HomeMy WebLinkAboutBozeman Municipal Code Jan 3, 2022 Reference Copy -Chapter 381/3/22, 11:05 AM Bozeman, MT Code of Ordinances
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Chapter 38 - UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
Footnotes:
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Editor's note— Ord. No. 1978 , § 2(Exh. A), adopted Jan. 4, 2018, repealed the former Ch. 38 and enacted a new Ch. 38 as set out herein. The former
Ch. 38 pertained to similar subject matter. See the Code Comparative Table for a complete derivation of the former Ch. 38.
ARTICLE 1. - GENERAL PROVISIONS
DIVISION 38.100 - IN GENERAL
Sec. 38.100.010. - Citation.
This chapter is known and may be cited as the Unified Development Code of the City of Bozeman, except when cited herein,
where it is referred to as "this chapter."
Sec. 38.100.020. - Authority.
This chapter is adopted by authority of MCA 76-2-301 et seq., MCA 76-3-101 et seq., and MCA 7-3-701 et seq. Additional city
authority is granted by various other sections of state law and the authority granted by those sections is incorporated as if set forth
herein.
Sec. 38.100.030. - Jurisdictional area and application.
These regulations govern the division, development and use of land within the city limits and lands proposed for annexation to
the city. These regulations apply to all private and public lands, all uses thereon, and all structures and buildings over which the city
has jurisdiction under the constitution and laws of the state or pursuant to the city's powers.
Sec. 38.100.040. - Intent and purpose of chapter.
The intent of this unified development chapter is to protect the public health, safety and general welfare; to recognize
and balance the various rights and responsibilities relating to land ownership, use, and development identified in the
United States and State of Montana constitutions, and statutory and common law; to implement the city's adopted
growth policy; and to meet the requirements of state law.
It is the purpose of these regulations to promote the public health, safety and general welfare by: preventing the
creation of private or public nuisances caused by noncompliance with the standards and procedures of this chapter;
regulating the subdivision, development and use of land; preventing the overcrowding of land; lessening congestion in
the streets and highways; being in accord with the growth policy; providing adequate light, air, water supply, sewage
disposal, parks and recreation areas, ingress and egress, and other public improvements; requiring development in
harmony with the natural environment; promoting preservation of open space; promoting development approaches
that minimize costs to local citizens and that promote the effective and efficient provision of public services; securing
safety from fire, panic, and other dangers; protecting the rights of property owners'; requiring uniform monumentation
of land subdivisions and transferring interests in real property by reference to a plat or certificate of survey (MCA 76-3-
102).
It is further the purpose of these regulations to: consider the character of the district and its peculiar suitability for
particular uses, conserving the value of buildings, and encouraging the most appropriate use of land throughout the
jurisdictional area (MCA 76-2-304).
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Further, to support the purposes of MCA 76-2-304 and 76-3-102, these regulations are intended to promote and to provide
Orderly development of the city;
Coordination of streets within subdivided land with other streets and roads, both existing and planned;
Dedication of land for streets and roadways and for public utility easements;
Improvement of streets;
Adequate open spaces for travel, light, air and recreation;
Adequate transportation, water, drainage and sanitary facilities;
Minimization of unnecessary congestion;
Avoidance of unnecessary environmental degradation;
Encouragement of subdivision development in harmony with the natural environment;
Avoidance of danger or injury to health, safety or general welfare by reason of natural hazard or the lack of water,
sewer, drainage, access, transportation or other public services;
Avoidance of excessive expenditure of public funds for the provision of public services;
Manner and form of making and filing of plats for subdivided lands;
Administration of these regulations, by defining the powers and the duties of approving authorities, including
procedures for the review and approval of all subdivision plats;
Division of the city into districts with uniformly applicable standards for development within each district;
Standards for the development and use of land;
Procedures for the review and approval for the development and use of land; and
Establishment of all other requirements necessary to meet the purposes of this chapter.
Pursuant to MCA 76-2-304, 76-1-605 and 76-1-606, these regulations are also intended to implement the goals and
objectives of the city's adopted growth policy. This chapter has been evaluated for compliance with the growth policy as
part of the process to adopt this chapter, and has been found to comply with the growth policy.
Sec. 38.100.050. - Interpretation as minimum requirements.
In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this chapter are minimum requirements adopted for the
promotion of the health, safety and general welfare of the community. In some instances the public interest will be best
served when such minimums are exceeded. Wherever the requirements of this chapter are at variance with the
requirements of any other lawfully adopted rules or regulations, or wherever there is an internal conflict within this
chapter, the most restrictive requirements, or those imposing the higher standards, will govern.
In the case of a difference of meaning or implication between the text of this chapter and the captions or headings for
each section, the text controls.
When interpreting the meaning of this chapter, subsections of the chapter must be construed in a manner that will give
effect to them all as the chapter derives its meaning from the entire body of text taken together.
These regulations apply uniformly within each zoning district to each class or kind of structure, land or development as
set forth in this chapter.
Graphics are provided to enable understanding of the adopted text. In the event of a conflict between the text and
graphic, the text must control.
Sec. 38.100.060. - Donations or grants to public considered a grant to donee.
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Every donation or grant to the public or to any person, society or corporation marked or noted on a plat or plan is to be
considered a grant to the donee.
Sec. 38.100.070. - Conditions of approval.
Regulation of the subdivision and development of land, and the attachment of reasonable conditions to land subdivided
or developed, or a use undertaken, is an exercise of valid police power delegated by the state to the city. Persons
undertaking the subdivision, development or use of land have the duty of complying with reasonable conditions for
design, dedication, improvement and restrictive use of the land so as to conform to the physical and economic
development of the city, and to the safety and general welfare of the future lot owners and of the community at large.
Such conditions may require compliance with more than the minimum standards established by this chapter.
Conditions of approval may not be added after final action to grant preliminary approval to a proposed subdivision or
other development unless:
The conditions are necessary to correct inaccurate or incomplete information provided with an application, which
error is discovered after the original approval action; and
The project is not completed within the time period provided in the approval or by this chapter; or
The requirement is part of an improvements agreement and security for completion of required improvements prior
to filing a final plat or other development.
However, should the owner seek material modifications (e.g., changes to the intent, nature, or scope of a subdivision or
development, or necessary improvements) to a previously approved subdivision, development or condition of approval,
the entire application must be considered to be again opened for review and additional conditions may be applied.
Modifications of conditions of approval must be reviewed through the same process as the original application. Final
action includes the resolution of any appeals. The provisions of section 38.240.130.A.5.h may also apply to revisions of
conditions for preliminary plats.
Mandatory compliance with the explicit terms of this chapter does not constitute conditions of approval and is not
affected by the limitations of subsection B of this section.
Sec. 38.100.080. - Compliance with regulations required.
No land may hereafter be subdivided, used or occupied, and no building, structure or part thereof may hereafter be
erected, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally altered, and no development may commence unless it is in
conformity with all of the regulations herein specified for the district in which it is located.
To the extent reasonable, all city-owned land is subject to applicable regulations of the underlying zoning district.
Sec. 38.100.090. - Development that lies within multiple jurisdictions.
If a proposed development lies partly within the city and partly within unincorporated Gallatin County, the proposed
development must be submitted to and approved by both the city and the county.
Sec. 38.100.100. - Private restrictions.
This chapter is not intended to affect any existing private agreement or condition such as a deed restriction or covenant. If any
provision of this chapter is more restrictive or imposes a higher standard than any such private restriction, the requirements of this
chapter control. Where the provisions of any private restriction are more restrictive or impose higher standards than the provisions
of this chapter, the city has no duty to enforce such private restrictions or advise of their existence. The city may enforce a private
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restriction if the city is a party to such covenant or restriction, if such restriction was required by the city, or if it was relied upon by
the city during the land development process in order to meet the requirements of this chapter or another required standard. The
city may prohibit private restrictions that violate applicable law. Covenants are subject to the requirements of section 38.220.320.
Sec. 38.100.110. - Severability.
Where any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section or other part of these regulations is held invalid by a court of
competent jurisdiction by express inclusion in the decision to be invalid, such judgment will affect only that part held invalid and
such decision will not affect, impair or nullify this chapter as a whole or any other part thereof. Insofar as these regulations are
more restrictive than any other applicable law, these regulations control, and if any other law is more restrictive, the more
restrictive standard takes precedence over a standard set forth in these regulations.
DIVISION 38.110. - ADOPTED PLANS, STANDARDS AND RESOLUTIONS
Sec. 38.110.010. - Plans, standards and resolutions adopted by reference.
The following plans and documents (as amended), are hereby adopted by reference as a part of or in support of this chapter:
Design manual.
Guidelines for historic preservation and neighborhood conservation overlay district.
Engineering design standards.
Water administrative manual.
Parks administrative manual.
Parks and recreation master plan.
Bozeman long range transportation plan.
MT public works standards.
Federal wetland delineation manual.
Application fee resolution.
Cash-in-lieu of water rights resolution.
Other similar plans, manuals, guidelines, and standards formally adopted by the city.
Sec. 38.110.020. - Figures.
The figures in this chapter are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute regulatory standards. Figures may be revised,
replaced, or added by administrative order issued by the director of community development.
ARTICLE 2. - PERMITS, LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS AND PROCEDURES
DIVISION 38.200. - JURISDICTION AND SCOPE OF AUTHORITY
Sec. 38.200.010. - Review authority.
The city commission has the right to review and require revisions to all development proposals subject to this chapter,
and delegates that authority in certain circumstances as set forth below. The purpose of this review is to prevent
demonstrable adverse impacts of the development upon public safety, health or general welfare, or to provide for its
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mitigation; to protect public investments in roads, drainage facilities, sewage facilities, water facilities, and other
facilities; to conserve the value of adjoining buildings and/or property; to protect the character of the city; to protect the
right of use of property; advance the purposes and standards of this chapter and the adopted growth policy; and to
ensure that the applicable regulations of the city are upheld.
The city commission retains to itself under all circumstances the review of the following:
Subdivisions which do not qualify as a subdivision exemption per article 2 of this chapter;
Amendments to the text of this chapter or amendment to the zoning map;
Requests for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedications, except:
In the B-3 zone district; or
When by resolution the city commission delegates decisions on cash-in-lieu for development for which it
would not otherwise be the review authority.
Extensions of subdivision preliminary plat approvals for periods greater than two years;
Planned unit development preliminary plans and major amendments to planned unit developments;
Appeals from administrative interpretations and final project review decisions;
Approval of park master plans;
Large scale retail per section 38.360.160;
Exceptions to installation of bikeways and boulevard trails per section 38.400.110.E;
Conditional use permits when no board of adjustment is established;
More than two deviations or where deviation is for more than 20 percent of standard;
Amendments to text or zoning map per division 38.260.
The city commission conducts public hearing for applications under 76-2-402, MCA.
The community development director must, upon recommendation from the applicable advisory bodies approve,
approve with conditions or deny all applications subject to this chapter except those listed below. Decisions of the
community development director are subject to the appeal provisions of division 38.250 of this chapter.
Projects excluded from community development director review:
Those applications specifically reserved to another approval authority as stated in this section;
Development of city property which does not conform to all standards of this chapter;
Any application involving variances from this chapter;
Exception. The city commission may, by an affirmative, simple majority vote of its members at a regularly scheduled
meeting reclaim to itself the final approval of a development application normally subject to the approval of the
community development director. The vote must occur prior to the action of the community development director.
When a board of adjustment has been appointed per section 2.05.2800, the board of adjustment must, upon
recommendation from the applicable advisory bodies approve, approve with conditions or deny those applications
specifically delegated to it by the city commission. Decisions of the BOA are subject to the appeal provisions of division
38.250 of this chapter.
Exception. The city commission may, by an affirmative vote of three of its members at a regularly scheduled meeting
reclaim to itself the final approval of a development normally subject to the approval of the board of adjustment. The
vote must occur prior to the action of the board of adjustment.
The city engineer must review and upon recommendation from the applicable advisory bodies as needed approve,
approve with conditions or deny the following site elements and processes:
Site access and storm water for reuse and further development per section 38.230.160.B;
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Location of storm water facilities within neighborhood centers per section 38.410.020;
The placement of private utility easements within public rights-of-way owned or controlled by the city;
The maximum length of dead end water mains per section 38.410.070;
The maximum length of service lines per section 38.410.070;
Exceptions to storm water controls per section 38.410.080;
All modifications or proposed standards in section 38.400.010 except section 38.400.010.A.1;
Plans and specifications for public infrastructure and infrastructure to be granted to the public per sections
38.400.060.A and B.1—3;
Alternate curb return radii per section 38.400.090.C.3;
Locations and modifications to drive accesses to public streets per sections 38.400.090.G and H;
Street improvement standards per section 38.400.060;
Departures for street vision triangles per section 38.400.100;
Backing into alleys, parking stall aisle and driveway design for surfacing and curbing per section 38.540.020.D, F and
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Protection of landscaped area per section 38.550.050.H;
All actions required of the flood plain administrator per article 6 of this chapter;
Modifications in required completion time for subdivision improvements per section 38.270.030.B.1;
The use of a financial guarantee for paving of streets per section 38.270.060.B;
The waiver of required information per section 38.220.080.A.2.i(3);
Requirement for a traffic impact analysis and determination of its contents per section 38.220.120.A.2.c(5);
Specifications for paving of streets and parking areas;
Designation of street classifications for collectors and arterials not shown in the long range transportation plan; and
Alternate parking angles for surface and structured parking stall configurations listed in Table 38.540.020. All other
numeric standards apply.
The director of public works must review and upon recommendation from the applicable advisory bodies as needed
approve, approve with conditions or deny the following development elements and processes:
Waiver of the requirement to extend water, sewer, and streets to the perimeter of property being developed per
section 38.410.070;
Provision of water rights as authorized in section 38.410.130;
Subject to section 38.400.060, exceptions to the level of service standards established in section 38.400.060.B.4;
Payment of cash in-lieu of capital facilities established in section 38.270.070.C; and
Acceptable alternative sidewalk design or materials per section 38.400.080.
The director of parks and recreation must determine the classification of trails per section 38.420.110.D.
As detailed in division 38.200 of this chapter, the city commission authorizes the applicable advisory bodies to review
and to make recommendations to the review authority regarding development proposals. Under this section, when
advisory boards review and make recommendations to the review authority they act in a quasi-judicial capacity.
Recommendations do not constitute votes of approval or denial.
The city commission or its designated representatives may require the applicant to design the proposed development to
reasonably minimize potentially significant adverse impacts identified through the review required by these regulations.
The city commission or its designated representatives may not unreasonably restrict a landowner's ability to develop
land, but it is recognized that in some instances the unmitigated impacts of a proposed development may be
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unacceptable and will preclude approval of the development as submitted. Recognizing that the standards of this
chapter are minimum requirements and the public health, safety, and general welfare may be best served by exceeding
those minimums, the city commission or community development director may require as a condition of approval
mitigation exceeding the minimums of this chapter.
( Ord. No. 2045 , § 1, 9-17-2020; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.200.020. - Administration and enforcement; community development director authority.
The community development director must administer and enforce this chapter unless a specific standard is clearly
assigned in section 38.200.010 to another authority. The community development director may be provided with the
assistance of such other persons as the community development director may supervise and those assistants will have
the responsibilities as directed by the community development director.
The community development director may in the administration of this chapter consult with other persons having
expertise in relevant subject areas as in the community development director's opinion is necessary for the review of the
proposed development or administration of the chapter. When an authority other than the community development
director is assigned responsibility for a particular standard that authority must coordinate with the community
development director in administration of that standard.
If the community development director or other administrator of standards finds that any of the provisions of this
chapter are being violated, they must notify in writing the person responsible for such violations, indicating the nature of
the violation and ordering the action necessary to correct it. Such administrator may order discontinuance of illegal use
of land, illegal additions, alterations or structural changes; may order discontinuance of any illegal work being done; or
may take any other action authorized by this chapter to ensure compliance with or prevent violation of its provisions.
Sec. 38.200.030. - Enforcement; community development director.
This chapter is enforced by the community development director and authorized representatives. No development approval,
subdivision approval, building permit or business or occupational use license may be issued, except in compliance with the
provisions of this chapter.
Sec. 38.200.040. - Stop-work order by community development director, building o cial, city engineer authority.
Whenever any subdivision, development or building work is being done contrary to the provisions of this chapter, the
community development director will order the work stopped by notice in writing served on any person engaged in doing or
causing such work to be done, and any such person must immediately stop such work until authorized by the community
development director to proceed with the work. The building official or city engineer may also issue a stop-work order when
building work is being done contrary to the provisions of this chapter.
Sec. 38.200.050. - Permission to enter.
The city commission, or its designated agents, may conduct such investigations, examinations and site evaluations as they deem
necessary to verify the information supplied. The submission of material or a plat for review constitutes a grant of permission to
enter the subject property. The grant of permission must continue until all final actions required by the approval process have
been completed.
Sec. 38.200.060. - Inaccurate or incomplete information and waivers.
The city must review each submitted application for completeness and sufficiency as described in sections 38.240.130
and 38.230.070.
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The final approval body may withdraw approval or conditional approval of a preliminary plat or other development approva
they determine that information provided by the applicant, and upon which approval or conditional approval of the prelimi
plat or other development was based, is inaccurate or incomplete.
Within 30 calendar days following approval or conditional approval of a preliminary plat or other development
application, any person or agency that claims that information provided by the applicant is inaccurate or incomplete
may submit the information and proof to the community development department.
The community development department must investigate the claim, the accompanying information and proof, and
make a report to the final approval authority within 30 working days after receipt of the information. If the final
approval authority is the city commission, the city commission must consider the information and proof, and must
make a determination regarding the claim at a regular meeting. Notice of the meeting or presentation of the report
must be given to the claimant and the applicant.
Sec. 38.200.070. - Coordinated reviews.
When a proposed subdivision, development or use is also proposed to be annexed to the city, the city must coordinate the
development review and annexation procedures to minimize duplication of hearings, reports, and other requirements whenever
possible. The city commission must also hold joint public hearings on the initial zoning and the annexation whenever possible.
Based upon the circumstances of proposed development the city may require sequential review of applications.
Sec. 38.200.080. - Date of submittal and associated review standards.
Subdivision. Review and approval or disapproval of a subdivision under these regulations may occur only under those
regulations in effect at the time a subdivision application for approval of a preliminary plat is deemed adequate
according to section 38.240.130 or for an extension under division 38.240 of this chapter is submitted to the city.
Nonsubdivision. Review of nonsubdivision applications will be under such regulations as are in effect at the time an
application for approval of a preliminary site plan is deemed adequate according to section 38.230.090; except that an
interim zoning ordinance adopted according to MCA 76-2-306 applies to a nonsubdivision application without limitation
to the date of adequacy of the application until final action has been taken on the application. An applicant may waive, in
writing, the shield from changing ordinances established by this section. In the event that such waiver is provided, the
nonsubdivision application will be reviewed under the ordinances in effect on the date of the final action on the
application.
Sec. 38.200.090. - Community development director and building o cial; plan application checking; notice of noncompliance.
It is the intent of this chapter that the community development director and building official check all development plans
and applications for permits for compliance with this chapter both before and during construction.
If, during this procedure, the community development director and/or the building official deems that the proposed plan
or construction does not comply with this chapter, the community development director and/or building official must
inform the applicant of the infraction and must stop all construction on the project until such time as the applicant,
builder or principal revises such plan to conform to this chapter and/or fulfills the requirements of any mandated review
procedure as set forth in this chapter.
Sec. 38.200.100. - Building permit requirements.
No building or other structure may be erected, moved, added to or structurally altered and no land use may be changed
without valid permits as prescribed in this division.
Only minor site surface preparation and normal maintenance is allowed prior to conditional approval by the
appropriate review authority and the issuance of a building permit, provided such activity does not include
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excavation for foundations or the removal of mature, healthy vegetation. Minor site surface preparation means
disturbing less than one-half acre, movement of 30 cubic yards or less of material, or a cut or fill of less than
cumulative one foot whichever is less. Any excavation and site disturbance must be in conformance with an
approved stormwater control plan. No excavation of foundations or setting of forms can commence until final site or
sketch plan approval has been granted and until building permits have been issued. Proceeding prior to building
permit issuance is at the hazard of the landowner.
Exception: When construction and funding of public streets are occurring under the provisions of division 38.430
of this chapter, Planned unit development (PUD), the issuance of building permits may be allowed prior to
completion of infrastructure improvements, pursuant to the provisions established in division 38.270 of this
chapter.
Building permit. Within the limits of the city, building permits must be obtained as provided by section 10.02.020.
Based upon an approved sketch, site plan, certificate of appropriateness, conditional use permit or planned unit
development (hereinafter referred to as "plan"), and after any appeals have been resolved, a building permit for the
site may be requested and may be granted, provided such building permit is granted within one year of plan
approval. Prior to lapse of one year, the applicant may seek an extension as allowed in divisions 38.230 and 38.430.
Sec. 38.200.110. - Permit issuance; conformity with regulations required.
No permit or license of any type will be issued unless the plans and applications are in conformance with the regulations
contained within this chapter. Permits issued on the basis of plans and applications approved by the building official and
community development director authorize only the use, arrangement and construction set forth in such approved plans and
applications, and no other use, arrangement or construction. Use, arrangement or construction at variance with that authorized is
a violation of this chapter, punishable as provided in this division.
Sec. 38.200.120. - Permits issued contrary to title deemed void.
Any authorization, including without limitation subdivision approval, site plan approval or building permit, issued, granted or
approved in violation of the provisions of this chapter is null and void and of no effect without the necessity of any proceedings or a
revocation or nullification thereof, and any work undertaken or use established pursuant to any such building permit or other
authorization is unlawful.
Sec. 38.200.130. - Expiration of permits.
Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of this chapter will expire by limitation and become null and
void in accordance with section 10.02.020.
Sec. 38.200.140. - Fee schedule.
The city commission must establish a schedule of fees, charges and expenses and a collection procedure for reviews,
permits, appeals and other matters pertaining to this chapter. The schedule of fees for the procedures listed below will
be set from time to time by the city commission by resolution. The fees must be available in the office of the community
development director and may be altered or amended only by the city commission.
No subdivision, permit, zone change, site plan, conditional use, special temporary use, planned unit development,
deviation or variance may be issued unless or until such costs, charges, fees or expenses have been paid in full, nor may
any action be taken on proceedings before the administrative design review staff, development review committee, the
design review board, the zoning commission, the planning board or the city commission until fees have been paid in full.
Sec. 38.200.150. - Complaints of alleged violations; ling and recording.
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Whenever a violation of this chapter occurs or is alleged to have occurred, any person may file a written complaint. Such
complaint, stating fully the causes and basis thereof must be filed with the community development director. The community
development director must record properly such complaint and immediately investigate and take action thereon as provided by
this chapter.
Sec. 38.200.160. - Violation; penalty; assisting or abetting; additional remedies.
The effective enforcement of adopted standards is necessary to accomplish their intended purpose. The city has a variety of
options for the enforcement of this chapter. The community development director must select the option which in their opinion is
most suitable to the circumstance and violation. More than one enforcement option may be used to attain compliance with the
standards of this chapter when deemed appropriate.
Violation of the provisions of this chapter or failure to comply with any of its requirements including violations of
conditions and safeguards established in connection with the grant of variances or conditional uses or any of the
required conditions imposed by the review authority is a misdemeanor. Any person who violates this chapter or fails
to comply with any of its requirements may upon conviction thereof be fined or imprisoned or both, either as set
forth in state law regarding subdivision and zoning, or in accordance with section 1.01.210, and in addition must pay
all costs and expenses involved in the case except as stated in subsection D of this section.
Each day such violation continues is a separate offense and punishable as such.
For violations relating to plats each sale, lease or transfer of each separate parcel of land in violation of any
provision of these regulations or the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act is a separate and distinct offense.
The code compliance officer is authorized to issue a notice to appear under the provisions of MCA 46-6-310 to any
violator of this chapter.
The owner or tenant of any building, structure, premises or part thereof, and any architect, builder, contractor, agent
or other person who commits, participates in, assists or maintains such violation may each be found guilty of a
separate offense and suffer the penalties herein provided.
If transfers not in accordance with these regulations or the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act are made, the city
attorney may commence an action to enjoin further sales or transfers and compel compliance with all provisions of
these regulations. The cost of the action must be imposed against the party not prevailing.
When a violation has not been corrected by the property owner after written notice from the city, the enforcement
officer or community development director may seek approval from the city commission for filing at the county clerk
and recorder's office a notice of violation or noncompliance. Such notice serves to advise potential purchasers of
existing violations of this chapter or of on-going enforcement actions regarding a property. Such notice will clearly
state that the parcel or development on the parcel is in violation of this chapter and that correction of the violation
must be made prior to the city approving additional development or redevelopment of the site. The notice must also
describe the nature of the violation and applicable citations to the relevant sections of this chapter.
When such a notice is to be filed the enforcement officer may either:
Through the office of the city attorney bring an action for civil and/or injunctive relief that requests a court
order to record a notice of violation or noncompliance; or
Schedule a public meeting to be held before the city commission requesting an order from the city
commission finding the violation valid and in need of correction, and authorizing the recording of the notice
of violation or noncompliance. Notice of such a hearing must be provided as required by division 38.220 of
this chapter.
When a violation has been corrected for which a notice of violation or noncompliance was filed, the city must
record a release of noncompliance indicating that the prior violation has been corrected. The property owner is
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F.
G.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
H.
I.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
responsible for notifying the community development department in writing of the correction of the violation or
noncompliance. Upon receipt of such notification by the property owner, the enforcement officer may conduct
an inspection to verify correction prior to the recording of the release.
The city may maintain an action or proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction to compel compliance with or to
restrain by injunction the violation of any provision of this chapter.
Violation of this chapter is a municipal infraction and may be punishable by a civil penalty as provided in section
24.02.040, in addition to other remedies of this section except that the court may impose the following minimum civil
penalties.
Each day such violation continues is considered a separate offense and punishable as such. The minimum civil
penalty for violation of this chapter by the same person for the same violation within a 12-month period is:
First citation: $100.00.
Second citation: $150.00.
Third and subsequent citations: $200.00.
The determining factor with respect to the civil penalty is the receipt of service of the citation and not the
judgment.
Nothing herein contained prevents the city from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy
any violation.
Upon resolution of an identified instance of noncompliance with the standards of this chapter the city may record a
document with the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder to give notice of the resolution of the noncompliance.
DIVISION 38.210. - DEVELOPMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE (DRC), DESIGN REVIEW BOARD (DRB), ADMINISTRATIVE DESIGN REVIEW STAFF
(ADR), WETLANDS REVIEW BOARD (WRB), BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT (BOA) JURISDICTION AND SCOPE OF AUTHORITY
Sec. 38.210.010. - Purpose of DRC, DRB, ADR, WRB, and BOA.
Purpose. The development review committee (DRC), design review board (DRB), administrative design review staff (ADR)
and, if established, wetlands review board (WRB), is to coordinate, expedite and ensure fair and equitable
implementation of this chapter. The objective, to be implemented through their procedures and deliberations, is to
encourage development quality that will enhance both the natural and built environments, with consideration to present
and future property values, and to carry out the purposes of this chapter. All bodies authorized or referenced under this
division 38.210 may call upon any city staff or other persons with technical expertise, and may testify before any board,
commission or other body upon the subjects for which they have responsibility.
DRC. The DRC evaluates all proposals subject to the provisions of this chapter. The DRC is the body charged with
reviewing items relating to public health and safety. The DRC acts as an advisory body to the review authority
established by section 38.200.010 for site plans, conditional use permits, planned unit developments, divisions of
land, zone map amendments, annexations and other actions as requested by review authority.
DRB. The DRB has the duties and responsibilities established by 2.05.3000.
ADR. The ADR may review development applications subject to design review for zoning amendments, or
applications for moving, demolition or any other kind of permit.
WRB. The WRB, if established, has the duties and responsibilities established by section 2.05.2900.
BOA. The BOA, if established, has the duties and responsibilities established by section 2.05.2810.
Development review committee procedures established. To implement this purpose, certain procedures will be adopted
to include, but not be limited to, a regularly scheduled weekly or biweekly meeting attended by representatives of each
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1.
2.
C.
D.
E.
F.
A.
1.
