San Angelo Proposes Zoning Reforms to Increase Affordable Housing Supply

SAN ANGELO, TX — City planners are recommending changes to San Angelo’s zoning ordinance to make building affordable homes easier and more practical. 

The issue was discussed Tuesday as the final item on the City Council’s regular agenda following a recent housing study that identified a shortage of affordable options. Builders told officials that existing single-family restrictions have made new construction difficult. 

Lead Planner Rae Lineberry said the proposals would create new, smaller zoning districts to support more affordable development. 

The changes are expected to reduce infrastructure costs through smaller lot sizes, allow more compact homes that are easier to build and maintain, and streamline approvals so property owners can rezone without multiple board reviews. 

Many local lots are already smaller than the standard 50-by-100-foot size. Planners also want to remove Floor Area Ratio restrictions to give owners greater flexibility. 

If approved, the updates would establish additional residential zoning districts and support a wider range of affordable housing types. Council gave direction Tuesday and is scheduled to vote on the proposals April 21.