappropriate considering the character of the area, to permit efficient drainage and utility systems, and to require the minimum number of streets necessary for the convenient and safe access to property.
3.
Internal connectivity. Street patterns in the SF-1 and SF-2 district may be of a radial design consisting of curvilinear streets, cul-de-sacs, and/or U-shaped streets. Street patterns in the HDR and Base Mixed-Use districts shall consist of an interconnected grid network. Streets in a master planned or commercial setting may consist of a mix of such designs.
4.
Future streets. Lots shall be so arranged as to permit the logical location and opening of future streets, consistent with the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan.
6.
Extension to boundary.
A.
Unless waived by the City Engineer, proposed streets within a subdivision shall extend to the boundary lines of the tract to be subdivided without the use of reserve strips, as prohibited in Subsection l, Reserve Strips, below. The City Engineer may require a temporary turnaround at the end of such stubbed streets, pending their extension, where such turnarounds appear necessary to facilitate the flow of traffic or accommodate emergency or service vehicles.
C.
A turnaround shall have a paved radius as required in 39.04.005.h, Cul-de-Sacs, below, or be of such other design approved by the City Engineer. A stubbed street shall be a maximum of 400 feet in length measured from the nearest right-of-way line of the intersecting street, along the centerline of the street, to the center of the turnaround. Stubbed streets with temporary turnarounds that are greater than 400 feet in length shall comply with the standards in Subsection h, Cul-de-Sacs, below.
7.
Traffic generation. All streets shall be designed based on the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications and Thoroughfare Plan.
8.
Nonresidential development. In nonresidential developments, the arrangement of streets and other accessways shall consider the arrangement of lots, the location of rail facilities, the provision of alleys, truck loading and maneuvering areas, pedestrian movements, and parking areas so as to minimize conflicting movements between the various types of traffic, including pedestrians.
9.
Dedication. If a portion of a street designated on the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan is located within the proposed subdivision, the total required right-of-way width shall be dedicated. If such street is located adjacent to the outer edge of the subdivision, the amount of right-of-way to be dedicated shall be determined by the proposed alignment of the thoroughfare, and in most cases, no less than one-half of the required right-of-way.
10.
Half-streets. The dedication of half-streets is only permitted where a subdivision adjoins undeveloped property and a Collector A, Collector B, Minor Arterial A, Minor Arterial B, Principal Arterial A, or Principal Arterial (Modified) as shown on the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan for the perimeter of the property or as needed for half width construction. Wherever a half-street is adjacent to an unsubdivided tract, the other half of the street shall be dedicated when the adjacent tract is platted. Approval by the City Engineer shall be required for half-width paving where full width dedication exists.
11.
TxDOT approval. Any access to TxDOT rights-of-way shall be subject to approval by TxDOT.
12.
Circulation. Circulation shall take place in a new subdivision according to the following standards.
A.
Perimeter arterials. Arterial streets shall generally not be located within a residential subdivision. They may only be located on the perimeters of a residential subdivision. A residential subdivision shall not be located adjacent to a freeway unless the subdivider provides a screening wall that abates noise to the satisfaction of the City Engineer. Such screening wall shall be located, owned, and maintained on property owned by the homeowners' or property owners' association or publicly owned and maintained under appropriate mechanisms as may be approved by the City (such as PIDs). For a nonresidential parcel or tract located adjacent to a freeway, the following shall apply:
i.
If an existing arterial accesses the freeway, the parcel or tract shall take access from such arterial.
ii.
If no arterial access is available, access to the expressway shall be provided by a collector street. No local street shall have direct access to an expressway other than to a frontage or access road.
B.
Local street conversion. New subdivisions shall be designed so that future development shall not require the conversion of local streets to collector streets or arterial streets.
13.
Thoroughfares. Whenever a subdivision includes a street which, according to the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan requires an ultimate cross-section with a higher functional classification than a collector street, the developer shall:
A.
Right-of-way dedication. Dedicate the right-of-way required by the Thoroughfare Plan and the Bicycle Master Plan for an arterial street; and
B.
Street construction. Construct their portion of the arterial street, install curb and gutter along the arterial adjacent to the site perimeter, or be assessed the required impact fee as may be provided for under Chapter 41, Impact Fees, of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances.
d.
Access.
1.
Intent. The intent of this Subsection is to provide for adequate spacing between driveways, cross-streets, median openings, and signalized intersections by:
A.
Promoting consistent and suitable traffic flows and speeds by establishing appropriate and uniform spacing;
B.
Decreasing the density of access points to limit conflicts and improve safety;
C.
Maintaining safe distances between access points to provide appropriate stopping, intersection, and decision sight distances; and
D.
Avoiding the functional areas of interchanges and intersections to the extent practical to limit conflicts and maintain capacity.
2.
Connection spacing requirements.
A.
Minimum spacing. Access connection spacing criteria for all new or modified street and access connections to thoroughfares (collectors and arterials as designated by the Master Thoroughfare Plan) in the City of Lubbock shall meet or exceed the minimum connection spacing requirements provided in Table 39.04.005-1, Minimum Connection Spacing by Street Classification, and shown in Figure 39.04.005-1, Minimum Driveway and Access Connection Spacing, except as noted below.
Table 39.04.005-1 Minimum Connection Spacing by Street Classification | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Functional Classification | Number of Lanes | Driveway Spacing1(D) | Minimum Signalized Intersection Spacing2 (S) | Median Opening Spacing2 (M) | |
Arterial | Principal | 5–7 | 250 ft. | 1,320 ft. | 420–650 ft. |
Modified Principal | 5 | 250 ft. | 1,000 ft. | 320–530 ft. | |
Minor | |||||
Collector | Nonresidential | 2–3 | 60 ft. | 6003 ft. | — |
Residential | 2–3 | 30 ft. | 6003 ft. | — | |
Local | Nonresidential | 2 | 60 ft. | — | — |
Notes: | |
1. | Measured between nearest edges of driveway throats |
2. | Measured center to center |
3. | Signalization may only be appropriate at collector/collector intersections in some cases. Typically, an all-way stop-controlled intersection is more appropriate in these situations. |
Figure 39.04.005-1 Minimum Driveway and Access Connection Spacing |
 |
B.
Desirable spacing. While the minimum distances are required to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow, the typical Lubbock one-mile grid may be configured with additional space between connections. Additional spacing which is beyond the minimums is not required but is desired by the City. As an example, the desirable spacing of driveways, median openings, and traffic signals along the typical one-mile grid is shown in Figure 39.04.005-2, Desirable Driveway and Access Connection Spacing for Arterials.
C.
Measuring spacing distances.
i.
Distance D is measured along the edge of the traveled way from the closest edge of pavement of the first access connection to the closest edge of pavement of the second access connection.
ii.
Connection spacing distances shown in the table must be measured between the endpoints shown in the figure.
iii.
The remaining distances are measured center to center.
Figure 39.04.005-2 Desirable Driveway and Access Connection Spacing for Arterials |
 |
E.
Alternative compliance standards for constrained properties. The intent of access management is to meet the minimum or desired access spacing. However, some circumstances may exist in which the minimum access spacing cannot be met due to the size and location of a property. In these cases, the property is not to be denied access, but shall meet the below standards, as applicable.
i.
Nonresidential driveways. Driveways for constrained nonresidential properties shall meet the following standards:
b.