2.
of the city departments charged with development review. Each department is authorized to require the DRC to
recommend denial when in their view the project cannot meet the requirements and review criteria of this chapter and
acceptable conditions do not exist to cure the identified failings of the project. Recommendations must be set forth in
written staff reports or summary reviews prepared by the community development department
The DRC must at a minimum be composed of the following personnel: city engineer, fire marshal, the streets
superintendent, the sanitation superintendent, the water/sewer superintendent, the community development
director and the building official, and other such personnel as the community development director deems
necessary.
When applicable, the DRC may solicit the input of non-city agencies and persons including, but not limited to, the
county subdivision review officer, the county sanitarian, the county road superintendent, and state or federal
agencies, with other individuals to be included as necessary.
Design review board procedures established. The DRB will be convened as necessary and must follow procedures as set
forth in section 2.05.3020.
Waiver of design review. In the event that the DRB is unable to convene a quorum or does not have the necessary
personnel to conduct the reviews required by this chapter, the requirement for review by DRB is waived. Nothing in this
section constitutes a waiver of the required review criteria established in divisions 38.340, 38.430, and 38.600 of this
chapter.
Wetlands review board procedures. The WRB will be convened as necessary and must follow procedures as set forth in
section 2.05.2920 when a WRB has been established.
Board of adjustment procedures established. The BOA will be convened as necessary and must follow procedures as set
forth in section 2.05.2830 when a BOA has been established.
DIVISION 38.220. - APPLICATIONS AND NOTICING
Part 1. - Submittal Materials and Requirements
Sec. 38.220.010. - Submittal materials and requirements.
All applications must be submitted on official forms prescribed by the community development department. The application
must be accompanied by the appropriate fee and development plans showing sufficient information for the approval authority to
determine whether the proposed development will meet the development requirements of the city. Supplemental material may be
required, depending on the application type. The format, size, and number of submittal materials is established by the director of
community development.
Sec. 38.220.020. - Streambed, streambank and/or wetlands permits.
The developer must provide the community development department with a copy of all required streambed,
streambank or wetlands permits, or written notification from the appropriate agency that a permit is not required, prior
to the commencement of any work on the site and/or final plat approval, whichever is sooner. These permits include but
are not limited to:
Montana Stream Protection Act (SPA 124 Permit). Administered by the Habitat Protection Bureau, Fisheries Division,
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Stormwater discharge general permit. Administered by the water quality bureau, state department of environmental
quality.
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
2.
a.
b.
3.
a.
b.
4.
a.
b.
Montana Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act (310 Permit). Administered by the board of supervisors, county
conservation district.
Montana Floodplain and Floodway Management Act (Floodplain Development Permit). Administered by the city
engineering department.
Federal Clean Water Act (404 Permit). Administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency.
Federal Rivers and Harbors Act (Section 10 Permit). Administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Short-term Water Quality Standard for Turbidity (318 Authorization). Administered by state department of
environmental quality.
Montana Land-Use License or Easement on Navigable Waters. Administered by the state department of natural
resources and conservation.
Montana Water Use Act (Water Right Permit and Change Authorization). Administered by the water rights bureau,
state department of natural resources and conservation.
Sec. 38.220.030. - Subdivision pre-application plan.
The pre-application plan may be a freehand sketch, legibly drawn, showing approximate boundaries, dimensions, areas
and distances. The plan may be drawn directly on a print of a topographic survey required for the preliminary plat and
must include:
Sketch map. A sketch map showing:
The names of adjoining subdivisions and numbers of adjoining certificates of survey, along with adjacent lot and
tract lines.
Location, name, width and owner of existing or proposed streets, roads and easements within the proposed
subdivision; existing streets, roads and easements within adjacent subdivisions and tracts; and the name of
street or road that provides access from the nearest public street or road to the proposed subdivision.
Location of all existing structures, including buildings, railroads, power lines towers, and improvements inside
and within 100 feet of the proposed subdivision.
Zoning classification within the proposed subdivision and adjacent to it. The zoning proposed for the subdivision,
if a change is contemplated.
Topographic features. Topographic features of the proposed subdivision and adjacent subdivisions and tracts,
including:
A current U.S. Geological Survey topographic map at the largest scale available with the subdivision clearly
outlined.
Embankments, watercourses, drainage channels, areas of seasonal water ponding, areas within the designated
floodway, marsh areas, wetlands, rock outcrops, wooded areas, noxious weeds and areas of active faults. Include
copies of any permits listed in section 38.220.020 that have been obtained for the project.
Utilities. The existing and proposed utilities located on and adjacent to the proposed subdivision including:
Location, size and depth of sanitary and storm sewers, water mains and gas lines.
Location of fire hydrants, electric lines, telephone lines, sewage and water treatment, and storage facilities.
Subdivision layout. The proposed layout of the subdivision showing the approximate:
Subdivision block, tract, and lot boundary lines, with numbers, dimensions, and areas for each block, tract and
lot.
Street location, right-of-way width, and name.
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c.
d.
e.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
b.
12.
13.
a.
b.
c.
14.
Easement location, width and purpose.
Sites to be dedicated or reserved as park, common open space or other public areas, with boundaries,
dimensions and areas.
Sites for commercial centers, churches, schools, industrial areas, multi-household units, manufactured housing
community and uses other than single-household residences.
Development plan. An overall development plan indicating future development of the remainder of the tract, if the
tract is to be developed in phases.
Name and location. A title block indicating the proposed name, quarter-section, section, township, range, principal
meridian and county of subdivision.
Notations. Scale, north arrow, name and addresses of owners and developers, and date of preparation.
Variances. A list of variance requests which will be submitted with the application for preliminary plat application.
Waivers. A list of waivers requested from the requirements of section 38.220.060 must be submitted with the pre-
application. The DRC is responsible for granting waivers, and the community development department staff must
notify the developer in writing of any waivers granted from section 38.220.060 after the pre-application meeting or
plan review.
Parks and recreation facilities. The following information must be provided for all land proposed to meet parkland
dedication requirements:
Park concept plan, including:
Site plan for the entire property; and
The zoning and ownership for adjacent properties; and
The location of any critical lands (wetlands, riparian areas, streams, etc.); and
General description of land, including size, terrain, details of location and history, water features, and
proposed activities; and
Description of trails or other recreational features proposed to connect the proposed park area to other park
or open space areas.
If the applicant intends to request approval of cash-in-lieu, a response to the cash-in-lieu review factors
established by resolution of the city commission.
Affordable housing. Describe how the subdivision proposes to satisfy the requirements of division 38.380.
Wildlife. Describe key wildlife habitat issues that may be associated with proposed subdivision. Describe how the
subdivision will consider fish and wildlife resources in the course of project design. Describe subdivision early
planning suggestions from local FWP field biologists at FWP regional offices. This description should consider the
following:
The species of fish and wildlife, including those designated as species of concern, that use all or part of the
project planning area (proposed subdivision site plus a one-half-mile radius around it) on a year-round, seasonal,
or periodic basis.
Existing vegetation, aquatic habitats, and wildlife habitats in the project planning area (e.g., water bodies and
their associated riparian habitat, big game winter range, native grassland or shrub land habitats, areas used by
black or grizzly bears).
The proposed subdivision's potential impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat, both during construction and at full
build-out, taking any applicable fish and wildlife habitat standards into account.
Waivers of right to protest. Include copies of or the recorded document numbers of all existing waivers of right to
protest special improvement districts or maintenance districts which are applicable to the property proposed to be
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15.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
subdivided.
Water rights. Describe how the proposed subdivision intends to satisfy section 38.410.130. Provide documentation of
all water rights appurtenant to the proposed subdivision; e.g. previous payment-in-lieu of water rights, groundwater
certificates, statements of claim, provisional permits, decreed rights, canal or water users association shares etc.
Sec. 38.220.040. - Subdivision preliminary plat.
The preliminary plat must be legibly drawn as specified in the application form provided by the community development
department. Where accurate information is required, surveying and engineering data must be prepared under the
supervision of a registered engineer or registered land surveyor, licensed in the state, as their respective licensing laws
allow. The plat submittal must include the following:
Pre-application information. All information required with the pre-application plan, as outlined in section 38.220.030.
Subdivision information. Name and location of the subdivision, scale, scale bar, north arrow, date of preparation, lots
and blocks (designated by number), the dimensions and area of each lot, and the use of each lot, if other than for
single-household.
Streets, roads and grades. All streets, roads, alleys, avenues, highways and easements; the width of the right-of-way,
grades and curvature of each; existing and proposed road and street names; and proposed location of intersections
for any subdivision requiring access to arterial or collector streets.
Adjoining subdivisions. The names of adjoining platted subdivisions and numbers of adjoining certificates of survey.
Adjoining owners. Names and addresses of record owners of lots and tracts immediately adjoining the proposed
subdivision.
Perimeter survey. An approximate survey of the exterior boundaries of the platted tract with bearings, distances,
and curve data indicated outside of the boundary lines. When the plat is bounded by an irregular shoreline or a body
of water, the bearings and distances of a closing meander traverse must be given.
Section corner. The approximate location of all section corners or legal subdivision corners of sections pertinent to
the subdivision boundary.
Phased improvements. If the required improvements are to be completed in phases after the final plat is filed, the
approximate area of each phase must be shown on the plat.
Contours. Ground contours must be provided for the tract according to the following requirements:
Table 38.220.040
Where the average slope is:Contour intervals must be:
Under 10 percent 2 feet (if all lots are over one acre in size, ve feet
intervals may be used)
Between 10 and 15 percent 5 feet
Greater than 15 percent 10 feet
Waivers. List of waivers granted from the requirements of section 38.220.060 during the pre-application process
must be submitted with the preliminary plat application.
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11.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
6.
7.
8.
9.
A.
Request for exemption from department of environmental quality review. If the developer is proposing to request an ex
from the department of environmental quality for infrastructure plan and specification review, the preliminary plat app
must include a written request from the developer's professional engineer, licensed in the state, that indicates the inten
request the exemption, and details the extent of water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure that will be completed pri
plat approval. A detailed preliminary stormwater drainage plan must also be submitted with the written request.
Sec. 38.220.050. - Preliminary plat supplements required for all subdivisions.
The following supplemental information must be submitted with the preliminary plat.
Area map. A map showing all adjacent sections of land, subdivision, certificates of survey, streets and roads.
Subdivision map. Map of entire subdivision as specified on the application form provided by the community
development department.
Variances. A written statement describing any requested subdivision variance and the facts of hardship upon which
the request is based (refer to division 38.250 of this chapter).
Noticing materials required by section 38.220.420.
Documents and certificates. Draft copy of the following documents, and certificates to be printed on or to
accompany the preliminary plat:
Covenants, restrictions and articles of incorporation for the property owners' association.
Encroachment permits or a letter indicating intention to issue a permit where new streets, easements, rights-of-
way or drive aisles intersect state, county or city highways, streets or roads.
A letter of approval or preliminary approval from the city where a zoning change is necessary.
A draft of such other appropriate certificates.
Provision for maintenance of all streets (including emergency access), parks, and other required improvements if
not dedicated to the public, or if private.
Street profile sheets. Profile sheets for street grades greater than five percent.
Application and fee. Completed preliminary plat application form, with the original signatures of all owners of record
or their authorized representatives, and the required review fee. If an authorized representative signs on behalf of
an owner of record, a copy of the authorization must be provided.
Noxious weed management and revegetation plan. Noxious weeds must be controlled in all developments as
directed by the county weed control district (district) in accordance with the Montana County Noxious Weed Control
Act (MCA 7-22-21). The developer must have any noxious weeds identified and their location mapped by a person
with experience in weed management and knowledgeable in weed identification. A noxious weed management and
revegetation plan approved by the district for control of noxious weeds must be submitted with the preliminary plat
application. This plan must ensure the control of noxious weeds upon preliminary plat approval and the revegetation
of any land disturbed during the construction of subdivision improvements.
Sanitation information. When the subdivision does not qualify for the certification established in section 38.240.100
the subdivider must provide the information regarding sanitation set forth in MCA 76-3-622.
( Ord. No. 2048 , § 1, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.220.060. - Additional subdivision preliminary plat supplements.
The following list of preliminary plat application supplements must also be provided for all subdivisions unless waived by
the development review committee during the pre-application process. The developer must include documentation of
any waivers granted by the city after the pre-application meeting or plan review. Additional relevant and reasonable
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1.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
(1)
(2)
c.
d.
e.
2.
3.
a.
b.
4.
a.
b.
c.
information may be required to adequately assess whether the proposed subdivision complies with this chapter and the
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act. The need for additional information is determined during the pre-application
process.
Surface water.
Mapping. Locate on a plat overlay or sketch map all surface waters and the delineated floodplain which may
affect or be affected by the proposed subdivision including:
Natural water systems such as natural streams, creeks, stream/ditches, drainages, waterways, gullies, ravines
or washes in which water flows either continuously or intermittently and has a definite channel, bed and
banks.
Artificial water systems such as canals, ditches, ditch/streams, aqueducts, reservoirs, irrigation or drainage
systems.
Description.
Describe all surface waters which may affect or be affected by the proposed subdivision including name,
approximate size, present use and time of year when water is present.
Describe proximity of proposed construction (such as buildings, sewer systems, streets) to surface waters.
Water body alteration. Describe any existing or proposed streambank or shoreline alterations or any proposed
construction or modification of lake beds, watercourses or irrigation ditches. Provide information on location,
extent, type and purpose of alteration. Provide a revised floodplain analysis report, in compliance with article 6
of this chapter, as appropriate.
Wetlands. If the subdivision contains wetlands, as defined in section 38.700.210 of this chapter, then a
delineation of the wetland must be shown on the preliminary and final plats.
Permits. Include copies of any permits listed in section 38.41.020 that have been obtained for the project.
Floodplains. A floodplain analysis report must be submitted with the preliminary plat in compliance with article 6 of
this chapter.
Groundwater.
Depth. Establish the seasonal minimum and maximum depth to the water table, dates on which these depths
were determined, and the location and depth of all known aquifers which may be affected by the proposed
subdivision. The high water table must be determined from tests taken during the period of major concern as
specified in writing by the county environmental health department. Specific locations for test holes may also be
determined by the county environmental health department.
Steps to avoid degradation. Describe any steps necessary to avoid the degradation of groundwater and
groundwater recharge areas.
Geology; soils; slopes.
Geologic hazards. Identify geologic hazards affecting the proposed subdivision which could result in property
damage or personal injury due to rock falls or slides; landslides, mud or snow; surface subsidence (i.e., settling or
sinking); or seismic activity.
Protective measures. Explain what measures will be taken to prevent or materially lessen the danger of future
property damage or injury due to any of the hazards referred to in subsection A.4.a of this section.
Unusual features. Provide a statement describing any unusual soil, topographic or geologic conditions on the
property which limit the capability for building or excavation using ordinary and reasonable construction
techniques. The statement should address conditions such as shallow bedrock, high water table, unstable or
expansive soil conditions, and slope. On a map, identify any slopes in excess of 15 percent grade.
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d.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
e.
5.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
6.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
(1)
(2)
(3)
7.
a.
Soils map. The subdivision must be overlaid on the county soil survey maps obtained from the Natural Resource an
Service (NRCS). The maps are 1:24,000 in scale. These maps may be copied without permission. However, enlargem
maps could cause misunderstanding of the detail of mapping. Soils were mapped using a minimum delineation of fi
these soils reports were intended to alert developers to possible problems and the need for a more detailed on-site
The developer must provide the following soil reports, which can be obtained from the NRCS:
The physical properties and engineering indexes for each soil type;
Soil limitations for building and site development, and water features for each soil type;
Hydric soils report for each soil type. If hydric soils are present, the developer must provide a wetlands
investigation by a certified consultant, using the current Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating
Jurisdictional Wetlands; and
The developer must provide any special design methods planned to overcome the above limitations.
Cuts and fills. Describe the location and amount of any cut or fill three or more feet in depth. These cuts and fills
should be indicated on a plat overlay or sketch map. Where cuts or fills are necessary, describe any plans to
prevent erosion and to promote revegetation such as replacement of topsoil and grading.
Vegetation.
Vegetation map. On a plat overlay or sketch map:
Indicate the distribution of the major vegetation types such as marsh, grassland, shrub, coniferous forest,
deciduous forest or mixed forest.
Identify critical plant communities such as stream bank or shoreline vegetation; vegetation on steep,
unstable slopes; and vegetation on soils highly susceptible to wind or water erosion.
Protective measures. Describe measures to preserve trees and critical plant communities (e.g., design and
location of streets, lots and open spaces).
Wildlife.
Species. Describe species of fish and wildlife which use the area affected by the proposed subdivision.
Critical areas. Identify on a plat overlay or sketch map of the proposed subdivision any known critical, significant
or "key" wildlife areas, such as big game winter range, waterfowl nesting areas, habitat for rare or endangered
species or wetlands.
Pets/human activity. Describe the expected effects of pets and human activity on wildlife.
Public access. Describe the effects on public access to public lands, trails, hunting or fishing areas.
Protective measures. Describe any proposed measures to protect or enhance wildlife habitat or to minimize
degradation (e.g., keeping building and streets back from shorelines, setting aside marshland as undeveloped
open space).
Discussion of impact; documentation. The developer must discuss the impact of the proposed development on
fish and wildlife with the state department of fish, wildlife and Parks (FWP). With the preliminary plat, the
developer must provide written documentation from FWP that:
Verifies that FWP has reviewed the proposed plat;
Lists any FWP recommendations; and
Outlines any mitigation planned to overcome any adverse impacts.
Historical features.
Affected areas. Describe and locate on a plat overlay or sketch map any known or possible historic,
paleontological, archaeological, or cultural sites, structures, or objects which may be affected by the proposed
subdivision.
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b.
c.
d.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
e.
8.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
9.
a.
b.
c.
d.
10.
a.
11.
12.
Protective measures. Describe any plans to protect such sites or properties.
Procedures. Describe procedures to be followed if any historic, paleontological, archaeological, cultural sites,
structures or object are found on site during site preparation and construction.
Discussion of impact; documentation. The developer must discuss the impact of the proposed development on
any historic features, and the need for inventory, study and/or preservation with the state historic preservation
office (SHPO). The developer must provide written documentation from SHPO that:
Verifies that SHPO has reviewed the proposed plat;
Lists any SHPO recommendations;
Outlines any plans for inventory, study, and/or preservation; and
Describes any mitigation planned to overcome any adverse impacts.
Preparation of information. Information on historical sites must be prepared by a qualified professional,
including persons with a professional or educational background in history, architectural history, archaeology, art
history, historic preservation, anthropology and cultural resource management.
Agriculture.
Number of acres in production and type of production.
Agricultural operations in the vicinity, and other uses of land in the general vicinity.
The productivity of the land.
Whether or not the property is part of a viable farm unit, and whether the property was under production during
the last regular season.
What measures will be taken, if any, to control family pets.
Fencing of agricultural land. Describe any existing fence lines around the subdivision boundary which protect
agricultural lands under an ownership other than of the developer, and describe any measure which will be
taken to ensure that the owners of the subdivision will share with the owner of the agricultural lands in the
continued maintenance of the fence.
Agricultural water user facilities.
Type, description, ownership and users of facilities.
Written documentation demonstrating active use of facilities, for example the delivery of non-potable water
supplies for irrigation, conversion to stormwater facilities, or other use. If a facility is not being actively used,
include a written plan for discontinuance including all documentation required pursuant to Montana Law.
Describe any proposed realignment. All realignments must comply with all relevant requirements of Montana
law.
Information from the owner(s) of the facility concerning the proposed use or discontinuance of the facility.
Water and sewer. Provide an engineering design report and/or other documentation demonstrating that adequate
water distribution systems and capacity, and sewage collection and disposal systems and capacity, exists or will be
provided to serve the proposed subdivision.
Water rights. Describe how the proposed subdivision intends to satisfy section 38.410.130. Provide
documentation of all water rights appurtenant to the proposed subdivision; e.g. previous estimates or actual
payment-in-lieu of water rights, certified well logs, decrees or adjudications, etc.
Stormwater management. A stormwater management plan meeting the requirements of section 40.04.700 and the
city's adopted stormwater master plan.
Streets, roads and alleys.
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(c)
(i)
(ii)
(d)
g.
h.
i.
Description. Describe any proposed new public or private streets, roads or alley, or substantial improvements of ex
private streets, roads or alleys. The developer must demonstrate that the land to be subdivided has access onto a le
Access to arterial. Discuss whether any of the individual lots or tracts have access directly to arterial streets or
roads, and if so, the reason access was not provided by means of a street within the subdivision and how the
access complies with section 38.400.090.
Modification of existing streets, roads or alleys. Explain any proposed closure or modification of existing streets,
roads or alleys.
Dust. Describe provisions considered for dust control on alleys.
Pollution and erosion. Explain how street, road and alley maintenance will be provided to meet the department
of environmental quality guidelines for prevention of water pollution and erosion.
Traffic generation. Discuss how much daily traffic will be generated on existing local and neighborhood streets,
roads and alleys, when the subdivision is fully developed, and provide the following information:
The report format must be as follows:
Trip generation, using the Institute of Transportation Engineers Trip Generation Manual;
Trip distribution;
Traffic assignment;
Capacity analysis;
Evaluation; and
Recommended access plan, including access points, modifications and any mitigation techniques.
The report must include the following information:
Land use and trip generation in the form of a table of each type of land use, the number of units or
square footage, as appropriate, the trip rates used (daily and peak) and resulting trip generation.
Traffic graphics, which show:
A.M. peak hour site traffic;
P.M. peak hour site traffic;
A.M. peak hour total traffic;
P.M. peak hour total traffic; and
Total daily traffic (with site-generated traffic shown separately).
A.M. and P.M. capacity analysis with an A.M. and P.M. peak-hour capacity analysis provided for:
All major drive accesses that intersect collector or arterial streets or roads; and
All arterial-arterial, collector-collector and arterial-collector intersections within one-half mile of the
site, or as required by the city engineer during the pre-application review, concept plan review, or
informal project review.
For two-way stop controlled intersections, analysis of whether the intersection would satisfy signalization
warrants if the two-way stop control was removed.
Capacity. Indicate the levels of service (before and after development) of existing and proposed streets and
roads, including appropriate intersections, to safely handle any increased traffic. Describe any anticipated
increased maintenance that will be necessary due to increased traffic and who will pay the cost of maintenance.
Bicycle and pedestrian pathways, lanes and routes. Describe bicycle and pedestrian pathways, lanes or routes to
be developed with the development.
Traffic calming. Detailed drawings of any proposed traffic calming installations, including locations and turning
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13.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
14.
15.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
16.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
radius templates.
Utilities. The developer must submit a copy of the subdivision plat to all relevant utility companies. With the
preliminary plat, the developer must provide written documentation of the following:
Affected utilities. Indicate which affected utilities the subdivision plat has been submitted to for review, and
include a copy of responses.
Include a description of:
The method of furnishing electric, natural gas, cable TV, internet or telephone service, where provided.
Estimated timing of each utility installation.
The developer must provide a written statement from the utility companies that the proposed subdivision
can be provided with service.
Educational facilities. With the preliminary plat, provide a written statement from the administrator of the
appropriate school system indicating whether the increased enrollment can be accommodated by the present
personnel and facilities and by the existing school bus system.
Land use.
Indicate the proposed use and number of lots or spaces in each:
Residential area, single-household;
Residential area, multiple-household. Types of multiple-household structures and numbers of each (e.g., two
or four unit structures);
Planned unit development (number of units);
Condominium (number of units);
Manufactured housing community (number of units);
Recreational vehicle park;
Commercial or industrial; and
Other (please describe).
Parks and recreation facilities. The following information must be provided for all land used to meet parkland
dedication requirements:
Park plan. A park plan, including:
Site plan with one-foot contour topographic survey for the entire property; showing developer installed
improvements on the initial park plan and proposed future improvements on the future park plan, and
phasing proposed if any;
Drainage areas;
Utilities within, serving, and adjacent to the property;
The zoning and ownership for adjacent properties;
The location of any critical lands (wetlands, riparian areas, streams, etc.) and location of watercourse
setbacks and any permits from non-city agencies required to execute the proposed plan;
Park landscaping plan, prepared by a qualified landscape professional in accordance with section 38.220.100,
showing the location and specific types and species of plants, shrubs, trees as well as grass seed mixes and
the irrigation system including but not limited to identification of water source, points of connection, mains,
laterals, valves, zones, and sprinkler heads;
General description of land, including size, terrain, details of location and history, water features, and
proposed activities;
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(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
(12)
(13)
(14)
(15)
(16)
(17)
(18)
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
c.
(1)
(2)
d.
e.
17.
18.
a.
(1)
(2)
Trail design and construction showing compliance with adopted city standards and trail classifications;
The requirement for approval of the final park plan by the review authority with a recommendation from the
city recreation and parks advisory board prior to any site work;
The requirement for a preconstruction meeting prior to any site work;
Appropriate sections from the design guidelines for city parks;
Cost estimate, installation phasing and responsibility, and maintenance plan tasks and responsibility for all
improvements;
If playground equipment will be provided, information including the manufacturer, installation data and
specifications, installer, type of fall zone surfacing and age group intended for use;
Soils information and analysis;
A description of how the proposed park plan is consistent with the goals of the city's long range parks plan;
A description of how the proposed park will meet the recreational needs of the residents of the development;
The proposed manner of providing irrigation to the park including water source, amount of water expected
to be consumed annually, and proposed manner of transfer of water facilities and rights to the city; and
A phase I environmental assessment of the area proposed to be transferred to the city or property owner's
association.
Park maintenance.
Maintenance information, including levels of maintenance, a maintenance schedule, and responsible parties;
Weed control plan, including responsible parties; and
Plan for garbage collection, snow removal and leaf removal including responsible parties.
Irrigation information.
An irrigation system map generally showing the locations and types of lines, including depth, water source,
heads, electric valves, quick couplers, drains and control box; and
If a well will be used for irrigation, a certified well log must be submitted showing depth of well, gpm, pump
type and size, voltage, water rights, etc.
Phasing. If improvements will be phased, a phasing plan must be provided including proposed financing methods
and responsibilities.
Cash-in-lieu. If the development includes a proposal for cash-in-lieu of park a specific justification responding to
the cash-in-lieu review factors established by resolution of the city commission. If improvements-in-lieu are
proposed specific costs of proposed improvements and costs to install must be provided.
Neighborhood center plan. A neighborhood center plan must be prepared and submitted for all subdivisions
containing a neighborhood center.
Lighting plan. The following subdivision lighting information must be submitted for all new subdivisions:
For subdivision applications where lighting is required or proposed, lighting plans must be submitted to the city
for review and approval, and must include:
Isofootcandle plots for individual fixture installations, and ten-foot by ten-foot illuminance-grid plots for
multifixture installations, which demonstrate compliance with the intensity and uniformity requirements as
set forth in this chapter.
Description of the proposed equipment, including fixture manufacturer's cutsheets, photometrics, glare
reduction devices, lamps, on/off control devices, mounting heights, pole foundation details and mounting
methods.
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(3)
(4)
b.
c.
19.
a.
b.
c.
20.
a.
A.
1.
a.
b.
2.
3.
The lighting plan must be prepared, and certified for compliance with the city's design requirements and illumin
by a qualified lighting professional. Qualified lighting professionals include electrical engineers, architects, lightin
manufacturers representatives.
Lighting calculations may include only the illuminated areas; areas occupied by buildings or other nonlighted
areas must be excluded from calculations.
When requested by the city, the applicant must also submit a visual-impact plan that demonstrates appropriate
steps have been taken to mitigate on-site and off-site glare and to retain the city's character.
Post-approval alterations to lighting plans or intended substitutions for approved lighting must only be made
after city review and approval.
Miscellaneous.
Public lands. Describe how the subdivision will affect access to any public lands. Where public lands are adjacent
to or within 200 feet of the proposed development, describe present and anticipated uses for those lands (e.g.,
open space, recreation, etc.), and how public access will be preserved/enhanced.
Hazards. Describe any health or safety hazards on or near the subdivision, such as mining activity or potential
subsidence, high pressure gas lines, dilapidated structures or high voltage power lines. Any such conditions must
be accurately described and their origin and location identified. List any provisions that will be made to mitigate
these hazards. Also describe any on-site or off-site land uses creating a nuisance.
