HomeMy WebLinkAbout12112025 ZPC Agenda Item 5 City of
West University Place Community Development
To: The Zoning and Planning Commission
From: Chris Guess, Planning and Zoning Administrator
Date: December 11,2025
Re: Council Action Items (Planning and Zoning Commission)
Background Information:
At its meeting on December 8, 2025,the City Council of the City of West University Place identified several
items requiring review, revision, and recommendation by the Zoning and Planning Commission(ZPC). The
Council frequently relies on the ZPC to evaluate proposed changes, ensure consistency within the City's
regulatory framework, and develop recommendations for policy or ordinance updates.
The purpose of this agenda item is to formally introduce the assigned topics, establish priorities, and outline
an approach for addressing each request in an organized and timely manner.
Council Appointed Items:
1. Sexually Oriented Businesses (SOBs)
• City Council plans further discussion on the fee schedule on January 26.
• ZPC is requested to review the City's existing regulations and determine whether updates are
warranted for the broader category of"restricted businesses."
2. Various Restricted Businesses
Council has requested review and potential recommendations concerning the following regulated
enterprises:
• Pawn Shops
• Predatory Lending Establishments (Payday and Auto-Title Lenders)
• Head Shops (Retail Stores Selling Paraphernalia)
• Washaterias (Self-Service Laundromats)
• Tattoo and Body Art Studios
3. Yard Art and Sculptures
• Current ordinances do not expressly address "sculptures."
• ZPC is requested to evaluate and recommend regulations governing outdoor yard art and sculptural
installations.
4. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Review existing standards for ADUs, including location requirements and property placement, and
recommend any needed updates.
5. Lighting Ordinance
3826 Amherst St. www.westutx.gov
West University Place, TX 77005
713-662-5830
City of
West University Place Community Development
• Review the current lighting regulations with the goal of simplifying standards relating to light
trespass and the use of seasonal lighting displays.
6. Kirby Drive Zoning and Land Use Review
• Examine planned development associated with the Rice Village Management District and the Rice
Greenway Project, covering the area from Times Street to University Boulevard.
• Determine potential impacts on the City's eastern boundary and adjacent residential areas.
7. Exterior Beautification
• Council noted concerns on December 8 regarding deteriorated or failing fencing along Bissonnet
Street.
• ZPC is asked to review and advise on potential regulatory or programmatic responses.
Methodology:
For each assigned topic, staff will present the relevant municipal code provisions, along with any applicable
state laws or limitations that may affect the scope of local regulation. Some areas have been expressly
preempted or constrained by state action, and those limitations will be clearly identified for the
Commission's consideration.
Upon completion of the review process, staff will prepare a comprehensive report to City Council
summarizing the Commission's findings, recommendations, and any proposed ordinance amendments or
accompanying documents.
3826 Amherst St. www.westutx.gov
West University Place, TX 77005
713-662-5830