Driveways are not allowed within 150 feet approaching an arterial-arterial intersection or within 100 feet exiting the intersection.
c.
In the case of nonresidential driveways along arterials, Figure 39.04.005-3, Nonresidential Driveway Allowances in Constrained Circumstances, lists the number of driveways a nonresidential property is allowed under constrained circumstances.
ii.
Single-family detached driveways. Driveways for constrained properties with single-family detached dwellings on local roads shall meet the standards for the number of driveways per property provided in Table 39.04.005-2 Single-Family Detached Driveway Guidelines.
Table 39.04.005-2 Single-Family Detached Driveway Guidelines | |
|---|---|
Roadway Frontage of Single-Family Detached Dwelling | Allowable Driveway Configuration |
75' or Less | One Perpendicular Driveway |
Greater than 75' | One Circular Driveway; or One Perpendicular Driveway |
Greater than 125' | Up to two perpendicular driveways; or One perpendicular driveway and one circular driveway |
3.
Driveway throat length. Table 39.04.005-3, Minimum Driveway Throat Length, lists the minimum driveway throat length that shall be provided to allow traffic entering the site to be stored on-site without affecting traffic flow on the abutting roadway. Driveway throat length is defined as the distance from the edge of the arterial street to the first point of conflict in the driveway and is based on the anticipated number of parking spaces. Exceptions to the minimum throat length standards will require a queuing analysis based on anticipated site trip generation and approval of the City Engineer. The length of multiple throats may be combined to meet the standard. For example, a 100-space parking lot with two driveways could allow for two 25-foot throats.
Table 39.04.005-3 Minimum Driveway Throat Length | |
|---|---|
Total Number of Parking Spaces | Minimum Throat Length (ft.) |
20–49 | 25 ft. |
50–199 | 50 ft. |
200+ | 75 ft. |
4.
Medians. Guidance on selecting a type of median is provided in the Transportation Research Board's Access Management Manual, as amended. The decision tree presented in Figure 39.04.005-4 Median Type Decision Tree, represents a starting point in considering which type of median to use, as approved by the City Engineer. In addition to this decision tree, further study and evaluation may be needed in addition to obtaining public input from affected stakeholders.
Figure 39.04.005-4 Median Type Decision Tree |
 |
e.
Street network connectivity.
1.
Intent. The intent of this Subsection is to provide for maximizing the connectivity of the thoroughfare network, which provides many benefits to the transportation system including:
2.
Requirements. Connectivity in Lubbock can be improved by focusing on the collector network as new development occurs. To maintain collector connectivity, the following practices, which are illustrated in Figure 39.04.005-5, Illustrated Examples of Collector Connectivity, shall be followed:
A.
New developments are required to provide stub-outs extending to their property boundary to provide connectivity to adjacent properties;
B.
New developments building collector facilities are required to align with existing collectors, if possible, except in the following circumstances and with approval of the City Engineer:
i.
Physical constraints such as playa lakes;
ii.
Areas where discontinuous facilities are desired as a traffic calming measure; or
iii.
A Master Thoroughfare Plan amendment is formally filed and approved.
C.
Collectors must include pedestrian facilities on both sides in accordance with City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications; and
D.
Where possible, collector/arterial connections should be made at signalized intersections or locations suitable for future signals.
Figure 39.04.005-5 Illustrated Examples of Collector Connectivity | |
 |
f.
Intersections.
1.
Ninety-degree intersections. Streets shall be designed to generally intersect at right angles, and shall not, in any case, intersect at an angle of less than 75 degrees. An oblique street shall be curved approaching an intersection and shall be approximately at a right angle to the other street for at least 50 feet from the intersection. No more than two streets shall intersect at any one point.
3.
Centerline offsets. Street designs with centerline offsets of less than 125 feet shall be avoided and considered by the City only when specific circumstances dictate a need for lesser offset.
4.
Curb radius. At each street intersection, the right-of-way line at each block corner shall have a 15-foot by 15-foot angled cut-off at street intersections. Any collector or thoroughfare designated street intersecting another thoroughfare or freeway designated street shall have a 30-foot by 30-foot angled cut-off at the street intersections.
5.
Sight distance. Intersections shall be planned and located to provide as much sight distance as possible and shall meet the visibility triangle provisions in Section 39.02.023, Measurements. Consideration shall be given to both the vertical and horizontal planes. Stopping sight distance shall be provided as the minimum sight distance for all approaches. A subdivider shall remove all earth banks, existing vegetation, etc., that limits this sight distance.
6.
Intersection with state or federal highway. The design of an improvement of an intersection of any new City-maintained street with an existing state or federal highway shall be in accordance with the specifications of the Texas Department of Transportation, but in no case shall the standards be less than the applicable City specifications and the requirements of this UDC.
g.
Dead-end streets.
Other than cul-de-sacs, permanent dead-end streets are prohibited.
h.
Cul-de-sacs.
A cul-de-sac shall generally not exceed a maximum length of 600 feet measured from the nearest right-of-way line of the intersecting street (Letter "A" in Figure 39.04.005-6, Maximum Cul-De-Sac-Length), along the centerline of the cul-de-sac, to the center of the turning radius of the turnaround (Letter "B" in Figure 39.04.005-6). Coordination between the subdivider and the Fire Marshal shall be required for cul-de-sacs that exceed 600 feet in length in order to discuss additional design requirements such as larger cul-de-sac bulbs or the provision of a gate with an emergency key box (commonly known as a Knox Box). The turnaround shall comply with the following minimum standards:
1.
Base residential zoning districts. The right-of-way radius shall be as depicted in Plates 38-5 and 38-6 of the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
2.
Islands or planters. An unpaved island may be provided at the center of the turnaround provided that:
A.
The island is surrounded by a mountable curb;
B.
The surface of the island is landscaped or covered with decorative pavers;
C.
Landscaping or other elements located in the island do not interfere with the visibility triangle established in Section 39.02.023, Measurements;
D.
The island has a minimum radius of six feet measured to the back of the curb;
E.
The island is owned and maintained by a homeowners' or property owners' association or a public improvement district; and
F.
The radii of both the right-of-way and pavement must be increased 10 feet to accommodate the island. See Plate 38-5 of the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications for the non-island dimensions.
3.
Base nonresidential zoning districts. The right-of-way radius shall be as depicted in Plates 38-5 and 38-6 of the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
4.
Base mixed-use zoning districts. Cul-de-sacs are prohibited in the Base Mixed-Use districts.
5.
Terminus of a cul-de-sac. The terminus of a cul-de-sac shall be considered to be the right-of-way line at the end of the cul-de-sac turnaround.
Figure 39.04.005-6 Maximum Cul-De-Sac-Length |
|---|
 |
i.
Street design.
1.
Grading, drainage, and drainage structures. The necessary grade and drainage structures to facilitate the proper use and draining of streets, highways, and ways, and for public safety shall be provided in accordance with this UDC, the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, and the Drainage Criteria Manual.
2.
Pavement. All streets and paved access alleys within or abutting the proposed subdivision shall be paved as shown on the standard specifications in accordance with the ROW width shown on the plat.
3.
Preliminary grades. Preliminary grades shall be established for all streets and alleys prior to actual utility installation to prevent damage to buried utilities.
4.
