Background

Current code requires that when a property owner submits a site development permit application, they must dedicate a public drainage easement encompassing the 100-year floodplain located on the property. The code already includes provisions allowing the Director to grant an administrative variance under certain circumstances. The proposed amendment would add a provision allowing an administrative variance for projects that are proposed on City-owned parkland. This change would improve fiscal and administrative efficiency for public park development and capital projects. The Parks and Recreation Department and Watershed Protection Department are in longstanding agreement that this change is appropriate and beneficial. Currently, each parkland development project must provide evidence of this agreement to apply for and receive a variance individually. Codifying this exception will streamline the process and reduce unnecessary administrative work for both departments Current code requires that when a property owner submits a site development permit application, they must dedicate a public drainage easement encompassing the 100-year floodplain located on the property. The code already includes provisions allowing the Director to grant an administrative variance under certain circumstances. The proposed amendment would add a provision allowing an administrative variance for projects that are proposed on City-owned parkland. This change would improve fiscal and administrative efficiency for public park development and capital projects. The Parks and Recreation Department and Watershed Protection Department are in longstanding agreement that this change is appropriate and beneficial. Currently, each parkland development project must provide evidence of this agreement to apply for and receive a variance individually. Codifying this exception will streamline the process and reduce unnecessary administrative work for both departments.

Summary of Proposed Amendment

Amendment to 25-7-152 (E) as related to parkland drainage easements. The proposed amendment would allow an administrative variance for drainage easements associated with development projects on parkland owned by the City of Austin. If ever the subject property were sold through a Chapter 26 process and voter referendum, the new property owner would be required to dedicate the easement as part of any future development per the code.

Anticipated community benefits: 

• Reduction in site plan review time and staff time 
• Improvements to fiscal efficiency and responsibility on public parkland projects 

Review and Adoption Timeline

• Nov. 12, 2025: To be reviewed by Code and Ordinances Joint Committee
• Dec. 9, 2025: To be reviewed by Planning Commission
• Jan. 22, 2025: To be reviewed by City Council

Case Manager Contact

Kevin Shunk, Austin Watershed Protection, Kevin.Shunk@austintexas.gov

D’Anne Williams, Austin Parks and Recreation, Danne.Williams@austintexas.gov

Leslie Lilly, Austin Watershed Protection, leslie.lilly@austintexas.gov

Sean Watson, Austin Watershed Protection, sean.watson@austintexas.gov