Thank you for 40 Years!

Tuesday, July 14, 2020 was a big day for SMFD Engineer Richard Howser.  It marked 40 years of service to the City of San Marcos and San Marcos Fire Department. 

He started on July 14, 1980. Richard is an extremely hard-worker and is a ver...

Citizens Fire Academy 2020 Cancelled

Because of the global coronavirus outbreak and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, we have no choice but to cancel this year’s Citizens Fire Academy. 

Applications for next year’s academy are being accepted. Please see the ...

SMFD COVID-19 Impact

A few updates from San Marcos Fire Department due to COVID-19 precautionary measures. 

At this time:

• Junior Fire Academy has been cancelled for this year
• Public Event Participation is suspended indefinetly
• Fire Stations are closed to any outside visi...

Sam's Club San Marcos Donates Hot Pizzas

Sam’s Club San Marcos once again proves to be an amazing community partner. Here they donate 15 hot pizzas to help feed the on-shift crew. Pictured is the Sam’s representative, Captain Garrett Jordan, and Captain Mo Orichuela. Thank yo...

Tanger Outlet Annual Donation

San Marcos Fire Department is a proud recipient of a generous $1,000.00 donation from Tanger Outlet Mall. 

From left to right are Tanger Outlets representative Allison Murphy, Dean Domingo, San Marcos Fire Marshal’s Office Administrative...

Turning Dirt for new Station #2

The City of San Marcos and San Marcos Fire Department is moving forward on replacing and relocating Fire Station 2.

The current station #2 was built in the 1950s and is located at Academy Street. The new station will move to Wonder World Drive and Ranch Ro...

Fire Department Online Request Form

Would you like to request a visit to or from the San Marcos Fire Department?

Click on the round "Schedule a Visit" button on our home page to submit your request using our online form. A minimum of two weeks advanced notice is required.

Many pancakes served at Pancakes with Santa

The Citizen's Fire Academy Alumni Association hosted their annual fundraiser Pancakes with Santa on Saturday morning, December 14, 2019 at San Marcos Fire Station #5.  There were many smiles when Santa arrived riding Ol' Betsy. Former Mayor Danie...

San Marcos Fire Department Open House was a success!

Open house is a free, annual event held on the first Saturday in October. The goal is to learn about fire prevention with fun interactive events and demonstrations with fire truck rides, vehicle rescue, and more.

9-11 Remembrance Ceremony Was Held

9-11 Remembrance Ceremony Was Held on Wednesday, September 11, 2019.The San Marcos Fire Department held a remembrance ceremony to commemorate the heroes and victims of 9-11 near the Fire Bell at San Marcos City Hall.

The program opened with a welc...

Swearing In Ceremony held at City Hall

A badge pinning ceremony took place at City Hall on Monday, August 19, 2019.  Two firefighters, Rudy Blasich & Joshua Jahns, took their oath of office as a solemn promise to defend the Constitution of the United States. Firefighter badges wer...

Successful Fan Drive

The San Marcos Fire Department has had a successful donation drive for the annual Family Eldercare Summer Fan Drive.  These will be donated to area seniors, people with disabilities, and households with children that are in financial need. Thanks...

SMFD Jr. Fire Academy

This summer's Jr. Fire Academy Summer Camp was a huge success. The kids learned about the various aspects of being a firefighter, life-saving techniques, fire safety and fire equipment. The SMFD hosted 48 children as part of their free summer camp program...

Annual SMFD Awards Ceremony

The Annual SMFD Awards Ceremony was held on May 31, 2019. Here are some highlights below: 

(From left to right) Fire Marshal, Kelly Kistner with Captains Clint Foehner and Jonathan Henderson, who received their Peace Officer badg...

New rules for mobile food units

Mobile Food Units that utilize propane must have an annual propane pressure test before being able to renew their Mobile Food Unit Permit.  Mobile Food Units currently permitted by the City who have grills, gas stoves, fryers, or other food equip...

Blanco Shoals Natural Area to Close July 9

Due to extreme levels of activity and crowding recorded over the recent weeks, we will be closing Blanco Shoals Natural Area beginning Thursday, July 9, at 8 p.m. Our other greenspaces and natural areas are open, but we urge you to please practice social ...

City Highlights Essential Services of Parks & Recreation

The City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department is celebrating July’s “Parks and Recreation Month,” by highlighting the selfless, passionate and essential work of park and recreation professionals who are providing ser...

50+ Virtual Recreation Page

There, you will find 50+ Enrichment Activities, where you can take a course from an Ivy League School. You can also learn a new language, read the Harvard Classics or listen to a TED Talk. Maybe explore Texas history, visit the Texas Capital or even visit...

San Marcos River Parks to Close at 8 p.m. Thursday June 25

The City of San Marcos river parks will be closed again until further notice as of 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 25. The Dog Park, Skate Park, neighborhood parks, and natural areas will remain open, but visitors to these areas should observe CDC recommendation...

Discovery Camp and Summer Fun Canceled for 2020

In response to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, the City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department has canceled the upcoming sessions of Summer Fun and Discovery Camp. Previously scheduled to start on July 13, both programs have been suspended for ...

San Marcos Announces Summer Program Updates

The City of San Marcos is announcing cancellations and tentative scheduling of summer programs in response to COVID-19 restrictions. Plans for annual summer programming for the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Library and Fire Department are below:...