Wildlands-urban interface. Describe the subdivision's location within or proximity to the wildlands-urban
interface (WUI) and ember zone designated by the most recent city-adopted hazard mitigation plan. Describe any
hazard from the subdivision's proximity to the WUI. List any provisions that will be used to mitigate these
hazards and reduce structure ignitability.
Affordable housing. Describe how the subdivision will satisfy the requirements of division 38.380. The description
must be of adequate detail to clearly identify those lots designated as subject to division 38.380 compliance
requirements and to make the obligations placed on the affected lots readily understandable.
On all lots intended to be used to satisfy the requirements of division 38.380, the allowable building envelope
must be depicted.
Sec. 38.220.070. - Final plat.
The following materials must be provided with each application for final plat approval. Materials must be provided in the
number of copies and form established by the director of community development.
A letter from the city engineer certifying that the following documents have been received:
As-built drawings, i.e., copies of final plans, profiles, grades and specifications for public improvements, including
a complete grading and drainage plan.
Copy of the state highway access or encroachment permit where a street created by the plat will intersect with a
state highway.
Noxious weed MOU. Prior to final plat approval, a memorandum of understanding must be entered into by the weed
control district and the developer. The memorandum of understanding must be signed by the district and the
developer prior to final plat approval, and a copy of the signed document must be submitted to the community
development department with the application for final plat approval.
Final park plan. For all land used to meet parkland dedication requirements, a final park plan must be submitted to
the city for review and approval prior to final plat. The final park plan must include all of the information listed in
section 38.220.060.A.16 and must include evidence of compliance with the installation requirements of division
38.270.
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4.
5.
6.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
7.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Irrigation system as-builts. The developer must provide irrigation system as-builts, for all irrigation installed in public rig
and/or land used to meet parkland dedication requirements, once the irrigation system is installed. The as-builts must i
exact locations and type of lines, including accurate depth, water source, heads, electric valves, quick couplers, drains a
box.
Affordable housing. The developer must provide a description of how the subdivision has complied with division
38.380. The description must be of adequate detail to clearly identify those lots designated as subject to division
38.380 compliance requirements and to make the obligations placed on the affected lots readily understandable.
Conditions of approval. A sheet(s) of the plat depicting conformance with subdivision application approval must be
submitted as set forth in 24.183.1107 ARM as may be amended and as required by the county clerk and recorder,
and must:
Be entitled "Conditions of Approval of [insert name of subdivision]" with a title block including the quarter-
section, section, township, range, principal meridian, county, and, if applicable, city or town in which the
subdivision is located.
Contain any text and/or graphic representations of requirements by the governing body for final plat approval
including, but not limited to, setbacks from streams or riparian areas, floodplain boundaries, no-build areas,
building envelopes, or the use of particular parcels.
Include a certification statement by the landowner that the text and/or graphics shown on the conditions of
approval sheet(s) represent(s) requirements by the governing body for final plat approval and that all conditions
of subdivision application have been satisfied.
Include a notation stating that the information shown is current as of the date of the certification, and that
changes to any land-use restrictions or encumbrances may be made by amendments to covenants, zoning
regulations, easements, or other documents as allowed by law or by local regulations.
Include a notation stating that buyers of property should ensure that they have obtained and reviewed all sheets
of the plat and all documents recorded and filed in conjunction with the plat, and that buyers of property are
strongly encouraged to contact the local community development department and become informed of any
limitations on the use of the property prior to closing.
List all associated recorded documents and recorded document numbers.
Include a tabulation of parkland credit for the entire subdivision and attributed to each lot.
Include a tabulation of open space.
List easements, including easements for agricultural water user facilities.
Documents. The following documents must accompany the final plat:
A title report or certificate of a title abstractor;
Any covenants or deed restrictions relating to the subdivision;
The security required pursuant to section 38.270.060, securing the future construction of any remaining private
or public improvements to be installed;
Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, copies of final plans, profiles, grades, and specifications for
improvements, including a complete grading and drainage plan, with the certification of a professional engineer
that all required improvements which have been installed are in conformance with the attached plans. The
subdivider must file copies of final plans, profiles, grades, and specifications for improvements, including a
complete grading and drainage plan, with the certification of a professional engineer that all required
improvements which have been installed are in conformance with the attached plans, with the city engineering
division of the department of public works and the city parks department. A statement must be included on the
conditions of approval sheet stating where the plans can be obtained;
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e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
8.
A.
1.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
b.
c.
d.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
If a street, alley, avenue, road, or highway created by the plat will intersect with a state or federal right-of-way, a
copy of the access or encroachment permit;
A title report or certificate of a title abstractor for any off-site land intended to satisfy park dedication
requirements;
Any deeds or documents for transfer of land and/or improvements to the city or the property owners'
association or other entity;
Any deeds or documents for transfer of water rights; including but not limited to all required state department of
natural resources and conservation documentation, e.g. ownership update form, permit, groundwater certificate
and/or change authorization; and
Any other documents satisfying subdivision application approval required by the governing body to be filed or
recorded.
The developer must submit with the application for final plat review and approval, a written narrative stating how
each of the conditions of preliminary plat approval and noted code provisions have been satisfactorily addressed.
This narrative must be in sufficient detail to direct the reviewer to the appropriate plat, plan, sheet, note, covenant,
etc. in the submittal.
Sec. 38.220.080. - Site plan submittal requirements.
Applications for all site plan approvals must be submitted to the community development department on forms
provided by the community development director.
General information.
Complete, signed application including the following:
Name of project/development;
Location of project/development by street address and legal description;
Name and mailing address of developer and owner;
Name and mailing address of engineer/architect, landscape architect and/or planner;
Listing of specific land uses being proposed; and
A statement signed by the owner of the proposed development of their intent to comply with the
requirements of this Code and any conditions considered necessary by the approval body;
Location map, including area within one-half mile of the site;
List of names and addresses of property owners' according to division 38.220 of this chapter;
For all developments, excluding sketch and reuse/further development, a construction route map must be
provided showing how materials and heavy equipment will travel to and from the site. The route must avoid,
where possible, local or minor collector streets or streets where construction traffic would disrupt neighborhood
residential character or pose a threat to public health and safety.
Site plan information. The following information is required whenever the requested information pertains to zoning
or other regulatory requirements of this chapter, existing conditions on-site or conditions on-site which would result
from the proposed development:
Boundary line of property with dimensions;
Date of plan preparation and changes;
North point indicator;
Suggested scale of one inch to 20 feet, but not less than one inch to 100 feet;
Parcel and site coverage information:
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(1)
(2)
(3)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
f.
g.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(8)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(9)
(a)
Parcel size in gross acres and square feet;
Estimated total floor area and estimated ratio of floor area to lot size (floor area ratio, FAR), with a breakdown
by land use; and
Location, percentage of parcel and total site, and square footage for the following:
Existing and proposed buildings and structures;
Driveway and parking;
Open space and/or landscaped area, recreational use areas, public and semipublic land, parks, school
sites, etc.; and
Public street right-of-way;
Total number, type and density per type of dwelling units, and total net and gross residential density and density
per residential parcel;
Location, identification and dimension of the following existing and proposed data, on-site and to a distance of
100 feet (200 feet for PUDs) outside site plan boundary, exclusive of public rights-of-way, unless otherwise
stated:
Topographic contours at a minimum interval of two feet, or as determined by the community development
director;
Adjacent streets and street rights-of-way to a distance of 150 feet, except for sites adjacent to major arterial
streets where the distances must be 200 feet;
On-site streets and rights-of-way;
Ingress and egress points;
Traffic flow on-site;
Traffic flow off-site;
Utilities and utility rights-of-way or easements:
Electric;
Natural gas;
Telephone, cable TV, optic fiber, and similar utilities;
Water; and
Sewer (sanitary, treated effluent and storm);
Surface water, including:
Holding ponds, streams and irrigation ditches;
Watercourses, water bodies and wetlands;
Floodplains as designated on the federal insurance rate map or that may otherwise be identified as lying
within a 100-year floodplain through additional floodplain delineation, engineering analysis, topographic
survey or other objective and factual basis; and
A floodplain analysis report in compliance with article 6 of this chapter if not previously provided with
subdivision review;
Grading and drainage plan, including provisions for on-site retention/detention and water quality
improvement facilities as required by the engineering department, or in compliance with any adopted storm
drainage ordinance or best management practices manual adopted by the city;
All drainageways, streets, arroyos, dry gullies, diversion ditches, spillways, reservoirs, etc., which may be
incorporated into the storm drainage system for the property must be designated:
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(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(10)
(11)
(12)
(13)
(14)
(15)
(16)
(17)
(18)
(19)
(20)
(21)
(22)
(23)
(24)
h.
i.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
The name of the drainageway (where appropriate);
The downstream conditions (developed, available drainageways, etc.); and
Any downstream restrictions;
Significant rock outcroppings, slopes of greater than 15 percent or other significant topographic features;
Sidewalks, walkways, drive aisles, loading areas and docks, bikeways, including typical details and
interrelationships with vehicular circulation system, indicating proposed treatment of points of conflict, a
statement requiring lot accesses to be built to the standard contained in this section, the city design
standards and specifications policy, and the city modifications to state public works standard specifications;
Provision for handicapped accessibility, including, but not limited to, wheelchair ramps, parking spaces,
handrails and curb cuts, including construction details and the applicant's certification of ADA compliance;
Fences and walls, including typical details;
Exterior signs;
Exterior refuse collection areas, including typical details;
A site plan, complete with all structures, parking spaces, building entrances, traffic areas (both vehicular and
pedestrian), vegetation that might interfere with lighting, and adjacent uses, containing a layout of all
proposed fixtures by location and type. The materials required in section 38.220.060.A.18, if not previously
provided;
Curb, asphalt section and drive approach construction details;
Landscaping (detailed plan showing plantings, equipment, and other appropriate information as required in
section 38.220.100);
Unique natural features, significant wildlife areas and vegetative cover, including existing trees and shrubs
having a diameter greater than two and one-half inches, by species;
Snow storage areas;
Location of city limit boundaries, and boundaries of Gallatin County's Bozeman Area Zoning Jurisdiction,
within or near the development;
Existing zoning within 200 feet of the site;
Historic, cultural and archaeological resources, describe and map any designated historic structures or
districts, and archaeological or cultural sites; and
Major public facilities, including schools, parks, trails, etc.;
Detailed plan of all parking facilities, including circulation aisles, access drives, bicycle racks, compact spaces,
handicapped spaces and motorcycle parking, on-street parking, number of employee and nonemployee parking
spaces, existing and proposed, and total square footage of each;
The information required by section 38.220.060.A.12, subject to the following exceptions:
Such information was previously provided through a subdivision review process; or
The provision of such information was waived in writing during subdivision review of the land to be
developed; or
The provision of such information is waived in writing by the city engineer prior to submittal of a preliminary
site plan application; or
The application for site plan approval involves the redevelopment of property located within the city's
established neighborhood conservation overlay district. In such cases, the city may require the property
owner to sign a waiver of right to protest creation of a special improvement district, or other form of
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(5)
j.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
k.
l.
m.
n.
o.
p.
q.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
r.
agreement, assuring participation, on a fair share, pro-rata basis, in future improvements to intersections in
the vicinity of the development proposal; or
The application for site plan approval involves the adaptive reuse of an existing building, regardless of its
location within the city, or the redevelopment of a property located within one of the city's urban renewal
districts. In cases where an existing building or complex of buildings is to be torn down and replaced with a
larger building or complex of buildings, the city engineer may require the information described in section
38.220.060.A.12 to evaluate the additional traffic impacts resulting from development of the larger building
or complex of buildings;
Building design information (on-site):
Building heights and elevations of all exterior walls of the building or structure;
Height above mean sea level of the elevation of the lowest floor and location of lot outfall when the structure
is proposed to be located in a floodway or floodplain area;
Floor plans depicting location and dimensions of all proposed uses and activities; and
All on-site utilities and mechanical equipment;
Description and mapping of soils existing on the site, accompanied by analysis as to the suitability of such soils
for the intended construction and proposed landscaping;
Temporary facilities plan showing the location of all temporary model homes, sales offices and/or construction
facilities, including temporary signs and parking facilities;
Unless already provided through a previous subdivision review, a noxious weed control plan complying with
section 38.220.050; and
Drafts of applicable supplementary documents as set forth in division 38.220 of this chapter;
The information necessary to complete the determination of density change and parkland provision required by
section 38.420.020.B, unless such information was previously determined by the city to be inapplicable and
written confirmation is provided to the applicant prior to submittal of a preliminary site plan application. If a new
park will be created by the development the park plan materials of section 38.220.060.A.16, must be provided;
Affordable housing. Describe how the site plan will satisfy any requirements of division 38.380 which have either
been established for that lot through the subdivision process or if no subdivision has previously occurred are
applicable to a site plan. The description must be of adequate detail to clearly identify those lots and dwellings
designated as subject to division 38.380 compliance requirements and to make the obligations placed on the
affected lots and dwellings readily understandable;
Phased site plans:
A phasing plan showing the location of phase boundaries and that each phase will be fully functional if
subsequent phases are not completed;
A utilities plan showing that each phase will be able to be fully functional if subsequent phases are not
completed;
A revegetation and grading plan showing how disturbed areas will be revegetated to control weeds and site
grading and drainage control will be maintained as phased construction proceeds;
If the applicant intends for multiple phases to be under construction simultaneously, evidence of financial
commitment from the project lender for the completion of all phases to be undertaken at once. Evidence of
financial commitment may be provided at the time the building permits for the multiple phases are sought.
When section 38.420.020 requires parkland dedication in association with a site plan, and cash-in-lieu of
parkland will not be provided, the materials required by section 38.220.060.A.16.
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A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
2.
Sec. 38.220.090. - Certi cates of appropriateness; additional application requirements, review procedures and review criteria.
Submittal requirements for certificates of appropriateness. All development proposals requiring certificates of
appropriateness (e.g., located in a neighborhood conservation district or historic property/structure) must submit the
following information in addition to any sketch plan, site plan or special development submittal requirements for the
proposal:
Neighborhood conservation overlay district and historic property/structures. Certain information must be provided
to the appropriate review authority to review prior to granting or denying a certificate of appropriateness. The extent
of documentation to be submitted on any project is dictated by the scope of the planned alteration and the
information reasonably necessary for the appropriate review authority to make its determination. At a minimum, the
following items must be included in the submission:
Completed application on form provided by the community development department;
One current picture of each elevation of each structure planned to be altered and such additional pictures of the
specific elements of the structure or property to be altered that will clearly express the nature and extent of
change planned. Except when otherwise recommended, no more than eight pictures may be submitted and all
pictures must be mounted on letter-size sheets and clearly annotated with the property address, elevation
direction (N, S, E, W) and relevant information;
Sketch plan or site plan information, as per section 38.230.070 or 38.230.080;
Historical information, including available data such as pictures, plans, authenticated verbal records and similar
research documentation that may be relevant to the planned alteration;
Materials and color schemes to be used;
Plans, sketches, pictures, specifications and other data that will clearly express the applicant's proposed
alterations;
A schedule of planned actions that will lead to the completed alterations;
Description of any applicant-requested deviation and a narrative explanation as to how the requested deviation
will encourage restoration and rehabilitation activity that will contribute to the overall historic character of the
community;
An illustration showing all internal and external elements of a structure to be removed or altered by a project. All
elements to be removed or altered, and to what extent, must be clearly identified and must include those
elements to be removed and reinstalled;
If demolition of a historic structure, as defined in article 7 of this chapter, is proposed a structural analysis and
cost estimates indicating the costs of repair and/or rehabilitation to bring the structure to a habitable condition
as established by the applicable technical codes in Article 10.02, versus the costs of demolition and
redevelopment. Analysis must include cost estimates from more than one general contractor for the work. The
cost comparison is between the cost to rehabilitate the structure to a condition which meets the building code
standard for occupancy and demolition and construction of a new structure of the same type and scale to
building code standards.
If a building is claimed to be unsafe evidence to support that claim;
For any nonconforming structure, an analysis of demolition to determine whether the threshold for loss of
protected nonconforming status per section 38.280.040.B has been met or surpassed; and
Such other information as may be required by the community development department.
It is further suggested that the applicant seek comments from the neighborhood or area.
Sec. 38.220.100. - Submittal requirements for landscape plans.
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A.
B.
1.
2.
3.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
These landscape regulations apply to a lot or site subject to plan review and approval outlined in division 38.230 of this
chapter. A separate landscape plan must be submitted as part of the site plan application unless the required landscape
information can be included in a site plan that meets formatting requirements as determined by the city and the
standards listed below.
Preparation of landscape plan. Landscape plans must be prepared and certified by:
A state-registered landscape architect;
An individual with a degree in landscape design and two years of professional design experience in the state; or
An individual with a degree in a related field (such as horticulture, botany, plant science, etc.) and at least five years
of professional landscape design experience, of which two years have been in the state.
Contents of landscape plan. A landscape plan required pursuant to this chapter must contain the following information:
Date, scale, north arrow, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of both the property owner and the
person preparing the plan;
Location of existing boundary lines and dimensions of the lot;
Approximate centerlines of existing watercourses, required watercourse setbacks, and the location of any 100-year
floodplain; the approximate location of significant drainage features; and the location and size of existing and
proposed streets and alleys, utility easements, utility lines, drive aisles and sidewalks on the lot and/or adjacent to
the lot;
Project name, street address, and lot and block description;
Location, height and material of proposed screening and fencing (with berms to be delineated by one foot contours);
Locations and dimensions of proposed landscape buffer strips, including watercourse buffer strips;
Complete landscape legend providing a description of plant materials shown on the plan, including typical symbols,
names (common and botanical name), locations, quantities, container or caliper sizes at installation, heights, spread
and spacing. The location and type of all existing trees on the lot over six inches in caliper must be specifically
indicated;
Complete illustration of landscaping and screening to be provided in or near off-street parking and loading areas,
including information as to the amount (in square feet) of landscape area to be provided internal to parking areas
and the number and location of required off-street parking and loading spaces;
An indication of how existing healthy trees (if any) are to be retained and protected from damage during
construction;
Size, height, location and material of proposed seating, lighting, planters, sculptures, and water features;
A description of proposed watering methods;
Location of street vision triangles on the lot (if applicable);
Designated snow removal storage areas;
Location of pavement, curbs, sidewalks and gutters;
Show location of existing and/or proposed drainage facilities which are to be used for drainage control;
Existing and proposed grade;
Size of plantings at the time of installation and at maturity;
Areas to be irrigated;
Planting plan for watercourse buffers, per section 38.410.100, if not previously provided through subdivision review;
and
Front and side elevations of buildings, fences and walls with height dimensions if not otherwise provided by the
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A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(a)
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(c)
(d)
(e)
application. Show open stairways and other projections from exterior building walls.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 1, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.220.110. - Sketch plan submittal requirements.
A sketch plan must be drawn to scale and in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
Sketch plans must be oriented with north at the top of the page and must also show site boundaries, street and alley frontages
with names, street trees, water and sewer service locations, sidewalks, parking location and size, and location of all structures with
distances to the nearest inch or nearest tenth of foot between buildings and from buildings to property lines.
Sec. 38.220.120. - Planned unit development submittal requirements.
The following material must be submitted for review with each planned unit development.
Submittal requirements for pre-applications. The following information and data must be submitted for pre-
application review. The number of copies required is determined by the community development department:
Data regarding site conditions, land characteristics, available community facilities and utilities and other related
general information about adjacent land uses and the uses of land within one-half mile of the subject parcel of
land;
Conceptual (sketch) drawing showing the proposed location of the uses of land, major streets and other
significant features on the site and within one-half mile of the site; and
A computation table showing the site's proposed land use allocations by location and as a percent of total site
area.
Submittal requirements for preliminary plans. The following information and data must be submitted for preliminary
plan review. The number of copies required is determined by the community development department:
Document requirements. The following information must be included in the submittal:
Application forms;
A list of names of all general and limited partners and/or officers and directors of the corporation involved as
either applicants or owners of the planned unit development;
A statement of planning objectives, including:
Statement of applicable city land use policies and objectives achieved by the proposed plan and how it
furthers the implementation of the city growth policy;
Statement of:
Proposed ownership of open space areas; and
Applicant's intentions with regard to future ownership of all or portions of the planned unit
development;
Estimate of number of employees for business, commercial and industrial uses;
Description of rationale behind the assumptions and choices made by the applicant;
Where deviations from the requirements of this chapter are proposed, the applicant must submit
evidence of successful completion of the applicable community design objectives and criteria of section
38.430.090. The applicant must submit written explanation for each of the applicable objectives or criteria
as to how the plan does or does not address the objective or criterion. The community development
director may require, or the applicant may choose to submit, evidence that is beyond what is required in
that section. Any element of the proposal that varies from the criterion must be described;
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(f)
(g)
(4)
(5)
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
c.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(3)
(a)
(i)
(b)
(4)
(5)
Detailed description of how conflicts between land uses of different character are being avoided or mitigate
Statement of design methods to reduce energy consumption, (e.g., home/business utilities,
transportation fuel, waste recycling);
A development schedule indicating the approximate date when construction of the planned unit
development, or stages of the same, is expected to begin and be completed, including the proposed phasing
of construction of public improvements and recreational and common space areas;
One reduced version of all preliminary plan and supplemental plan maps and graphic illustrations.
Site plan requirements. A site plan of the proposed development showing the information required for site plans
in section 38.220.080 plus the following additional information:
Notations of proposed ownership, public or private, must be included where appropriate;
The proposed treatment of the perimeter of the planned unit development, including materials and
techniques used, such as screening, fences, walls and other landscaping; and
Attorney's or owner's certification of ownership.
Supplemental plan requirements.
Viewsheds.
Looking onto and across the site from areas around the site, describe and map the views and vistas from
adjacent properties that may be blocked or impaired by development of the site;
Describe and map areas of high visibility on the site as seen from adjacent off-site locations;
Street cross sections if different from city standards. Street cross section schematics must be submitted for
each general category of street, including:
The proposed width;
Treatment of curbs and gutters, or other stormwater control system if other than curb and gutter is
proposed;
Sidewalk systems; and
Bikeway systems, where alternatives to the design criteria and standards of the city are proposed;
Physiographic data, including the following:
A description of the hydrologic conditions of the site with analysis of water table fluctuation and a
statement of site suitability for intended construction and proposed landscaping. The description of the
hydrologic conditions must include depth to groundwater measurements taken May 15 through
September 15;
An alternative to the actual measurement of water table depth may be offered provided that such
alternative includes a detailed soil profile, including a detailed description of the soil which follows
The National Cooperative Soil Survey Field Book for describing soils and which provides good and
sufficient evidence to establish the presence and depth of a seasonal water table, a land form
position or location, or other physiographic data which are sufficient to establish the minimum depth
to groundwater. Some soils are not easily profiled to establish an off-season high water table, such as
those underlain by sand or gravel, those high in organic matter and those with a high lime content.
Physical monitoring of these types of soils may be necessary;
Locate and identify the ownership of existing wells or well sites within 400 feet of the site;
Preliminary subdivision plat. If the project involves or requires platting, a preliminary subdivision plat, subject
to the requirements of this chapter relative to subdivisions, must be submitted;
Traffic impact analysis. Notwithstanding the waiver provisions of section 38.220.080.A.2.i, the city may
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(6)
(7)
3.
a.
b.
c.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
d.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
A.
1.
require that a traffic impact analysis be prepared based upon the proposed development. The analysis must
include provisions of the approved development guidelines, and must address impacts upon surrounding
land uses. The city may require the traffic impact analysis to include the information in section
38.220.060.A.12. If a traffic impact analysis has been submitted as part of a concurrent subdivision review,
that analysis must meet this requirement;
Additional studies and plans. If the development's compliance with the community design objectives and
criteria is under question, the review authority may require additional impact studies or other plans as
deemed necessary for providing thorough consideration of the proposed planned unit development;
A proposed draft of a legal instrument containing the creation of a property owner's association sufficient to
meet the requirements of section 38.220.310 must be submitted with the preliminary plan application.
Submittal requirements for final plans.
A completed and signed application form;
A list of names of all general and limited partners and/or officers and directors of the corporation involved as
either applicants or owners of the planned unit development; and
Site plan submittal requirements.
A final plan site plan including the following information must be submitted:
Land use data (same information as required on the preliminary site plan);
Lot lines, easements, public rights-of-way as per subdivision plat;
Attorney's or owner's certification of ownership;
Community development director certification of approval of the site plan and its conformance with the
preliminary plan; and
Owner's certification of acceptance of conditions and restrictions as set forth on the site plan.
Supplemental plans.
Final landscape plan. A final landscape plan consistent with the conditions and restrictions of the approved
preliminary plan must be submitted. It must also be consistent with the division 38.550 of this chapter,
except that any stated conditions and restrictions of the preliminary plan approval supersede the provisions
of division 38.550 of this chapter;
Final subdivision plat. An official final subdivision plat of the site must accompany the final planned unit
development plan when applicable. City approval of the final subdivision plat is required before issuance of
building permits;
Final utility plans. Prior to submission of the final plan to the DRC and ADR staff, engineering plans and
specifications for sewer, water, street improvements and other public improvements, and an executed
improvements agreement in proper form providing for the installation of such improvements, must be
submitted to and approved by the city; and
Open space maintenance plan. A plan for the maintenance of open space, meeting the requirements of
section 38.220.320, must be submitted with an application for final plan approval. Open space shown on the
approved final plan must not be used for the construction of any structures not shown on the final plan.
Sec. 38.220.130. - Submittal materials for regulated activities in wetlands.
All parties applying for activity permits proposing action affecting federal, state or city regulated wetlands, watercourses
and/or buffers within the city limits must submit the following information:
A wetland and watercourse delineation report must be submitted to the city for all projects, if aquatic resources are
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a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
c.
d.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
e.
3.
present. When required to determine applicability and scope of wetland location and function the delineation shall
go beyond the boundary of the property. If no aquatic resources are present, a letter must be submitted to the city
stating that there are no water resources within the subject property.
This wetland and watercourse delineation report must include, but not be limited to, the following:
Wetland and watercourse descriptions;
Functional assessment, as determined by a state-accepted functional assessment method, i.e., Montana
Department of Transportation (Berglund and McEldowney 2008 as amended) or Montana Department of
Environmental Quality (Apfelbeck and Farris 2005 as amended);
Wetland types, as determined by a state-accepted functional assessment method (i.e., Cowardin et al 1979 as
amended);
Wetland acreages (by a licensed surveyor);
Maps with property boundaries, wetland and watercourse boundaries and acreages; and
Wetland data forms (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers data forms).
If activities are planned in and/or adjacent to aquatic resources the following information is required:
A site plan which shows the property boundary; delineated wetland and watercourse boundaries; buffer
boundaries; and all existing and proposed structures, roads, trails, and easements. The site plan will include a
table of existing wetland functional ratings and acreage, required buffers and acreage, and linear feet of all
watercourses and ditches.
All direct impacts to wetlands, watercourses, and buffers must be highlighted and summarized in a table on
the site plan. The water resource and buffer summary table must include wetland/watercourse identification
number; corresponding buffer width and acreage; total site, wetland, watercourse, ditch, and buffer
acreages; jurisdictional status; impacts to all water resources and buffers; and, mitigation types and acreages.
All indirect impacts (e.g., shading from boardwalks or public utility well drawdown) must be summarized in
the document.
A map with all proposed mitigation areas and their required buffers. The map must include a table of mitigation
wetland type and acreage and required buffers and acreage and a description of the functional unit gain of the
wetland mitigation (as determined by a state-accepted functional assessment method).
The source, type and method of transport and disposal of any fill material to be used, and certification that the
placement of fill material will not violate any applicable state or federal statutes and regulations as listed in
section 38.220.020.
Copies of the following:
Any Clean Water Act (CWA) section 404 and 401 permits;
Any MT 301 permits;
Any floodplain determinations for the proposed site known to the applicant;
Any other applications, state or federal, for wetlands permits regarding the proposed site;
Any U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdictional determinations regarding wetlands on the proposed and
adjacent site; and
If relevant, any Montana state joint applications for the proposed project site.
A completed wetland review checklist.
If in the preparation or review of the required submittal materials it is determined that there are unavoidable
impacts to wetlands and/or watercourses that will require a Federal Clean Water Act permit, then the following
information must be submitted to the city for all federal jurisdictional and city-regulated wetlands (see section
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a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
c.
