Orlando Zoning: TC/UTC Town Center/Urban Transit Center District
The TC/UTC Town Center/Urban Transit Center District is the primary destination for mixed-use development within the Southeast Orlando Sector Plan area. The City of Orlando established this district to provide a high-intensity urban fabric characterized by a "fine grain" mix of residential, employment, and entertainment uses. All development within the TC/UTC District must comply with the Traditional Design standards of the Orlando Code [Sections 58.470, 58.471, 58.473].
Purpose and Relationship to the Growth Management Plan
The TC/UTC District is specifically designed to implement Goal 4 of the City of Orlando Growth Management Plan (GMP), along with its associated objectives and policies. It serves as a regulatory tool to guide the growth and physical development of the Southeast Orlando Sector Plan area. By designating land under the TC/UTC classification, Orlando ensures that these areas develop as central hubs rather than auto-oriented corridors [Section 58.470].
Permitted Land Uses and District Character
The general character of the TC/UTC District is defined by its intensity and its commitment to an urban layout. The City of Orlando describes the district as the "primary destination" for a variety of activities. Unlike more traditional single-use districts, the TC/UTC District encourages a diverse environment where different uses function in close proximity.
According to the Orlando City Code, the TC/UTC District is intended to accommodate a "fine grain" mix of the following land uses:
- Living: High-density residential development.
- Working: Office and professional employment spaces.
- Shopping: Retail and commercial storefronts.
- Entertainment: Cultural and social venues.
The "urban fabric" of the district is defined by a gridded network of streets and blocks. In terms of physical scale, the City of Orlando designates the TC/UTC District as having the most intensive architectural character of all use classifications within the Southeast Orlando Plan area [Section 58.471].
Development and Design Standards
Development within the TC/UTC District is governed by "Traditional Design" principles. These standards prioritize pedestrian-oriented design over automobile-centric layouts. The Orlando City Code requires that all projects within this district adhere to the specific guidelines and standards set forth in Chapter 68 of the Code of Ordinances [Section 58.473].
TC/UTC District Character and Intensity Standards
| Standard Category | TC/UTC District Requirement |
|---|---|
| Primary Use Profile | Fine-grain mix of living, working, shopping, and entertainment |
| Development Fabric | Urban network of streets and blocks |
| Architectural Intensity | Most intensive of all uses in the Southeast Plan area |
| Governing Design Standards | Traditional Design Standards (Chapter 68) |
| Regional Context | Southeast Orlando Sector Plan Area |
[Sections 58.471, 58.473]
Sections Cited
- Section 58.470 - Relationship to the Growth Management Plan.
- Section 58.471 - Purpose of the District.
- Section 58.472 - Rezones and Zoning Map Applications.
- Section 58.473 - Additional District Requirements.