City to Offer Remote Services as Public Lobbies, Counters Close Beginning March 20

In order to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) and per the Centers for Disease Control guidelines, the City of San Marcos is closing public-facing counters and most public facilities to entry from the public beginning Fri., March 20, 2...

Shared Use Pathway Project Construction Update

Next week, residents and park patrons will see construction along the San Marcos River and below the Cheatham Street bridge. Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) contractors will begin excavation to construct a below-grade crossing at Cheatham Stree...

San Marcos River Shared Use Pathway Project Underway

On Monday, Feb. 17 residents and park patrons will begin to see construction on a new ADA-compliant bicycle and pedestrian concrete trail in and around the areas of Children’s Park, Rio Vista Park and Ramon Lucio Park.

The trail will be a 1.7-mil...

April Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

The April 2^nd Historic Preservation Commission meeting has been cancelled by the City of San Marcos. With the number of commissioners, staff, and public expected to attend it has been determined that the current gathering order and social distancing techn...

March 24th P&Z Meeting Cancelled

The March 24^th Planning and Zoning Commission meeting has been cancelled by the City of San Marcos.  With the number of commissioners, staff, and public expected to attend it has been determined that the current gathering order and social distanc...

Citizen Comments - Planning & Zoning Commission

Citizens wishing to speak during the Citizen Comment Period at the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, March 24, 2020, may sign up in person at City Council Chambers beginning at 5:00 p.m.  Written comments may be sent to planninginfo@sanma...

Help the City of San Marcos decide the top priorities for CDBG funds

The City of San Marcos receives approximately $600,000 per year in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) federal funds. Every five years, City Council chooses the top priority categories for these funds through the Consolidated Plan process. From 2015-...

Notice of Demolition Review - 221 North Street

The Planning & Development Services Office received a demolition application for the carport at 221 North Street (Permit 2019-29699). The application is subject to the emergency demolition delay ordinance (Ordinance 2019-19) as the carport is part of ...

Thompson/Cape Dam and Ditch Engineering Structure Agenda Update

City Council will not be considering Thompson/Cape Dam and Ditch Engineering Structure for Historic Designation in tonight’s City Council Meeting. The agenda item has been postponed until January 29, 2019, after runoff elections when a full council can be...

New Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide Posted Online

The City’s Planning and Development Services Department has developed a comprehensive guide on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), or secondary living spaces constructed on single family lots, that is available online at www.sanmarcostx.gov/adu.

“We’ve receiv...

City Council Approves New San Marcos Development Code

“This is a day of celebration! Our new code has been in the works for four years, combining the efforts of City planners, citizens and stakeholders in a collaborative and transparent process involving numerous public meetings and presentations,” said Mayo...

Online Submittals

Online application submittals will be required moving forward. The move from paper to electronic files will also be a time saving tool for applicants. A kiosk is available in the Planning office for those applicants who do not have access to a computer, o...

2018 Preferred Scenario Amendment Schedule Available

The schedule for the 2018 Spring Preferred Scenario Amendment Process may be found HERE. The application deadline for this twice-per-year process is January 8, 2018. All applications for amendment to the Preferred Scenario Map may be made online at www.my...

Code SMTX - Adoption Process Begins

Code SMTX, the project to update the City’s land development code, continues to make progress and has moved into the approval stage. Find out more about how the Code is implementing the City’s Comprehensive Plan.

ZC-20-14 (101 & 103 Lockhart Street)

A Zoning Change Application from Duplex (D) to Neighborhood Density 3 (ND-3) has been submitted by Andrew Nance, on behalf of Ryan Bragg, for approximately .2938 acres consisting of lot 46 of the A.M. Ramsay Subdivision, Located at 101 & 103 Lockhart ...

ZC-20-15 (La Cima, Phase 2)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Single Family – 4.5 “SF-4.5” has been submitted by Natural Development Austin, LLC  on behalf of LCSM Ph 2, LLC for approximately 89.694...

ZC-20-10

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development (FD)” to Medium Intensity Planning Area has been submitted by Ed Theriot on behalf of McCoy Family Partnership One and Two, for approximately 109 acres out of the Barnett O. Kane, Cyrus Wickson...

ZC-20-11 (Lantana on Bastrop)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Character District-5 “CD-5” has been submitted by David Richardson, on behalf of Mark Tolley, Rattler Road Land Partners LLC, for approximately 10 acres, m...

ZC-20-13 (Redwood 3)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Single Family-6 “SF-6” has been submitted by James Ingalls, on behalf of Jim Smith, Smith Co. Redwood LLC, for approximately 80 acres, more or less, out of...

AN-20-04 (Centerpoint) and AN-20-05 (Palace Way)

• AN-20-04 (Centerpoint Annexation) Annexation of 9.160 +/- acres out of the Edward Burleson Survey No. 18, Abstract No. 63, Hays County, generally located generally located in the 400 Block of Centerpoint Road. To track this case, click the following link:...

ZC-20-04 (Mystic Canyon Update)

A Zoning Change Application from “FD” Future Development, “CC” Community Commercial, and “P” Public and Institutional to “SF-6” Single Family has been submitted by Bill E. Cou...

ZC-20-09 (724 Valley St.)