Responsibility. The subdivider is responsible for the coordination of installation of utilities within streets, alleys, and easements and the submittal of as-built drawings of the City utilities installed within their subdivision at the time the as-built drawings of the paving improvements are submitted.
j.
Alleys.
Alleys may be provided in any zoning district, or the City may approve plats where other definite and assured provision, such as public access easements, is made for service access. Alleys, where provided, must be paved in accordance with the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
2.
Alley width. If alleys are provided, the right-of-way width shall be 20 feet and the improved width shall be 10 feet. The subdivider shall be responsible for obtaining the full right-of-way dedication with from the adjacent owner(s) if necessary.
3.
Alley intersections. Where two alleys intersect at an angle from 85 to 95 degrees, the required cut-off shall be 15 feet along each right-of-way line. Where two alleys intersect at an angle less than 85 degrees or exceeding 95 degrees, the developer shall provide adequate clearance for solid waste truck movement as required by the City Engineer. Utility meters, risers, and pedestals are prohibited from being installed along the right-of-way cut-off line or in any manner which would interfere with solid waste truck movement.
4.
Alley connectivity and access to roads. When used, alleys shall connect to collectors or local roads, and shall not connect with arterials. Four-way alley intersections are prohibited. Exceptions to this policy will be considered by the City Engineer if the alley meets access connection spacing criteria, similar to a driveway.
5.
Direction change. Where an alley has a direction change of 15 degrees or greater, a cut-off of not less than 15 feet by 15 feet along the inside right-of-way line from the angle point shall be provided. If the change in direction exceeds 95 degrees, the developer shall provide adequate clearance for solid waste truck movement as required by the City Engineer.
9.
Alley stabilization requirements.
A.
Alleys shall be improved in a method consistent with best practices for vehicular traffic as well as installation and maintenance of utilities. Alley stabilization methods shall be a minimum of 10 feet in width, centered on the alley.
B.
The paved alley shall be of a concrete suitable for providing HL-93 loading to include solid waste vehicles. The pavement section options and requirements are defined in the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
C.
Rear access proposed for development projects shall be constructed in concrete (in accordance with the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications) a minimum of 10 feet in width, centered on the alley.
k.
Paved access alleys.
Certain development projects may use rear access. In these cases, consideration must be provided for the primary access and secondary access function being combined on the alley. When rear access is proposed, the subdivider shall provide:
1.
Dedication. A standard alley with a right-of-way width of 20 feet shall be dedicated, or provided for in an access easement if dedication is not possible, and meet the requirements set out in Subsection j, Alleys.
A.
The subdivider shall ensure the installation of all public utility services and utility service taps to each adjacent lot prior to preparation for and actual paving of the alley. Tap locations shall be properly identified for future location. Every vehicular access to the alley paving shall be paved.
B.
i.
A 10-foot minimum width concrete paved vehicular access easement from the paved alley to the front street shall be provided for each 270 feet of development. The paved connection to the front street shall be via a standard residential drive approach that is a minimum of 10 feet wide at the property line.
l.
Reserve strips.
Proposed streets within a subdivision shall extend to the boundary lines of the tract to be subdivided as required in Subsection c.6., Extension to Boundary, above. Reserve strips controlling access to property shall be prohibited unless the reserve strip is dedicated to the public under conditions approved by the City.
m.
Building permit.
A Building Permit shall not be issued on a lot or tract platted under these subdivision standards until such time as the City Engineer issues notification described in Section 39.07.020d, Platting, or a Waiver or Delay of paving improvements has been authorized by the City Engineer in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements, or Section 39.07.045, Delay of Improvements.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2023-O0132 adopted 10/10/2023; Ordinance 2025-O0095 adopted 8/18/2025)
§ 39.04.006 Street cross-sections.
a.
Street system minimum standards.
Streets in a new subdivision or that are required to be extended due to the platting of a new subdivision shall comply with the standards of this UDC, and the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, all other applicable standards of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances, and federal and state regulations and specifications.
b.
Right-of-way widths.
Right-of-way width, paved width, and other features of a street cross-section for collector and arterial streets are established in the current City of Lubbock Thoroughfare Plan. Right-of-way width, paved width, and other features of a street cross-section for local streets are established in the City's Design Standards and Specifications. The following shall apply to the rights-of-way for all new subdivisions:
1.
Local streets. Local streets serve residential areas in low-traffic volume neighborhoods, connect to higher capacity streets, and are not shown on the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan.
2.
Other streets. Collector A, Collector B, Minor Arterial A, Minor Arterial B, Principal Arterial A, and Principal Arterial (Modified) streets shall be required at locations as shown on the current City of Lubbock Master Thoroughfare Plan. If factors such as topographic problems or special subdivision design dictate an alternate Collector street location within the subdivision, or if a proposed subdivision contains unique circumstances that cannot be accommodated by the street widths required in this Article, the subdivider may request a Waiver of the Collector street location in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements. However, in no case shall the subdivider be exempted from providing a Collector street or approved alternative within the subdivision.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.007 Street name signs and street lights.
a.
Street name signs.
1.
Signs. Street name signs for streets shall be provided at all street intersections within or abutting the proposed plat in accordance with the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances Chapter 36, Streets, Sidewalks, and Other Public Ways. Street name sign locations will be determined by the City Engineer during plat review. Street name signs shall be paid for by the subdivider and produced and installed by the Traffic Engineering Department.
2.
Payment. Payment for street name signs shall be provided by the subdivider for the original sign and installation. The cost for street name signs shall be set annually in the City's budget ordinance. If no fee is established by budget ordinance, a minimum cost of $200.00 per street name sign shall be required prior to recording of the Final Plat and shall be paid to the City Engineer.
b.
Street lights.
1.
Location. Street lights shall be provided at all street intersections and other locations within and abutting the subdivision with the exception of thoroughfare lighting.
2.
Number. Street lights shall be placed in accordance with the current City standards for both location and number.
3.
Installation and inspection. Engineering design and installation as well as the actual inspection of the street light construction shall be performed by Lubbock Power and Light. Lubbock Power and Light will provide design and specifications for stock light standards and fixtures to be used in all subdivisions.
4.
Cost for street light fixtures. A cost recovery fee for the design of materials, preparation of specifications, installation of lighting, and the inspection of construction shall be charged for stock standards and fixtures. The cost for stock light standards and fixtures and the cost recovery fees for the design of materials, installation, specifications, and inspection of construction shall be set annually in the City's budget ordinance. If no fee is established by budget ordinance, Lubbock Power and Light shall charge fees established through Lubbock Power and Light's electric rate tariff/schedule. Lubbock Power and Light will notify the plats coordinator when such fees are paid.
5.
Non-stock street light fixtures. Non-stock light standards and fixtures must be approved by the City Engineer prior to approval of the Final Plat. It will be the subdivider's responsibility to receive approval from Lubbock Power and Light for the locations and installation of the streetlights. If the subdivider chooses non-stock light standards and/or fixtures, the subdivider shall provide design and specifications and receive approval of lighting improvements prior to approval of the Final Plat. The subdivider is also responsible for selecting and paying a contractor for installation of the non-stock light standards and fixtures. An inspection fee shall also be paid to Lubbock Power and Light.
A.
