Codes & Ordinances

San Marcos Development Code

The City of San Marcos adopted a new Development Code on April 17, 2018. This new development code is the result of the Code SMTX process. Code SMTX was a four-year community collaboration that has provided San Marcos with a better tool kit for managing growth that is in line with Vision San Marcos Comprehensive Plan.

View a pdf version of the San Marcos Development Code:

San Marcos Development Code - Ordinance #2020-60 Effective September 1, 2020

Design Manual

The San Marcos Design Manual should be used as an aide in meeting the design related standards of the new San Marcos Development Code. The Design Manual addresses the following:

A. Design Guidelines
  • Downtown 
  • Midtown 
  • Signs
  • Master Planned Communities
B. Street Design
  • Parklets
  • Sidewalk Cafes
  • Gateway Features
  • Downtown and Midtown Streetscapes
C. Historic Guidelines
  • Commercial 
  • Residential
  • Signage
  • Sustainability
D. Planting Guidelines
  • Guidelines
  • Preferred Plant List

Engineering Design and Construction Guide