A Zoning Change Application from Single Family – 6 “SF-6” to Neighborhood District 3 (ND-3) has been submitted by Al Carroll on behalf of Marel and Rosa Alvarado, for approximately .34 acres out of the B. W. Breeding Addition...

PSA-20-02 (River Bend Ranch PSA)

A Preferred Scenario Map Amendment application from “Area of Stability-Low Intensity” to “Growth Area-Medium Intensity” has been submitted for approximately 1,142 acres, more or less, out of the William West Survey ...

ZC-20-08 (Palace Way MH Zoning)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Manufactured Home “MH” has been submitted by Jim Glasgow on behalf of Palace Way Partners LLC for approximately 44.69 acres, more or less, out of the Thoma...

ZC-20-07 (Palace Way LI Zoning)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Light Industrial “LI” has been submitted by Jim Glasgow on behalf of Palace Way Partners LLC for approximately 14.90 acres, more or less, out of the Thomas...

AN-20-05 (Palace Way Annexation)

Annexation of 59.59 +/- acres out of the Thomas G. McGehee Survey, Abstract No. 11, Hays County, located at 4087 Hwy 21. To track this case, click the following link: AN-20-05.  The annexation schedule for the above case is as follows:

• Ordinance 1...

Notice of Proposed Demolition - 627 McKie Street (Permit 2020-31314) (Schedule Change)

The Planning & Development Services Office received a demolition application for the building at 627 McKie Street; see photos below. The building was identified in the historic resources survey, My Historic SMTX, with a high preservation priority. The...

ZC-20-06 (Centerpoint HC Zoning)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Heavy Commercial “HC” has been submitted by Benjamin Green on behalf of Outlet West Investors Limited for approximately 8.973 acres, more or less, out of t...

AN-20-04 (Centerpoint Annexation)

Annexation of 8.973 +/- acres out of the Edward Burleson Survey No. 18, Abstract No. 63, Hays County, generally located generally located in the 400 Block of Centerpoint Road. To track this case, click the following link: AN-20-04. The annexation schedule...

Land Development Code Amendments (Schedule Update)

Land Development Code Amendments have been proposed to address recommendations from the Alcohol Conditional Use Permit Committee, the Housing Task Force, the Historic Preservation Commission, and recommendations from City staff concerning application proc...

PDD-15-01(B)

A PDD amendment request application has been submitted to modify standards within the Highpoint Trace Planned Development District comprised of 417.63 acres, more or less, out of the William H. Van Horn Survey, Abstract No. 464, Hays County, Texas, genera...

AN-20-01 (La Cima, Phase 1, Section 2)

AN-20-01 (La Cima, Phase 1, Section 2) Annexation of a 56.923 +/- acres of John Williams Survey, Abstract 490, Hays County, generally located west of the intersection of Old Ranch Road 12 and Wonder World Drive. To track this case, click the following lin...

ZC-20-05

A Zoning Change Application from Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) to Character District – 4 (CD-4) has been submitted by Vantage at San Marcos, on behalf of Mohnke Poor Farm, LLC, for a zoning change from ETJ to “CD-4” Cha...

ZC-20-02

A Zoning Change Application from Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) to Character District – 3 (CD-3) has been submitted by Vantage at San Marcos, on behalf of Mohnke Poor Farm, LLC, for a zoning change from ETJ to “CD-3” Cha...

ZC-20-01 (La Cima, Phase 1, Section 2)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Single Family – 4.5 “SF-4.5” has been submitted by Natural Development Austin, LLC on behalf of LCSM Ph 1-2, LLC for approximately 56.923 acres, ...

AN-19-03 (Old Bastrop / Rattler Road)

AN-19-03 (Old Bastrop / Rattler Road) Annexation of a 39.4 +/- acre tract of land out of the Cyrus Wickson Survey, Abstract 474, Hays County, corner of South Old Bastrop Highway and Rattler Road. To track this case, click the following link: AN-19-03. The...

ZC-19-11 (Old Bastrop/Rattler CD-5 Zoning)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Character District-5 “CD-5” has been submitted by Doucet and Associates on behalf of SHC Holdings, LLC for approximately 6 acres, more or less, out of the ...

ZC-19-10 (Old Bastrop/Rattler CD-3 Zoning)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Character District-3 “CD-3” has been submitted by Doucet and Associates on behalf of SHC Holdings, LLC for approximately 29.4 acres, more or less, out of t...

AN-19-03 (Old Bastrop/Rattler Annexation)

The San Marcos City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed voluntary annexation submitted by Doucet and Associates on behalf of SHC Holdings, LLC for a 35.40 +/- acre tract of land out of the Cyrus Wickson Survey, Abstract 474, Hays County ...

Application Notice for Development Code Amendments

Land Development Code Amendments have been proposed to address typographical and technical errors, Historic Preservation Commission Resolutions, and to implement changes related to the 2019 Legislative Session. The Planning and Zoning Commission will hear...

PDD-15-01(A) (Trace PDD Amendment #1)

A PDD amendment request application has been submitted to allow for two story multifamily apartment buildings as the only required elevations without three and four-story requirements for MF-24 and P zoned tracts within a 417.63-acre tract, more or less, ...

Notice of Demolition Review - 213 & 215 Pat Garrison Street

The Planning & Development Services Office received a demolition application for the building at 213 Pat Garrison Street and 215 Pat Garrison Street, respectively; Permit 2019-29751. Both buildings are located on the same parcel. The application is su...

