Zoning Verification Letter / Land-Use Confirmation: Austin restaurant guide
Austin Development Services (Zoning)
What it is
Written confirmation of the property's zoning district, which tells you whether a Restaurant (General or Limited) is allowed.
When a restaurant needs it
Before signing a lease; required in practice for change-of-use, CO and TABC zoning review.
How to apply
Submit the Zoning Verification Letter request through DSD's Land Use Intake Request Form; staff review it, invoice the fee in AB+C, and email the letter. (DSD's free emailed verification is offered for State licenses such as tattoo/body piercing and auto dealers; TABC applications get a separate paid zoning review through the City Clerk process.)
Documents you’ll need
- Property address and Travis Central Appraisal District Geographic ID
- Intended use (Restaurant General/Limited, Cocktail Lounge)
- AB+C account for payment
Good to know
Only 'Restaurant (General)' may serve alcohol, and at least 51% of gross income must come from food. A bar-first concept is a 'Cocktail Lounge', which is permitted only in CBD zoning and is conditional in several other districts.
Official source
DSD — Zoning Verification · Austin zoning FAQs (restaurant definitions)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.