12/16/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/16/2025 17:05
The City of Norman has implemented the Visitability Building Permit Credit Program, a new initiative designed to encourage the construction of homes that are accessible, inclusive, and supportive of aging in place.
Adopted by City Council on August 12, 2025, through Ordinance O-2526-1, the program offers a building permit fee credit to builders who incorporate visitable design features into new residential dwellings. Builders who meet the program criteria are eligible to receive a credit of $0.14 per square foot of the building permit fee.
Visitability features typically include elements such as a no-step entrance, wider doorways, and a usable bathroom on the main floor. These design choices make homes more accessible for residents, guests, and family members of all ages and abilities.
"Homes built with visitability in mind help strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life," said City of Norman Development Services Manager Greg Clark. "The City's Visitable Credit Program is a practical incentive that supports inclusive design and encourages builders to create more welcoming homes for everyone."
To ensure the development community is aware of the Visitability Building Permit Credit Program, the City has conducted targeted outreach by notifying all parties who have built a dwelling within the past 18 months on two separate occasions. The City also hosted an informational meeting on December 11, 2025, and staff continue to provide verbal updates to builders and applicants about the program whenever possible. Additionally, the program presentation will be prominently posted on the Development Services Department website to provide ongoing access to information.
Community members interested in learning more about the Visitability Building Permit Credit Program are encouraged to visit the City of Norman Development Services website or contact the department directly for additional information.
To learn more about the program, go to https://youtu.be/U-1K5_bbihw.