Notice of Demolition Review - 209 Pat Garrison Street

The Planning & Development Services Office received a demolition application for the building at 209 Pat Garrison Street; Permit 2019-29750. The application is subject to the emergency demolition delay ordinance (Ordinance 2019-19) as the building was...

Notice of Demolition Review - 221 North Street

The Planning & Development Services Office received a demolition application for the carport at 221 North Street (Permit 2019-29699). The application is subject to the emergency demolition delay ordinance (Ordinance 2019-19) as the carport is part of ...

LDC-19-03 (Demolition Review for Historic Age Resources)

A Land Development Code Amendment has been proposed to amend the Development Code to include a demolition review period for historic age resources. The purpose of the ordinance is to provide criteria to prevent or minimize unnecessary damage to the qualit...

ZC-19-09

A zoning change application from General Commercial (GC) to Character District 4 (CD-4) has been submitted for approximately .72 acres, more or less, located at 1909 Dutton Drive. This property is located within a Medium Intensity Zoning District on the C...

AN-18-03 (Redwood 1) and AN-18-04 (Redwood 2)

• AN-18-03 (Redwood 1) Annexation of a 92.787 +/- acre tract of land out of the Barnette O. Kane Survey, Abstract No. 281, generally located within the 1900 Block of Redwood Road between SH 123 and Old Bastrop Highway. To track this case, click the followin...

ZC-19-07

A zoning change application from SmartCode (SC) to Light Industrial (LI) has been submitted for approximately 414 acres, more or less, located near the intersection of Centerpoint Road and Old Bastrop Highway. This property is located within a Medium Inte...

ZC-19-04 (2821 Leah Avenue)

A zoning change application from Future Development (“FD” ) to Light Industrial (“LI”) has been submitted for approximately 8.1 acres, more or less, located at 2821 Leah Avenue. This property is located within an Em...

ZC-19-06 (524 W Hopkins St)

A zoning change application from Single Family (“SF-6” ) to Single Family (“ND-3.5”) has been submitted for approximately 0.26 acres, more or less, located at 524 W Hopkins Street. The San Marcos Development Code re...

ZC-19-05 (510 W Hopkins St)

A zoning change application from Single Family (“SF-6” ) to Single Family (“ND-3.5”) has been submitted for approximately 0.2551 acres, more or less, located at 510 W Hopkins Street. The San Marcos Development Code ...

MODIFIED: ZC-18-18 (Redwood 2)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Character District-4 “CD-4” has been submitted for approximately 8.534 acres, more or less, located within the 1600 Block of Redwood Road. This property is...

MODIFIED: ZC-18-17 (Redwood 1)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” and Character District-4 (CD-4) to Single Family-6 “SF-6” has been submitted for approximately 192.951 acres, more or less, located within the 1600 Block of R...

PDD-06-02(B)

A PDD amendment request application has been submitted to allow multifamily apartments with a limit of 24 units per acre for an approximately 16.7 acre tract, more or less, within the limits of the Stone Creek PDD, known as Lot 9-B, Block 3, Stonecreek Cr...

ZC-19-02 (1850 Old RR 12)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Heavy Commercial “HC” has been submitted for approximately 1.108 acres, more or less, located at 1850 Old Ranch Road 12. This property is located within a ...

ZC-19-01 (102 W. Holland St.)

ZC-19-01 (102 W. Holland St.) A zoning change application from Single Family (“SF-6” ) to Single Family (“SF-4.5”) has been submitted for approximately 7.82 acres, more or less, located at 102 West Holland Street. T...

ZC-18-21 (Smart Terminal)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Heavy Industrial “HI” has been submitted for approximately 933.081 acres, more or less located near the intersection of State Highway 80 and FM 1984. This ...

ZC-18-20 (Thompson/Cape Dam and Ditch Engineering Structure) Historic Landmark Designation

An Application for Historic Landmark Designation has been submitted for Thompson/Cape Dam and Ditch Engineering Structure . This property is located within an Existing Neighborhood on the Comprehensive Plan and a neighborhood presentation meeting is not r...

ZC-18-16

ZC-18-16 (1407, 1411, 1413, and 1415 Earle Street) A zoning change application from Single Family (“SF-6” ) to Neighborhood Density – 3 (“ND-3”) has been submitted for approximately 1.206 acres, more or le...

LDC-18-02

A Land Development Code Amendment Application has been submitted requesting to amend the Land Development Code to add standards for neighborhood meetings required by Table 2.1. The Planning and Zoning Commission will hear this request at the September 25,...

LDC-18-01

A Land Development Code Amendment Application has been submitted requesting to amend the Land Development Code to remove the limit to the number of times Preferred Scenario Amendments can be requested, which is currently limited to twice a year. The Plann...

ZC-18-19 (219 West MLK Drive) Historic Landmark Designation

An Application for Historic Landmark Designation has been submitted for the property located at 219 West MLK Drive. This property is located within an Existing Neighborhood on the Comprehensive Plan and a neighborhood presentation meeting is not required ...

ZC-18-14 (1520 Old RR 12) Zoning Change Request

A Zoning Change Application from “Office Professional District (OP)” to “Neighborhood Main Street (NMS)” has been submitted for approximately 0.41 acres, being lot 1-D, Highcrest Addition Subdivision. The San Marcos...