A subdivider may choose Lubbock Power and Light as the contractor for non-stock street lighting and shall negotiate a price for materials and labor. A cost recovery fee for the design of materials, preparation of specifications, installation of lighting, and the inspection of construction shall be charged for non-stock light standards and fixtures when Lubbock Power and Light is the contractor.
B.
The subdivider will maintain and store at least three non-stock light standards and fixtures as replacement inventory and provide them to Lubbock Power and Light when replacements are needed. If at any time the subdivider does not provide such inventory, standards and fixtures will be replaced with stock inventory.
C.
Any appeal of a decision of Lubbock Power and Light shall be to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Any appeal of a decision of the Planning and Zoning Commission shall be to the City Council. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
6.
Base mixed-use district. Refer to Section 39.02.005a, General Mixed-Use Standards, for street light standards related to the Base Mixed-Use districts.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.008 Blocks.
a.
b.
Dimensions.
1.
Length.
A.
Maximum residential.
i.
Except in the RE and Base Mixed-Use zoning districts, the maximum block length for a residential subdivision shall be 1,200 feet measured along the centerline of the block (along the rear property lines) between four-way intersections. The maximum block length shall be 1,800 feet between a T-intersection and another intersection.
ii.
Block length is measured along the exterior side lot lines of the end lots, as depicted in Figure 39.04.008-1, Block Length and Depth Measurement.
iii.
In the RE zoning district, the maximum block length for a residential subdivision shall be 2,000 feet.
B.
Base mixed-use districts. In the Base Mixed-Use districts, the maximum block length shall be 750 feet.
C.
Nonresidential. There is no minimum or maximum block length for nonresidential developments.
2.
Depth.
A.
Residential blocks.
iii.
Block depth is measured along the shorter end of the block from one front lot line to the front lot line of the lot to the rear, as depicted in Figure 39.04.008-1, Block Length and Depth Measurement, where letter "A" is the block length measurement from exterior side lot line to exterior side lot line and letter "B" is the block depth measured from front lot line to front lot line.
B.
Nonresidential blocks. Nonresidential blocks should be of a depth suitable for the intended use, with due allowance for off-street parking, cross-access, and loading facilities.
Figure 39.04.008-1 Block Length and Depth Measurement |
 |
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.009 Lots.
a.
Generally.
The lot size, width, shape, and orientation shall be appropriate for the location of the subdivision and for the type of development and use contemplated.
c.
Direct access required.
Every building erected or moved and every plat submitted after the effective date of this UDC shall be on a lot or parcel with direct access to one of the following:
d.
Double frontage lots.
Double frontage residential lots shall be discouraged, except where essential to provide separation of residential development from thoroughfares or to overcome specific disadvantages of topography and orientation. The street frontage providing primary access to any double frontage residential lot shall be the lesser designation of the two streets involved. When double frontage lots occur, the plat shall indicate that the lesser designated streetfrontage involved will provide primary access to the lots in question.
e.
Side lot lines.
In general, side lot lines shall be at right angles to straight street lines or radial to curving street lines or cul-de-sac turnarounds. A subdivider may utilize alternative configurations to accomplish a public purpose, such as the preservation of natural resources.
f.
Corner lots.
Corner lots shall have the width necessary to allow for the construction of structures that meet the required setbacks from both streets. Corner lots shall allow for the dedication of a triangular area at the intersection that meets the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.010 Easements.
a.
Generally.
1.
Types of easements. During development review, the City or other governmental agency may require a variety of easements. These easements may be for purposes including, but not limited to:
2.
Granting and utility placement. The subdivider shall grant easements to the public or franchised utility providers that are required for the proper functionality of the subdivision. Alternatively, the City Engineer may allow such services within the public right-of-way. Any such easements may be granted by plat or by separately prepared instrument.
3.
Encroachment. No structure, foundation, slab, or other permanent improvements shall be placed within any public easement.
b.
Locations and widths of public easements.
1.
Front location. Utility easement placement, as may be required, shall be coordinated with the City Engineer and franchise utilities. Front utility easements shall be at least five feet in total width, contiguous with front lot lines; however, The City Engineer may require larger widths as pipe size increases as specified in this Article.
2.
Adjacent to property under separate ownership. Where the proposed subdivision abuts an unplatted area or property under separate ownership on which no easements exist, and the subdivider cannot arrange for one-half of the required easement to be granted by separate instrument, the easement shall be entirely within the proposed subdivision.
3.
Adjacent to a future phase. When an easement is required along a boundary between a current and future phase of a proposed subdivision, the entire required easement width shall be required concurrent with the current phase.
4.
Water and wastewater easements. All public water, wastewater, and drainage facilities shall be placed in public easements or public rights-of-way (streets or alleys) as described in the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications and as required in Table 39.04.010-1, Minimum Water and Wastewater Easement Required. Five additional feet of width shall be required for depths over 20 feet and 10 additional feet shall be required for depths over 30 feet.
5.
Drainage or impoundment easements or city property. No Final Plat shall contain a utility easement within any stormwater drainage or impoundment easement, City owned park, or other City property without prior written approval of the City Engineer.
Table 39.04.010-1 Minimum Water and Wastewater Easements Required | |
|---|---|
Type of Development | Easement Width (feet) |
Individual water or wastewater lines | 10 |
Individual water or wastewater lines if depth is greater than 10 feet | 20 |
Water and wastewater lines in the same easement | 20 |
c.
Street lights.
Where street lights are required or proposed, the subdivider shall provide street light easements necessary to serve such lights where it is not feasible to install the street light wiring in the public right-of-way. Street light easements shall be a minimum of two feet in width and shall only be utilized for street light wiring.
d.
Stormwater drainage and impoundment/floodway easements.
1.
Generally. The subdivider shall provide drainage easements along all natural and manmade drainage channels and floodways that drain two or more lots or tracts of land according to the following standards:
A.
Natural drainage channels and detention/retention ponds. Storm drainage easements shall be provided along existing or proposed open channels or detention/retention ponds with sufficient width for the watercourse to handle the flow from the 100-year storm plus one foot of elevation and a minimum of 10 feet on one side beyond top of bank, for stream buffering, ingress and egress of maintenance equipment, for clearance from fences, for maintenance of the channel bank, and for adequate slopes necessary along the bank.
B.
Enclosed drainage systems. Where enclosed drainage systems are provided that are not within or adjacent to a public street, storm drainage easements a minimum of 20 feet in width shall be provided. Easements shall be centered on the system. Easements shall be wide enough to encompass the system, plus provide ingress and egress for future maintenance operations.
2.
Playa lakes. The subdivider shall provide stormwater drainage and impoundment easements for playa lakes in accordance with Division 5.3, Playa LakesDevelopment and Ownership.
e.
Floodplain restriction.
In addition to the identified provisions of the City's Drainage Criteria Manual, Division 5.1, Flood Damage Prevention, and Division 5.2, Flood Hazard Reduction, within the 100-year floodplain, the subdivider shall provide storm drainage easements that contain stormwater resulting from the 100-year frequency storm less the amount of stormwater carried in an enclosed system, if any. The width of the easements shall be substantiated by a drainage study, drainage calculations, or other data submitted to and approved by the City Engineer.
f.
Cross-access and shared access easements.
