Elon Musk’s SpaceX is considering a new zoning ordinance and citywide map for its company town in Texas, which could impact residents’ property rights. The proposal, known as the “Mixed Use District,” would allow for mixed-use development, including residential, office, retail, and small-scale service uses.
The city of Starbase, home to SpaceX’s launch facility and test site, has notified some residents that they may lose the right to continue using their property as it is today. The notice was sent by Kent Myers, the newly hired city administrator, who recently accepted his position.
Starbase plans to host a public hearing on June 23 to discuss the proposed new zoning and map. Residents are being asked to provide written comments on the proposal before the hearing.
The move comes after SpaceX’s recent test flight of its Starship rocket ended in an explosion, marking a setback for the company. Despite this, Musk remains committed to his vision for the Starship system, which aims to transport people and equipment around Earth and to the Moon.
Establishing Starbase as a company town has given SpaceX nearly unfettered permission to build, test, or launch from its industrial complex on the Texas Gulf Coast. However, the new zoning proposal could limit this flexibility in the future.
The city of Starbase is seeking to balance growth with public safety and preservation of green spaces. Residents are advised to review the proposed zoning ordinance and map on the city’s website before attending the public hearing.
SpaceX has taken in over $20 billion in government contracts since 2008 and is poised to take in several billion dollars annually for years to come. The company’s focus on establishing Starbase as a hub for its operations could have significant implications for the local economy and community.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/29/elon-musk-spacex-starbase-texas.html