ZC-18-13 (128 Spring Road)

A Zoning Change Application from Future Development “FD” to Character District-3 “CD-3” has been submitted for approximately 4.851 acres, more or less, out of the J.M. Veramendi Survey No. 2, located at 128 Spring R...

PSA-18-04 (Lindsey Hill PSA) - Change of Location

A Preferred Scenario Map Amendment application from “Area of Stability – Redevelopment Infill” to “High Intensity – Redevelopment Infill” has been submitted for approximately 4.8275 acres, more o...

ZC-18-12 Zoning Change (Withdrawn by the applicant)

ZC-18-12 Zoning Change (Withdrawn by the applicant)

ZC-18-11 Zoning Change (Withdrawn by the applicant)

ZC-18-11 Zoning Change (Withdrawn by the applicant)

ZC-18-10 (Windmill Addition) - Revised

A zoning change application from Duplex (D) to Neighborhood Density – 3.5 (ND-3.5) has been submitted for approximately 0.78 acres, more or less, known as Windmill Addition Lot 2, located at 128 Windmill Drive. This property is located in an Exi...

ZC-18-09 (Beyond Grooming)

A zoning change application from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Neighborhood – Main Street (N-MS) has been submitted for approximately 0.997 acres, more or less, out of the Juan M Veramendi Survey, Tract 31, located at 1200 Old Martindale Road....

ZC-18-08 Zoning Change

A zoning change application from Light Industrial (LI) to Heavy Commercial (HC) has been submitted for approximately 9.61 acres, more or less, known as Lot 1A, Block 1, International Electric Corporation Addition, located at 2809 IH-35.  This pro...

ZC-18-07 Application Notice

A zoning change application from Single Family (“SF-6” ) to Neighborhood Density – 3 (“ND-3”) has been submitted for approximately 0.197 acres, more or less, legally known as the Westover Addition, Block 27, Lot 329, located at 1012 North Bishop Street. T...

ZC-18-06 Application Notice

A zoning change application from Future Development (“FD” ) to Character District – 5 (“CD-5”) has been submitted for approximately 14.14 acres, more or less, out of the Barnette O. Kane Survey, Abstract No. 281, located along the 1600 Block of Redwood Ro...

Downtown Design Virtual Community Workshop Slated for July 23

The City of San Marcos is hosting a Virtual Community Workshop on Thursday, July 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to seek input on updates to the downtown architectural design guidelines and standards.

The Virtual Workshop will allow the community to explore current...

San Marcos COVID Test Site Moves to Rattler Stadium

The location for this week’s free walk-up COVID testing in San Marcos has moved from San Marcos High School to the San Marcos Toyota Rattler Stadium at the intersection of SH-123 and Monterrey Oak. Participants should enter the stadium from this...

Weekend Vehicle Collision Results in Motorcyclist Fatality

On Sunday, July 12 at approximately 4:47 p.m., the City of San Marcos Police Department, Fire Department, and Hays County EMS were dispatched to the 1600 block of Post Road for a traffic collision involving a red 2010 Volvo S40 and a black 2004 Suzuki mot...

San Marcos to Enter Stage 1 Drought Restrictions

The City of San Marcos will enter Stage 1 drought restrictions, effective Sunday, July 12, in response to dropping aquifer levels.

“We have had a dry year so far, and increasing temperatures mean people are watering more,” said Tom Tagg...

Brushy Waste Drop-Off & Community Clean-Up Saturday

The City of San Marcos will host a brushy waste drop-off and community clean-up for residential garbage and recycling service customers on Saturday, July 11 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 750 River Road.

Residents driving to the drop-off will take the San Marcos...

City Highlights Essential Services of Parks & Recreation

The City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department is celebrating July’s “Parks and Recreation Month,” by highlighting the selfless, passionate and essential work of park and recreation professionals who are providing ser...

Council to Consider Funding COVID-19 Testing with CDBG

The San Marcos City Council is seeking comments on a proposal to add a COVID-19 testing program to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2019-2020 Action Plan using $105,530 of the newly issued $425,261 CDBG-Coronavirus Response (CDBG-CV) funds. Co...

July City Hall Calendar

Meetings listed below are subject to change. Please check

with the City Clerk’s office for official postings.

Thursday, July 2, 2020

Historic Preservation Commission – 5:45 p.m. Location information will be available prior to th...

Free COVID Test Site Open July 12-16 in San Marcos

Free, walk-up COVID-19 testing will be offered at San Marcos High School, 2601 Rattler Road, daily between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Sunday, July 12 to Thursday, July 16. This testing opportunity is made possible by the Texas Division of Emergency Managemen...

City Receives Additional State Transit Funding

The City of San Marcos has been awarded $257,257 in State Small Urban formula funds for transit expenses from the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT).

This funding is in addition to a $6.4 million disaster relief CARES Act grant for public transit e...

San Marcos River Parks to Close at 8 p.m. Thursday June 25

The City of San Marcos river parks will be closed again until further notice as of 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 25. The dog park, the skate park, and natural areas will remain open, but visitors to these areas should observe CDC recommendations on social dist...

Virtual Children’s Patriotic Costume Contest Call for Entries

The City of San Marcos is now accepting photo entries for the SummerFest Virtual Children’s Patriotic Costume Contest.

In an effort to continue the fun tradition for families, the annual contest will be administered through Facebook due to the in...

