Hochatown Zoning Code

Hochatown, Oklahoma, named for a Choctaw Indian, was established in 2022 and boasts a unique woodland setting, steeply varied terrain, and surrounding natural amenities. TSW was retained by the Town to develop their first-ever zoning ordinance; guiding their future land planning and growth. The planning process began with a series of virtual meetings to understand the Town’s progress to date, clarify goals, and identify areas for improvement in the draft ordinance. TSW then delivered the zoning ordinance in modular sections, focusing on improving usability, technical accuracy, and clarity.
Each module underwent thorough review by both Town staff and an Oklahoma-based land use attorney to ensure legal compliance and alignment with the Town’s goals. The planning process resulted in a focused zoning code that addresses uses, building placement, and building heights while leaving intentional flexibility for other aspects of development. Unique home occupations found throughout Hochatown’s wealth of cabins are also protected and supported.

Hochatown’s new zoning ordinance features zero overlay districts, zero parking minimum requirements, zero minimum dwelling size requirements, and a consolidated use table that makes the 63-page ordinance user-friendly and easy to administer. Where some zoning codes define uses like retail by the items on the shelf, Hochatown’s zoning code creates sensibly flexible categories of uses (including “commercial retail sales”) that creates a wider range of options for
businesses and other uses to find a home in Hochatown without the need for ordinance text and map amendments.

Hochatown has a unique network of trails and private access easements throughout the town – distinguished from public rights-of-way. This configuration makes the typical zoning approach of “front yards,” “rear setbacks,” and the like impractical. Our team adapted to this challenge by developing an access easement and parcel line setback that helps preserve these critical pathways while providing Hochatown property owners practical flexibility to invest in their properties. Plus, the zoning ordinance’s administrators don’t have to wrestle with identifying yard types.