The subdivider shall provide cross-access and shared access easements, as depicted in Figure 39.04.010-1, Cross-Access and Shared Access, for multi-family, nonresidential, and mixed-use developments that front on locally maintained collector or arterial streets, subject to the following standards. Such easements may be provided at the front or at the back of a group of lots, depending on the anticipated amount of pedestrian activity for the development. Driveway separation and width on public collector and arterial streets shall comply with Section 39.04.005d, Access.
1.
Separate ownership. Where adjacent properties are separately owned and not part of a common plan of development, the City may encourage shared access or internal cross-access easements, or both, as the parcels are platted, substantially improved, or redeveloped. As such, the City Engineer may grant a subdivider temporary individual access if:
A.
The subdivider demonstrates that the adjacent landowner refused an offer with regard to cross-access; and
B.
The subdivider demonstrates that the proposed temporary or permanent access will not materially affect the safe and efficient flow of traffic.
2.
Common ownership or phased subdivisions. Phased subdivisions, subdivisions under the same ownership, or parcels that are consolidated for the purposes of development and comprised of more than one building shall provide cross-access and shared access easements as follows:
A.
The property proposed for development shall include cross-access easements with connections to abutting cross-access points or, if the abutting property is undeveloped or without cross-access points, stub-outs at locations on the property that allow for a connection in the future. In addition, if the abutting property is undeveloped or is without a driveway suitable for sharing, the property proposed for development shall include a shared access easement on its perimeter, in a location suitable for sharing access to the street with the abutting property in the future;
B.
The subdivider shall record a covenant to allow for future connection of shared access and cross-access stub-out easements to comparable facilities on abutting parcels when they develop or are redeveloped; and
3.
Exceptions.
A.
There are some circumstances in which providing cross-access is not feasible. These circumstances include:
B.
In these circumstances, an additional driveway to provide necessary access may be considered based on a review by the City engineer. The applicant must be able to demonstrate a reasonable effort to provide cross-access.
Figure 39.04.010-1 Cross-Access and Shared Access |
 |
g.
Pedestrian access easements.
Except for subdivisions where all lots are greater than 10 acres in the RE zoning district, the subdivider shall provide the following pedestrian access easements across a maximum of two tiers of lots, where applicable. A pedestrian access right-of-way shall be a minimum of 10 feet in width and shall include an all-weather surface with a minimum width of five feet.
1.
Mid-block pedestrian connections. The subdivider shall provide mid-block connections in the form of a pedestrian access right-of-way to bisect blocks greater than 800 feet in length, where such blocks abut an arterial or collector street. In addition, the subdivider shall provide such mid-block connections to establish linkages to common facilities, such as parks, open areas, and public and civic uses.
2.
Cul-de-sac turnaround pedestrian connections. The subdivider shall provide an unobstructed pedestrian access easement that connects the cul-de-sac turnaround to existing or proposed sidewalks, trails, and common facilities, as depicted in Figure 39.04.010-2, Pedestrian Connections.
Figure 39.04.010-2 Pedestrian Connections |
 |
3.
Trails. Off-street bicycling and pedestrian trails shall be developed in accordance with the Parks Master Plan, to link major attractions and destinations throughout the City, including neighborhoods, common facilities, employment centers, and shopping areas. In addition, a subdivider may provide such trails in the RE and SF-1 zoning districts in lieu of sidewalks where all lot widths exceed 200 linear feet in width. Maintenance responsibilities shall be established at the time of a Preliminary Plat and shown on the Final Plat. Trails shall be designed and built in accordance with Texas Accessibility Standards.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.011 Sidewalks and accessibility.
a.
Generally.
Sidewalks are required and shall be installed and maintained in all new subdivisions and meet the construction standards for sidewalks established under Chapter 36, Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Ways, of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances, and the width and locational requirements in Section 39.04.006, Street Cross-Sections.
b.
Applicability.
This Section applies to all land uses and street classifications, except where specifically noted.
c.
Timing.
Installation of sidewalks is not a requirement prior to approval of a Final Plat but is required prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for a structure or prior to the final inspection.
d.
Single-family residential infill development.
1.
Distance from school. The builder of a new infill single-family residence shall install a sidewalk, regardless of if they will not achieve continuity, if such property is within one-half mile from a public elementary, middle, or high school.
2.
Sidewalk waiver. The builder of a new infillsingle-family residence where sidewalks do not exist on the entire block frontage may apply for a waiver of the requirement to install sidewalks from the City Engineer, provided that the property is not within one-half mile from a public elementary, middle, or high school.
e.
Accessible ramps.
Wheelchair-accessible curb ramps shall be provided at the time of construction of the sidewalk for all necessary intersections and as required by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Architectural Barriers Division and the Texas Accessibility Standards.
f.
Construction.
All sidewalks associated with Multiple Lot construction shall be constructed in a manner acceptable to the City Engineer in accordance with the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications.
g.
Alternative sidewalk or trail plan.
A subdivider may achieve alternative compliance with the standards of this Section upon approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission of an alternative sidewalk or trail plan that provides equal or greater pedestrian circulation. The subdivider shall submit such plan at the time of Preliminary Plat review. The Planning and Zoning Commission may approve such plan if better pedestrian and bicycle access and connectivity are provided through the use of off-street trails or multi-use pathways that connect to sidewalks or off-street trails or multi-use pathways on the perimeter of the parcel proposed for development.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.012 Public water systems.
a.
Generally.
1.
Outlets and size. Water systems shall be provided with a sufficient number of outlets and shall be of sufficient size to furnish adequate domestic water supply and to furnish adequate fire flows to all lots. All water supply, distribution, pumping, and storage improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance with this UDC, the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and Texas Water Development Board.
2.
City limits. All lots in any subdivision platted within the City limits after the effective date of this UDC shall be served by public water systems prior to the issuance of a Building Permit in accordance with the provisions of this Section. Greenspaces maintained by a Public Improvement District (PID) or Homeowner's Association (HOA) may be serviced by a water well and utility extensions are not required.
b.
Line oversizing and extensions.
All water lines shall be extended, where necessary, to the borders of the subdivision for future extensions of the distribution system and shall be valved off. The City may participate in the cost of oversizing lines required to serve land areas or improvements beyond the subdivision. Properties already served by water and wastewater shall not be required to install additional facilities unless the current lines are not of adequate capacity or standard to serve the proposed subdivision, in which case the subdivider who is creating the need for the improvements shall be required to install adequate facilities.
c.
Fire hydrants.
Fire hydrants shall be spaced according to the Fire Code in all new subdivisions.
e.
Construction and installation.
Water lines shall be installed to serve all lots within the proposed subdivision under the provisions of Chapter 22, Utilities, of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances and shall be constructed in compliance with the City's Design Standards and Specifications under the supervision of the City Engineer.
f.
Building permit.
A Building Permit shall not be issued on a platted lot or tract, until such time as the City Engineer issues notification described in Section 39.07.020d, Platting, or a Waiver or Delay, or Parallel Construction has been authorized by the City Engineer in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements, or Section 39.07.045, Delay of Improvements,, or Section 39.07.046, Parallel Construction Alternative.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2024-O0108 adopted 8/27/2024)
§ 39.04.013 Public wastewater systems.
a.
Generally.
1.
Design and construction. Public wastewater improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance with this UDC, the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and Texas Water Development Board.
2.
