You can almost go HOME

Starting on Feb. 5, the city’s Development Services Department will begin accepting applications related to the newly approved HOME amendments designed to allow more housing on single-family lots in the pursuit of a more affordable Austin. A message from the department explains that more communication about the implementation will be forthcoming and that:

• Current regulations will remain in effect for single-family residential projects.
• Residential building permit (BP) applications with two- and three-dwelling units will be reviewed under HOME amendments if submitted on or after Feb. 5, 2024.
• Residential BP applications submitted prior to Feb. 5, 2024, will be reviewed under pre-HOME (current) regulations unless an applicant submits an update on or after Feb. 5 that specifically opts into HOME amendments. Updates for this purpose are permitted only for two-unit projects; three-unit projects will require a new BP application for consideration under HOME.

Applicants who wish to have projects reviewed under current regulation should complete the Fair Notice Application process, selecting the vested rights application. Information about the amendments and their implementation will continue to be updated on the city’s website.