Council amends zoning code to implement state small‑lot rules; requires rear access for lots under 40 feet

The Killeen City Council on Aug. 19 adopted a package of amendments to Chapter 31 of the city code intended to align Killeen zoning with new Texas legislation that takes effect Sept. 1. The ordinance adds signage and website-notification requirements for rezoning applications, updates protest and home-occupation language required by state law, allows multifamily and vertical mixed-use residential in business districts in areas more than 3,000 feet from military and airport zones, and establishes minimum standards for “small lots” created under Senate Bill 15.

Key change: the council approved a staff recommendation — amended during debate — that properties with a lot width under 40 feet must provide the required on-site parking and any garage access from the rear via an alley. The council’s final approval directs staff to consult developers and return with refinements as needed.

Why it matters: The legislature’s 2025 bills directed cities to permit smaller residential lots and to allow multifamily/mixed uses in business districts; cities must update local rules to remain compliant. Council members and developers debated trade-offs between preserving neighborhood character and enabling lower-cost housing options.

Substantive provisions adopted:
- Notification and signage: applicants must erect a sign (24x48 inches minimum) on property before the planning commission hearing and the city will post hearings online at least 15 days in advance in accordance with HB 24.
- Multifamily/mixed use: residential uses of three or more units permitted in commercial districts unless within 3,000 feet of an airport or military installation as required by SB 840.
- Small-lot technical standards (in line with SB 15): minimum lot area 3,000 sq ft, minimum lot width 30 ft, lot depth 75 ft, front setback 15 ft, side setbacks 5 ft, rear setback 10 ft; impermeable surface capped at 70 percent; architectural enhancements required for front elevations; one on-site parking space per dwelling unit required, with the council specifying alley-loaded access for lots under 40 ft.

Council and public input: The ordinance drew the meeting’s longest public discussion. Developers, builders and housing advocates urged flexibility and options to preserve affordability; neighborhood residents urged safeguards to protect character, infrastructure and safety. Planning & Zoning recommended approval; the council voted 5–0 to adopt the ordinance with the 40‑foot alley-loading modification and directed staff to solicit additional developer input and return with any technical refinements.

Implementation and next steps: Staff will implement the new sign and website-notice process and revise the zoning code language. The council asked staff to engage developers quickly and return with refinements for council consideration by the next meeting cycle.