Page 14 - San Marcos, TX Development Code

4 C H A PT E R Zoning regulations

Figure 4.17 Measuring transparency 2. Substantial material change means a change between
exterior building materials such as wood, metal, glass,
brick, architectural block, stone or stucco. Substantial
material change should occur at an inside corner, where
feasible. Paint color is not a substantial material change.

3. Four-Sided Design: Ensure a pedestrian-oriented
Ceiling structure environment around all four sides of a building by
designing a building to minimize the blank wall space and
include architectural detail, although the degree of detail
may vary depending on the location of a wall. Reference
Finished Floor the Design Guidelines in the Design Manual for additional
information regarding four-sided design.

C. Intent

C. Alternative Compliance Findings. The Planning and Zoning 1. The blank wall area regulations are intended to prevent
Commission may in accordance with Section 2.8.4.1 modify large, monotonous expanses of undifferentiated building
the required transparency, subject to all of the following mass; and
findings:
2. The level of architectural detail should be most intense at
1. The approved alternate meets the intent of the the street level, where it is within view of the pedestrians
transparency requirements; on the sidewalk.

2. The approved alternate conforms with the Comprehensive D. General Requirements
Plan and adopted City plans; and
1. The blank wall area standard applies to any portion of an
3. The street-facing building facade utilizes other architectural exterior facade.
treatments to create visual interest to offset the reduction
in transparency; and 2. Blank wall area applies in both a vertical and horizontal
direction.
4. In CD-5D and the five downtown Design Contexts, the
approved alternate conforms to the Downtown Design 3. Blank wall area applies to both ground and upper stories.
Guidelines and reflects historic precedent. Figure 4.18 Blank Wall Area

Section 4.3.5.3 Blank Wall Area

A. Applicability. Applicability can be found in Division 6, Building
Type Standards.
B. Defined

1. Blank wall area means any portion of the exterior facade
of the building that does not include a substantial material
change; such as windows or doors, or one of the
expression tools included in Section 4.3.5.4 or one of the
building elements included in Section 4.3.5.10. E. Alternative Compliance Findings. The Planning and Zoning
Commission may in accordance with Section 2.8.4.1 approve

4:32 San Marcos Development Code Downtown Design Final Draft: March 2021