Urban Design District-Downtown (DUDD) Standards in Fort Worth
The Urban Design District-Downtown (DUDD) in the City of Fort Worth functions as a supplemental overlay where specific design guidelines supersede conflicting base zoning standards for new construction and exterior renovations. While the underlying district determines permitted uses, a Certificate of Appropriateness approved by the Downtown Design Review Board is required for all significant property developments, and off-premises signage is strictly prohibited.
Nature and Purpose of the DUDD Overlay
The City of Fort Worth established the Urban Design District-Downtown (DUDD) as a zoning overlay to supplement the primary underlying zoning district classifications within the downtown area. The primary objective of the City of Fort Worth in implementing this overlay is to establish high design standards for new construction and renovations to protect the unique character of downtown, encourage economic growth, and safeguard property values [§ 4.402(a), (c)].
Modification of Base District Standards
The Urban Design District-Downtown (DUDD) does not replace the base zoning but adds a layer of regulatory requirements. The following table outlines how the City of Fort Worth manages the relationship between the overlay and the base zoning:
| Standard Category | Modification Details |
|---|---|
| Permitted Uses | Uses are determined and controlled by the regulations set forth for the primary (base) zoning district classification of the property [§ 4.402(c)]. |
| Design Requirements | All projects are subject to the "Downtown Urban Design Standards and Guidelines." In any instance of conflict between these guidelines and other zoning provisions, the design standards control [§ 4.402(c), (d)]. |
| Signage | Properties within the DUDD are generally exempt from standard city sign regulations in favor of pertinent district-specific standards. Off-premises signs are explicitly prohibited [§ 6.407(e)]. |
| Review Authority | The Downtown Design Review Board (DDRB) has the authority to enforce standards and guidelines for new construction and renovations [§ 2.104(e)]. |
The Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) Process
Within the boundaries of the Urban Design District-Downtown, a property owner must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the City of Fort Worth planning and development department. This certificate serves as a formal finding that the proposed work complies with the Downtown Urban Design Standards and Guidelines. A COA is a mandatory condition for the issuance of building permits for the following activities [§ 4.402(e)]:
- Construction of any new structure.
- Expansion of an existing structure.
- Renovation, remodeling, or any other alterations to the exterior of an existing structure.
- Construction of a surface parking lot.
Pre-Design Conference
Before filing an application for a COA, the City of Fort Worth requires a pre-design conference with the development services director. The applicant must submit two copies of a site plan showing footprints of all structures, proposed footprints, building setbacks, location of parking and landscape areas, and building elevations for all sides of the structure [§ 4.402(f)].
Administrative and Appeal Bodies
The City of Fort Worth utilizes two primary bodies to oversee the Urban Design District-Downtown:
Downtown Design Review Board (DDRB)
The DDRB is composed of seven members and one alternate member who are residents of the City of Fort Worth. The board must include professionals from specific categories, such as architects, downtown business owners, and real estate professionals. A minimum of four affirmative votes is required to approve a COA or to propose amendments to the DUDD standards [§ 2.104(a), (f)].
Board of Adjustment (BOA)
If the development services director or the DDRB renders a decision that an applicant wishes to contest, the appeal is heard by the City of Fort Worth Board of Adjustment. The Board of Adjustment applies a "substantial evidence test" to the decision of the DDRB. A hearing must be scheduled within 30 days of the receipt of the notice of appeal [§ 4.402(i)].
Sections Cited
- Section 2.104 Downtown Design Review Board
- Section 4.402 Urban Design District-Downtown
- Section 6.407 Relation to Zoning Districts