City Announces July 4 Fireworks Postponed, Holiday Closures

Due to concerns about the rise in COVID-19 cases in San Marcos, the City of San Marcos is announcing that the annual July 4 fireworks display is being postponed until further notice. Staff will continue to discuss and monitor the situation to determine wh...

Citizen Tips Help SMPD Identify Fatal Hit and Run Suspect

Due in major part to citizen tips, the San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) has been able to identify and arrest the suspected driver involved in the June 1 fatal hit and run incident.

Brenda Vasquez Hurtado (DOB 11/27/78) of San Marcos su...

City Council, P&Z Commission Host Joint Downtown Design Workshop

The San Marcos City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission will be participating in a virtual, Joint Workshop to discuss downtown design on Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting will be held virtually on Zoom. A link to join the meeting will be po...

COVID Testing Site Tests over 700 Sunday, More Tests Scheduled

City of San Marcos officials announced that the free COVID-19 testing site at Bonham Pre-k school on Sunday, June 14 tested at least 701 people throughout the day. The testing was coordinated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), the Texas...

Driver Killed in Train Collision Sunday Morning

A driver was killed when he was struck by a train on Sunday morning at the McCarty Lane railroad track intersection.

On Sunday, June 14 at approximately 9:05 a.m., the San Marcos Police Department (SMPD), San Marcos Fire Department and Hays County EMS were...

Summer Camp Online Registration Begins June 15

Starting Monday, June 15, the City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department will open online registration to San Marcos residents for the Discovery Camp and Summer Fun summer camp programs. Non-residents will be able to register beginning Monday, Jun...

Free COVID Testing Scheduled for San Marcos June 14 & 20

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) announced yesterday that they will offer free COVID-19 testing in San Marcos on Sunday, June 14 and Saturday, June 20 as part of the Governor’s new initiative to test underserved communities.

&quo...

Major Collision Results in Traffic Fatality Tuesday Night

The driver of a Dodge pickup truck was killed and the highway closed when his vehicle ran into the back of a semi-trailer on southbound IH35 Tuesday night.

At approximately 10:37 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, the San Marcos Police Department, Fire Department, a...

City Completes Street Overlay Projects

The Transportation Division of the City’s Public Services Department recently completed street overlay projects on Cape Road, Cheatham Street, Mosscliff Circle and Post Road.

Overlay projects are one component of the City’s Pav...

Transit Detour Due to Cape Road Construction/Desvió de Transito por la Construcción en Cape Road

This week the City of San Marcos transit services began implementing a detour on Route 4 which is expected to continue for the duration of the City’s Main Lift Station Force Main Replacement construction on Cape Road, tentatively scheduled to en...

Stormwater Improvements, River Road Detour Starting June 8

On Monday, June 8, the City’s Engineering & Capital Improvements Department will begin work on a one-year, $7.8-million project to provide flood protection for the Blanco Gardens Neighborhood.

“This is the beginning of multiple proj...

SMPD Searching for Suspect in Last Night’s Hit and Run Fatality

The San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) is asking the public for help identifying the driver of a vehicle that hit a pedestrian in the 1600 block of Post Road last night at around 10 p.m. and resulted in the victim’s death.

The San Marcos Fire De...

June City Hall Calendar

Meetings listed below are subject to change. Please check with the City Clerk’s office for official postings.

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

City Council Proclamations – 2 p.m., Virtual, Televised live on Spectrum Ch. 10 and Grande Ch. 1...

San Marcos Announces Summer Program Updates

The City of San Marcos is announcing cancellations and tentative scheduling of summer programs in response to COVID-19 restrictions. Plans for annual summer programming for the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Library and Fire Department are below:...

Victim Identified, Suspect Sought in Yesterday’s Shooting

The San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) is investigating the fatal shooting of a woman that occurred early Saturday evening.

On Saturday, May 30 at approximately 6:51 p.m., officers responded to reports of a shooting at the Redpoint Apartments (formerly Th...

Council to Consider Projects for $722,904 in CDBG Funding

The San Marcos City Council is seeking comments on proposed programs and projects to be allocated funding in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2020-2021 Action Plan. Comments will be accepted during a virtual public hearing at the City Council ...

Suspects Identified in Wednesday’s Sadler House Assault

After a thorough, multi-county investigation, the San Marcos Police Department has identified three suspects in the shooting incident that occurred at Sadler House Apartments, 1271 Sadler Drive, on Wednesday evening.

On May 27 at approximately 5:12 p.m., S...

San Marcos Transit Updates & Fare-Free for June

The City of San Marcos continues to monitor and adjust the public transit services in an effort to protect public health while continuing transit services. Current updates are below:

• The City is extending “fare-free” transit service unt...

UPDATE: Third Death from Accident, Investigation Ongoing

The Travis County Medical Examiner’s office announced that one of the child occupants of Saturday’s single vehicle rollover accident has died. On Tuesday, May 26, the seven-year old passed away due to injuries sustained in the accident...

Police Respond to Fatal Vehicle Accident Saturday

At approximately 7:42 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, the San Marcos Police Department responded to the scene of a single vehicle rollover accident at 200 Northbound IH35 that resulted in the ejection of nine of the ten occupants. Witnesses stated that the whit...