City limits. All lots in any subdivision platted within the City limits after the effective date of this UDC that are within 180 feet of an existing City wastewater main shall be served by public wastewater systems prior to the issuance of a Building Permit in accordance with the provisions of this Section. Utility extensions are not required to greenspaces maintained by a Public Improvement District (PID) or Homeowner's Association (HOA). All lots outside the City limits in the ETJ shall be provided with an on-site sewage disposal system or cluster system approved by Lubbock County.
b.
Minimum standards.
All wastewater collection system mains and appurtenance shall be constructed to the City standards presented in Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications and applicable Texas Commission on Environmental Quality standards.
c.
Duplex, townhouse, multiplex, and apartment dwelling units.
Individual sanitary wastewater service connections shall be installed for each lot. Buildings containing more than one dwelling unit may provide a common sewerage collection system from the building.
e.
Cleanout.
A cleanout shall be provided at the right-of-way/property line on all service lines.
f.
Timing of installation.
Wastewater lines shall be installed to serve all lots within the proposed subdivision under the provisions of Chapter 22, Utilities of the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances and shall be constructed in compliance with the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications under the supervision of the City Engineer.
g.
Building permit.
A Building Permit shall not be issued on a platted lot or tract, until such time as the City Engineer issues notification described in Section 39.07.020d, Platting, or a Waiver or Delay, or Parallel Construction has been authorized by the City Engineer in accordance with Section 39.07.044, Waiver of Improvements, Section 39.07.045, Delay of Improvements, or Section 39.07.046, Parallel Construction Alternative.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2024-O0108 adopted 8/27/2024; Ordinance 2025-O0095 adopted 8/18/2025)
§ 39.04.014 Storm drainage.
a.
Generally.
Drainage facilities shall be designed and constructed in accordance with this Section, the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications, and the Drainage Criteria Manual. Other hydrologic and hydraulic design methods may be used to satisfy drainage requirements with prior approval by the City Engineer.
b.
Drainage improvements required.
The subdivider shall provide new drainage facilities or the improvement of existing drainage facilities necessary to provide for the stormwater drainage needs of the subdivision, in accordance with the requirements of this Section and as necessary to:
1.
Conveyance to discharge point. Provide for the conveyance of all stormwater from the subdivision when fully developed to an adequate discharge point;
2.
General purpose. Fulfill any purpose for which the requirements of this Section are imposed;
3.
Protection. Provide reasonable protection for the subdivision and adjacent properties from flooding, including the effects of the one percent annual rainfall event; and
4.
Post-development. Ensure that the runoff after development during the 100-year rainfall event shall not negatively impact downstream property or neighboring property and comply with the City's Drainage Criteria Manual.
c.
Construction standards.
1.
Materials. Drainage improvements shall be constructed with materials required in the Drainage Criteria Manual or as approved by the City Engineer.
2.
Easements. Drainage easements and improvements constructed within the easements shall be at the width, slope, and cross-section determined by the drainage plan and analysis approved with the Final Plat.
3.
Playa lakes. Playa Lake Area Cut and Fill Plans and the excavation and embankment operations shall comply with the requirements set forth in Division 5.3, Playa Lakes Development and Ownership, of this UDC and the Drainage Criteria Manual unless alternatives to those requirements are approved by the City Engineer.
d.
Discharge points.
All drainage improvements shall be terminated at a discharge point approved by the City Engineer. Such discharge point, or outlet, shall be designed and constructed to prevent damage to or overflowing into adjacent property. The City Engineer may require creek improvement, channel lining, energy dissipaters, or other low-impact improvements for such outlet to prevent erosion or increase the flow capacity.
e.
Off-site drainage.
Drainage facilities and improvements shall be provided by the subdivider whenever additional stormwater runoff from the subdivision would adversely affect any off-site property or overload an existing drainage facility, whether natural or manmade. Other than non-concentrated, pre-development flow, the on-site runoff shall not be discharged onto adjacent properties, except into existing creeks, channels or storm drains, unless the subdivider obtains drainage or flowage easements from those properties. If the subdivider cannot obtain the necessary easements to make required off-site drainage improvements, detention may be used to reduce peak flow.
f.
Floodplains.
Where this Section requires a subdivision to make any drainage improvements in or abutting a floodplain to provide for the design base flood, the subdivider may, in lieu of making the required improvements, restrict development in the area subject to flooding because of the failure to provide for the drainage improvements. In such cases, the area to be left undeveloped shall be granted to the public as a drainage easement on the Final Plat.
1.
Floodplain restrictions. The City shall, when it deems necessary for the health, safety, or welfare of an area and necessary for the conservation of water, drainage, and sanitary facilities, or where prohibited in Division 5.1, Flood Damage Prevention, regulate development of any portion of the property which lies within the floodplain of any stream or drainage course. These floodplain areas shall be preserved from all destruction or damage resulting from clearing, grading, or dumping of earth, waste or material, or stumps.
2.
Creek restrictions. Major creeks shall remain in an open natural condition; the subdivider may channelize smaller creeks or drainage ways upon approval by the City Engineer provided they meet the criteria of the Drainage Criteria Manual. When a creek or excavated channel is to remain open, or in its natural state, the subdivider shall grant a drainage easement to the City.
3.
Disclaimer. When any portion of a proposed plat contains a lake or other flood risk area identified on the Federal Emergency Management Agency flood hazard maps, the following notice shall be printed on the face of the Final Plat: "Either all or a portion of this surveyed property lies within a 'Special Flood/Hazard Boundary.' These boundaries are established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, not this surveyor. Flood hazard maps are on file at City Hall and are open for public inspection."
g.
Floodways and improvements.
1.
Floodways serving large drainage areas. Generally, floodways serving drainage areas larger than one square mile in area and that are still functioning primarily in a natural and adequate state shall not be altered to provide for the drainage needs of a subdivision, unless approved by the City Engineer.
h.
Site erosion control.
To minimize erosion resulting from the removal of vegetation and to reduce the introduction of erosion materials into the storm drainage systems, all subdivisions shall make use of erosion and sediment control devices in accordance with the recommendations in this UDC and as directed by the City Engineer. The erosion and sediment control devices shall be installed and maintained until sufficient vegetation cover has been provided or has been replaced to control erosion and sediment, as directed by the City Engineer.
i.
Separation of stormwater and wastewater systems.
Stormwater and wastewater systems shall be used and maintained as separate systems. Drainage facilities shall be designed so they do not connect, direct, or allow stormwater into the wastewater system.
j.
Street access crossing channels.
No subdivision shall be designed to access a public street across a channel without providing adequate clearance for the channel under design storm conditions as required by the Drainage Criteria Manual.
k.
Maintenance and easement.
1.
When a cul-de-sac, dead-end street, or drainage easement abuts another lot or tract, the subdivider shall record an easement for the drainage area(s) in which the subdivider/owner retains the perpetual responsibility for keeping the easement area free of debris and sediment, mowed, and at the correct grade in order that the stormwater flow shall be maintained as designed.
2.
The easement herein shall be a minimum of 10 feet, unless the Design Engineer makes a determination that a larger easement is necessary for the drainage plan for the subdivision, and shall be adjacent to the street, alley, or property line. The required easement shall be shown on the face of the plat.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2025-O0025 adopted 2/25/2025)
§ 39.04.015 Open space standards and dedication.
a.
Generally.
This Section provides standards for common open space dedicated as part of a cluster, village, or other subdivision type that requires open space in accordance with the zoning district standards in Division 2.2, Zoning Districts and Standards.
b.