38.700.210 for definition) in a compensatory mitigation report:
The descriptive narrative must include, at a minimum:
The name and contact information of the applicant; the name, qualifications, and contact information for the
primary author of the compensatory mitigation report; a description of the proposal; summary of the direct
and indirect impacts and proposed mitigation concept; identification of all the local, state, and federal
wetland/stream-related permit required for the project; and, a vicinity map for the project.
A description of the existing wetland, watercourse and buffer areas that will be impacted including area
based on professional surveys; dominant vegetation; and functional assessments and wetland ratings for the
entire wetland and the portions proposed to be impacted.
An assessment of the potential changes in wetland hydroperiod for the proposed project and how the design
has been modified to avoid, minimize or reduce impacts to the wetland hydroperiod.
A description of the proposed conceptual mitigation actions for wetland, watercourse and buffer areas.
Provide specifications (including buffers) for all proposed mitigation for wetland/watercourse/buffer impacts.
Include a map with all proposed mitigation areas and their required buffers.
An assessment of existing conditions in the zone of the proposed mitigation including vegetation community
structure and composition, existing hydroperiod, existing soil conditions, and existing wetland functions.
Field data that was collected to document the existing conditions of the proposed mitigation sites and on
which the future hydrologic and soil conditions of the mitigation wetlands are based (e.g., hydrologic
conditions: piezometer data, staff/crest gage data, hydrologic modeling, visual observations; soil conditions:
data from hand-dug or mechanical soil pits or boring results). The applicant may not rely on soil survey data
for establishing existing conditions.
A planting schedule by proposed community type and hydrologic regime, size and type of plant material to
be installed, spacing of plants, "typical" clustering patterns, total number of each species by community type,
timing of installation, nutrient requirements, watering schedule, weed control, and where appropriate
measures to protect plants from destruction. Native species must comprise 80 percent of the plants installed
or seeded within the mitigation site.
The mitigation monitoring plan must include a period of not less than three years, and establish the
responsibility for long-term removal of invasive vegetation.
Wetland mitigation performance criteria (measurable standards reflective of expected development goals
established for each year after the mitigation site is established, i.e., "At the end of three years there will be
an 80 percent survival of the planted shrubs and trees.") for mitigation wetlands and buffers, a monitoring
schedule, reporting requirements to the city, and maintenance schedule and actions for each year of
monitoring.
Contingency plans which clearly define course of action or corrective measures needed if performance
criteria are not met.
The scaled plan sheets for the compensatory mitigation must contain, at a minimum:
Existing wetland and buffer surveyed edges; proposed areas of wetland and buffer impacts; and, location of
proposed wetland and buffer compensation action.
Surveyed topography at one- to two-foot contour intervals in the zone of the proposed compensation actions
if any grading activity is proposed in the compensation area. Provide existing and proposed mitigation design
cross section for the wetland and/or buffer compensation areas.
Required wetland buffers for existing wetlands and proposed mitigation areas;
A discussion of ongoing management practices that will protect and maintain the nonimpacted and mitigation
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
A.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
4.
5.
6.
7.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
wetland, watercourse and buffer areas in perpetuity.
Sec. 38.220.140. - Submittal materials for appeals of administrative project decisions.
All appeals of administrative project decisions must include:
Name and address of the appellant;
The legal description, street address, and project number of the property involved in the appeal;
A description of the project that is the subject of the appeal;
Evidence that the appellant is an aggrieved person as defined in section 38.700.020;
Noticing materials required by section 38.220.420;
Required appeal filing fee; and
The specific grounds and allegations for the appeal, and evidence necessary to support and justify a decision other
than as determined by the administrative review authority.
( Ord. No. 2048 , § 2, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.220.150. - Administrative interpretation appeals.
All appeals of administrative interpretations must include:
Name and address of the applicant;
The legal description and street address, and project number of the property, if any, involved in the appeal;
A description of the property, if any, that is the subject of the interpretation appeal including:
A site plan drawn to scale showing the property dimensions, grading, landscaping and location of utilities, as
applicable;
Location of all existing and proposed buildings; and
Drive accesses, drive aisles, access roads, parking spaces, off-street loading areas and sidewalks as applicable;
The names and addresses of the owners of the property and any other persons having a legal interest therein;
Noticing materials required by section 38.220.420;
Required filing fee; and
Evidence to prove that the decision or action of the official for which an appeal is made was incorrect or in violation
of the terms of this chapter.
( Ord. No. 2048 , § 3, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.220.160. - Submittal materials for variances.
An application for a variance must be accompanied by a development plan showing such information as the community
development director may reasonably require for purposes of this chapter. The plans must contain sufficient
information for the commission to make a proper decision on the matter. The request must state the exceptional
physical conditions and the peculiar and practical difficulties claimed as a basis for a variance. In all cases, the
application must include, and will not be deemed filed until all of the following is submitted:
Name and address of the applicant;
The legal description of the property involved in the request for variance, including the street address, if any, of the
property;
The names and addresses of the owners of the property and any other persons having a legal interest therein;
Noticing materials required by section 38.220.420;
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5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
A.
1.
A site plan drawn to scale showing the property dimensions, grading, landscaping and location of utilities, as
applicable;
Location of all existing and proposed buildings;
Drive accesses, drive aisles, access roads, parking spaces, off-street loading areas and sidewalks as applicable;
A clear description of the variance requested and the reasons for the request;
Written justification supporting the criteria of section 38.250.070.C.1, 2, 3 and, when applicable, 4;
Evidence satisfactory to the review authority of the ability and intention of the applicant to proceed with actual
construction work in accordance with said plans within six months after issuance of permit; and
Required filing fee.
( Ord. No. 2048 , § 4, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.220.170. - Submittal materials for telecommunications.
The following information must be submitted for review of wireless facilities as applicable. Failure to provide required
materials will result in a determination that the application is incomplete and the application will not be processed.
Submittal materials.
Table 38.220.170
Telecommunication Submittal Materials Micro-scale Small-scale Large-scale
A detailed written description of how the applicant has
complied with, or will comply with, the applicable standards of
this chapter.
X X X
An accurate photo simulation of the site with the proposed
facility in place. The simulation must be to scale, and depict all
planned and expected antennae, including collocation of other
carriers, on the facility. Landscaping which is not existing or
proposed on the accompanying site plan may not be included in
the simulation unless it exists on adjoining properties;
X X X
A statement of whether the proposed facility is exempt or
nonexempt from environmental review under the Rules of the
FCC;
X X X
If the facility is claimed to be exempt, a detailed and speci c
citation to the Rules of the FCC indicating the section which
details the relevant exemption provisions must be included. If
the facility is not exempt from environmental review, a copy of
the environmental review must be provided with the
application, and the approval from the FCC for the site must be
provided to the city prior to the nal site plan approval;
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2.
and
If the facility is claimed to be exempt from environmental
review, a statement must be provided, under oath and
notarized, that the proposed or existing facility does or will
comply with FCC radio frequency emission guidelines for both
general population/ uncontrolled exposures and
occupational/controlled exposures as de ned in the FCC rules.
The provision of false information will result in the immediate
revocation of permits or approvals granted upon the basis of
the false information and the cessation of operation of the
o ending facilities;
When the applicant is a wireless service provider, proof that the
applicant is licensed by the FCC to provide the wireless
communication services that the proposed facility is designed to
support, or that licensing by the FCC is not required;
X X X
A report providing a description of the large scale wireless
facility with technical reasons and justi cation for its design and
placement;
X
A description of the maximum capacity of the large scale
wireless facility as proposed and how the facility can be
retro tted or modi ed to accommodate changing user needs;
X
Documentation establishing the structural integrity for the large
scale wireless facility's proposed use including documented
loading calculations for wind, snow and seismic forces under
circumstances of maximum capacity loading prepared by a
professional structural engineer licensed to practice in the state.
Loading criteria will be those set forth in the edition of the
International Building Code most recently adopted by the city;
and
X
A statement of how the collocation requirements of section
38.370.040.B are met.
X
In addition to the materials required above, for all large scale wireless facilities 50 feet or greater in height, the
applicant must submit:
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
A.
A.
Propagation studies for the users of the proposed facility, including existing service coverage maps and whether
the placement of the new site will require relocations of existing facilities, or a description of how and why the
proposed site and facility size is required to provide service that is otherwise unavailable or substantially
inadequate or is required for the introduction of a new service;
A statement of intent of how collocation on the facility will be addressed;
A statement of willingness to allow collocation at reasonable and customary rates by all technically feasible
providers up to the structural capacity of the tower;
An inventory of all surrounding buildings or other structures greater than 50 feet in height within a radius of one
mile of the proposed location with a listing of height and suitability for hosting the proposed users of the large
scale wireless facility;
An applicant must demonstrate in writing that there are no available openings on existing facilities which are
feasible and that a new structure is necessary. Such demonstration must address the criteria in section
38.370.040.B;
A detailed explanation of how the large scale wireless facility will be maintained and how the maintenance and
operations of the large scale wireless facility will be transferred to a third party should the applicant no longer
retain ownership. Unless otherwise approved by the city, the responsibility of maintenance and operations must
transfer to the owner of the underlying property;
An explanation of how the applicant will provide a financial security for the removal of the large scale wireless
facility in the event that it no longer serves telecommunications carriers. The financial guarantee must be 150
percent of the estimated cost of facility removal and must be acceptable to the city; and
A large scale wireless facility may be reviewed as a multiple phase project and be constructed over time as
provided for in section 38.370.040. An applicant intending to construct a new large scale wireless facility must
provide letters of intent adequate to meet the requirements for leases set forth in section 38.370.040.B.
Sec. 38.220.180. - Submittal materials for regulated ood hazard areas.
Applicable submittal materials required under section 38.600.150, Flood hazard evaluation, and section 38.600.170,
Subdivision and plan review and approval, must be provided.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 2, 3-9-2021)
Part 2. - Supplementary Documents
Sec. 38.220.300. - General.
When required, the supplementary documents described in this division, must be submitted in draft form with the preliminary
plat or plan, and signed and notarized with the final plat or plan. The proper notary block must be used.
Sec. 38.220.310. - Property owners' association.
General. If the review authority determines a common area, facility, or any other infrastructure is to be created or
constructed as part of the development and such common area, facility, or infrastructure is required to be either owned
by or maintained by the property owners' association the developer must provide supplemental documents, as
applicable, that (i) transfer ownership of common area, facility, or infrastructure to the property owners' association; (ii)
provide for the perpetual maintenance of common area, facility, or infrastructure by the property owners' association;
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B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
C.
D.
E.
A.
1.
2.
and (iii) identify if access to the common area or facility is available to the public or is restricted to the members of the
property owners' association. Property owners' association bylaws or the declaration of covenants, conditions and
restrictions must be prepared and recorded with the final plat or plan.
Bylaws or covenants, conditions and restrictions contents. The items listed below are required to be included in the
property owners' association bylaws or declaration of covenants, conditions and restrictions and must be clearly
identified within the documents. The covenants must at a minimum, provide:
The property owners' association will be formed before any properties are sold.
Membership is automatic and mandatory for each property or unit buyer and any subsequent buyer.
Means of enforcing the covenants, and of receiving and processing complaints.
Common area and facilities must be perpetually reserved.
The association is responsible for liability insurance, any applicable tax assessments and the maintenance of any
common area or facilities.
Property or unit owners must pay a pro rata share of the cost of any common expenses, with any assessment
charged by the association becoming a lien where necessary on individual parcels.
The association may adjust the assessment to meet changed needs.
The conditions and timing of the transfer of ownership and control of common areas and facilities from the
declarant to the association.
The permission of the city commission is required before the association can be dissolved or the boundaries altered.
Regular maintenance program for items included in section 38.270.090.A and any other common area and facilities
and that the association is responsible for the maintenance program.
If the property owners' association fails to install or maintain improvements according to approved plans, the city may,
at its option, complete construction of improvements and/or maintain improvements in compliance with section
38.220.200 and division 38.270 of this chapter. The city's representative, contractors and engineers must have the right
to enter upon the property and perform such work, and the property owners' association must permit and secure any
additional permission required to enable them to do so. The city will bill the property owners' association for any costs
associated with the installation or maintenance of improvements.
For a multiphase project, the property owners' association must be created for the entire project with the first phase.
To ensure continued maintenance of common areas and facilities, and on-going fulfillment of all obligations no property
may be removed from the property owners' association without prior approval by the city commission.
Sec. 38.220.320. - Covenants.
The city may require covenants to be recorded with the final plat when it is determined they are necessary for the
protection of the public health, safety and general welfare. Review of covenants must comply with section
38.240.150.A.3. All covenants must be considered to run with the land. If the covenants are not marked or noted on the
final subdivision plat or other final approval document, they must be contained in a separate instrument which must be
recorded with the final plat or prior to final approval of other applications. The covenants may be required to include,
but are not limited to, the following provisions:
That all county declared noxious weeds will be controlled.
A section addressing agricultural uses of neighboring properties in the following form:
"Lot owners and residents of the subdivision are informed that adjacent uses may be agricultural. Lot owners accept
and are aware that standard agricultural and farming practices can result in dust, animal odors and noise, smoke,
flies, and machinery noise. Standard agricultural practices feature the use of heavy equipment, chemical sprays and
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3.
4.
5.
6.
a.
b.
c.
the use of machinery early in the morning and sometimes late into the evening."
That all fences bordering agricultural lands must be maintained by the landowners in accordance with state law.
That any covenant which is required as a condition of the preliminary plat approval and required by the city
commission may not be amended or revoked without the mutual consent of the owners in accordance with the
amendment procedures in the covenants, and the city commission.
Common area and facility maintenance plan. The developer must submit a legal instrument setting forth a plan
providing for the permanent care and maintenance of common areas and facilities. The same must be submitted to
the city attorney and must not be accepted by the city until approved as to legal form and effect. Common areas and
facilities must be deeded to a property owners' association and, the applicant must record the proposed documents
governing the association at the time of final plat filing.
Common area and facility maintenance guarantee. In the event the organization or any successor organization
established to own and maintain common areas and facilities, must at any time fail to maintain the common areas or
facilities in reasonable order and condition in accordance with the approved plan, the city may cause written notice
to be served upon such organization or upon the owners of property in the development. The written notice must
set forth the manner in which the common areas or facilities have failed to be maintained in reasonable condition. In
addition, the notice must include the demand that the deficiencies noted be cured within 30 days thereafter and
must state the date and place of a public meeting to be held within 14 days of the notice. At the time of public
meeting, the city commission may modify the terms of the original notice as to deficiencies and may extend the time
within which the same may be cured. If the deficiencies set forth in the original notice or modifications are not cured
within the time set, the city may enter upon such common facilities and maintain the same for a period of one year,
in order to preserve the taxable values of properties within the development and to prevent the common facilities
from becoming a public nuisance. Such entry and maintenance must not vest in the public any right to use the
common facilities not dedicated to public use. Before the one year period expires, the commission must, upon its
own initiative or upon written request of the organization theretofore responsible for maintenance, call a public
meeting and give notice of such meeting to the organization responsible for maintenance or the property owners' of
the development. At the meeting, the organization responsible for maintenance and/or the residents of the
development may show cause why maintenance by the city should not be continued for a succeeding year. If the city
commission determines that it is not necessary for the city to continue such maintenance, the city must cease such
maintenance at the time established by the city commission. Otherwise the city must continue maintenance for the
next succeeding year subject to a similar meeting and determination at the end of each year thereafter.
The cost of maintenance by the city must be a lien against the common facilities of the development and the
private properties within the development. The city commission must have the right to make assessments
against properties in the development on the same basis that the organization responsible for maintenance of
the facilities could make such assessments. Any unpaid assessment must be a lien against the property
responsible for the same, enforceable the same as a mortgage against such property. The city may further
foreclose its lien on the common facility by certifying the same to the county treasurer for collection as in the
case of collection of general property taxes.
Should the property owners' association request that the city assume permanent responsibility for maintenance
of facilities, all facilities must be brought to city standards prior to the city assuming responsibility. The
assumption of responsibility must be by action of the city commission and all costs to bring facilities to city
standards must be the responsibility of the property owners' association. The city may create special financing
mechanisms so that those properties within the area affected by the property owners' association continue to
bear the costs of maintenance.
The city must assume permanent responsibility for maintenance of public areas and facilities when a dedicated
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7.
8.
9.
10.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
C.
1.
A.
B.
funding mechanism is adopted.
Guarantee for open space preservation. Open space shown on the approved final plan or plat must not be used for
the construction of any structures not shown on the final plan.
Covenants may not contain provisions which inhibit compliance with the requirements of division 38.380, for those
developments subject to division 38.380. Some examples are: privately required minimum home or lot sizes which
cannot be met.
Covenants and condominium declaration documents must require condominiums to be assigned street addresses in
compliance with chapter 10, article 7 BMC. Addressing must not use X or other generic statements. Draft documents
submitted for review prior to final approval must include correct addresses.
Stormwater facilities maintenance as required by chapter 40 article 4 BMC.
Part 3. - Noticing
Sec. 38.220.400. - Purpose.
It is the intent of sections 38.220.400 through 38.220.430 to provide for adequate notice of governmental actions to those
affected by such actions. Notice is required in order for citizens to participate in decision making which affects their interests and
provides opportunity to receive information pertinent to an application that would not otherwise be available to the decision
maker. In establishing standards for providing such notice, the need for expeditious processing of applications is also recognized.
Sec. 38.220.410. - Contents of notice.
The following elements must be included in notices issued pursuant to this chapter:
Address of the property, or its location by approximate distances from the nearest major street intersections, or
other description to identify the affected property;
Legal description of the property;
The number, date, time and place of scheduled public hearings or the date of any final public comment deadline;
A description of how and where additional information regarding the action may be obtained including the address
and phone number of the city; and
A brief description of the subject of the notice.
Mailed and posted notices required for site plans, master site plans, certificates of appropriateness, special use permits,
conditional use permits, planned unit developments, deviations, variances and subdivisions must also include a map of
the area of the development so as to indicate its general location and proximity to surrounding properties.
The following additional elements must be included in all notices required for text amendments to this chapter:
A summary explanation of the intent of the change, with reference to the exact text being available for public review.
Sec. 38.220.420. - Notice requirements for application processing.
The following minimum standards for timing, location of noticing area and type of notice must be provided. Noticing
provisions are cumulative with the maximum combination of noticing requirements being provided. When more than
one newspaper notice is required, only one of the required publication dates must fall within the minimum and
maximum days required.
If for some reason a required property owner fails to receive mail notification of a scheduled public hearing, or if one or
more of the required posted signs in the area or on the site for which the public hearing is being held is inadvertently
moved through no fault of the city, this in no way invalidates the legal notice requirements of the scheduled public
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C.
D.1.
2.
3.
hearing.
Notice may also be provided to property owners' in any additional area that may be substantially impacted by the
proposed change or use as determined by the community development director. The community development director
may use other means in addition to posting, mailing, or publication to provide notice.
For all developments in Table 38.220.040 which require mailed notice, the applicant must provide a list of names and
addresses of all property owners, including names and addresses of owners of individual condominiums, wholly or
partially within 200 feet of the site. The list must be drawn from the most current known property owners of record
as shown in the records of the county clerk and recorder's office. Where certified mail is required separate mailing
labels may also be required.
The community development director will establish procedures for mailing notice.
The applicant is responsible for mailing notice. The city will provide the notice to the applicant for duplication not
less than four days prior to the notice period. The notice must be distributed such that notices are submitted to the
United States Postal Service at least two days before the beginning of the notice period. The return address on the
envelopes must be the mailing address established by the community development director.
Table 38.220.420
Minimum standards for timing, location of noticing area and type of notice.
Application Minimum Days Maximum Days Distance Notice Type
Text amendment 15 45 NA Newspaper once
ZMA 15 45 200 Newspaper
once, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
ZMA - Resulting from ordinance
changes
15 45 None Newspaper once
ZMA - Annexation w/ initial zoning 15 45 None Newspaper
once, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
Variance - Floodplain, zoning, and
subdivision
15 45 200 Newspaper once
(zoning 2 times),
post on-site, mail
1st class
Noticing for 76-2-402, MCA claims 15 45 None Newspaper 2
times, post on-
site
12 12
1
2
2
2
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Deviation 15 45 200 Newspaper 2
times, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
Appeals 15 45 200 Newspaper 2
times, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
Sketch plan/reuse/change in
use/further development
None None None None
Sketch plan 15 45 None Post on-site
Informal/concept plan None None None None
Preliminary site plan and master site
plan
15 45 200 Post on-site, mail
1st class
Preliminary PUD 15 45 200 Newspaper 2
times, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
Preliminary CUP /SUP 15 45 200 Newspaper 2
times, post on-
site, mail 1st
class
Floodplain permit 15 45 200 Newspaper, mail
1st class
COA None None None None
Final site plan None None None None
Final PUD plan None None None None
Final CUP plan None None None None
Subdivision exemption None None None None
3 3
4
5
6 13
7
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
1st minor subdivision without
variance - preliminary plat/
Extensions of subdivision approvals
beyond two years
15 45 200 Mail 1st class
1st minor subdivision with
variance/2nd minor/major
subdivision - Preliminary plat
15 (Planning
Board)
45(Commission)200 Newspaper ,
post on-site, mail
1st class ,
certi ed mail
Final plat None None None None
Notice of violation 15 45 None Post on-site,
certi ed mail to
landowner
Notes:
The distance from the exterior property boundary of the site to all or part of another parcel of land whose owners
must be notified of a governmental action. This distance includes the width of a right-of-way or other public
ownership.
Zone map amendment, division 38.260 of this chapter.
Posting and mailing only applies to appeals taken from actions to approve, approve with conditions or deny a
development proposal and not to appeals of administrative interpretations.
Sketch plans for adding dwellings in the neighborhood conservation overlay district, demolition of historic structures
as defined in article 7 of this chapter, or modification of wetlands.
Planned unit development, division 38.430 of this chapter.
Conditional use permit, division 38.230 of this chapter.
Certificate of appropriateness, division 38.340 of this chapter.
When newspaper notice is required the notice must be published in a newspaper of general circulation.
Mail by first class to all landowners within 200 feet except those subject to certified mail.
Certified mail must be sent to recorded purchasers under contract for deed in addition to owners of physically
contiguous property and the subdivider.
Notices of violation subject to section 38.200.160.
Days prior to the close of the public comment period or public hearing unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
Special use permit, section 38.230.120 of this chapter.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 1, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2048 , § 5, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.220.430. - Notice of city approval within neighborhood conservation.
8
9
10
11
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A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
A.
1.
B.
In order to inform adjacent property owners' and residents that an application within an overlay district has been approved by
the city, any site approved for construction or alterations within an overlay district must be posted with a notice supplied by the
community development department. The notice must be posted in a conspicuous place on the site before any construction begins
and may be removed when the project is substantially complete. The notice must specify the name of the owner of record, the
address of the property, a description of the scope of work approved and the date of city approval.
DIVISION 38.230. - PLAN REVIEW
Sec. 38.230.010. - Introduction.
All non-subdivision development proposals within the city will be subject to plan review and approval except repair,
maintenance, grading below the minimum defined limits of this chapter, and interior remodeling, or other items
specifically exempted in this chapter. Depending on the complexity of development and status of proposed use in the
applicable zoning district, either sketch plans, site plans, master site plans, special use permits, or conditional use
permits (referred to herein as a "plan") will be required as specified in this division 38.230. Although work may be
exempt from zoning review it may require review for other permits before construction may begin.
Special development proposals (e.g., PUDs, CUPs, variances, etc.) require other information to be submitted in
conjunction with plans and are subject to requirements specific to the type of proposal. These additional submittal
requirements and review procedures are outlined in section 38.230.030.
When a development is proposed within a neighborhood conservation overlay district or historic district, or proposes
signs which do not specifically conform to the requirements of this chapter, design review is required in conjunction with
plan review per the authority in section 38.210.010. In such cases, additional submittal requirements and review
procedures apply as outlined in section 38.220.090.
Conditional uses. Certain uses, while generally not suitable in a particular zoning district, may, under certain
circumstances, be acceptable. When such circumstances can be demonstrated by the applicant to exist, a conditional
use permit may be granted by the review authority. Conditions may be applied to the issuance of the permit and
periodic review may be required. No conditional use permit must be granted for a use which is not specifically
designated as a conditional use in this chapter.
Approval will be granted for a particular use and not for a particular person or firm.
This division 38.230 is provided to meet the purposes of section 38.100.040 and all other relevant portions of this
chapter.
Applications subject to this division 38.230 are reviewed under the authority established by division 38.200 of this
chapter.
Sec. 38.230.020. - Classi cation of plans.
All developments, as defined in section 38.700.050 of this chapter, within the city are subject to the plan review
procedures and criteria of this chapter and the applicable submittal requirements of division 38.220 of this chapter. For
the purposes of this chapter, plans will be classified as either a site plan or a master site plan.
Exception. Those developments specified in section 38.230.070 and other development proposals when so
specifically identified by the director of community development require only sketch plan review.
A master site plan is a generalized development plan that establishes building envelopes and overall entitlements for
complex, large-scale projects that will require multiple years to reach completion. Use of a master site plan is not
required unless necessary to address phasing of a proposed development (see section 38.230.090.B.3) or if required as
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
C.
D.
E.
A.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
A.
B.
part of the residential emphasis mixed-use district. A master site plan involves one or more of the following:
One hundred or more dwelling units in a multiple household structure or structures;
Fifty thousand or more square feet of office space, retail commercial space, service commercial space or industrial
space;
Multiple buildings located on multiple contiguous lots and/or contiguous city blocks;
Multiple owners;
Development phasing projected to extend beyond two years; or
Parking for more than 200 vehicles.
Any planned unit development must be reviewed according to the regulations in division 38.430, in addition to this
division 38.230.
Telecommunication facilities must be reviewed according to the regulations in division 38.370, in addition to this division
38.230.
Uses identified in division 38.360 of this chapter must be reviewed according to the standards and regulations contained
in division 38.360 of this chapter, in addition to this division 38.230.
Sec. 38.230.030. - Special development proposals—Additional application requirements, review procedures and review criteria.
Application requirements. Applications for special development proposals (e.g. PUD, CUP, flood plain development
permits, variances, etc.) must include:
The required information for plans described in section 38.220.080;
Any additional application information required for specific reviews as listed in the following divisions of this chapter:
Division 38.430, Planned Unit Development;
Division 38.360, Standards for Specific Uses;
Division 38.370, Telecommunications;
Division 38.600, Bozeman Floodplain Regulations; and
Division 38.250, Appeals, Deviations and Variance Procedures.
Review procedures and review criteria. Additional review procedures and review criteria for specific development
proposals are defined in the following sections and divisions of this chapter:
Section 38.230.080, Certificate of appropriateness;
Section 38.230.110, Conditional use;
Section 38.230.120, Special use permit;
Division 38.430, Planned Unit Development;
Division 38.360, Standards for Specific Uses;
Division 38.370, Telecommunications;
Division 38.600, Floodplain Regulations; and
Division 38.250, Appeals, Deviations and Variance Procedures.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 3, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.230.040. - DRB review thresholds.
The review authorities are established in section 38.200.010 and as may be specified elsewhere in this chapter.
The development review committee, design review board, and wetlands review board have the advisory authority
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C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
established in division 38.200 of this chapter.
DRB review thresholds. When a development is subject to design review and meets one or more of the following
thresholds the design review board must conduct the design review:
Forty-five or more dwelling units;
Thirty thousand or more square feet of office space, retail commercial space, service commercial space or industrial
space;
Four stories or more;
Twenty thousand or more square feet of exterior storage of materials or goods;
Parking for more than 90 vehicles.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 1, 4-18-2018)
Sec. 38.230.050. - Application of plan review procedures.
These procedures apply to all developments within the city unless explicitly exempted in this chapter.
A plan may be approved by the review authority prior to the issuance of any building permit.
No occupancy permits must be issued for any development for which plan review is required until certification has been
provided under section 38.270.030 demonstrating that all terms and conditions of plan approval have been complied
with.
Unless a deviation or variance is explicitly sought and granted in association with a plan, all standards of this chapter
apply whether explicitly mentioned in the record of the review or not. An omission or oversight of a nonconformity with
the standards of this chapter in the site plan does not constitute approval of such nonconformance. Any
nonconformance which was not the subject of an explicitly approved deviation or variance may be required to be cured
at such time the city becomes aware of the nonconforming condition's existence.
