About Us: The Planning and Development Department is responsible for providing research, data, mapping and analysis to residents, businesses, organizations, neighborhoods and decision-makers; providing tools and resources to strengthen and increase the long-term viability of neighborhoods and preserve historical attributes of our community; and enforcing land development standards and managing boundary changes in Houston and the extra territorial jurisdiction. Read more about our divisions, programs and services.
Scroll through the slides to see what's happening in the Planning and Development Department.
Meetings: Stay tuned to our program webpages for information about meeting dates and how you can participate.
Services
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
The City of Houston has a code of ordinances that govern how property can be developed. The Department uses these rules to check for compliance on subdivision plats, development site plans, parking applications, sidewalk modifications, and more. Learn about the different regulations, submit an application, check PlatTracker or make a recordation appointment on the Development Regulations page
SIDEWALK REQUIREMENTS
The Planning & Development Department reviews sidewalk widths and applications for sidewalk modifications. These standards enhance walkability and improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians. Read more about the Sidewalk Network Ordinance, regulations and applications for modifications and the fee in lieu of sidewalk construction.
DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES
Ordinance Chapters 42 & 26
Development incentives that arose from the Livable Places initiative created opportunities in the development standards to encourage housing variety and affordability. Learn more about ordinance changes to Chapters 42 and 26.
2025 MAJOR THOROUGHFARE & FREEWAY PLAN (MTFP)
The Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan is a long-range plan to preserve adequate right-of-way for the orderly and efficient expansion of the transportation network. The MTFP is updated annually through a process that begins in January and ends in September. Learn more about the MTFP.
HOUSTON MAP VIEWER
Use the Houston Map Viewer and browse through the layers to search addresses, City limit boundaries, platting, Council Districts, Historic Districts, Neighborhood, transportation and public safety service, flood hazards and much more.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION / District Guidelines
The Houston Office of Preservation and Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission are stewards to Houston’s historical heritage. This office oversees the creation of historic districts, landmarks and reviews requests for any new construction, demolition, or alterations to historic structures.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Need a quick data snapshot of a Council District or a Super Neighborhood? The Demographic Dashboard uses U.S. Census Bureau data to provide information on population, housing, employment, income, and other key statistics for a selected geographic area.
OFF-STREET PARKING
This downloadable guide explains when and how much parking is required for your build. It provides direct links to frequently used sections of our website.
MINIMUM LOT SIZE
MINIMUM BUILDING LINE
These designations allow property owners to preserve the lot size and building line character of their neighborhoods, ensuring that future buildings conform to those standards. Learn more about the requirements and process to apply for Minimum Lot Size and Minimum Building Line .
HOUSTON BIKE PLAN
BICYCLE ADVISORY COMITTEE
Almost 1,800 miles of high-comfort bikeways are planned for the City of Houston. Explore the full network guiding the implementation of the Houston Bike Plan, including the Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC). Attend a BAC public meeting to get involved.