Discovery Center Offers First Online Native Plant Sale

On Saturday, May 23 at 10 a.m., the San Marcos Discovery Center is opening its brand-new online store and offering curbside plant pickup to all customers. Customers may schedule plant pickups weekly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday at the ...

Council to Consider Projects for COVID-19 Response Funds

The San Marcos City Council is seeking comments on proposed programs and projects to be added to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2019-2020 Action Plan using the newly issued $425,261 in CDBG-Coronavirus Response (CDBG-CV) funds. Comments will...

Hays Co Task Force Completes COVID Testing at Nursing Facilities

On Friday, May 22, the Hays County Task Force responsible for testing County nursing facilities will complete testing for all residents and employees across six facilities in Hays County.

Overall, more than 1,000 employees and residents will be tested in ...

UPDATE: Citizen Tip Credited for Hit and Run Arrest

The suspect in a fatal hit and run accident in February turned himself in to authorities over the weekend after the San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) obtained a warrant for his arrest.

Antonio Rene Alonzo (DOB 09/08/1996) of San Marcos turned himself in ...

Petco Invests in COSM Animal Shelter During COVID-19

The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter announced it has been awarded a $2,500 grant from the Petco Foundation to support its lifesaving efforts during the COVID-19 crisis.

“We are thrilled to accept this award and put it to good use continuing to...

New Downtown Banners Feature Local Artist’s Work

The City of San Marcos recently installed artist-designed banners throughout downtown as part of a placemaking initiative led by the Main Street Program.

“Placemaking means creating spaces where people want to spend time,” explained Dow...

SMPD Evacuated Due to Auto Accident and Gas Leak

At 8:53 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, a San Marcos Police Officer suffered a medical issue while driving and crashed into a gas main and nearby manufacturing building, causing an evacuation of the San Marcos Police Department Headquarters, 2300 S Interstate 35...

City River Parks Reopen Friday, Caution Still Advised

Starting this Friday, May 22, the City of San Marcos will reopen riverfront parks to active recreation seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Park visitors are advised and expected to use caution and exercise responsibility to help prevent the spread of ...

Got Leaves? Donate Them to Local Compost Initiative

The City of San Marcos Resource Recovery Program and Texas State University Bobcat Blend Composting Program are offering San Marcos residents an easy way to divert leaves and grass clippings from the landfill with a convenient drop-off location through Fr...

Annual Memorial Day Ceremony Goes Virtual

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the City of San Marcos and local stakeholders have decided to commemorate Memorial Day virtually by creating a short video ceremony to share with the public starting on Monday, May 25. The video will be shared to the ...

City Offices Closed Memorial Day

City of San Marcos staff working in municipal offices and virtually will observe a holiday on Monday, May 25 in honor of Memorial Day.

Texas Disposal Systems will operate its usual Monday routes.

For media inquiries, contact communicationsinfo@sanmarcostx.g...

Feedback Sought on Five-Year CDBG Plan

The San Marcos City Council will hold two Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) virtual public hearings at their regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, at 6 p.m. to provide Council and the City with direction for moving forward on major housing and public...

Certified Officers Invited to Join the SMPD Family

The San Marcos Police Department is hosting an entrance exam for certified applicants on Saturday, June 6 that includes a potential $3,000 hiring incentive for those chosen. In order to qualify for the exam, registrants must be currently licensed by Texas...

Shooter Positively Identified & SMPD Officers Recovering

The Texas Rangers have positively identified Jose Alfredo Perez DeLaCruz (DOB 01/13/1974) as the person who shot and killed Officer Justin Putnam and wounded Officers Franco Stewart and Justin Mueller on Saturday evening, April 18 during their response to ...

Highest Live-Release Month Ever for San Marcos Animal Shelter

The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter is celebrating the highest live-release month in its history with a 98.2% live-release outcome reported for the month of April.

Since December 12, 2018, the Animal Shelter has directed animal rescue efforts towards th...

Downtown Design Kickoff Survey Now Open for Response

The City of San Marcos Planning and Development Services Department is seeking community input on downtown design through an online Kickoff Survey. The survey is available in English and Spanish and will help the City plan for updates to the downtown desi...

“The Bus” Releases Upcoming Hopkins Detour Plan

With the Hopkins Street improvements project moving into the construction phase, the City of San Marcos and CARTS are preparing public transit service detours to start as early as Monday, May 11.

The City’s public transit system, “The B...

City Adopts Temporary Downtown Parklet Program

The City of San Marcos has adopted a temporary parklet program in downtown San Marcos, allowing businesses to temporarily convert on-street parking spaces into outdoor seating. This program aims to reactivate downtown business engagement by providing busi...

City Accepting Applications for COVID-19 Response Funds

The City of San Marcos is accepting qualified applications from for-profit entities, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and City departments for funding through a $425,261 Community Development Block Grant for Coronavirus Response (CDBG-CV) fr...

City Updates Non-Discrimination Policy

Starting on Friday, May 15, bids and proposals submitted to the City of San Marcos and contracts entered by the City of San Marcos must acknowledge their business does not discriminate in employment or subcontracting practices. The City is also adding sex...

HUD Allocates $425,261 in Covid-19 Funds to San Marcos

The San Marcos City Council is seeking comments on proposed amendments to the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan to incorporate the new $425,261 Community Development Block Grant for Coronavirus (CDBG-CV). Comments will be accepted during a public hearing at the...

