What is the Neighborhood Character Overlay (NCO-2)?
Florence Park is covered by a Neighborhood Character Overlay (NCO-2) adopted by the City of Tulsa in 2025.
In simple terms, the overlay helps ensure that new homes and major additions fit the look, scale, and feel of our existing neighborhood. It doesn’t change the underlying zoning — it just adds a few design standards to guide new construction so it’s compatible with surrounding homes.
You can read more on the City’s website here: City of Tulsa – Neighborhood Character Overlays.
What Does the NCO-2 Do?
The overlay applies to new residential construction and additions that require a building permit within the district.
Key standards include:
- Height limit: Maximum 30 feet (no more than 2 stories)
- Building width limit: Maximum 40 feet
- Driveway width: Limited to 12 feet at the street
- Garage placement: Street-facing garages must be set back behind the front of the home
- Front porch or stoop required to maintain traditional neighborhood character
- Roof pitch requirement to reflect established home styles
- Building placement standards to keep homes aligned similarly along the street
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are allowed by right
You can view the full text of the overlay here.
What This Means for Homeowners
- Existing homes are not required to change.
- The overlay primarily affects new construction and significant additions.
- It’s designed to protect the character and walkability that make Florence Park special.
If you have questions about a specific project, the City’s Planning Department can provide guidance on how the overlay applies.