Be Aware of New Neighborhood Design Requirements in Frisco
On Nov. 26, Frisco City Council passed amendments to the city’s comprehensive zoning ordinance, subdivision ordinance, fence ordinance and engineering standards.
Throughout the process, Dallas BA weighed in with builder and developer concerns. Among those concerns were those regarding proposed increases to garage setbacks and setbacks for trails along major creeks or on the city’s master hike-and-bike plan.
The original amendment for garage setbacks would have increased to 15 feet from the front face of the house or porch. Dallas BA input resulted in this mandate being changed to an option where the porch can extend 15 feet into the front yard setback. If the option is taken, then the garage would be set back. The porch would require a minimum dimension of 7 feet in depth.
Even bigger concerns were those related to the required setbacks for trails along major creeks that are designated by the city’s master hike-and-bike plan.
The original amendment would have required a setback of over 150 feet from the flood plain and the residential lot. Dallas BA raised the issue of the loss of developable land to City Council. The amendment has now changed to having the setback between what is called an erosion hazard setback or line and the property line that averages 100 feet along the frontage of the creek, with a minimum of 30 feet. Developers can apply for a waiver depending on site conditions.
Due to the requirement that trails on the hike-and-bike master plan be set within a 100-foot area, it will limit how such trails can be placed between residential properties.
The city has indicated that trails in these situations would be applicable for credits towards park land dedication.