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1. How can I find the zoning district on my property?

You can locate the zoning district for your property using the City of Missouri City’s interactive Zoning Map. The interactive Zoning Map allows you to input an address and/or select a location to obtain applicable zoning information pertaining to a property. A zoning quick reference guide (PDF) is also available that summarizes the uses, maximum building heights; minimum building yards (setbacks), and lot and density information as applicable for zoning use districts. If a property has a zoning of specific use permit (SUP) or planned development (PD) district, please email the Development Services Department - Planning and Development division for information specific to those zoning classifications.

2. What is the process for a zoning change?

Zoning districts and regulations have been established in Missouri City, Texas to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the city and its inhabitants. All land within the city has a zoning classification or is zoned into a zoning use district. The process to consider amending the zoning classification or zoning use district is summarized below.

• Research and Investigation: Prior to submitting an application to amend the zoning classification or zoning use district of a property, you should first find the current zoning regulations applicable to the property.  
• Pre-Application Conference: Before submitting certain development applications, a pre-application conference with the development review team is required.  A pre-application conference brings together relevant City of Missouri City departments/divisions including Planning; Engineering; Building; Fire; Parks; and Economic Development, as applicable to assist interested persons in applicable city-adopted regulations; resources; goals; and objectives. A pre-application conference helps to gather information, clarify requirements, and provide feedback on a proposed development.  A pre-application conference can also provide an opportunity to address concerns or potential issues early in the process.
• Application for Zoning Amendment (PDF): Once the necessary research, discussion, and pre-application conference have been completed, an application for zoning amendment may be submitted via the city’s online system, MCTX Self Service. Zoning amendment applications are received on a published submittal schedule. All items identified during the pre-application conference and indicated on the submittal checklist and applicable fees must be provided for a complete application.
• Public Notices and Hearings: As part of the zoning amendment application process, at least two public hearings will be scheduled; one before the Planning and Zoning Commission and another before the City Council. Prior to the public hearing dates, the city will mail notice of the public hearing(s) to property owners within 250 feet of a property subject to zoning and other interested parties about the proposed zoning amendment.  The city only mails notice of a public hearing to property owners of property within the incorporated limits of the city. The city may also place zoning sign(s) on the subject property. Notice of the City Council public hearing will also be published in the city’s newspaper of record.  Any member of the public may provide comments for or against a zoning amendment request while the application is active and before a final decision is made. Public comments may be received during the public hearings and/or in writing. A summary of Current Zoning Applications Filed with the City of Missouri City may be found online.
• Review and Evaluation: All applications for zoning amendment are evaluated by city staff, taking into account factors such as the policies and goals of the city’s Comprehensive Plan; land use compatibility, environmental impacts, traffic considerations, and existing zoning regulations.  A recommendation on the proposed zoning amendment is provided by city staff to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The Planning and Zoning Commission receives staff’s recommendation as a preliminary report, holds a public hearing, and submits a final report and recommendation to the City Council for consideration.
• Decision Process: The City Council may not take action on an application for zoning amendment until the Planning and Zoning Commission has forwarded its final report. The City Council holds a public hearing and votes to approve or deny an ordinance allowing for a zoning amendment.  If approved, the city’s zoning map is updated to reflect the changed zoning district, and the decision is communicated in writing via a signed ordinance.
• Implementation: If the zoning amendment is approved, a property owner can then proceed with the development or use of the property in accordance with the new zoning designation.  This may involve platting the property and applying for additional permits or approvals related to building construction, site development, or other requirements specified by city regulations.

3. Can I have a business in my home?

Home Occupations are generally permitted with some restrictions. The City of Missouri City’s regulations on home occupations may be found online. Certain home occupations such as child care homes have additional requirements. A resident and/or homeowner should always confirm with their homeowner's association (HOA), as applicable as deed restrictions may be more restrictive than the city’s allowances.

4. Can I operate a group home in a residential zoning district?

The State of Texas' Community Homes for Persons With Disabilities Act requires the city to allow for the location of a community home (group home) that meets certain qualifications as a use-by-right in a residential zoning district. The City of Missouri City, Texas requires specific use permit (SUP) approval prior to the location of any group home not permitted as a use by-right in a residential zoning district. Please email the Development Services Department - Planning and Development Division with questions regarding the eligibility of a specific group home location.

5. What types of uses require specific use permit (SUP) approval?

Certain uses require SUP approval in addition to a certificate of zoning compliance. For a list of all uses that require SUP approval and the applicable zoning districts, please see Section 15.2, City of Missouri City Zoning Ordinance. SUP approval is a zoning process that requires the submission of an Application for Zoning Amendment.

6. What is the difference between Planning and Zoning?

Planning is the process of developing and implementing policies for the city’s growth; City planners work collaboratively with other professionals to ensure that the way in which buildings, roads, and parks develop are both attractive and convenient.

Zoning is the legal mechanism that helps enforce policies for the physical development and use of land. Zoning dictates where residential, industrial, recreational, commercial, and other activities can take place. Zoning helps to protect property values and investments.