Dedication of open space.
If a subdivision type requires common open space according to the tables in Section 39.02.004, Base Residential Districts, and Section 39.02.005, Base Mixed-Use Districts, then the subdivider shall dedicate the amount of land specified for open space in the applicable zoning district according to the subdivision type.
c.
Dual open space and easement, drainage facilities, or water features.
1.
Partial credit. Land that is encumbered by easements, human-made detention areas and drainage channels, or other similar characteristics, shall qualify for common open space in accordance with the following calculation: fifty percent of the encumbered open space shall qualify as eligible open space.
2.
Example. A 20-acre open space dedication with five acres of combined easements, human-made detention areas, and drainage channels shall count as 17.5 required acres (15 acres + (5 acres x .5) = 17.5 acres).
d.
Standards.
Common open space, in general, shall be easy to access and open to public view so as to benefit area development, enhance the visual character of the City, protect public safety and minimize conflict with adjacent land uses. The following standards shall be used in designing open space and adjacent development:
1.
Perpetuity. Common open space shall be dedicated in a manner approved as to form by the City Attorney that ensures that the open space will remain as such in perpetuity.
2.
Liens and taxes. Any common open space dedicated to the City under this Section shall be suitable for active or passive recreational uses. The dedication shall be free and clear of any and all liens and encumbrances that interfere with its use for recreational purposes.
3.
Locations.
A.
Where feasible, common open space shall be located adjacent to other open spaces and/or schools in order to encourage a connected open space network and shared facilities and joint development of new sites.
B.
Common open space shall be adjacent to residential lots in a manner that serves the greatest number of users and shall be located to minimize users having to cross arterial streets on foot or bicycle to access them.
4.
Timing. The total amount of land dedicated for common open space for the development shall be dedicated to the City in fee simple or to a homeowners' association, property owners' association, public improvement district, or tax increment financing reinvestment zone:
B.
Concurrently with the Final Plat for a single-phase development;
5.
Cluster subdivision open space standards. In addition to the applicable standards in this Subsection, open space in a cluster subdivision shall meet the standards below.
A.
Interconnection. Open space land shall be interconnected to existing and potential open space on adjacent properties, as well as to other internal open space in the subdivision to provide a continuous network within and adjoining the subdivision.
B.
Structures. Except for pavilions, playing fields, and structures and improvements for stormwater drainage, wastewater treatment, or water supply, passive open space in a cluster subdivision shall be free of all structures.
C.
Wastewater treatment and water. The square footage set aside for wastewater treatment shall not be credited toward the minimum required open space.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.016 Markers and monuments.
a.
Generally.
The subdivider's registered professional land surveyor shall provide reference monuments and markers in the subdivision, based on the Texas Coordinate System of 1983, North Central Zone, as may be updated.
b.
Permanent markers.
The surveyor of record shall install permanent markers at all corners of block lines, control points, and at the points of curvature. Such markers shall be iron rods or pipes of magnetic quality a minimum of one-half inch in diameter and 14 inches in length. The surveyor shall place the rod below the finished grade, at the required locations.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.017 Subdivision types by district.
a.
Subdivision types.
New residential subdivisions are classified into conventional, cluster, and village subdivision types. Development of any subdivision type permitted in the base zoning district is at the option of the applicant. No subdivision type is mandatory in any zoning district unless it is the only permitted subdivision type within the district. Refer to Section 39.02.004, Base Residential Districts, for lot density and dimension standards related to each permitted subdivision type.
b.
Permitted base residential districts.
Table 39.04.017-1, Permitted Subdivision Types by Residential District, states the subdivision types that are permitted in each residential zoning district.
Table 39.04.017-1 Permitted Subdivision Types by Residential District | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
"P" = Permitted | "NP" = Not Permitted | "—" = Not Applicable | |||||
RE | SF-1 | SF-2 | MDR | HDR | |
Conventional | P | P | P | — | P |
Cluster | P | P | P | — | — |
Village | — | — | — | P | P |
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.018 Conventional.
A conventional residential subdivision is a pattern of development that allows residential uses and that provides the majority of property owners with open space on their own property. A conventional subdivision consists of mostly single-family detached dwelling units developed in accordance with the conventional development standards of Section 39.02.004, Base Residential Districts. Minimum lot size is a primary factor in the character of a conventional subdivision. See Figure 39.04.018-1, Illustrative Conventional Subdivision.
Figure 39.04.018-1 Illustrative Conventional Subdivision |
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(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.019 Cluster.
a.
Generally.
A cluster subdivision consists of single-family detached dwelling units developed in accordance with the cluster development standards, established in the base zoning district, with smaller lots that are clustered together in order to provide for additional common open spaces. Often, the common open space is set aside for resource features such as parks, recreation areas, woodlands, creeks and streams, and their riparian areas, floodplains, etc. Therefore, cluster development may be used to preserve environmental resources by clustering development on the buildable portions of the property. See Figure 39.04.019-1, Illustrative Cluster Subdivision.
b.
Open space.
Common open space shall, to the greatest extent practicable, be interconnected with other open space areas, greenways, and trail systems (if provided) within the development and on abutting lands where such integration is practical and does not materially compromise the resource value of the protection areas.
c.
Integration of design.
Open space shall be integrated into the development design so as to bring access to significant open space to the maximum number of properties; provided, however, that physical access may be limited if such limitation would materially enhance natural resource management. Subdivisions intending to use the Cluster regulations shall show the area to be dedicated as common open space, to satisfy the open space requirement, within the preliminary plat boundary, or final plat boundary if a preliminary plat is not required.
d.
Increased lot area or setback.
Where located across a local street from an existing conventional development, a cluster subdivision shall have one of the three characteristics listed below:
2.
Lots may side into the local street and be sized in accordance with cluster requirements; or
3.
The cluster subdivision may back into the local street and provide a Type B bufferyard, as established in Section 39.03.016, Bufferyard Landscaping, along the street.
Figure 39.04.019-1 Illustrative Cluster Subdivision |
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(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2025-O0095 adopted 8/18/2025)
§ 39.04.020 Village.
a.
Generally.
A village subdivision allows four housing types and utilizes commonly-owned areas as organizing features. See Figure 39.04.020-1, Illustrative Village Subdivision.
b.
Housing type integration.
Different housing types within a village subdivision may be integrated together or may be located within separate pods with the required open space providing a buffer between the housing types.
c.
Bufferyard.
Where multiple-family dwellings are proposed to abut single-family detached dwellings or duplexes within the same development and zoning district, a Type A Bufferyard, in accordance with Section 39.03.016, Bufferyard Landscaping may be used to provide for enhanced compatibility between housing types.
d.
Compatibility.
Where a village subdivision abuts, is adjacent to, or is located across a local street from existing housing, the housing types that are nearest or across the street shall be comparable to the existing housing types in terms of the housing type, scale, and method of access.
f.
Increased lot area.
Where located across a local street from an existing conventional development, a village subdivision shall have one of the three characteristics listed below:
2.
Lots may side into the local street and be sized in accordance with village requirement; or
3.
The village subdivision may back into the local street shall and provide a Type B bufferyard, as established in Section 39.03.016, Bufferyard Landscaping, along the street.
