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Denton, TX Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Certificate required for
new builds, facade changes, demolition, signs
Min. new facade height
2 stories
Max. new facade height
2 stories / 45 ft
Review authority
City Director / Council

Summary

Denton requires a Certificate of Design Consistency for new construction, exterior changes, or demolition anywhere in the Denton Square District downtown.

It shall be unlawful for any person to do, or allow or cause any other person to do, any of the

following work on property located within the district, without first applying for and receiving a Certificate of Design Consistency under the terms of Section 2.10.1.D.3 of the Denton Development Code:

1. Construction of a new building or making an addition to an existing building.

2. Redeveloping, reconstructing, altering, changing, or restoring the exterior of any existing

building

3. Demolition of an existing building or fa�ade

4. Construction or reconstruction of a parking lot.

5. New sign or mural.

6. Ordinary maintenance to the exterior of an existing building, as defined in this Subchapter. Changes to the interior of buildings do not require a Certificate of Design Consistency.

Denton, Texas - Denton Development Code 242

Print Date: July 2, 2026 Subchapter 4: Overlay and Historic Districts

View official code

Full Breakdown

The Denton Square District ("The Square") design standards apply to property around the historic courthouse square. Owners must get a Certificate of Design Consistency before building new structures, altering or demolishing exterior facades, building or rebuilding parking lots, or adding a sign or mural. New building facades fronting the Square Proper must be at least two stories and cannot exceed two stories or 45 feet in height.

Violations & Fines

Doing covered work without a Certificate of Design Consistency is unlawful under DDC § 4.10.5; the Director or City Council can deny or condition approval for non-compliance with the district's design standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do interior remodels need a Certificate of Design Consistency?
No. DDC § 4.10.5 exempts interior-only changes; only exterior work, new construction, demolition, parking lots, and signs/murals require it.
How tall can a new building be on the Square?
New facades fronting the Square Proper must be a minimum of two stories and cannot exceed two stories or 45 feet, per DDC § 4.10.7.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Denton

Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSignificant RestrictionsDensity Bonus LawSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant Restrictions

All Denton rules

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