Use vs. Zoning
This is one of the most common misconceptions that I run into. Just because a use is allowed in a certain zoning, it doesn’t mean the use doesn’t matter. There are significant differences in the process with the city if you are changing use.
Not all uses are created equal because of the amount of traffic they draw as well as the activity and flow of customers.
Key Links’
Small business permitting overview
https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/small-business-permitting
“Change of Use
As a small business, you may need to undergo the Change of Use process to obtain an updated Certificate of Occupancy that reflects your planned use for the unit. This process may include a Site Plan Exemption and Building Plan Review.
As of Oct. 1, 2025, reviews have been reduced from 11 disciplines to three, shortening the typical timeline from two months to about two weeks. These improvements benefit anyone looking to open or expand a business in Austin.
If you have questions about the Change of Use process for your business, schedule an appointment with Land Use Assistance using the Commercial and Multi-Family Zoning (Land Use) Questions type.”
Commercial Plan Review
https://www.austintexas.gov/development-services/commercial-plan-review
Change of Use with no remodel
Change of use with remodel
Site plan exemption request form:
https://austin.widen.net/s/mbk6dl2zrv/lua_siteplanexemptionrequestprocessandform
Austin Public Health (Food Establishments, Pool/Spa)
Things to look at when considering development or redevelopment projects:
Street Impact Fee Program:
https://www.austintexas.gov/transportation-public-works/programs/street-impact-fee-program
Why was SIF (Street Impact Fee Program) created?
The Street Impact Fee program was created to help cover the costs of expanding transportation infrastructure in an area experiencing increased development. SIF funds are only allowed by state law to be spent on increased capacity on arterial and collector roadways that serve the overall transportation network.
Water and Wastewater- Impact Fees or Capital Recovery Fees:
Impact fees, also known as Capital Recovery Fees, are an infrastructure financing mechanism for water, wastewater and reclaimed water system investments driven by growth. They help Austin Water keep service rates lower for existing customers by letting new growth pay for its share of infrastructure costs. In 2023, Austin City Council passed an ordinance updating the impact fees Austin Water may assess. The vote followed more than a year of public outreach and stakeholder input coordinated through the Impact Fee Advisory Committee.