In the event that the volume of site development applications submitted for review exceeds the ability of the city to
process them simultaneously, preference in order of scheduling will be given to those projects which provide the most
affordable housing in excess of minimum requirements, as measured by the total number of affordable units.
When a development subject to this article is located within an overlay district established by division 38.340 of this
chapter a certificate of appropriateness is required in addition to other required review procedures.
Public notice of development proposals and approvals subject to this article must be provided as required by division
38.220.400—38.220.430 of this chapter.
Improvements depicted on an approved plan must be installed subject to the requirements of division 38.270 of this
chapter.
Sec. 38.230.060. - Special temporary use permit.
Generally. Uses permitted subject to a special temporary use permit are those temporary uses which are required for
the proper function of the community or are temporarily required in the process of establishing a permitted use,
constructing a public facility or providing for response to an emergency. Such uses must be so conducted that they will
not be detrimental in any way to the surrounding properties or to the community. Uses permitted subject to a special
temporary use permit may include:
Carnivals, circuses, special events of not over 72 consecutive hours;
Tent revival meetings;
Swap meets; or
Such other uses as may be deemed to be within the intent and purpose of this section.
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B.
C.
D.
E.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
Exception: Functions held within a park and which are subject to a park user agreement are not required to obtain a specia
temporary use permit.
Application and filing fee. Application for a special temporary use permit may be made by a property owner or his
authorized agent. A copy of the fees are available at the community development department. Such application must be
filed with the community development director who will charge and collect a filing fee for each such application, as
provided in division 38.200 of this chapter. The community development director may also require any information
deemed necessary to support the approval of a special temporary use permit, including site plans per this division
38.230.
Decision. Approval or conditional approval will be given only when in the judgment of the review authority such approval
is within the intent and purposes of this division 38.230.
Conditions. In approving such a permit, the approval must be made subject to a time limit, not to exceed one year per
approval, and other conditions deemed necessary to assure that there will be no adverse effect upon adjacent
properties. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Regulation of parking;
Regulation of hours;
Regulation of noise;
Regulation of lights;
Requirement of financial security or other guarantees for cleanup or removal of structure or equipment; and/or
Such other conditions deemed necessary to carry out the intent and purpose of this section.
Sec. 38.230.070. - Sketch plan review.
Sketch plan submittal requirements.
Certain development applications (i.e., not in conjunction with other development) are required to submit only
sketch plans which include the information specified in section 38.220.110.
Separate construction plans are necessary for building permits when the proposal requires such permits. Additional
information is also necessary when the proposal requires the issuance of a certificate of appropriateness (see
sections 38.230.080 and 38.220.090).
Examples of projects which qualify for sketch plan review are:
Individual single-household including manufactured homes on individual lots.
Adding one dwelling on an infill site.
Two-household, three-household, and four-household residential units, each on individual lots and independent
of other site development.
Accessory dwelling units in the RS, R-1, R-2, R-3 R-4, R-O, and R-5 districts when a permitted use in Table
38.360.040.
Group living for eight or fewer persons on a single lot.
Fences; signs in compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
Regulated activities in areas with regulated wetlands not in conjunction with a land development proposal.
Grading of sites disturbing more than one-eighth but less than one-half acre, or movement of more than 30 but
less than 100 cubic yards of material, or cut or fill of less than one cumulative foot, whichever is less; special
temporary uses.
Reuse, change in use, or further development of sites per section 38.230.150, essential services Type II primarily
underground with no above ground structures larger than 125 square feet; and accessory structures associated
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B.
1.
2.
C.
A.
B.
1.
2.
C.
1.
2.
with these uses.
Other similar projects may be determined by the community development director to require only sketch plan
review. The community development director may determine submittal requirements in addition to those in
section 38.220.110. Projects which do not require sketch plan review may still require review and permitting for
non-zoning issues.
Sketch plan review procedures.
No certificate of appropriateness required. Sketch plans for projects which do not require a certificate of
appropriateness must be submitted to the community development department for a determination of compliance
with the requirements of this chapter. Once compliance is achieved, the application will be approved for construction
or referred to the appropriate permitting authorities. In determining whether compliance is achieved the community
development department must consider the individual circumstances of the site when the development is subject to
section 38.230.150.
Certificate of appropriateness required. Sketch plans, including the material required by section 38.220.090, and
such additional information as may be required for projects which require a certificate of appropriateness as per
section 38.230.080 must be submitted to the community development department, who must review the proposal
for compliance with this chapter, including compliance with the applicable overlay district requirements. Once
compliance is achieved, the application will be approved for construction or referred to the appropriate permitting
authorities.
Sketch plan review criteria. Sketch plans must be reviewed for compliance with all applicable requirements of this
chapter including overlay district requirements and the cessation of any current violations of this chapter, exclusive of
any legal nonconforming conditions. Plan changes may be required. Where appropriate, the city may approve a sketch
plan with restrictions which limit the duration of the use.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 7, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.230.080. - Certi cates of appropriateness—Additional review procedures and review criteria.
Sign proposals which do not specifically conform to the requirements of this chapter. Independent sign proposals (i.e.,
not in conjunction with other development) which do not specifically conform to the requirements of this chapter, are
required to submit full site plans. Additional site design information, in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with
the design objective plan, encompassing the property's location must be provided.
Review procedures and criteria for certificates of appropriateness.
Certificates of appropriateness must be issued according to procedures and criteria specified in divisions 38.210,
38.340 and 38.430, in addition to this chapter.
Sign proposals which specifically conform to the requirements of this chapter must be reviewed according to
procedures and criteria outlined in division 38.560 of this chapter.
Demolition or movement of historic structures or sites located outside of the neighborhood conservation overlay
district.
Demolition or movement of historic structures or sites located outside of the neighborhood conservation overlay
district must be reviewed according to procedures and criteria outlined in section 38.340.080.
Certificates of appropriateness must be issued according to procedures and criteria specified in divisions 38.200,
38.340, and 38.430 as applicable, in addition to this article.
Sec. 38.230.090. - Plan review procedures.
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A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
C.
Step 1: Conceptual review.
Conceptual review (Required):
Purpose. Conceptual review is an opportunity for an applicant to discuss requirements, standards and
procedures that apply to his or her development proposal. Major problems can be identified and solved during
conceptual review before a formal application is made. Conceptual review applications are reviewed by the
development review committee and comments are provided in writing to the applicant following the review. The
primary focus of conceptual review is to identify site specific challenges and/or constraints critical path elements
which will affect review process or submittal requirements.
Applicability. Conceptual review is required for development subject to section 38.230.050 and not subject to
section 38.210.070. Conceptual review may be waived by the director of community development for
development proposals that would not derive substantial benefit from such review.
Concept plan submittal. An applicant must submit the application materials required by the director of
community development as provided in the conceptual review checklist.
Staff review and recommendation. Upon receipt of a concept plan, and after review of such plan by the DRC and
a subsequent meeting with the applicant, the director of community development must furnish the applicant
with written comments regarding such plan, including appropriate recommendations to inform and assist the
applicant prior to preparing the components of the formal development application.
Formal application must address the comments provided with the conceptual review.
Informal review (Optional):
Purpose. Informal review is an opportunity for an applicant to discuss the requirements, standards, procedures, and
potential modifications of standards or variances that may be necessary for a development project. While the
conceptual review process is a general consideration of the development proposal, informal review provides an
opportunity for the applicant to have the city consider the development proposal in greater detail prior to formal
submittal of an application. Problems of both a major and minor nature can be identified during the informal review
before a formal application is made.
Informal review applications are reviewed by the DRC and may be reviewed by the DRB, recreation and parks
advisory board, or other applicable advisory boards. The city may invite other public or quasi-public agencies which
may be impacted by the development to comment and/or attend the informal review meeting. These agencies may
include the gas and electric utilities, state agencies, ditch companies, railroads, cable television service providers and
other similar agencies.
Applicability. Although an informal review is not required, an applicant may request informal review for any
development proposal. A request for informal review is made by filing an application with accompanying fee.
Informal review submittal. In conjunction with an informal review, the applicant must submit all documents required
in the informal review checklist.
Staff review and recommendation. Upon receipt of a complete informal review proposal, and after review of such
proposal by the DRC or other applicable advisory board, the director of community development must furnish the
applicant with written comments and recommendations regarding such proposal. In conjunction with the foregoing,
the director of community development will provide the applicant with a list of critical issues, if any, which have been
identified in the informal review and which must be resolved prior to or during the review process of the formal
development application. The list of critical issues will provide applicants the opinion of the director of community
development regarding the development proposal, as that opinion is established based upon the facts presented
during informal review. Formal application must address the comments provided with the informal review.
Step 2: Development application submittal.
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1.
2.
D.
1.
2.
a.
b.
3.
4.
E.
Development application forms. All development applications must be in a form established by the director of commun
development.
Fees. All fees established in the adopted fee schedule must be paid prior to the review authority commencing review
of the application.
Step 3: Review of applications. Acceptability and adequacy of application.
The community development department must review the application for acceptability within five working days to
determine if the application omits any of the submittal elements required by this chapter. If the application does not
contain all of the required elements, the application, and a written explanation of what the application is missing
must be returned to the property owner or their representative. The five working day review period will be
considered met if written explanation is provided as a signed and dated letter placed in the outgoing mail or as
electronic communication (such as an email) within the five-day review period.
After the application is deemed to contain the required elements and to be acceptable, it must be reviewed for
adequacy. A determination of adequacy means the application contains all of the required elements in sufficient
detail and accuracy to enable the review authority to make a determination that the application either does or does
not conform to the requirements of this chapter and any other applicable regulations under the jurisdiction of the
city. The adequacy review period begins on the next working day after the date that the community development
department determines the application to contain all the required elements and must be completed within not more
than 15 working days. The 15 working day review period will be considered met if the letter is dated, signed and
placed in the outgoing mail within the 15 working day review period. If the application is inadequate, a written
explanation of why the application is inadequate will be provided to the property owner.
In the event the missing information is not received by the city within 15 working days of notification to the
property owner and applicant of inadequacy, application materials except file records will be returned to the
property owner or their representative, unless a longer period is agreed between city and applicant. Subsequent
resubmittal requires payment of a review fee as if it were a new application.
A determination that an application is adequate does not restrict the city from requesting additional information
during the site plan review process.
Should the property owner choose not to provide the required information after an application has been found
unacceptable, nor to accept return of the application, the application may be processed by the city with the
recognition by the property owner that unacceptability is an adequate basis for denial of the application regardless
of other merit of the application.
The DRC may grant reasonable waivers from submittal of application materials required by these regulations where
it is found that these regulations allow a waiver to be requested and granted. In order to be granted a waiver the
applicant must include with the submission of the preliminary plan a written statement describing the requested
waiver and the reasons upon which the request is based. The final approval body must then consider each waiver at
the time the preliminary site plan is reviewed. All waivers must be identified not later than initial submittal of the
preliminary site plan stage of review.
If in the opinion of the review authority the waived materials are necessary for proper review of the development, the
materials must be provided before review is completed.
Plans must be reviewed by the review bodies established by division 38.210 of this chapter and according to the
procedures established by this chapter. After review of the applicable submittal materials required by division 38.220 of
this chapter, and upon recommendation by the appropriate advisory bodies, the review authority must act to approve,
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1.
a.
(1)
2.
a.
3.
a.
b.
c.
A.
1.
approve with conditions or deny the application, subject to the appeal provisions of division 38.250 of this chapter. The
basis for the review authority's action must be whether the application, including any required conditions, complies with
all the applicable standards and requirements of this chapter, including section 38.100.050.
Plan. The review authority must provide an opportunity for the public to comment upon development proposals. The
duration of the initial comment period must be as required by division 38.220 of this chapter and included in any
notice required by division 38.270 of this chapter.
The review authority after receiving the recommendations of the advisory bodies and considering any public
comment must act to approve, approve with conditions or deny an application within ten working days of the
close of the public comment period. The decision must be in writing and must include any special conditions
which are to be applied to the development.
After formal notice of a project review has been given, interested parties may request in writing to receive a
copy of the decision regarding an application. Persons making such a request must provide an addressed
envelope.
Plan with deviations or variances or conditional use permits. The review authority must provide an opportunity for
the public to comment upon a proposed plan. The notice must comply with the requirements of division 38.220 of
this chapter.
The review authority, after receiving the recommendations of the advisory bodies and considering any public
comment must act to approve, approve with conditions or deny an application. The decision must be in writing
and must include any special conditions which are to be applied to the development.
Phasing. The entitlement period for which a final plan is valid is specified in section 38.230.140. Preliminary single
phase plan applications will only be accepted for development that can occur under building permits issued within
this final plan approval period.
Any development that includes phases or where construction of a building would extend past the final plan
approval period must proceed under the master site plan application process with a first phase plan for those
portions that can be constructed under the single phase final plan approval. The master site plan and first phase
site plan may be reviewed concurrently as a single application. Each future project phase must submit a stand-
alone site plan application following initial master site plan approval.
Each phase of a plan must not include more buildings than will be constructed within a one-year timeframe.
These subsequent site plan applications may be expedited through the review process if they are consistent with
the master site plan. Independent fees will be assessed for each required application.
A preliminary site plan application may be received where it is unclear whether the buildings or units can be
constructed under building permits issued within one year of final site plan approval. In this case, the director of
community development may request proof of a construction financing commitment prior to accepting the
application. Applications, where it is clear that the buildings or units cannot be constructed under building
permits issued within one year of final site plan approval will be deemed unacceptable for review. Such
applications must proceed pursuant to a master site plan with first phase site plan process.
Sec. 38.230.100. - Plan review criteria.
In considering applications for plan approval under this chapter, the review authority and advisory bodies must consider
the following criteria. When considering the criteria for future phases of a master site plan, other than those for criteria 1
—3, the evaluation may be of a more generalized demonstration of compliance, recognizing that a subsequent site plan
will be submitted in the future which will provide evidence of specific compliance. See division 38.220 of this chapter for
required submittal materials.
Conformance to and consistency with the city's adopted growth policy;
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2.
3.
4.
5.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
6.
a.
(1)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(3)
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
c.
7.
a.
b.
c.
Conformance to this chapter, including the cessation of any current violations;
Conformance with all other applicable laws, ordinances and regulations;
Conformance with special review criteria for applicable permit type as specified in article 2;
Conformance with the zoning provisions of article 3, including:
Permitted uses (division 38.310);
Form and intensity standards (division 38.320);
Applicable zone specific or overlay standards (divisions 38.330-340);
General land use standards and requirements (division 38.350);
Applicable supplemental use criteria (division 38.360);
Wireless facilities and/or affordable housing provisions (divisions 38.370-380) if applicable;
Conformance with the community design provisions of article 4, including:
Transportation facilities and access (division 38.400), notably:
The impact of the proposal on the existing and anticipated traffic and parking conditions;
Pedestrian and vehicular ingress, egress and circulation, including:
Design of the pedestrian and vehicular circulation systems to assure that pedestrians and vehicles can
move safely and easily both within the site and between properties and activities within the
neighborhood area;
Non-automotive transportation and circulation systems design features to enhance convenience and
safety across parking lots and streets, including, but not limited to, paving patterns, grade differences,
landscaping and lighting;
Adequate connection and integration of the pedestrian and vehicular transportation systems to the
systems in adjacent developments and general community; and
Dedication of right-of-way or easements necessary for streets and similar transportation facilities;
Loading and unloading areas;
Community design and element provisions (division 38.410), notably:
Lot and block standards;
Provisions for utilities, including efficient public services and facilities;
Site surface drainage and stormwater control;
Grading;
Park and recreational requirements (division 38.420);
Conformance with the project design provisions of article 5, including:
Compatibility with, and sensitivity to, the immediate environment of the site and the adjacent neighborhoods
and other approved development relative to architectural design, building mass, neighborhood identity,
landscaping, historical character, orientation of buildings on the site and visual integration;
Design and arrangement of the elements of the plan (e.g., buildings, circulation, open space and landscaping,
etc.) so that activities are integrated with the organizational scheme of the community, neighborhood, and other
approved development and produce an efficient, functionally organized and cohesive development;
Design and arrangement of elements of the plan (e.g., buildings circulation, open space and landscaping, etc.) in
harmony with the existing natural topography, natural water bodies and water courses, existing vegetation, and
to contribute to the overall aesthetic quality of the site configuration;
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d.
e.
f.
g.
8.
a.
b.
c.
9.
10.
11.
a.
b.
12.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
Landscaping, including the enhancement of buildings, the appearance of vehicular use, open space and pedestrian
preservation or replacement of natural vegetation;
Open space, including:
Lighting;
Signage;
Conformance with environmental and open space objectives set forth in articles 4—6, including:
The enhancement of the natural environment (e.g., through low impact development stormwater features or
removal of inappropriate fill material);
Watercourse and wetland protections and associated wildlife habitats; and
If the development is adjacent to an existing or approved public park or public open space area, have provisions
been made in the plan to avoid interfering with public access to and use of that area;
Conformance with the natural resource protection provisions of article 4 and article 6.
Other related matters, including relevant comment from affected parties.
If the development includes multiple lots that are interdependent for circulation or other means of addressing
requirements of this chapter, whether the lots are either:
Configured so that the sale of individual lots will not alter the approved configuration or use of the property or
cause the development to become nonconforming; or
The subject of reciprocal and perpetual easements or other agreements to which the city is a party so that the
sale of individual lots will not cause one or more elements of the development to become nonconforming; and
Phasing of items listed in section 38.230.020.B, including but not limited to buildings and infrastructure.
If the review authority, after recommendation from the applicable advisory bodies, determines the proposed plan will
not be detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of the community, is in compliance with the requirements of this
chapter, and is in harmony with the purposes and intent of this chapter and the Bozeman growth policy, the review
authority must approve the proposed plan and may require conditions and safeguards that must be met prior to final
approval as deemed necessary. Notice of action must be given in writing.
Plan approval may be denied upon a determination the application does not meet the criteria of this section. Persons
objecting to the recommendations of review bodies carry the burden of proof. A denial of approval must be in writing.
Following approval of a master site plan, the applicant must submit to the community development department,
sequential individual site plans for specific areas within the master site plan. Each subsequent application for a site plan
must be consistent with the approved master site plan and subject to the review criteria set forth in subsection A above.
Evidence that the review criteria have been met through the master site plan review process may be incorporated by
reference in order to eliminate duplication of review.
Sec. 38.230.110. - Conditional use permit.
The person applying for a conditional use permit must fill out and submit to the community development department
the appropriate form with the required fee. The request for a conditional use permit must follow the procedures and
application requirements of this division 38.230.
In consideration of all conditional use permit applications, a public hearing must be conducted by the review authority.
Notice of the public hearing must be provided in accordance with article 2 of this chapter.
If a rezoning is required prior to approval of a conditional use permit, the application for rezoning and the conditional
use permit may be filed and acted upon simultaneously, however the conditional use permit is not effective until the
rezoning has been implemented by ordinance.
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D.
E.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
F.
1.
2.
G.
H.
I.
1.
The review authority, in approving a conditional use permit, must review the application against the review requirements o
section 38.230.100.
In addition to the review criteria of section 38.230.100, the review authority must, in approving a conditional use permit,
determine favorably as follows:
That the site for the proposed use is adequate in size and topography to accommodate such use, and all setbacks,
spaces, walls and fences, parking, loading and landscaping are adequate to properly relate such use with the land
and uses in the vicinity;
That the proposed use will have no material adverse effect upon the abutting property. Persons objecting to the
recommendations of review bodies carry the burden of proof;
That any additional conditions stated in the approval are deemed necessary to protect the public health, safety and
general welfare. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to:
Regulation of use;
Special setbacks, spaces and buffers;
Special fences, solid fences and walls;
Surfacing of parking areas;
Requiring street, service road or alley dedications and improvements or appropriate bonds;
Regulation of points of vehicular ingress and egress;
Regulation of signs;
Requiring maintenance of the grounds;
Regulation of noise, vibrations and odors;
Regulation of hours for certain activities;
Time period within which the proposed use must be developed;
Duration of use;
Requiring the dedication of access rights; and
Other such conditions as will make possible the development of the city in an orderly and efficient manner.
In addition to all other conditions, the following general requirements apply to every conditional use permit granted:
The right to a use and occupancy permit is contingent upon the fulfillment of all general and special conditions
imposed by the conditional use permit procedure; and
All of the conditions constitute restrictions running with the land use, apply and must be adhered to by the owner of
the land, successors or assigns, are binding upon the owner of the land, his successors or assigns, must be
consented to in writing, and must be recorded as such with the county clerk and recorder's office by the property
owner prior to the issuance of any building permits, final plan approval or commencement of the conditional use.
Applications for conditional use permits may be approved, conditionally approved or denied by the review authority. If
an application is denied, the denial constitutes a determination that the applicant has not shown that the conditions
required for approval do exist.
The applicant must be notified in writing of the final action taken within seven working days of the action. If the
conditional use permit has been granted the notification must include any conditions, automatic termination date,
period of review or other requirements. If the conditional use permit has been granted, the permit will be issued upon
the signature of the community development director after completion of all conditions and final plan.
Termination/revocation of conditional use permit approval.
Conditional use permits are approved based on an analysis of current local circumstances and regulatory
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a.
b.
c.
2.
3.
A.
B.
C.
A.
B.
C.
A.
B.
requirements. Over time these things may change and the use may no longer be appropriate to a location. A
conditional use permit will be considered as terminated and of no further effect if:
After having been commenced, the approved use is not actively conducted on the site for a period of two
continuous calendar years;
Final zoning approval to reuse the property for another principal or conditional use is granted;
The use or development of the site is not begun within the time limits of the final site plan approval in section
38.230.140.
A conditional use which has terminated may be reestablished on a site by either, the review and approval of a new
conditional use permit application, or a determination by the community development director that the local
circumstances and regulatory requirements are essentially the same as at the time of the original approval. A denial
of renewal by the community development director may not be appealed. If the community development director
determines that the conditional use permit may be renewed on a site then any conditions of approval of the original
conditional use permit are also renewed.
If activity begins for which a conditional use permit has been given final approval, all activities must comply with any
conditions of approval or code requirements. Should there be a failure to maintain compliance the city may revoke
the approval through the procedures outlined in section 38.200.160.
Sec. 38.230.120. - Special use permit.
The person applying for a special use permit must fill out and submit to the community development department the
appropriate form with the required fee. The request for a special use permit must follow the procedures and application
requirements of this division 38.230.
The review authority, in approving a special use permit, must review the application against the review requirements of
section 38.230.100.
In addition to the review criteria of section 38.230.100, the review authority must, in approving a special use permit,
determine favorably that applications meet the review criteria set forth for conditional use permits as set forth in
subsections 38.230.110.E through I.
Sec. 38.230.130. - Community design framework master plans.
The person applying for a community design framework master plan must fill out and submit to the community
development department the appropriate form with the required fee. The request for a community design framework
master plan must follow the procedures and application requirements of this division 38.230.
The review authority, in approving a community design framework master plan, must review the application against the
review requirements of sections 38.230.100 and 38.510.030.L.
Applications for community design framework master plans may be approved or denied by the review authority.
Sec. 38.230.140. - Final plan.
If the review authority is the city commission, no later than six months after the date of the commission's approval of the
plan, the applicant must submit to the community development department a final plan. The number of copies of the
final plan to be submitted is established by the director of community development. The final plan must contain the
materials required in sections 38.220.080 and 38.220.090 and whatever revisions to the preliminary site plan or master
site plan are required to comply with any conditions of approval. Prior to the passage of six months, the applicant may
seek an extension of not more than an additional six months from the director of community development.
In addition to the materials required in subsection A of this section, the applicant must submit a certification of
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C.
D.
E.
F.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
G.
1.
H.
1.
2.
completion and compliance stating that they understand any conditions of approval and the submitted final plans have
complied with any conditions of approval or corrections to comply with code provisions.
If a plan is fully compliant with all applicable standards the review authority may approve the final plan after the close of
the public comment period. In addition to the materials required in subsections A and B of this section, the owner must
submit a statement of intent to construct according to the final plan. Such statement must acknowledge that
construction not in compliance with the approved final plan may result in delays of occupancy or costs to correct
noncompliance.
Following approval of a final plan, the approval of the final plan is effective for one year. Prior to the passage of one year,
the applicant may seek an extension of not more than one additional year. In such instances, the director of community
development must determine whether the relevant terms of this chapter and circumstances have significantly changed
since the initial approval. If relevant terms of this chapter or circumstances have significantly changed, the extension of
the approval may not be granted.
Following approval of a final master site plan, approval of the final master site plan is effective for not less than three but
not more than five years with the initial duration to be specified during the final action of the review authority. Owners
of property subject to the master site plan may seek extensions to not exceed five years. Approval of an extension must
be granted if the director of community development determines the criteria of subsection F of this section are met.
Any request for an extension must be in writing and be dated and signed by the owner of the undeveloped area or
incomplete development for which the extension is sought. More than one extension may be requested for a particular
development. Each request must be considered on its individual merits. An extension of the development approval
under this division 38.230 does not extend other city or non-city agency approvals, e.g. for design of infrastructure
extensions, necessary to complete the project. When evaluating an extension request, the city must consider:
Changes to the development regulations since the original approval and whether the development as originally
approved substantially complies with the new regulations;
Progress to date in completing the development as a whole and any phases;
Phasing of the development and the ability for existing development to operate without the delayed development;
Dependence by other development on any public infrastructure or private improvements to be installed by the
development;
For extensions of approval greater than one year, the demonstrated ability of the developer to complete the
development;
Overall maintenance of the site; and
Whether mitigation for impacts of the development identified during the preliminary plan review remain relevant,
adequate, and applicable to the present circumstances of the development and community.
Upon approval of the final plan by the community development director the applicant may obtain a building permit as
provided for by division 38.220 of this chapter.
Subsequent site plan approvals are required to implement a master site plan, and approval of a master site plan only
does not entitle an applicant to obtain any building permits.
Prior to the expiration of an approved plan, but not later than beginning of construction, a landowner may request to
abandon approval of an application which has received final approval per this section.
Such a request for abandonment must be in writing to the director of community development, must clearly identify
the project by the city's assigned application number, and must clearly state that the landowner is abandoning the
application and all associated rights and privileges. The director of community development may establish standards
for the content, form, and supporting materials to be included in a request to abandon an approval.
The director of community development may approve such an abandonment in writing.
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3.
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
1.
An application abandoned under this section is void.
( Ord. No. 2031 , § 1, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.230.150. - Amendments to plans.
It is the intent of this section to assure that issues of community concern are addressed during the redevelopment,
reuse or change in use of existing facilities in the community. Specific areas of community concern include public safety,
mitigation of off-site environmental impacts and site character in relation to surroundings. The following procedures for
amendments to approved plans, reuse of existing facilities and further development of sites assure that these concerns
are adequately and expeditiously addressed.
Any amendment to or modification of a plan approved under the ordinance codified in this division 38.230 (September 3,
1991—Ordinance 1332) must be submitted to the community development director for review and possible approval.
Proposals for further development, reuse or change in use of sites developed pursuant to this chapter must be reviewed
as an amendment to an approved plan. All amendments must be shown on a revised plan drawing. Amendments to
approved plans must be reviewed and may be approved by the community development director upon determining that
the amended plan is in substantial compliance with the originally approved plan. If it is determined that the amended
plan is not in substantial compliance with the originally approved plan, the application must be resubmitted as a new
application and will be subject to all standards and plan review and approval provisions of this chapter. Substantial
compliance may be shown by demonstrating that the amendments do not exceed the thresholds established in section
38.230.160.C.
Modifications or amendments to a master site plan at the time an extension of approval is sought may be proposed by
either the applicant or the review authority, and must be based on substantive current information that indicates that
relevant circumstances have changed and that such circumstances support the proposed modifications. Such
circumstances may include market analyses, economic conditions, changes in surrounding land uses, changes in
ownership, etc.
For building additions and/or remodels to all existing development, except single to four-household dwellings in any
configuration, see section 38.500.020.B to determine how the design standards within article 5 are applied.
Sec. 38.230.160. - Reuse, change in use or further development of sites developed prior to the adoption date of the ordinance from
which this chapter is derived.
It is the policy of the city to work with owners of property during the reuse, change in use, or further development
process to correct existing violations of the city's and other agency's regulations, to encourage reinvestment and renewal
of existing developed sites, and to move existing sites toward compliance with current standards while recognizing the
limitations that may exist in relation to an existing site.
