Do I need special approval for my use?

Check the Land Use Matrix letter for your use and district. P means permitted outright. L means allowed only if the objective use standards in Chapter 5 are met, with no hearing. C means a conditional use permit is required under Sec. 2.8.3.1: the Planning and Zoning Commission decides after a public hearing, subject to appeal to City Council, except that CUPs for on premise alcohol consumption and purpose built student housing go to City Council after a commission recommendation. Approval turns on Comprehensive Plan consistency and compatibility with surrounding properties (Sec. 2.8.3.4), conditions can be attached, and the permit covers only that use on that property. A use missing from the matrix is not allowed in any district without a formal use classification under Sec. 5.1.1.1. San Marcos zoning applies inside the incorporated city limits only; Texas counties do not zone, and ETJ parcels have no municipal zoning. A further Development Code update was adopted on second reading June 16, 2026 but is not yet published, so confirm current standards with the Planning Division at 512-393-8230 before design, purchase, leasing, or permitting decisions.