Figure 39.04.020-1 Illustrative Village Subdivision |
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(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.021 Recording of plat and dedication of improvements.
a.
Generally.
In addition to the Final Plat document, certain documents shall be provided before a Final Plat can be recorded. While some documents are required for all plats, others are only required when the circumstances and conditions of the plat require them. The Director of Planning shall notify the subdivider of the required documents. This Section provides detailed descriptions of certain documents that may be required before a Final Plat can be recorded.
b.
Required documents.
1.
Dedication deed or dedicatory certificate. A dedication deed or dedicatory certificate executed by all persons, firms, or corporations owning an interest in the property subdivided and platted and acknowledged in the manner prescribed by the laws of the state for conveyances of real property shall be submitted for each Final Plat. Two true copies shall be furnished with the original. The dedication deed shall include the following information:
A.
Spouses and homesteads. The spouses of any married party executing such dedication deed shall join with their spouses therein unless satisfactory proof is provided showing that the property to be subdivided is the sole and separate property of the spouse signing such deed and that such property does not constitute any portion of such party's homestead, in which case the instrument of dedication shall state the fact that the property subdivided and platted does not constitute a part of such party's homestead;
B.
Subordination agreement. The lienholder shall execute a subordination agreement subordinating their liens or enter into the dedication or granting, if any, of all public streets, alleys, parks, public easements, and any other public areas shown on the plat of such subdivision are being designated for public uses and purposes;
C.
An accurate description of the tract of land subdivided;
D.
A statement and express representation that the parties joining in such dedication deed are the sole owners of such tract of land;
E.
An express dedication, if any, to the public for public use forever of any streets, alleys, rights-of-way, stormwater drainage and impoundment easements, parks, public easements, or other public places shown within the proposed plat boundary; and
F.
A positive reference and identification of the plat of such subdivision by the name of such subdivision, date of the plat, and name of surveyor preparing the plat.
2.
Certificate of ownership. A certificate of ownership statement prepared by a qualified attorney or title insurance company licensed to do business in Texas shall be submitted with each Final Plat certifying that the title to the property has been examined and naming all owners, lienholders, and recorded encumbrances of said tract of land.
3.
Tax certificate. A current tax certificate from the Lubbock Central Appraisal District is required with each Final Plat showing that all taxes have been paid on the tract to be subdivided and that no delinquent taxes exist against the property in accordance with Texas Property Code Section 12.002(E).
4.
Final drainage plan. If required, a final drainage plan and analysis that meets the requirements of the Drainage Criteria Manual and Master Drainage Plan and has been approved by the City Engineer.
5.
Other documents. Such other ordinances, protective covenants, certificates, affidavits, endorsements, dedications, grants of use by separate instrument, and closures and abandonments as may be required for the enforcement of these regulations shall be provided as separate instruments to be recorded with the plat. Other plat-associated documents, such as subdivision deed restrictions, may be recorded with the plat if the subdivider chooses.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2024-O0110 adopted 8/27/2024)
§ 39.04.022 Acceptance and maintenance.
a.
Construction inspections.
1.
Engineer and contractor duties. The subdivider's engineer shall design, and help interpret, the plans during the construction of municipal improvements. The subdivider's engineer or surveyor shall stake the project. The subdivider's contractor shall construct the improvements in accordance with this Article and approved construction plans.
2.
City engineer inspection. The City Engineer shall inspect any and all phases of construction in accordance with Chapter 22 and Chapter 26 [sic] of the Code of Ordinances.
3.
Stop-work order. The City Engineer may, at any time, issue a stop-work order when, in his or her judgment, the requirements of this Article or of the Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications have been violated. The City shall notify the property owner/developer and the project engineer in writing (letter or email) of the stop work order and the reason of such.
b.
Procedure for acceptance.
1.
Required documents. When construction of the required improvements is complete, the subdivider's licensed professional engineer shall notify the City Engineer in writing and request an inspection of the work.
2.
Initial inspection. The City Engineer shall inspect the improvements and issue a punch list of any deficiencies.
3.
Existing conditions. The inspection shall document the existing condition of all public improvements and appurtenances. The public improvements and appurtenances must be in strict compliance with all federal, state, county, and applicable municipal regulations, codes, statutes, and policies in effect at the time of the request for acceptance.
4.
Scheduling final inspection. The subdivider shall schedule the final inspection within 30 days of the initial inspection or a complete reinspection may be required along with a new punch list of deficiencies.
5.
Preliminary acceptance. After all deficiencies have been corrected and a final inspection has been satisfactorily completed, the City Engineer shall accept the improvements.
6.
Remedies. The City Engineer shall not preliminarily accept any further improvements until the subdivider remedies all noted deficiencies.
c.
Release of bond.
The City Engineer shall release the performance bond, if applicable, when all applicable public improvements are accepted into the City maintenance system.
d.
Plat approval.
Plat approval shall not obligate the City to accept or maintain improvements until the City Engineer has accepted such improvements.
e.
Required maintenance of improvements.
1.
The subdivider shall maintain all improvements for a period of one year following acceptance. Such one-year period of required maintenance shall not begin until the applicant files with the City either a:
A.
Maintenance bond, executed by a surety company licensed to do business in the State of Texas and acceptable to the City Attorney, in an amount as set forth in Table 39.04.022-1, Maintenance Bond Amounts, below, warranting that said improvements will render satisfactory operation for such one-year period;
B.
Cash bond, in an amount equal to 100 percent of the cost of installation of such improvements, likewise warranting that said improvements will render satisfactory operation for such one-year period; or
C.
Irrevocable letter of credit, in an amount equal to 100 percent of the cost of installation of such improvements, likewise warranting that said improvements will render satisfactory operation for such one-year period, on a form with the bank's letterhead, and in a format approved by the City Attorney.
Table 39.04.022-1 Maintenance Bond Amounts | |
|---|---|
Cost of Improvement Construction | Bond Value as a Percent of Construction Cost or Fixed Bond |
$0.00–$25,000.00 | 100% |
$25,000.01–$50,000.00 | 75% |
$50,000.01–$75,000.00 | 50% |
$75,000.01–$100,000.00 | 25% |
$100,000.01–$1,000,000.00 | 20% |
$1,000,000.01–$5,000,000.00 | 10% (minimum $200,000) |
$5,000,000.01 or more | $500,000 |
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)
§ 39.04.023 Required notices on final plats and certificates.
Final Plats and certificates shall contain all of the notice information required in Section 39.07.041 of the UDC.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2023-O0132 adopted 10/10/2023)
§ 39.04.024 Required notice for final plats containing lake or flood risk areas.
a.
When any portion of a proposed plat contains a lake or other flood risk area identified on the Federal Emergency Management Agency flood hazard maps, the following notice shall be printed on the face of the final plat:
b.
If any portion of a lake area is included in a proposed final plat, such areas shall be designated as a stormwater drainage and impoundment easement.
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023; Ordinance 2023-O0132 adopted 10/10/2023)
§ 39.04.025 Required notice for plats approved by director of planning.
The following certificate of approval by the Director of Planning shall be placed on every plat receiving final approval by the Director of Planning and signed prior to recording of the plat documents at the courthouse:
Approved this _____ day of _____, 20 _____, by the Director of Planning of the City of Lubbock, Texas. ____________________ Director of Planning |
(Ordinance 2023-O0054 adopted 5/9/2023)