Sites legally developed prior to the adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter (September 3, 1991—Ordinance
1332) are considered to have developed under an approved plan. Proposals for reuse, change in use or the further
development of sites legally developed prior to the adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter may be approved
by the review authority upon determining that no significant alteration of the previous use and site are proposed, and
upon a determination that adequate access and site surface drainage are provided. All such proposals must be shown
on a plan drawing as required by section 38.220.110.
The criteria for determining that no significant alteration of the previous use and site will result from the proposed
reuse, change in use or further development of a site must include but not be limited to the following:
The proposed use is allowed under the same zoning district use classification as the previous use, however
replacement of nonconforming uses must comply with the provisions of division 38.270 of this chapter;
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2.
a.
b.
3.
D.
E.
F.
A.
Changes proposed for the site, singly or cumulatively, do not increase lot coverage by buildings, storage areas, parking
impervious surfaces and/or do not result in an increase in intensity of use as measured by parking requirements, traffic
generation or other measurable off-site impacts;
By more than 20 percent for developments not meeting one or more of the criteria of section 38.230.040.C; or
By more than ten percent for developments meeting or exceeding one or more of the criteria of section
38.230.040.C;
The proposed use does not continue any unsafe or hazardous conditions previously existing on the site or
associated with the proposed use of the property.
If it is determined that the proposed reuse, change in use or further development of a site contains significant
alterations to the previous use and/or site, the application must be resubmitted as a new application and will be subject
to all plan review and approval provisions of this division 38.230.
When proposals for reuse, change in use or further development of a site are located in the neighborhood conservation
overlay district, review by ADR staff or the DRB may be required to determine whether resubmittal as a new application
is necessary.
For building additions and/or remodels to all existing development, except single to four-household dwellings in any
configuration, see section 38.500.020.B to determine how the design standards within article 5 are applied.
Sec. 38.230.170. - Improvements to existing developed sites independent of site plan review.
The continued improvement of existing developed sites is desired to increase the level of compliance with the provisions of this
chapter and to encourage maintenance and viability of the site. An applicant may propose improvements, not in association with a
plan review, to increase conformity with the standards of this chapter for landscaping, lighting, parking or similar components of a
site to occur over a defined period of time, not to exceed three years. Such improvements must be depicted on a site plan drawn to
scale and which must be sufficiently detailed to clearly depict the current conditions, the intended end result of the proposed
improvements and any phasing of work. Such improvements must be reviewed by and approved at the discretion of the review
authority which may require surety in accordance with the terms of division 38.270 of this chapter for work performed. A certificate
of appropriateness may be required if the site is located within the neighborhood conservation overlay district.
Sec. 38.230.180. - Building permits based upon approved sketch or site plans.
Based upon the approved sketch or final plan and after any appeals have been resolved, a building permit for the site may be
requested and may be granted pursuant to division 38.220 of this chapter. No building permit may be granted on the basis of an
approved sketch or other plan whose approval has expired.
Sec. 38.230.190. - Appeals.
Appeals of decisions rendered in conjunction with this division 38.230 may be taken as set forth in division 38.250 of this
chapter.
DIVISION 38.240. - SUBDIVISION PROCEDURES
Part 1. - Subdivision and Platting Administrative Procedures
Sec. 38.240.010. - Transfers of title.
Unless the plat is located in an area where the state or the city does not have jurisdiction, every final subdivision plat
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
A.
B.
must be filed for record with the county clerk and recorder before title to the subdivided land can be sold or transferred
in any manner. After a preliminary subdivision plat has been approved or conditionally approved, the developer may
enter into contracts to sell lots in the proposed subdivision if all of the following conditions are met:
Under the terms of the contracts, the purchasers of lots in the proposed subdivision must make any payments to an
escrow agent which must be a bank or savings and loan association chartered to do business in the state;
Under the terms of the contracts and the escrow agreement, the payments made by purchasers of lots in the
proposed subdivision may not be distributed by the escrow agent to the developer until the final plat of the
subdivision is filed and of record with the county clerk and recorder;
The contracts and the escrow agreement provide that if the final plat of the proposed subdivision is not filed with the
county clerk and recorder within two years of the preliminary plat approval, the escrow agent must immediately
refund to each purchaser any payment made under the contract;
The county treasurer has certified that no real property taxes and special assessments assessed and levied on the
land to be divided are delinquent; and
The contracts must contain the following language conspicuously set out therein: "The real property which is the
subject hereof has not been finally platted, and until a final plat identifying the property has been filed with the
county clerk and recorder, title to the property cannot be transferred in any manner."
Unless the plat is located in an area where the state or the city does not have jurisdiction, the county clerk and recorder
may not record any instrument that purports to transfer title to a parcel or tract of land that is required to be surveyed
by the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 et seq.) unless the required certificate of survey or
subdivision plat has been filed with the county clerk and recorder and the instrument of transfer describes the parcel or
tract by reference to the filed certificate or plat. This provision does not apply if the parcel or tract to be transferred was
created before July 1, 1973, and the instrument of transfer for the parcel or tract includes a reference to a previously
recorded instrument of transfer or is accompanied by documents that, if recorded, would otherwise satisfy the
requirements of this subsection B. The reference or document must demonstrate that the parcel or tract existed before
July 1, 1973. However, these references or documents do not constitute a legal description of the property and may not
be substituted for a legal description of the property.
Sec. 38.240.020. - E ect of recording complying plat.
The recording of any plat made in compliance with the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 et seq.) serves to
establish the identity of all lands shown on and being a part of such plat. Where lands are conveyed by reference to a plat, the plat
itself or any copy of the plat, properly certified by the county clerk and recorder as being a true copy thereof, must be regarded as
incorporated into the instrument of conveyance and must be received in evidence in all courts of this state.
Sec. 38.240.030. - Correction of errors, amendments or vacation of recorded nal plats.
Correction of errors. Correction of errors that, in the opinion of the city, will not materially alter the plat may be made by
the submission of a corrected final plat for the city's approval. The plat may be filed under the procedures for first minor
subdivision plats. The plat must be entitled "amended plat of the (name of subdivision) subdivision," and the reason for
the correction must be stated on the face of the plat.
Material alterations. Amendments that materially alter the final plat, or any portion thereof, must be made by the filing
of an amended plat showing all alterations. The amended plat must be approved by the city under the major or minor
subdivision procedure, as is appropriate. Prior to such approval, the amended plat must be reviewed by the community
development department. The city may not approve an amendment which will place the plat in nonconformance with
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C.
1.
A.
1.
2.
3.
the standards contained herein unless a public hearing is held on the plat and a written variance from the standards
issued pursuant to procedures contained herein for such variances is granted. The plat must be entitled "amended plat
of (the name) subdivision," and the reason for the amendment must be stated on the face of the plat.
Vacating recorded plats. Any plat prepared and recorded as provided by this chapter may be vacated, in whole or in part,
as provided by MCA 7-5-2501, 7-5-2502, 7-14-2616(1) and (2), 7-14-2617, 7-14-4114(1) and (2), and 7-14-4115. Upon
vacation, the city, or the district court, as provided in MCA 7-5-2502, must determine to which properties the title to the
streets and alleys of the vacated portions must revert. The city, or the district court, as provided in MCA 7-5-2502, must
take into consideration the previous platting; the manner in which the right-of-way was originally dedicated, granted or
conveyed; the reasons stated in the petition requesting the vacation; the parties requesting the vacation; and any
agreements between the adjacent property owners' regarding the use of the vacated area. The title to the streets and
alleys of the vacated portions may revert to one or more of the owners of the properties within the platted area adjacent
to the vacated portions.
Utility easements. When any poleline, pipeline or any other public or private facility is located in a vacated street or
alley at the time of the reversion of the title to the vacated street or alley, the owner of the public or private utility
facility has an easement over the vacated land to continue the operation and maintenance of the public or private
utility facility.
Sec. 38.240.040. - Correction of recorded plat by governing body.
When a recorded plat does not definitely show the location or size of lots or blocks, or the location or width of any street or
alley, the city may at its own expense cause a new and correct survey and plat to be made and recorded in the office of the county
clerk and recorder. The corrected plat must, to the extent possible, follow the plan of the original survey and plat. The surveyor
making the resurvey must endorse the corrected plat referring to the original plat, and noting the defect existing therein and the
corrections made.
Sec. 38.240.050. - Disposition of water rights.
When a subdivision creates parcels with lot sizes averaging less than five acres, the developer must:
Reserve all or a portion of the appropriation water rights owned by the owner of the land to be subdivided and
transfer the water rights to a single entity for use by the landowners within the subdivision who have a legal right to
the water and reserve and sever any remaining surface water rights from the land;
If the land to be subdivided is subject to a contract or interest in a public or private entity formed to provide the use
of a water right on the subdivision lots, establish a landowner's water use agreement administered through a single
entity that specifies administration and the rights and responsibilities of landowners within the subdivision who have
a legal right and access to the water; or
Reserve and sever all surface water rights from the land proposed for subdivision.
Part 2. - Review Procedures for Subdivisions
Sec. 38.240.100. - General review procedure.
Every plat of subdivision must be reviewed, approved and filed for record with the county clerk and recorder in accordance with
the procedures contained herein before title to the subdivided land can be sold or transferred in any manner. Subdivisions
containing six or more lots are considered major subdivisions. A subdivision containing five or fewer lots, in which proper access to
all lots is provided and in which no land is to be dedicated to public use for parks and playgrounds, is a minor subdivision.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
(1)
c.
d.
Sec. 38.240.110. - Presubmittal meeting and pre-application plan review.
The purpose of a pre-application plan review is to discuss this chapter and these standards, to familiarize the developer
with the standards, goals and objectives of applicable plans, regulations and ordinances, and to discuss the proposed
subdivision as it relates to these matters.
Minor subdivisions. Prior to the submittal of a subdivision application for a minor subdivision, the developer must
submit an application for subdivision pre-application review.
Major subdivisions. Prior to the submittal of a subdivision application for a major subdivision, the developer must
submit an application for subdivision pre-application review. The developer is encouraged to have a presubmittal
meeting with the community development department prior to submitting a subdivision pre-application.
Pre-application plan review. For subdivision pre-application review, the developer must submit a complete
application for pre-application plan review, the appropriate review fee, and copies of all required pre-application
information as set forth in section 38.220.030.
Community development department review. The community development department must review the pre-
application plan and advise the developer as to whether the plans and data meet the goals and objectives of
applicable plans and this chapter.
Agency review. The community development department will distribute the pre-application information to
appropriate county and city departments and state and federal agencies for review and written comment. All
written comments received from various agencies, along with the community development department's
comments regarding whether the plans and data meet the standards, goals and objectives of applicable
plans, ordinances, and this chapter, and for informational purposes identification of local regulations, state
laws, and growth policy provisions that may apply to the subdivision process, will be forwarded to the
applicant to aid in the preparation of the subdivision application. The community development department
must provide a list of the public utilities, agencies of government, and other parties who may be contacted
and their timeframes for comment on the subdivision application. The comments collected by the community
development department must be provided in person or by letter to the subdivider or their agent within 30
working days of a complete application being received by the city. The 30 working day review period is met if
the letter is dated, signed and placed in the outgoing mail within the 30 working day review period.
Time for review. The community development department must review the pre-application plan and within
30 working days advise the developer as to whether the plans and data meet the goals and objectives of
applicable plans and this chapter. Every effort must be made by the community development department to
obtain department and agency comment within this time period.
Optional planning board review. If the developer so wishes, the developer may request in writing that the
planning board review pre-application plans. The letter of request and additional copies of the pre-application
materials are required for this optional review.
The request must be received at least 30 working days prior to the planning board meeting at which it is to be
considered. The application will be submitted to the planning board at their next available meeting. A copy of
the approved minutes of the planning board meeting will be forwarded to the developer.
Time for follow-up submittal. A complete subdivision preliminary plat application must be submitted to the
community development department within one calendar year of the date the planning office dates, signs and
places the letter in the outgoing mail or sends the letter via electronic mail.
The property owner will not receive formal written notification on the acceptability or adequacy of a subdivision
pre-application plan submittal.
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A.
1.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
c.
Sec. 38.240.120. - Concurrent review.
For Sanitation and Subdivision Act review, the developer has the option of submitting a state department of environmental
quality (DEQ)/local government joint application form in the place of a preliminary plat application form, and to request concurrent
subdivision review by the state department of environmental quality and the city, pursuant to MCA 76-4-129.
Sec. 38.240.130. - Preliminary plat.
After the requirement for a pre-application review has been satisfied, the developer may submit a subdivision
application within one year of the date of the city's written comments as required by section 38.240.110.A.3.a(2).
Subdivision applications must be submitted, along with the appropriate review fee and all required subdivision
application information as set forth in division 38.220 of this chapter to the community development department and
must conform to the requirements of this chapter. The preliminary plat must be prepared by a surveyor licensed to
practice in the state.
Acceptability and adequacy of application. The time limits in subsections 1.a and b of this section apply to each
successive submittal of the application until a determination is made that the application contains the required
materials and is adequate for review and the subdivider or their agent is notified.
The community development department must review a subdivision application within five working days of
receipt of the application and applicable fee. A subdivision application is considered to be received on the date of
delivery to the reviewing agency if it is accompanied by the applicable review fee. An application is acceptable
only if it contains all of the information required by this chapter. If the application is unacceptable, the
application, and a written explanation of why the application is unacceptable will be returned to the subdivider. If
the application is acceptable the subdivider must be so notified. The property owner may designate in writing
another party to receive notifications regarding acceptability. The five working day review period is met if the
letter is dated, signed and placed in the outgoing mail within the five working day review period. If the applicant
chooses to withdraw the application, the applicant may request a refund if procedures for such have been
created in the administrative manual adopted by the director of community development. Subsequent
resubmittal must require payment of a review fee as if it were a new application.
After the application is deemed acceptable it must be reviewed for adequacy. The review for adequacy must be
conducted by the appropriate agency with expertise in the subject matter. The adequacy review period begins on
the next working day after the date that the community development department determines the application is
acceptable and sends the required notice to the subdivider; and must be completed within not more than 15
working days. The 15 working day review period is met if the letter is dated, signed and placed in the outgoing
mail within the 15 working day review period. If the application is inadequate, a written explanation of why the
application is inadequate will be returned to the subdivider. If the application is adequate the subdivider must be
so notified. The property owner may designate in writing another party to receive notifications regarding
adequacy.
In the event the missing information is not received by the city within 15 working days of notification to the
subdivider of inadequacy, all application materials except the city's file record copy must be returned to the
subdivider or their representative. Subsequent resubmittal will require payment of a review fee as if it were a
new application.
A determination that an application is adequate does not restrict the city from requesting additional
information during the subdivision review process. A determination of adequacy establishes the applicable
review criteria as specified in section 38.200.080.A.
The DRC may grant reasonable waivers from submittal of application materials required by these regulations
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d.
2.
3.
a.
b.
4.
a.
5.
a.
(1)
where it is found that these regulations allow a waiver to be requested and granted. If in the opinion of the final
approval authority the waived materials are necessary for proper review of the development, the materials must
be provided before review is completed.
In order to be granted a waiver the applicant must include with the submission of the subdivision application a
written statement describing the requested waiver and the reasons upon which the request is based. The final
approval body must then consider each waiver at the time the subdivision application is reviewed. All waivers
must be initially identified with the pre-application stage of review.
Review by affected agencies. After an application is deemed acceptable, the community development department
may submit copies of the preliminary plat and supplementary information to relevant public utilities and public
agencies for review and comment, and for major subdivisions to the planning board for its advice pertaining to the
approval or denial of the subdivision application. Review by public agencies or utilities must not delay the city
commission's consideration of the subdivision application beyond the statutorily specified review period. If the
community development department must request review by a public utility, agency of government, and other
parties regarding the subdivision application that was not identified during the pre-application review the community
development department must notify the subdivider.
Planning board review. At a regularly noticed public hearing, the planning board must review all major subdivision
applications, together with required supplementary plans and information, and determine whether the plat is in
compliance with the city's growth policy. The planning board must hold a public hearing on all major subdivisions.
Pursuant to MCA 76-1-107, the planning board has delegated its review of all minor subdivisions from a tract of
record to the community development director.
Public testimony. All written public comment received at or prior to a public hearing must be incorporated into
the written record of the review. Minutes must be taken of verbal comment received during the public hearing or
public meeting before the planning board and must be incorporated into the written record of the review. Copies
of the minutes and written comments must be included in any recommendation made to the city commission by
the planning board.
Planning board recommendation. Within ten working days of their review, the planning board must submit in
writing to the city commission its advice regarding compliance with the city's growth policy, and a
recommendation for approval, conditional approval or denial of the subdivision application.
Community development director review. The community development director must review all minor subdivision
applications, together with required supplementary plans and information, and determine whether the plat is in
compliance with the city's growth policy. The community development director must make a written
recommendation including a summary of the agency review and analysis of the review criteria established in this
chapter and a recommendation for approval, conditional approval or denial of the subdivision application.
Public testimony. All written public comment received during the community development director's review must
be incorporated into the written record of the review. Copies of written comments must be included in any
recommendation made to the city commission by the community development director.
City commission review. The city commission must review and take action on all proposed subdivisions.
The following requirements for a public hearing or a public meeting, and for statutory review periods, must be
met:
First minor subdivision created from a tract of record. The city commission must consider the subdivision
application and the community development director's recommendation during a regular public meeting of
the commission. The city commission, when legal and physical access is provided to all lots must approve,
conditionally approve or deny the subdivision application of a first minor subdivision within 35 working days
of the determination that the application is adequate, unless there is a written extension from the developer
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(a)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(i)
for a period not to exceed one year from the date the application was determined to be adequate. A minor
subdivision must be reviewed as a second or subsequent minor subdivision if the tract has been previously
subdivided or created by a subdivision; or the tract has descended from a tract of record which has
previously been divided by exemption or other means into 6 or more tracts of record since July 1, 1973.
Variance requests for minor subdivisions. If the developer of a minor subdivision is requesting a variance
from any requirement of this chapter, the procedures of section 38.250.080 must be followed except that
a public hearing must not be held.
Subdivisions eligible for summary review. The city commission must consider the application and the
community development director's recommendation during a regular public meeting of the commission. The
city commission must approve, conditionally approve or deny a proposed subdivision that is eligible for
summary review within 35 working days of determination that the application is adequate, unless there is a
written extension from the developer. The written extension may not exceed one year. Minor subdivisions
are eligible for summary review if the plat has been approved by the state department of environmental
quality whenever approval is required by MCA 76-4-101 et seq.
Second or subsequent minor subdivision created from a tract of record. For the second or subsequent minor
subdivision created from a tract of record, the city commission must hold a public hearing on the subdivision
application. The city commission must approve, conditionally approve or deny the subdivision application of
a second or subsequent minor subdivision within 60 working days of the determination that the application is
adequate for review, unless there is a written extension from the developer, not to exceed one year from the
date the application was determined to be adequate.
Major subdivisions. For a major subdivision, the city commission must hold a public hearing on the
subdivision application. The city commission must approve, conditionally approve or deny the subdivision
application within 60 working days of the determination that the application is adequate for review if the
subdivision has less than 50 lots, and within 80 working days of the determination that the application is
adequate for review if the subdivision has 50 or more lots, unless there is a written extension from the
developer, not to exceed one year from the date the application was determined to be adequate.
Public testimony. All written public comment received at a public meeting or public hearing prior to a
decision to approval, approve with conditions, or deny a subdivision application must be incorporated into
the written record of the review. Minutes must be taken of verbal comments received during the public
hearing before the city commission and must be incorporated into the written record of the review
maintained by the city.
New and credible information. The city commission must determine whether public comments or documents
presented to the city commission at a public hearing regarding a subdivision application held pursuant to
section 38.240.130.A.5 constitute:
Information or analysis of information that was presented at a public hearing held pursuant to section
38.240.130.A.5 that the public has had a reasonable opportunity to examine and on which the public has
had a reasonable opportunity to comment; or
New information regarding a subdivision application that has never been submitted as evidence or
considered by either the city commission, planning board or by city staff at a hearing during which the
subdivision application was considered.
If the city commission determines that the public comments or documents constitute new information
not previously considered at a public hearing, the city commission may:
Approve, conditionally approve, or deny the proposed subdivision without basing its decision on the
new information if the governing body determines that the new information is either irrelevant or not
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(ii)
(iii)
(A)
(B)
(C)
(d)
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(4)
credible; or
Schedule or direct its agent or agency to schedule a subsequent public hearing before the city
commission for consideration of only the new information that may have an impact on the findings
and conclusions that the governing body will rely upon in making its decision on the proposed
subdivision.
In deciding whether the information is both new and credible the city commission must consider:
Whether the topic of the information has previously been examined or available for examination
at a public hearing on the subdivision application;
Whether the information is verifiable, and if applicable developed by a person with professional
competency in the subject matter;
Whether the information is relevant to a topic within the jurisdiction of the city.
If a subsequent public hearing is held to consider new and credible information, the 60 working day
review period required in section 38.240.130.A.5 is suspended and the new hearing must be noticed and
held within 45 working days of the governing body's determination to schedule a new hearing. After the
new hearing, the otherwise applicable time limit for review resumes at the governing body's next
scheduled public meeting for which proper notice for the public hearing on the subdivision application
can be provided. The governing body may not consider any information regarding the subdivision
application that is presented after the hearing when making its decision to approve, conditionally
approve, or deny the proposed subdivision.
Criteria for city commission action. The basis for the city commission's decision to approve, conditionally approve
or deny the subdivision must be whether the subdivision application, public hearing if required, planning board
advice and recommendation and additional information demonstrates that development of the subdivision
complies with this chapter, the city's growth policy, the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act and other adopted
state and local ordinances, including, but not limited to, applicable zoning requirements. The city commission
may not deny approval of a subdivision based solely on the subdivision's impacts on educational services; or
based solely on parcels within the subdivision having been designated as wildland-urban interface parcels by the
most recent city-adopted hazard mitigation plan and its supporting documentation. When deciding to approve,
conditionally approve or deny a subdivision application, the city commission must:
Review the preliminary plat, together with required supplementary plans and information, to determine if it
meets the requirements of this chapter, the development standards and policies of the city's growth policy,
the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act, and other adopted state laws and local ordinances, including but
not limited to applicable zoning requirements.
Consider written comments from appropriate public agencies, utilities or other members of the public.
Consider the following:
Relevant evidence relating to the public health, safety and welfare;
Other regulations, code provisions or policies in effect in the area of the proposed subdivision;
The recommendation of the advisory bodies; and
Any relevant public testimony.
When the subdivision does not qualify, pursuant to MCA 76-4-125(2), for the certification established in
section 38.240.100 the city commission may conditionally approve or deny a proposed subdivision as a result
of the water and sanitation information provided pursuant to section 38.220.050.A.9. or public comment
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(5)
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
d.
e.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
received pursuant to MCA 76-3-604 on the information provided pursuant to section 38.220.050. A
conditional approval or denial must be based on existing subdivision, zoning, or other regulations that the
city commission has the authority to enforce.
The city may not approve a proposed subdivision if any of the features and improvements of the subdivision
encroach onto adjoining private property in a manner that is not otherwise provided for under Title 76,
chapters 3 or 4, MCA, or if the well isolation zone of any proposed well to be drilled for the proposed
subdivision encroaches onto adjoining private property unless the owner of the private property authorizes
the encroachment. For the purposes of this section, "well isolation zone" has the meaning provided in 76-4-
102, MCA.
City commission action. If the city commission denies or conditionally approves the subdivision application, it
must forward one copy of the plat to the developer accompanied by a letter over the appropriate signature
stating the reason for disapproval or enumerating the conditions that must be met to ensure approval of the
final plat. This written statement must include:
The reason for the denial or condition imposition;
The evidence that justifies the denial or condition imposition; and
Information regarding the appeal process for the denial or condition imposition.
Mitigation. The city commission may require the developer to design the subdivision to reasonably minimize
potentially significant adverse impacts identified through the review required by this chapter. The city
commission must issue written findings to justify the reasonable mitigation required by this chapter. The city
commission may not unreasonably restrict a landowner's ability to develop land, but it is recognized that in some
instances the unmitigated impacts of a proposed development may be unacceptable and will preclude approval
of the plat. When requiring mitigation under this subsection, the city commission must consult with the
developer and must give due weight and consideration to the expressed preference of the developer.
Findings of fact. Within 30 working days of the final action to approve, deny, or approve with conditions a
subdivision, the city commission must issue written findings of fact that discuss and weigh the following criteria,
as applicable (pursuant to MCA 76-3-608):
Criteria.
Compliance with the survey requirements of the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act;
Compliance with this chapter and the review process of these regulations;
The provision of easements to and within the subdivision for the location and installation of any
necessary utilities;
The provision of legal and physical access to each parcel within the subdivision and the notation of that
access on the applicable plat and any instrument transferring the parcel; and
For major subdivisions, the findings of fact must also address the effect on agriculture, agricultural water
user facilities, local services, the natural environment, wildlife and wildlife habitat, and public health and
safety.
Required components. The written findings of fact must contain at a minimum:
Information regarding the appeal process for the denial or imposition of conditions;
The regulations and statutes used in reaching the decision to deny or impose conditions and explains
how they apply to the decision;
The facts and conclusions that the governing body relied upon in making its decision to deny or impose
conditions. The documents, testimony, or other materials that form the basis of the decision and support
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(3)
f.
(1)
(2)
(3)
g.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
h.
(1)
(2)
the conclusions of the governing body may be incorporated into the written findings by reference.
Federal or state governmental entity input. If a federal or state governmental entity submits a written or oral
comment or an opinion regarding wildlife, wildlife habitat, or the natural environment relating to a
subdivision application for the purpose of assisting a governing body's review, the comment or opinion may
be included in the governing body's written statement under this section only if the comment or opinion
provides scientific information or a published study that supports the comment or opinion. A governmental
entity that is or has been involved in an effort to acquire or assist others in acquiring an interest in the real
property identified in the subdivision application must disclose that the entity has been involved in that effort
prior to submitting a comment, an opinion, or information as provided in this subsection.
Initial subdivision application approval period. Upon approving or conditionally approving a subdivision
application, the city commission must provide the developer with a dated and signed findings of fact and order.
This initial approval must be in force for not more than:
One calendar year for minor subdivisions;
Two calendar years for single-phased major subdivisions; and
Three calendar years for multi-phased major subdivisions after the date of the findings of fact and order. At
the end of this period, the city may, at the written request of the developer, extend its approval for a
mutually agreed-upon period of time.
Extensions of preliminary plat approval period. Any mutually agreed upon extension must be in writing and
dated and signed by the subdivider or their authorized agent and by the city commission or their authorized
agent. More than one extension may be requested for a particular subdivision. Each request is considered on its
individual merits. An extension of the subdivision approval under this chapter does not extend other city or non-
city agency approvals, e.g. for design of infrastructure extensions, necessary to complete the project. Review
authority for extensions is established in division 38.220. When evaluating an extension request, the city must
consider:
Changes to the development regulations since the original approval and whether the subdivision as originally
approved is substantially compliant with the new regulations;
Progress to date in completing the subdivision as a whole and any phases, including maintenance of the
remainder of the site in good condition;
Phasing of the subdivision and the ability for existing development to operate without the delayed
development;
Dependence by other development on any public infrastructure or private improvements to be installed by
the subdivision;
Demonstrated ability of the subdivider to complete the subdivision;
Whether mitigation for impacts of the subdivision identified during the preliminary plat review and findings
of fact and order remain relevant, adequate, and applicable to the present circumstances of the subdivision
and community.
Changes to conditions after approval. Upon written request of the developer, the city commission may amend
conditions of subdivision application approval where it can be found that errors or changes beyond the control
of the developer have rendered a condition unnecessary, impossible or illegal. Changes to conditions that are not
unnecessary, impossible or illegal are subject to the provisions of section 38.100.070.
The written request must be submitted to the community development department.
The written consent of all purchasers of land (via contract for deed, etc.) must be included with the written
request to amend conditions.
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(3)
(a)
(4)
(5)
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
A.
1.
If it is an application for a major subdivision, the city commission must conduct a public hearing on the request.
application for a minor subdivision, the city commission must consider the request at a regularly scheduled mee
If a public hearing is held, public notice of the hearing must be given in accordance with this chapter.
