Source: Texas Masonry Council, Houston
The Nolanville (Texas) City Council approved a Planning and Zoning Commission-recommended ordinance requiring masonry materials for 85 percent and 80 percent of new nonresidential and residential buildings’ front elevations, respectively, and 75 percent for side elevations in each category.
“Masonry requirements will help our tax base retain or increase its value over the long term, and this will help ensure that the city can provide the public services our growing population demands,” said Council Member Duane Hampton.
The standards will help shape future development in a way that protects and preserves the character of Nolanville, added City Manager Stephen Pearl, “and can better prepare buildings in the event of natural disasters such as high winds and fire, while in the long run minimizing maintenance costs. [Our] goal is to increase the quality, adaptability, and durability of development and ensure that new areas maintain their value and are sustainable for years to come.”
Located about midpoint between Dallas and San Antonio, Nolanville’s population roughly doubled in the last decade toward 4,300, according to the U.S. Census. The city joins 150-plus Texas communities that have adopted ordinances or guidelines stipulating masonry in new construction.