New ordinance says main floors have to be at least 900 sq. feet

During the March 10, Gainesville City Council meeting, a new housing ordinance was passed, replacing the city’s former one. The new ordinance requires homes within the Gainesville city limits to be at least 900 square feet on the main level, replacing the former language that stated the square footage had to be 900 total. The ordinance aims to curb a trend that other cities and municipalities are experiencing in which residents are building 900 square feet homes with two levels, meaning the footprint is only 450 square feet. To find out more about the ordinance, call City Hall at 417-679-4858.