The city commission may approve the requested change if it meets the criteria set forth in this chapter.
The city commission must issue written findings of fact as required in this chapter.
Sec. 38.240.140. - Notice of certi cation that water and waste services will be provided by local government.
If the developer is proposing to request an exemption from the department of environmental quality (DEQ) for
infrastructure plan and specification review, the subdivision application must include a written request from the
developer's professional engineer, licensed in the state, that indicates the intent to request the exemption, and details
the extent of water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure that will be completed prior to final plat approval. A detailed
preliminary stormwater drainage plan must also be submitted with the written request. The director of public works
must, prior to final plat approval, send notice of certification to the DEQ per MCA 76-4-127.
The notice of certification must include the following:
The name and address of the applicant;
A copy of the preliminary plat included with the application for the proposed subdivision or a final plat where a
preliminary plat is not necessary;
The number of proposed parcels in the subdivision;
A copy of any applicable zoning ordinances in effect;
How construction of the sewage disposal and water supply systems or extensions will be financed;
Certification that the subdivision is within a jurisdictional area that has adopted a growth policy pursuant to title
76, chapter 1, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 76-1-101 et seq.) and a copy of the growth policy, when applicable;
The relative location of the subdivision to the city;
Certification that adequate municipal facilities for the supply of water and disposal of sewage and solid waste are
available or will be provided within the time provided in MCA 76-3-507;
If water supply, sewage disposal or solid waste facilities are not municipally owned, certification from the facility
owners that adequate facilities are available; and
Certification that the city commission has reviewed and approved plans to ensure adequate stormwater
drainage.
Sec. 38.240.150. - Final plat application.
After the conditions of preliminary approval and the requirements for the installation of improvements have been
satisfied, the developer must cause to be prepared a final plat. The final plat must conform to the uniform standards for
final subdivision plats as set forth in 24.183.1107 ARM as may be amended and to the standards required by the county
clerk and recorder. The applicant is responsible to verify that they are complying with the most recently adopted clerk
and recorder standards. Plans and data must be prepared under the supervision of a registered surveyor, licensed in the
state, as their licensing laws allow.
Final plat submittal. The final plat and all supplementary documents must be submitted to the community
development department at least 30 working days prior to the expiration of subdivision application approval or any
extension thereto. The submittal must include a final plat application form, the appropriate review fee, all
information required by section 38.220.070 and a written explanation of how each of the conditions of subdivision
application approval has been satisfied.
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2.
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(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
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(2)
4.
The final park plan, if one is associated with the plat, must be reviewed and approved, after a recommendation from
recreation and parks advisory board, prior to or simultaneously with the final plat. The installation of any park impro
meet minimum development standards or conditions of approval must comply with division 38.270 of this chapter.
County treasurer certification. A final plat will not be accepted as complete until the county treasurer has certified
that no real property taxes and special assessments assessed and levied on the land to be subdivided are
delinquent.
Review of abstract, deeds, and covenants.
With the final plat, the developer must submit to the community development department a certificate of a
licensed title abstractor showing the names of the owners of record of the land to be subdivided and of any off-
site land used to satisfy parkland dedication requirements, and the names of lienholders or claimants of record
against the land, and the written consent to the subdivision by the owners of the land, if other than the
developer, and any lienholders or claimants of record against the land. The certificate of licensed title abstractor
must be dated no earlier than 30 calendar days prior to submittal. If necessary, the certificate must be updated
so that the certificate is dated no earlier than 90 days prior to the city commission's action on the final plat.
Covenants must be submitted to the community development department with the final plat application. At least
30 working days prior to submission of the final plat application to the community development department, the
developer must submit a copy of the covenants to the city attorney's office.
If an improvements agreement will be required per section 38.270.060 then the proposed associated financial
security must be provided at least 30 working days prior to submission of the final plat application for review by
the city attorney.
Transfer of ownership of public land, off-site land, private land, personal property, improvements and water
rights; documents required.
For the transfer of real property in satisfaction of required or offered dedications to the city, and required or
offered donations or grants to the property owners' association (POA), the subdivider or owner of the
property must submit with the application for final plat a warranty deed or other instrument acceptable to
the city attorney transferring fee simple ownership to the city or the POA.
For the transfer of personal property installed upon dedicated parkland or city-owned open space, or POA-
owned parkland or open space, the subdivider must provide the city an instrument acceptable to the city
attorney transferring all its rights, title and interest in such improvements including all applicable warranties
to such improvements to the city or the POA.
The subdivider or owner of the property must record the deed or instrument transferring ownership or
interests at the time of recording of the final plat with the original of such deed or instrument returned to the
city or POA as applicable.
For the transfer of ownership interest in water, the subdivider or owner of the property must submit with the
application for final plat a deed or other instrument acceptable to the city attorney transferring ownership to
the city or POA, along with all required state department of natural resources and conservation
documentation, certification and authorization.
Certificates.
Public lands/improvements must be described in the certificate of dedication/consent, listed in the certificate
of completion, be completed or subject to an improvements agreement.
Private lands/improvements must be described and addressed in the certificate of donation/grant and
completion of private improvements, be completed or subject to an improvements agreement.
Review by the community development department. The community development department will then review the
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final plat application to ascertain that all conditions and requirements for final approval have been met. If all
conditions and requirements for final approval have been met, the community development department must
forward a report to the city commission for their action.
Final plat approval. The city commission must examine every final plat, and within 45 working days of the date of
receipt of a complete final plat application to the community development department, must approve it if it
conforms to the conditions of preliminary approval and the terms of this chapter. "Date of receipt" means the date
of delivery to the reviewing agency if accompanied by the applicable review fee. The city commission must examine
every final plat at a regular meeting.
A final subdivision plat may not be approved by the city unless all certificates, with the exception of the director of
public works and the county clerk and recorder, have been complied with, signed and notarized and all subdivision
regulations and conditions of preliminary plat approval have been met. A final subdivision plat may not be filed with
the county clerk and recorder unless all certificates, with the exception of the county clerk and recorder, have been
complied with, signed and notarized. This shall include the certification by the county treasurer that no real property
taxes and special assessments assessed and levied on the land to be subdivided are delinquent. A final subdivision
plat may not be approved by the city commission or filed by the county clerk and recorder unless it complies with the
uniform standards for final subdivision plats as established 24.183.1107, ARM as may be amended and as required
by the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder.
If the final plat is approved, the director of public service shall so certify the approval in a printed certificate on
the plat.
If the final plat is denied, the city commission shall cause a letter to be written to the developer stating the
reasons therefore.
Filing. The developer must file the approved, signed final plat and all other required certificates and documents with
the county clerk and recorder within 60 days of the date of final approval.
Sec. 38.240.160. - Changes to led subdivision plats.
Changes to a filed subdivision plat must be filed with the county clerk and recorder as an amended plat. An amended plat may
not be filed unless it meets the filing requirements for a final subdivision plat specified in these regulations.
Part 3. - Land Divisions Created by Rent or Lease
Sec. 38.240.200. - General.
Land subdivisions created by rent or lease, rather than sale, refer to areas that provide multiple spaces for
manufactured homes, mobile homes or recreational camping vehicles regardless of the size of the area or whether the
spaces will be made available for rent by the general public for a fee. The land must be owned as one parcel under single
ownership, which can include a number of persons owning the property in common. Subsequent action to sell interests
in less than the entirety of the development may necessitate review under Parts 5 and 6 of the Montana Subdivision and
Platting Act prior to any sale. Land subdivisions created by rent or lease are not subject to this division 38.240 or the
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act if:
They are developed on property which has been subdivided in compliance with Parts 5 and 6 of the Montana
Subdivision and Platting Act or which have a boundary documented by a certificate of survey recorded after July 1,
1973; and
They are reviewed as a site plan, conditional use permit, or planned unit development as described and authorized
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B.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
4.
C.
D.
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B.
C.
under this chapter; and
They comply with the adopted zoning regulations and other land development standards adopted by the city.
DPHHS license. If a land subdivision by rent or lease, that will provide multiple spaces for manufactured homes, mobile
homes or recreational camping vehicles is also a "campground," "trailer court," "work camp," or "youth camp" as defined
below, the city must not grant final approval until the developer obtains a license for the facility from the state
department of public health and human services (DPHHS) under MCA tit. 50, ch. 52.
"Campground" means a parcel of land available to and principally used by the public for camping, where persons can
camp, secure tents or cabins, or park trailers for camping and sleeping purposes.
"Trailer court" means a parcel of land upon which two or more spaces are available to the public and designated for
occupancy by trailers, manufactured homes or mobile homes for use as residences. The term does not include a
parcel composed of platted lots, if each lot:
Is filed with the county clerk and recorder;
Contains only one trailer space; and
Is served by a public water supply system and public sewage system that meet the requirements of rules for
systems adopted pursuant to MCA tit. 75, ch. 6, pt. 1, and that are located within the boundaries of the City of
Bozeman.
"Work camp" means a parcel of land on which housing is provided by a person for two or more families or
individuals living separately, for the exclusive use of the employees of the person and the families, if any, of the
employees. For purposes of this subsection, "housing" includes but is not limited to camping spaces; trailer parking
spaces; manufactured, mobile, modular or permanent barracks or structures; and any appurtenant water supply and
distribution system, sewage collection and disposal system, solid waste collection and disposal system, or food
service and dining facilities. Housing does not include shelter provided by an employer for persons who are
employed to perform agricultural duties on a ranch or farm.
"Youth camp" means a parcel of land on which permanent buildings, tents or other structures are maintained as
living quarters for ten or more people and that is used primarily for educational or recreational use by minors. The
term includes any appurtenant water supply and distribution system, sewage collection and disposal system, solid
waste collection and disposal system, or food service and dining facilities.
Surveying and filing requirements exemption. Land subdivisions created by rent or lease are exempt from the surveying
and filing requirements of the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act.
Buildings for lease or rent. A building or buildings created for lease or rent on a single lot is not a subdivision of land but
must be in conformance with applicable zoning regulations. For this section "building" means a structure or a unit of a
structure with a roof supported by columns or walls for the permanent or temporary housing or enclosure of persons or
property or for the operation of a business. Except as provided in MCA 76-3-103(15) the term includes a recreational
camping vehicle, mobile home, or cell tower. The term does not include a condominium or townhome.
Sec. 38.240.210. - Land subdivisions created by rent or lease—Procedure, submittal requirements and review criteria.
Land subdivisions created by rent or lease must be submitted, reviewed and approved by the city before any portions of
the development may be rented or leased. The developer must apply for site plan and subdivision review.
Site plan review. All relevant procedures, submittal requirements and review criteria contained in division 38.230 of this
chapter apply. The development must also comply with the requirements of division 38.310 of this chapter and sections
38.360.190 and 38.360.250.
Subdivision review. The subdivision review procedure and review criteria for land subdivisions created by rent or lease
will depend upon the number of spaces within the proposed development. Proposed developments containing five or
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fewer spaces for rent or lease must be reviewed as minor subdivisions according to the provisions of article 2 of this
chapter and proposed developments containing six or more spaces for rent or lease must be reviewed as major
subdivisions according to the provisions of division 38.240 of this chapter.
Pre-application plan. The pre-application plan must be reviewed using the procedures contained in section
38.240.110. The submittal materials listed in section 38.220.030 must be provided.
Preliminary plan submittal and procedure. For land subdivisions created by rent or lease, the developer must submit
a preliminary plan in lieu of a preliminary plat, a completed application for minor subdivision or major subdivision as
appropriate, and the materials listed in sections 38.220.050 and 38.220.060.
Final plan submittal and procedure. For land subdivisions created by rent or lease, the developer must submit a final
plan in lieu of a final plat, a completed final plat application and the materials listed in section 38.220.070.
Supplementary materials. In addition to the submittal requirements of division 38.220 of this chapter, preliminary
and final plans for land subdivisions created by rent or lease must show the following:
A layout of all spaces proposed for rent or lease;
Location of commonly owned areas and facilities; and
Parks and/or recreation areas.
Boundary lines. All preliminary and final plans may show approximate boundary, lot, right-of-way or other lines.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.240.220. - Land subdivisions created by rent or lease—Timing of improvements.
Before any portion of a land subdivision created by rent or lease can be rented or leased, all required improvements must be
installed, inspected and found compliant with the approved plan, and where applicable accepted by the city.
Sec. 38.240.230. - Land subdivisions created by rent or lease—Filing of nal plan.
Once the final plan has been approved by the city, an original copy of the approved plan must be filed with the county clerk and
recorder as a "miscellaneous" document and another copy of the approved plan must be retained by the engineering division of
the department of public works.
Part 4. - Subdivision Exemptions
Sec. 38.240.300. - Divisions of land entirely exempt from the requirements of this chapter pertaining to subdivisions and the state
subdivision and platting act.
Unless the method of disposition is adopted for the purpose of evading this chapter or the Montana Subdivision and
Platting Act (the "Act"), the requirements of this chapter pertaining to subdivisions and the Act may not apply to any
division of land that:
Is created by order of any court of record in this state or by operation of law or that, in the absence of agreement
between the parties to the sale, could be created by an order of any court in the state pursuant to the law of eminent
domain (MCA 76-3-201(1)(a));
Before a court of record orders a division of land, the court must notify the governing body of the pending
division and allow the governing body to present written comment on the division;
Lots created as described in this section that do not comply with the standards of chapter 38, BMC are not
"nonconforming" lots subject to section 38.32.030 and are not individual buildable lots;
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6.
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8.
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Is created to provide security for mortgages, liens or trust indentures for the purpose of construction, improvements to
being divided, or refinancing purposes (MCA 76-3-201(1)(b));
This exemption applies:
To a division of land of any size;
To a parcel that is created to provide security, however the remainder of the tract of land is subject to the
provisions of the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act and division 38.240 of this chapter if applicable;
Lots created as described in this section that do not comply with the standards of chapter 38, BMC are not
"nonconforming" lots subject to section 38.280.030 and are not individual buildable lots;
Creates an interest in oil, gas, minerals or water that is severed from the surface ownership of real property (MCA 76-
3-201(1)(c));
Creates cemetery lots (MCA 76-3-201(1)(d));
Is created by the reservation of a life estate (MCA 76-3-201(1)(e));
Is created by lease or rental for farming and agricultural purposes (MCA 76-3-201(1)(f));
Is created for rights-of-way or utility sites. A subsequent change in the use of the land to a residential, commercial or
industrial use is subject to the requirements of the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act and division 38.240 of this
chapter (MCA 76-3-201(1)(h));
Is created by lease or rental of contiguous airport-related land owned by a city, county, the state, or a municipal or
regional airport authority provided that the lease or rental is for onsite weather or air navigation facilities, the
manufacture, maintenance, and storage of aircraft, or air carrier-related activities (MCA 76-3-205(1));
Is state-owned land unless the division creates a second or subsequent parcel from a single tract for sale, rent or
lease for residential purposes after July 1, 1974 (MCA 76-3-205(2)); and
Is created by deed, contract, lease or other conveyance executed prior to July 1, 1974 (MCA 76-3-206).
Sec. 38.240.310. - Speci c divisions of land exempt from review but subject to survey requirements and zoning regulations for divisions
of land not amounting to subdivisions.
Unless the method of disposition is adopted for the purpose of evading this chapter or the Act, the following divisions or
aggregations of tracts of record of any size, regardless of the resulting size of any lot created by the subdivision or
aggregation, are not subdivisions under this chapter and the Act, but are subject to the surveying requirements of MCA
76-3-401 for lands other than subdivisions and are subject to applicable zoning regulations adopted under title 76,
chapter 2, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 76-2-101 et seq.). A division of land may not be made under this section
unless the county treasurer has certified that no real property taxes and special assessments assessed and levied on the
land to be divided are delinquent. The county clerk and recorder must notify the community development department
of any land division described in this section or MCA 76-3-207(1).
Divisions made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of relocating common boundary lines between
adjoining properties (MCA 76-3-207(I)(a));
Divisions made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of a single gift or sale in each county to each member
of the landowner's immediate family (MCA 76-3-207(I)(b));
Divisions made outside of platted subdivisions by gift, sale or an agreement to buy and sell in which the parties to
the transaction enter a covenant running with the land and revocable only by mutual consent of the city and the
property owner that the divided land will be used exclusively for agricultural purposes (MCA 76-3-207(I)(c));
For lots within a platted subdivision, the relocation of common boundaries where the relocation does not cross
public or private street rights-of-way or an external boundary of the subdivision. (MCA 76-3-207(I)(d)). The restriction
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of MCA 76-3-207(2) on the number of lots to be rearranged and designation of review authority does not apply in
such instances;
Divisions made for the purpose of relocating a common boundary line between a single lot within a platted
subdivision and adjoining land outside a platted subdivision. A restriction or requirement on the original platted lot
or original unplatted parcel continues to apply to those areas (MCA 76-3-207(I)(e));
Aggregation of parcels or lots when a certificate of survey or subdivision plat shows that the boundaries of the
original parcels have been eliminated and the boundaries of the larger aggregate parcel are established. A restriction
or requirement on the original platted lot or original unplatted parcel continues to apply to those areas (MCA 76-3-
207(I)(f)). The restriction of MCA 76-3-207(2) on the number of lots to be rearranged and designation of review
authority does not apply in such instances; and
Divisions of one or more lots within a platted subdivision to create cottage lot developments subject to section
38.360.120 as authorized by MCA 76-3-203. This section is not applicable to the development of condominiums. An
amended plat of the original subdivision showing the new dependent lots and all common lots must be filed and
must comply with the uniform standards for final subdivision plats specified in 24.183.1107, ARM and as updated.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.240.320. - Reserved.
Sec. 38.240.330. - Condominiums.
Condominium developments are exempt from the surveying and filing requirements of article 2 of this chapter and the
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act.
Condominiums, constructed on land divided in compliance with the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act, are exempt
from the provisions of division 38.240 of this chapter and the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act if either:
The approval of the original division of land expressly contemplated the construction of the condominiums and any
applicable park dedication requirements of MCA 76-3-621 are complied with; or
The condominium proposal is in conformance with applicable local zoning regulations where local zoning regulations
are in effect.
Sec. 38.240.340. - Exemption from surveying and platting requirements for lands acquired for state highways.
Instruments of transfer for land which is acquired for state highways may refer by parcel and project number to state highway
plans which have been recorded in compliance with MCA 60-2-209 and are exempted from the surveying and platting requirements
of this chapter and the Act (MCA 76-3-209). If such parcels are not shown on highway plans of record, instruments of transfer of
such parcels must be accompanied by and refer to appropriate certificates of survey and plats when presented for recording.
Sec. 38.240.350. - Procedures and general requirements.
All certificates of survey or amended subdivision plats claiming an exemption inside city limits and subject to survey
requirements must be submitted to the community development department. The procedures and requirements of this
chapter are limited to the exemptions discussed in section 38.240.360.
Submittal. A claimant seeking an exemption under the Act and this chapter must submit to the community
development department a claim on the appropriate application form, including a signed certificate of exemption,
together with evidence to support the claim and any other information required by this chapter.
Review. The community development department will review the claimed exemption to verify that it is the proper
use of the claimed exemption.
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b.
c.
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(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(a)
(b)
During this review, community development department staff will visit the proposed site, understand thoroughly th
activity occurring on the site, and must identify any existing or potential zoning conflicts. The community developme
must prepare a memo evaluating the claimed exemption against applicable review criteria, which must also be mad
the claimant or the claimant's representative.
In assessing the claimant's purpose for the exemption, the community development department will evaluate all
relevant circumstances including the nature of the claimant's business, the prior history of the particular tract in
question, and the proposed configuration of the tract, if the proposed exemption transactions are completed.
Where a rebuttable presumption is declared in this chapter, the presumption may be overcome by the claimant
with evidence contrary to the presumption. If the community development department concludes that the
evidence overcomes the presumption and that from all the circumstances the exemption is justified, the
exemption will be allowed. If the community development department concludes that the presumption is not
overcome and that from all the circumstances the exemption is not justified, the exemption will be disallowed.
If the exemption is allowed, the community development department must so certify in a printed certificate on
the certificate of survey or amended plat within 30 days of submission of a complete application.
If the exemption is disallowed, the community development department must provide written notification, within
30 days of submission of a complete application, of its decision to the person claiming the exemption and to the
county clerk and recorder.
Filing requirements. An amended plat or a certificate of survey of a division of land which is exempt from review
must be filed within 180 days of the completion of the survey.
Certificates of survey. A certificate of survey may not be filed by the county clerk and recorder unless it complies
with the following procedures for divisions of land exempted from public review as subdivisions. Certificates of
survey for divisions of land meeting the criteria set out in MCA 76-3-207, must meet the following requirements:
A certificate of survey of a division of land that would otherwise be a subdivision, but that is exempted from
subdivision review under MCA 76-3-207, may not be filed by the county clerk and recorder unless it bears the
acknowledged certificate of the property owner stating that the division of land is exempt from review as a
subdivision and citing the applicable exemption.
If the exemption relied upon requires that the property owner enter into a covenant running with the land,
the certificate of survey may not be filed unless it bears a signed and acknowledged recitation of the
covenant.
If a certificate of survey invokes the exemption for gifts and sales to members of the landowner's immediate
family, the certificate must indicate the name of the proposed grantee, the relationship of the grantee to the
landowner and the parcel to be conveyed to the grantee.
If a certificate of survey invokes the exemption for the relocation of common boundary lines:
The certificate of survey must bear the signatures of all landowners whose tracts of record will be altered
by the proposed relocation. The certificate of survey must show that the exemption was used only to
change the location of or eliminate a boundary line dividing two or more tracts of record, and must
clearly distinguish the prior boundary location (shown, for example, by a dashed or broken line or a
notation) from the new boundary (shown, for example, by a solid line or notation);
The certificate of survey must show the boundaries of the area that is being removed from one tract of
record and joined with another tract of record. The certificate of survey may, but is not required to,
establish the exterior boundaries of the resulting tracts of record. Unsurveyed portions of the parcels
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(c)
(d)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
b.
must be labeled, "NOT A PART OF THIS CERTIFICATE OF SURVEY" or "NOT INCLUDED IN THIS CERTIFICATE
OF SURVEY". However, the certificate of survey must show portions of the existing unchanged boundaries
sufficient to clearly identify both the location and the extent of the boundary relocation;
If a boundary line will be completely eliminated, the certificate must establish the boundary of the
resulting tract of record; and
The certificate of survey must contain the following notation: "The area that is being removed from one
tract of record and joined with another tract of record is not itself a tract of record. Said area must not be
available as a reference legal description in any subsequent real property transfer after the initial transfer
associated with the [certificate of survey or amended plat] on which said area is described, unless said
area is included with or excluded from adjoining tracts of record."
If the certificate of survey invokes an exemption from subdivision review under MCA 76-3-207, the certificate
of survey must bear, or be accompanied by, a certification by the county treasurer that all taxes and special
assessments assessed and levied on the surveyed land have been paid.
For purposes of this section, when the parcel of land for which an exemption from subdivision review is
claimed is being conveyed under a contract-for-deed, the terms "property owner," "landowner" and "owner"
mean the seller of the parcel under the contract-for-deed.
Procedures for filing certificates of survey of divisions of land entirely exempted from the requirements of
the Act. The divisions of land described in MCA 76-3-201, 76-3-205 and 76-3-209, and divisions of federally
owned land made by a United States government agency are not required to be surveyed, nor must a
certificate of survey or subdivision plat showing these divisions be filed with the county clerk and recorder. A
certificate of survey of one of these divisions may, however, be filed with the county clerk and recorder if the
certificate of survey meets the requirements for form and content for certificates of survey contained in this
section and bears a certificate of the surveyor performing the survey citing the applicable exemption from
the Act or, when applicable, that the land surveyed is owned by the federal government.
A certificate of survey must not be filed by the county clerk and recorder unless it complies with the uniform
standards for certificate of surveys specified in section 24.183.1104, ARM as may be amended or as required
by the county clerk and recorder.
Certificates of survey that do not represent a division or aggregation of land, such as those depicting the
retracement of an existing parcel and those prepared for informational purposes, must contain a statement
as to their purpose and must meet applicable requirements of ARM 24.183.1104 for form and content. If the
purpose of a certificate of survey is stated as a retracement or partial retracement, and if multiple tracts of
record contained within the parcel's perimeter boundary on the certificate of survey are not individually
shown, then the certificate of survey does not expunge the tracts of record unless it represents a division or
aggregation of land, contains the acknowledged certificate of the property owner(s) citing the applicable
exemption in its entirety, and conforms with the Administrative Rules of Montana for certificates of survey
exempted from review as subdivisions.
Amended plats. Unless a division of land is exempt from subdivision review by MCA 76-3-201 or 76-3-207(1)(d) or
(e), an amended plat must not be filed by the county clerk and recorder unless it complies with the uniform
standards for final subdivision plats specified in section 24.183.1107, ARM as may be amended or as required by
the Gallatin county clerk and recorder. A survey document that modifies lots in a platted and filed subdivision
and invokes an exemption from subdivision review under MCA 76-3-201 or 76-3-207(1)(d) or (e), must be entitled
"amended plat of the (name of subdivision)," but for all other purposes is to be regarded as a certificate of survey
and subject to the requirements of this code.
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b.
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(2)
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(2)
(3)
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2.
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b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
d.
(1)
Sec. 38.240.360. - Exemption review criteria.
The following criteria must be used to ensure that exemptions are not claimed for the purposes of evading this chapter
or the Act. Appeals regarding a final decision by the community development department that an exemption is an
evasion of the Subdivision and Platting Act may be taken in the manner established for administrative project decision
appeals as set forth in section 38.250.030.
A division of land is created to provide security for mortgages, liens or trust indentures for the purpose of
construction, improvements to the land being divided or refinancing purposes (MCA 76-3-201(1)(b)).
The proper use of the exemption is to provide security for construction mortgages, liens or trust indentures,
when a survey of the parcel has been required.
The city makes a rebuttable presumption that a division of land that is created to provide security is adopted for
the purpose of evading the Act under the following conditions:
If the division of land is created for the purpose of conveyance to any entity other than the financial or
lending institution to which the mortgage, lien or trust indenture was given or to a purchaser upon
foreclosure of the mortgage, lien or trust indenture; or
The security is provided for construction or improvements on, or refinancing for, land other than on the
exempted parcel.
When the security for construction financing exemption is to be used, the landowner must submit, in addition to
such other documents as may be required, a written statement explaining:
How many parcels within the original tract will be created by use of the exemption;
Who will have title to the remainder of the original parcel; and
A signed and notarized statement from a lending institution that the creation of the exempted parcel is
necessary to secure a construction loan for buildings or other improvements on the parcel.
The written statement and the instruments creating the security must be filed at the same time as the survey
with the clerk and recorder.
Divisions made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of relocating common boundary lines between
adjoining properties (MCA 76-3-207(I)(a)).
The proper use of the exemption for relocating common boundary lines is to establish a new boundary between
adjoining parcels of land outside of a platted subdivision, without creating an additional parcel.
A certificate of survey for the relocation of common boundary lines may include five or fewer parcels and/or lots.
Certificates of survey showing the relocation of common boundary lines must be accompanied by:
An original deed exchanging recorded interest from every person having a recorded interest in adjoining
properties for the entire newly described parcel that is acquiring additional land;
Documentation showing the need or reason for the relocation (for example: structure encroachment,
surveyor error, or enhancement of the configuration of the property); and
The certificate of survey must bear the signatures of all landowners whose parcels are changed by the
relocation, and show that the exemption was used only to change the location of a boundary line dividing
two parcels, and must clearly distinguish the prior boundary location (shown, for example, by a dashed or
broken line or a notation) from the new boundary (shown, for example, by a solid line or notation).
The city makes a rebuttable presumption that a proposed relocation of common boundary lines is adopted for
the purpose of evading the Act, if:
The community development department determines that the documentation submitted according to this
section does not support the stated reason for relocation, or an additional parcel is created.
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3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
(1)
(2)
4.
a.
(1)
5.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
Division made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of a single gift or sale in each county to each member
of the landowner's immediate family (MCA 76-3-207(I)(b)).
A member of the immediate family is the spouse of the grantor, or whether by blood or adoption, a son,
daughter, mother or father of the grantor.
The proper use of the exemption as a gift or sale to a member of the immediate family is to convey one parcel of
land outside of a platted subdivision to each member of the landowner's immediate family in each county,
providing that the use of the exemption creates no more than one additional parcel of less than 160 acres in size.
