DALLAS – November 5, 2026 marks an important milestone in the future of Dallas. The City of Dallas released Dallas Development Code Public Draft #1 (conversation draft) as part of the ongoing Dallas Zoning Reform initiative. Draft #1 is now available for public review at www.DallasZoningReform.com.
Earlier today, the City of Dallas Planning & Development Department, in partnership with Camiros, Ltd., briefed the City Plan Commission (CPC) on key elements of Draft #1 and upcoming opportunities for public engagement. The release of Draft #1 marks the beginning of a citywide conversation about the future of development in Dallas.
Why Is Dallas Updating the Development Code?
Our Dallas development code has not undergone a comprehensive update in more than 40 years. The last major update occurred in the 1980s, and while Dallas has grown and evolved significantly since then, many of the rules governing development have not kept pace.
Over time, the code has become complex through overlays, planned development districts (PDs), and other regulatory layers. Today, Dallas faces new challenges and opportunities, including housing affordability, changing development patterns, transportation needs, and evolving state and federal requirements. The Dallas Zoning Reform effort is an opportunity to modernize the code.
The Goal of Dallas Zoning Reform
The goal of Dallas Zoning Reform is to create a Development Code that is simple, clear, and future-ready. Draft #1 introduces a more streamlined format, making regulations easier to find, understand, and apply. It is designed to be more user-friendly for residents, businesses, developers, and City staff. It also incorporates the vision established in ForwardDallas 2.0, Dallas’ comprehensive land use policy.
Opportunities Presented in Draft #1
Draft #1 seeks to strike a thoughtful balance between preservation and development while creating new opportunities for Dallas residents, neighborhoods, and businesses. Key opportunities include:
- Balancing preservation and growth by protecting neighborhood character while accommodating Dallas’ future needs.
- Expanding housing opportunities and increasing housing choice while ensuring new development remains compatible with surrounding neighborhood(s).
- Ensuring separation of new heavy industrial land uses from residential zoning districts
- Simplifying mixed-use zoning to encourage walkable neighborhoods, vibrant commercial corridors, and redevelopment opportunities.
- Strengthening Dallas’ urban tree canopy through enhanced tree protections, healthier landscaping standards, improved streetscapes, and greater environmental sustainability.
- Improving the quality of development through updated design standards that prioritize safety and walkability.
Ways to Get Involved
Public input is a critical part of the Dallas Zoning Reform process. Draft #1, the Executive Summary and FAQs are available at www.DallasZoningReform.com. Residents, businesses, neighborhood organizations, community groups, developers, and stakeholders are encouraged to check out the Draft #1 and share their feedback. Comments received during this phase will help inform the development of Draft #2.
Ways to stay involved include:
- Attend a meeting
- Submit questions and feedback online
- Invite Dallas Zoning Reform to speak to your neighborhood organization or stakeholder group.
- Joining Email list at www.DallasZoningReform.com
A variety of engagement opportunities will be held including virtual Lunch & Learn sessions, in-person open houses, and public meetings where residents and stakeholders can learn more about the Draft #1, ask questions, and provide feedback.
Upcoming Engagement Opportunities
Virtual Lunch & Learn
November 18, 2026 12:00–1:30 p.m.
December 7, 2026 12:00–1:00 p.m.
January 8, 2027 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Neighborhood Summit featuring Dallas Zoning Reform Panel
November 20, 2026 9:15-10:15 Dallas Zoning Reform
In-Person Open Houses all held from 11-1pm and 4-7pm
Dallas City Hall Lobby December 14, 2026
Fretz Recreation Center December 15, 2026
Martin Weiss Rec Center December 16, 2026
Bachman Rec Center January 11, 2027
Pleasant Grove Library January 12, 2027
Harry Stone Rec Center January 13, 2027
Crest Golf Course January 14, 2027