Community Invited to Personalize Children’s Park Fence

In honor of the second anniversary of the reopening of the remodeled, inclusive Children’s Park Playscape, the City of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department is inviting community members to purchase personalized fence pickets upon which the...

Hopkins Street Reconstruction Begins Monday, May 4

The City of San Marcos Capital Improvements and Engineering Department will begin construction on the Hopkins Street Improvements Project from Bishop to Moore Streets on Monday, May 4. The construction contractor for the project is Jordan Foster Construct...

City to Resume Brush Drop Off, Community Clean Ups

The City of San Marcos brush drop off and community cleanup for residential garbage customers will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 13 and Saturday, July 11 at 750 River Road (behind the animal shelter). The previous two events were canc...

Phase 1 to Reopen Texas Businesses Starts May 1

On Monday, Governor Greg Abbott released a new Executive Order (GA 18) outlining plans for the first phase of cautiously reopening Texas businesses while prioritizing COVID-19 safety restrictions. Testing will also be increased across the state in order t...

City Continues Offering Inspections While Social Distancing

The City of San Marcos continues to conduct building, fire, code enforcement, health, and public infrastructure inspections while maintaining social distancing practices, utilizing personal protective equipment and offering video inspections for applicabl...

BBQ Benefit Sunday for Injured Officer Paul Beller

This Sunday, April 26 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Tacos Flor Taco Stand at 15091 TX-123 HWY 123, is hosting a fundraiser for San Marcos Police Officer Paul Beller who was struck by a passenger car on IH35 in March.

“This month has been exceptionally ...

Mayor Orders Parks Remain Closed, Issues New Advisory

Mayor Jane Hughson has ordered parks to remain closed until further notice effective as of 11 p.m. yesterday, Tuesday, April 21 and has issued a new public health advisory strongly recommending San Marcos residents to follow CDC guidelines for social dist...

Emergency Preparation Sales Tax Holiday Starts Soon

As Texans continue to endure the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of San Marcos Office of Emergency Management would like to remind everyone to continue ensuring their preparedness for natural disasters such as hurricanes, flash floods and wildf...

City, County Continue Updates to COVID-19 Dashboard

The City of San Marcos and Hays County continue to update and add new features to the informational dashboard that was jointly launched in March and allows the public to easily track COVID-19 statistics throughout the county.

The dashboard, posted online a...

Officers & Donation Updates; Abbott Orders Flags at Half-Staff

Wounded Officers in Stable Condition

The two officers wounded in the line of duty Saturday evening continue to be hospitalized and remain in stable condition. Interim Police Chief Bob Klett said both Officer Franco Stewart and Officer Justin Mueller are sh...

Fallen Hero Makes Final Trip Home Today at 3 p.m.

The public is encouraged to pay respects to City of San Marcos Police Department hero Justin Putnam today as he is transported from the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office in Austin to Thomason Funeral Home in San Marcos, 2001 Ranch Road 12....

SMPD Mourns Putnam, Prays for Mueller & Stewart

During a morning press conference, San Marcos Interim Police Chief Bob Klett provided additional details about the fatal shooting incident at Twin Lake Villas Apartments, 2917 Hunter Rd, that occurred Saturday evening. He also spoke about the officer kill...

SMPD Officer Killed, 2 Others Wounded Saturday Eve

A man fatally shot a City of San Marcos police officer and wounded two others this evening at Twin Lake Villas Apartments, 2917 Hunter Rd. Police report that the suspect is deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

A call to 911 for...

Pets of the Week April 16, 2020

We are still in need of foster homes and forever homes. Below are this week’s featured pets from the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter.

Macy

Macy is a lovable lass who is keen on finding her forever family. After 62 days in the shelter, she is re...

TxDOT to Close Segment of Hopkins for RR Crossing Work

The Texas Department of Transportation will close a section of Hopkins Street between Cheatham Street and Thorpe Lane on Tuesday, April 21 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to allow Union Pacific Railroad to make scheduled repairs on the railroad crossing.

The closur...

Highway Racing Causes Rollover, Serious Injuries

On Tuesday, April 14, at 4:26 p.m., the San Marcos Police Department was dispatched to a major traffic collision involving a single vehicle that had rolled, ejecting a passenger, on the West Access of IH-35 at the Posey Road Exit (199 Exit).

Multiple witn...

San Marcos to hold May 2 Special Election

With the March 9 resignation of City Council Member Joca Marquez, Place 5, the City of San Marcos is holding a Special Election in conjunction with the upcoming May elections for local school boards. Council elections for San Marcos are typically held in ...

Fifth Victim of Deadly Apartment Fire Identified

The fifth and final victim of the deadly fire at Iconic Village and Vintage Pads apartments has been identified by the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office in coordination with Justice of the Peace Maggie H. Moreno.

Belinda Moats of Big Wells (born Aug....

San Marcos Residents Can Text Emergency Info to 9-1-1

With storm season in full swing, the City of San Marcos is reminding residents that in an emergency they can send text messages to 9-1-1 in the Central Texas area.

The Capital Area Council of Governments deployed Text to 9-1-1 service region wide in Octobe...

City Council Approves New San Marcos Development Code

The San Marcos City Council approved Code SMTX, a new 434-page development code that aligns with the City’s comprehensive plan and will guide how the City grows in the coming years.

“This is a day of celebration! Our new code has been in the works for four...