Austin Land Development Code offers multiple density-bonus programs, including the citywide Affordability Unlocked program adopted in 2019, allowing developers to exceed base zoning if they reserve at least 50 percent of units for affordable rents.
Austin Code Title 25-2 contains over a dozen density-bonus programs: Downtown Density Bonus, North Burnet Gateway, East Riverside Corridor, University Neighborhood Overlay, Vertical Mixed Use, Affordable Housing Bonus Program (AHBP), and the citywide Affordability Unlocked. Affordability Unlocked, adopted by Council May 2019, lets projects modify height, setbacks, parking, density, and impervious cover if at least 50 percent of units are restricted affordable: 75 percent at 80 percent area median income for ownership tiers or 60 percent AMI for rental, with deeper Type Two requirements. Bonuses scale with affordability level. Austin Housing Department administers compliance. AEGB rating minimums and Imagine Austin alignment are required.
Failure to maintain affordability covenants triggers loss of bonus entitlements, return of zoning to base, and Austin Housing Department enforcement actions including civil penalties and mortgage acceleration. Misrepresented income certifications can void deals.
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