Each exemption under this section will be reviewed by the community development department under this
chapter.
A certificate of survey for a family transfer may include more than one exempt parcel if all parcels meet the
criteria of this section.
Certificates of survey showing the creation of new parcels of land pursuant to this exemption as a gift or sale to a
member of the immediate family must be accompanied by an original deed transferring interest in the parcel
being created, or a statement detailing where the deed is in escrow, how long it will be in escrow and
authorization to contact the escrow agent for verification.
The certificate of survey for an exemption for a family transfer must indicate the name of the grantee, the
relationship of the grantee to the landowner and the parcel to be conveyed to the grantee.
The city makes a rebuttable presumption that a family transfer is adopted for the purpose of evading this
chapter and the Act if it is determined that one or more of the following conditions exist:
The exemption would create more than one additional parcel of less than 160 acres.
The member of the landowner's immediate family would have received more than one exempted parcel in
the county.
Division made outside of platted subdivisions by gift, sale or an agreement to buy and sell in which the parties to the
transaction enter a covenant running with the land and revocable only by mutual consent of the city and the
property owner that the divided land will be used exclusively for agricultural purposes (MCA 76-3-207(I)(c)).
An agricultural exemption is a division of land made outside of a platted subdivision by gift, sale or agreement to
buy and sell in which the parties to the transaction enter a covenant running with the land, revocable only by
mutual consent of the city and the transferee/property owner, that the divided land will be used exclusively for
agricultural purposes. No building or structure requiring water or sewer facilities must be utilized on such a
parcel.
A change in use of the land for anything other than agricultural purposes subjects the division to this chapter
and review under parts 5 and 6 of the Act.
For lots within a platted subdivision, relocation of common boundaries and the aggregation of lots (MCA 76-3-207(d),
(f)).
The proper use of the exemption for aggregation of lots and/or relocation of common boundaries is the
rearrangement and/or aggregation of lots within a platted subdivision which does not increase the total number
of lots within the subdivision. The plat must contain the title "amended plat" and must be filed with the county
clerk and recorder.
The amended plat showing the aggregation of lots and/or relocation of common boundary within a platted
subdivision must be accompanied by:
An original deed exchanging recorded interest from every person having a recorded interest in adjoining
properties for the entire newly-described parcel(s) that is acquiring additional land;
Documentation showing the need or reason for the relocation (for example: structure encroachment,
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(3)
c.
d.
6.
a.
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
d.
(1)
7.
a.
b.
surveyor error, or enhancement of the configuration of the property); and
The amended plat must bear the signatures of all landowners whose parcels are changed by the relocation or
aggregation. The amended plat must show that the exemption was used only to change the location of
boundary lines or aggregate lots, and must clearly distinguish the prior boundary location (shown, for
example, by a dashed or broken line or a notation) from the new boundary (shown, for example, by a solid
line or notation).
The city makes a rebuttable presumption that a proposed aggregation of lots and/or relocation of common
boundaries within a platted subdivision is adopted for the purpose of evading the Act if it determines that the
relocation crosses the boundary of a public or private street right-of-way or the external boundary of the
subdivision.
Any division of lots which results in an increase in the number of lots must be reviewed as a subdivision and
approved by the city prior to the filing of the final plat.
Divisions made for the purpose of relocating a common boundary line between a single lot within a platted
subdivision and adjoining land outside a platted subdivision (MCA 76-3-207(1)(e)).
The proper use of the exemption for relocating common boundary lines is to establish a new common boundary
line between a single lot within a platted subdivision and adjoining land outside a platted subdivision. A
restriction or requirement on the original platted lot or original unplatted parcel continues to apply to those
areas.
A certificate of survey for the relocation of common boundary lines may include five or fewer parcels and/or lots.
Certificates of survey showing the relocation of common boundary lines must be accompanied by:
A original deed exchanging recorded interest from every person having a recorded interest in adjoining
properties for the entire newly-described parcel that is acquiring additional land;
Documentation showing the need or reason for the relocation (for example: structure encroachment,
surveyor error, or enhancement of the configuration of the property); and
The certificate of survey must bear the signatures of all landowners whose parcels are changed by the
relocation, and show that the exemption was used only to change the location of a boundary line dividing
two parcels, and must clearly distinguish the prior boundary location (shown, for example, by a dashed or
broken line or a notation) from the new boundary (shown, for example, by a solid line or notation).
The city makes a rebuttable presumption that a proposed relocation of common boundary lines is adopted for
the purpose of evading the Act, if:
The community development department determines that the documentation submitted according to this
section does not support the stated reason for relocation, or an additional parcel is created.
For lots within a platted subdivision, divisions made for the purpose of creating lots subject to zoning regulations as
cottage development and not recorded as condominiums. (MCA 76-3-203).
The proper use of the exemption is to create lots for cottage development in compliance with section 38.360.120.
A restriction or requirement on the original platted lot continues to apply to those areas.
An amended plat of the original subdivision showing the new dependent lots must be filed and must comply with
the uniform standards for final subdivision plats specified in 24.183.1107, ARM and as updated.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 2, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.240.370. - Procedures for ling certi cates of survey of divisions of land entirely exempted from the requirements of the act.
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A.
1.
A certificate of survey of a division of land entirely exempted from the requirements of this chapter and the Act may be filed
with the county clerk and recorder if it meets the requirements for form and content for certificates of survey contained in this
section and bears a certificate of the surveyor performing the survey stating the applicable exemption from the Act.
Sec. 38.240.380. - Correction of errors.
Correction of errors may be made by the submission of a corrected certificate of survey for the city's approval.
Part 5. - Subdivision Certi cates
Sec. 38.240.400. - General.
The certificates listed in sections 38.240.410 through 38.240.530 must be shown on plats and certificates of survey, as
appropriate. Other certificates than those shown may be required by the city when deemed appropriate. The proper notary block
must be used.
Sec. 38.240.410. - Dedication or consent.
All plats of subdivisions must contain a certificate of dedication or certificate of consent. In the case of corporate
ownership, the proper corporation officer must sign, a corporate notary form must be used, and the corporate seal must
be affixed. The certificate must read as follows:
Certificate of dedication.
CERTIFICATE OF DEDICATION
(I), (We), the undersigned property owner(s), do hereby certify that (I) (We) have caused to be surveyed, subdivided and
platted into lots, blocks, streets, and alleys, and other divisions and dedications, as shown by the plat hereunto included
the following described tract of land to wit:
Description
(Exterior Boundary Description of Area Contained in Plat and Total Acreage)
The above-described tract of land is to be known and designated as (name of subdivision), City of Bozeman, Gallatin
County, Montana; and the lands included in all streets, avenues, alleys, roads, highways, and parks, playgrounds, or public
lands or other public improvements shown on said plat are hereby granted and donated to the City of Bozeman for the
public use and enjoyment. Unless specifically listed herein, the lands included in all streets, avenues, alleys, roads,
highways, and parks or public lands or other public improvements dedicated to the public are accepted for public use, but
the city accepts no responsibility for maintaining the same. The owner(s) agree(s) that the city has no obligation to
maintain the lands included in all streets, avenues, alleys, roads, highways, and parks, or public lands or other public
improvements, hereby dedicated to public use. The lands included in all streets, avenues, alleys, roads, highways, and
parks, or public lands or other public improvements dedicated to the public for which the city accepts responsibility for
maintenance include (list specific streets, avenues, alleys, roads highways, and parks or other public lands or other public
improvements).
The undersigned hereby grants unto each and every person firm or corporation, whether public or private, providing or
offering to provide telephone, electric power, gas, internet, cable television or other similar utility or service, the right to
the joint use of an easement for the construction, maintenance, repair and removal of their lines and other facilities in,
over, under and across each area designated on this plat as "Utility Easement" to have and to hold forever.
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2.
A.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Acknowledged and notarized signatures of all record owners of platted property)
Certificate of consent.
CERTIFICATE OF CONSENT
(I), (We), the undersigned property owner(s), do hereby certify that (I), (We) caused to be surveyed, subdivided and platted
into lots, blocks, streets, and alleys, and other divisions and dedications, as shown by this plat hereunto included, the
following described tract of land, to wit:
Description
(Exterior Boundary Description of Area Contained in Plat and Total Acreage)
The above described tract of land is to be known and designated as (name of subdivision), City of Bozeman, Gallatin
County, Montana.
The undersigned hereby grants unto each and every person, firm of corporation, whether public or private, providing or
offering to provide telephone, electric power, gas, internet, cable television or other similar utility or service, the right to
the joint use of an easement for the construction, maintenance, repair and removal of their lines and other facilities in,
over, under and across each area designated on this plat as "Utility Easement" to have and to hold forever.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Acknowledged and notarized signatures of all record owners of platted property)
Sec. 38.240.420. - Mortgagee.
In those cases where the area being platted or the plat of subdivision is subject to any liens, mortgages, claims, or other
encumbrances by parties or other owners, the following certificate is required:
CONSENT OF MORTGAGEE(S)
(I), (We), the undersigned mortgagee(s) or encumbrancer(s), do hereby join in and consent to the described plat, (I) (We)
release (my) (our) respective liens, claims or encumbrances as to any portion of said lands now being platted into streets,
avenues, parks or other public areas which are dedicated to the City of Bozeman for the public use and enjoyment.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Acknowledged and notarized signature of all encumbrances of record)
Sec. 38.240.430. - Parkland.
Cash-in-lieu of parkland. Where there will be a cash donation in-lieu of parkland dedication, plats of subdivision must
show the following certificate:
CERTIFICATE ACCEPTING CASH DONATION IN-LIEU OF LAND DEDICATION
Finding dedication of parkland within the platted area of (Subdivision Name) would be undesirable for park and
playground purposes, it is hereby ordered by the city commission of the City of Bozeman, that land dedication for park
purposes be waived and that cash-in-lieu, in the amount of _______ dollars, be accepted in accordance with the provisions
of the Montana, Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 through 76-3-625) and the Bozeman Municipal Code.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
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B.
C.
_____
Signature
City of Bozeman Director of Parks and Recreation
Off-site parkland dedication. Where parkland will be provided off-site, in accordance with section 38.420.100.A.4 or 5,
plats of subdivision must show the following certificate:
CERTIFICATE ACCEPTING OFF-SITE PARKLAND DEDICATION
Finding an alternative to dedication of parkland, for park and playground purposes within the platted area of (Subdivision
Name) is desirable, it is hereby ordered by the city commission of the City of Bozeman that land dedication for park
purpose be provided off-site with land outside of the platted area of (Subdivision Name) in accordance with the provisions
of the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 through 76-3-625), and the Bozeman Municipal Code. The off-
site parkland dedication will be provided with the following described tract(s) of land or easement(s) to wit:
Description
(Exterior Boundary Description of Area Contained in Plat/Easement and Total Acreage)
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
_____
Signature
City of Bozeman Director of Parks and Recreation
Parkland dedication to School District 7. Where parkland will be provided in accordance with section 38.420.100.A.6,
plats of subdivision must show the following certificate:
CERTIFICATE ACCEPTING PARKLAND
DEDICATION TO SCHOOL DISTRICT 7
In as much as an alternative to dedication of parkland, for park and playground purposes within the platted area of
(Subdivision Name), would be desirable, it is hereby ordered by the city commission of the City of Bozeman that required
land dedication for park purposes be met with land dedicated to School District 7 in accordance with the provisions of the
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 et seq.), and the Bozeman Municipal Code. If School District 7
chooses to no longer use the land for school buildings and facilities, the ownership of the land must revert to the City of
Bozeman for park purposes and School District 7 must transfer the land to the city with clear title and in a condition
meeting the minimum development standards for parks established in section 38.420.080. The land dedication will be
provided with the following described tract(s) of land, to wit:
Description
(Exterior Boundary Description of Area Contained in Plat and Total Acreage)
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
_____
Signature
City of Bozeman Director of Parks and Recreation
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_____
Signature
Chairman, School District 7 Board of Trustees
Sec. 38.240.440. - Surveyor.
All subdivision plats or certificates of survey must contain a certificate of surveyor which must read as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF SURVEYOR
I, the undersigned, (Type or Print Name), Registered Land Surveyor, do hereby certify that between _______/_______/_______,
_______, and _______/_______/_______, _______, I surveyed (Name of Subdivision or Certificate of Survey), and drew the same as
shown on the accompanying plat (or certificate of survey) and as described in accordance with the provisions of the
Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 through 76-3-625), and the Bozeman Municipal Code.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
_____
Signature
Printed or Typed Name
Registration No.
(Seal of Surveyor)
Sec. 38.240.450. - Improvements.
Where improvements are to be installed prior to final plat approval, the final plat of subdivision must contain a
certificate of completion of public improvements. The certificate must list all completed and accepted improvements,
and must read as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION OF IMPROVEMENTS
I, (Name of Subdivider), and I, (Name of Subdivider's Registered Engineer), a registered professional engineer licensed to
practice in the state of Montana, hereby certify that the following improvements, required to meet the requirements of
chapter 38 of the Bozeman Municipal Code or as a condition(s) of approval of (Name of Subdivision), have been installed
in conformance with the approved plans and specifications, or financially guaranteed and covered by the improvements
agreement accompanying this plat.
Installed Improvements: (List improvements in accordance with section 38.240.450.A).
Financially Guaranteed Improvements: (List improvements in accordance with section 38.240.450.B). The subdivider
hereby warrants said improvements against any and all defects for a period of two years from the date of acceptance by
the City of Bozeman.
The subdivider grants possession of all public infrastructure improvements to the City of Bozeman and the city hereby
accepts ownership of all public infrastructure improvements, subject to the above indicated warranty.
Signature of Subdivider (Date)_______
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Signature, Number, and Seal of Engineer (Date)_______
Signature, Director of Public Works (Date)_______
If all required subdivision improvements will not be installed prior to final plat approval, and the final plat will be
recorded subject to an improvements agreement and financial guarantee, this certificate must be modified to also list all
improvements not completed.
Sec. 38.240.460. - Governing body.
The city commission or their designated agent must certify approval of the plat of subdivision. Said certificate must read as
follows:
CERTIFICATE OF DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
I, Director of Public Works, City of Bozeman, Montana, do hereby certify that the accompanying plat has been duly
examined and has found the same to conform to the law, approves it, and hereby accepts the dedication to the City of
Bozeman for the public use of any and all lands shown on the plat as being dedicated to such use.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Signature), Director of Public Works
Sec. 38.240.470. - Exclusion from MDEQ review.
The following certificate must be added to all subdivision plats to certify that adequate stormwater drainage and adequate
municipal facilities will be provided.
CERTIFICATE OF EXCLUSION FROM MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW
The (Name of Subdivision), Gallatin County, Montana, is within the City of Bozeman, Montana, a first-class municipality,
and within the planning area of the Bozeman growth policy which was adopted pursuant to MCA 76-1-601 et seq., and can
be provided with adequate stormwater drainage and adequate municipal facilities. Therefore, under the provisions of
MCA 76-4-125, this subdivision is excluded from the requirement for Montana Department of Environmental Quality
review.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Signature), Director of Public Works
City of Bozeman, Montana
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 3, 4-18-2018)
Sec. 38.240.480. - County treasurer.
All final subdivision plats, and certificates of survey unless prepared for a subdivision exemption to provide security for
construction mortgages, liens or trust indentures, must show the following certificate of county treasurer:
CERTIFICATE OF COUNTY TREASURER
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A.
1.
2.
I, (Name of County Treasurer), Treasurer of Gallatin County, Montana, do hereby certify that the accompanying plat (or
certificate of survey) has been duly examined and that all real property taxes and special assessments assessed and levied
on the land to be subdivided are paid.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Signature), Treasurer of Gallatin County
Sec. 38.240.490. - Clerk and recorder.
All plats or certificates of survey must show the following certificate of clerk and recorder:
CERTIFICATE OF CLERK AND RECORDER
I, (Name of Clerk and Recorder), Clerk and Recorder of Gallatin County, Montana, do hereby certify that the foregoing
instrument was filed in my office at _______ o'clock, (a.m. or p.m.), this _______ day of _______, _______, and recorded in Book
_______ of Plats on Page _______, Records of the Clerk and Recorder, Gallatin County, Montana.
(Signature), Clerk and Recorder
Sec. 38.240.500. - Certi cation of use of exemption claim.
The following certificates must be provided in a printed certificate on the amended plat or certificate of survey for
allowed exemptions:
Certificate of governing body.
CERTIFICATE OF GOVERNING BODY
I, (Director of Community Development), do hereby certify that the accompanying (Certificate of Survey or Amended
Plat) has been duly reviewed, and has been found to conform to the requirements of the Subdivision and Platting Act
(MCA 76-3-101 et seq.), and the Bozeman Municipal Code.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Signature), Director of Community Development
Certificate of exemption. Reference to exclude the survey from state department of environmental quality review can
also be added to this certificate, as appropriate.
CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION
(I), (We) certify that the purpose of this survey is to (state exemption), and therefore this survey is exempt from
review as a subdivision pursuant to MCA 76-3-207(1) (add appropriate subsection).
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Acknowledged and notarized signatures of all record owners of surveyed property)
Sec. 38.240.510. - Conditions of approval noti cations and certi cations.
The following certificate must be required on the conditions of approval sheet:
NOTIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS
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(I), (We), the undersigned property owner(s), do hereby certify that the text and/or graphics shown on the Conditions of
Approval sheet(s) represent(s) requirements by the governing body for final plat approval and that all conditions of
subdivision application have been satisfied.
(I), (We), the undersigned property owner(s), do hereby certify that the information shown is current as of the date of this
certification, and that changes to any land-use restrictions or encumbrances may be made by amendments to covenants,
zoning regulations, easements, or other documents as allowed by law or by local regulations.
(I), (We), the undersigned property owner(s), do hereby certify that (I) (We) acknowledge that federal, state, and local plans,
policies, regulations, and/or conditions of subdivision approval may limit the use of the property, including the location,
size, and use as shown on the Conditions of Approval sheet or as otherwise stated. Buyers of property should ensure that
they have obtained and reviewed all sheets of the plat and all documents recorded and filed in conjunction with the plat.
Buyers of property are strongly encouraged to contact the local planning department and become informed of any
limitations on the use of the property prior to closing.
DATED this _______ day of _______, _______.
(Acknowledged and notarized signatures of all record owners of platted property)
Sec. 38.240.520. - Certi cate of completion of non-public improvements.
Where non-public improvements are to be installed prior to final plat approval, the final plat of subdivision must contain a
certificate of completion of non-public improvements. The certificate must list all completed and accepted improvements, and
must read as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION OF NON-PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS
I, (Name of Subdivider), hereby certify that the following non-public improvements, required to meet the requirements of
Chapter 38 of the Bozeman Municipal Code or as a condition(s) of approval of (Name of Subdivision), have been installed
in conformance with any approved plans and specifications prepared in accordance with the standards of Chapter 38 or
other City design standards, or have been financially guaranteed and are covered by the subdivision improvements
agreement accompanying and recorded with this plat.
Installed Improvements: (LIST ITEMS EXCLUDING THOSE LISTED BELOW).
Financially Guaranteed Improvements: (LIST ITEMS OR STATE NONE).
I, (Name of Subdivider) hereby warrant said improvements against any and all defects for a period of two years from the
date of acceptance by (Name of Property Owners' Association). Unless specifically listed in the Certificate of Dedication,
the city accepts no responsibility for maintaining the same.
The subdivider hereby grants ownership of all non-public infrastructure improvements to the (Name of Property Owners'
Association) created by Document Number _______ (To be filled in when recorded)
By: (Signature of Subdivider)
Date: _______
Sec. 38.240.530. - Certi cate of completion of water-related improvements.
When irrigation of public facilities are to be installed prior to final plat approval, the final plat of subdivision must contain
a certificate of completion of water-related improvements. The certificate must list all completed and accepted
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
improvements, including but not limited to all irrigation system record drawings, and must read as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION OF WATER-RELATED IMPROVEMENTS
I, (Name of Subdivider), hereby certify that the following improvements, necessary to meet the requirements of chapter 38
of the Bozeman Municipal Code or as a condition(s) of approval of (Name of Subdivision), have been installed in
conformance with the approved plans and specifications, or financially guaranteed and covered by the improvements
agreement accompanying this plat.
Installed Improvements: (List improvements).
Financially Guaranteed Improvements: (List improvements).
The subdivider hereby warrants said improvements against any and all defects for a period of two years from the date of
acceptance by the City of Bozeman.
The subdivider hereby grants ownership of all public infrastructure improvements to the City of Bozeman and the city
hereby accepts ownership of all public infrastructure improvements, subject to the above indicated warranty.
Signature of Subdivider (Date)_______
Signature, Director of Public Works (Date)_______
DIVISION 38.250. - APPEALS, DEVIATIONS, DEPARTURES AND VARIANCE PROCEDURES
Sec. 38.250.010. - Purpose.
This division 38.250 is adopted:
To establish procedures for granting relief from the requirements of this chapter subject to the standards of this
division 38.250 in order to preserve equitable implementation of the law, prevent special treatment to particular
parties and preserve the various rights established by the state and United States constitutions of all persons subject
to this chapter;
To allow for appeals from decisions made by administrative staff approving, approving with conditions or denying
applications for development approval;
To provide through appeals of administrative interpretations a procedure for consideration of and resolution of
disputes regarding the meaning and implementation of this chapter;
To provide through deviations a procedure for flexibility, as a means to support creativity and excellence of design, in
the application of the standards of this chapter in overlay districts and planned unit developments as provided for in
this chapter;
To provide through departures a procedure for applicants to propose alternative design treatments provided such
departures meet the "purpose" of the particular standard and any additional departure criteria set forth;
To provide through zoning variances a procedure for relief from the occasional inequities created by the physical
standards of this chapter relating to zoning when such standards create a substantially unequal burden on a
particular parcel of land in a fashion that would otherwise prevent the reasonable use of property, owing to physical
circumstances unique to that parcel;
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7.
8.
9.
B.
1.
C.
1.
2.
D.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A.
To prohibit the granting of variances that would be contrary to the public interest and endanger public health, safety an
To provide through subdivision variances a procedure for relief from standards relating to platting requirements or
improvements within public rights-of-way when such standards would result in undue hardship and are not essential
to the public health, safety and general welfare; and
To provide a procedure to request reasonable accommodation for individuals and groups seeking equal access to
housing under applicable non-discrimination laws in the application of the standards of this chapter.
The community development director must hear and decide requests for reasonable accommodation as follows:
Authorize in specific cases such requests for reasonable accommodation from the terms of this chapter as will
advance the intent and purpose of this chapter and applicable non-discrimination laws and meet the standards for
the granting of reasonable accommodation.
The board of adjustment must hear and decide variances and deviations as follows:
Authorize in specific cases such deviations from the terms of this chapter relating to zoning as will advance the intent
and purposes of this chapter and meet the standards established for the granting of deviations;
Authorize in specific cases such zoning variances from the physical standards of this chapter, exclusive of those
items included as subdivision variances, that will not be contrary to the public interest, where owing to special
conditions a literal enforcement of the provisions will result in unnecessary hardship, and so that the spirit of this
chapter will be observed and substantial justice done.
The city commission must hear and decide appeals of administrative decisions, variances and deviations, and requests
for reasonable accommodation and must:
When reclaimed per section 38.200.010C,
Authorize in specific cases such deviations from the terms of this chapter relating to zoning as will advance the
intent and purposes of this chapter and meet the standards established for the granting of deviations; and
Authorize in specific cases such zoning variances from the physical standards of this chapter, exclusive of those
items included as subdivision variances, that will not be contrary to the public interest, where owing to special
conditions a literal enforcement of the provisions will result in unnecessary hardship, and so that the spirit of this
chapter must be observed and substantial justice done; and
Authorize in specific cases such requests for reasonable accommodation from the terms of this chapter as will
advance the intent and purposes of this chapter and applicable non-discrimination laws and meet the standards
established for the granting of reasonable accommodation.
Hear and decide subdivision variances from the platting requirements and standards for improvements within public
rights-of-way required by this chapter where it is found that strict compliance would result in undue hardship and is
not essential to the public health, safety and general welfare.
Hear and decide appeals from decisions of the community development director regarding subdivision exemptions.
Hear and approve or deny deviations to standards of the title when proposed through a planned unit development.
Hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made
by an administrative official in the enforcement of this chapter or of any standards adopted pursuant thereto. An
aggrieved person may appeal the final decision of the community development director in the manner provided in
this division 38.250.
Sec. 38.250.020. - Hearing and notice requirements.
There must be an opportunity for public comment to the review authority for any appeal of administrative decisions and
interpretations and for each application for any variance or deviation. When a public hearing is required, the hearing
must be held at an appointed time and place. Comment must be taken by the review authority from persons interested
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A.
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in the application and from the staff.
The community development director must give public notice as required by division 38.220 of this chapter of all public
hearings or public comment periods.
Sec. 38.250.030. - Administrative project decision appeals.
An aggrieved person may appeal the final decision of the administrative review authority in the manner provided in this
section. Any appeal of a final administrative decision to approve, approve with conditions or deny an application must be
an appeal on the basis of the information available to the administrative review authority including this chapter, all
submitted application materials, review and recommendations by administrative staff or advisory bodies, public
comment and such other materials as were available. Denial of requests for waiver or alteration of applicable
regulations is not a decision subject to appeal of an administrative decision. This section also applies to decisions by the
administrative review authority regarding evasion of the Subdivision and Platting Act per section 38.240.360.
Failure to raise an issue during the provided public comment opportunity, in person or in writing, or the failure to
provide statements or evidence sufficient to afford the administrative review authority an opportunity to respond to an
issue, precludes an appeal based on that issue, unless the issue could not have been reasonably known by any party
during the time of the public comment opportunity.
Appeal procedures. Appeals from administrative review authority to the appellate review authority or the courts are set
forth in the various sections of this division 38.250. Appeals are permitted under the provisions of this section in the
manner set forth herein.
These appeal procedures apply to decisions by an administrative review authority in their actions to administer this
chapter.
Appeals must be from the administrative review authority to the appellate review authority according to section
38.250.010.
Filing of appeal. An appeal must be taken by filing with the department of community development by 5:00 p.m. on the
tenth working day following the final decision of the administrative review authority a documented appeal and appeal
fee. Upon receipt of the completed appeal the department of community development must inform the administrative
review authority from whom the appeal is being made of the submission of the appeal.
Appeal contents. In all cases, the complete appeal application must include, and must not be deemed filed until, all of
the materials required by section 38.220.140 are submitted.
Notice of appeal. Once a complete appeal has been filed and date for consideration of the appeal is set per subsection G
below, notice of the appeal must be provided in the same manner as was required for notice of the initial application.
The date, time and location for the consideration of the appeal before the appellate review authority must be included in
the required notice of the appeal.
Scheduling. Upon receipt of a complete appeal application the city clerk must place the appeal on the regularly
scheduled appellate review authority agenda. The appeal must be scheduled for consideration not later than 45 working
days of the receipt of a complete appeal.
Material. The material to be considered by the review authority must be the record of the project review, including the
administrative review authority's decision, in addition to materials that may be submitted during the processing and
review of the appeal.
Procedure of the appeal. At the consideration of the appeal, the following procedure must be followed:
Only arguments and evidence relevant to the application may be presented. The presentation must be made in the
following order, subject to such limitations, in time and scope as may be imposed at the discretion of the presiding
officer:
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
2.
J.
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B.
Explanation of the application and nature of the appeal and presentation by administrative staff;
Presentation of position by the appellant and/or representative;
If requested, presentation by landowner if landowner is different than the appellant;
Presentation by any person who is a proponent or an opponent of the application; and
Motion, discussion and vote by the review authority.
No person making a presentation may be subject to cross-examination except that members of the appellate review
authority and the city attorney may inquire of such person for the purpose of eliciting information and for the
purpose of clarifying information presented.
Alternative actions available to the appellate body. At the conclusion of the consideration of the appeal, the review
authority may uphold, amend, or overturn the administrative project decision.
Construction hold. During the time of the appeal all construction must cease and may not commence unless notified in
writing to do so by the appellate review authority.
Sec. 38.250.040. - Administrative interpretation appeals.
A request for appeal of an interpretation of this chapter, including classifications of use per division 38.310 of this
chapter, must be made by filing an application, with appropriate fees, with the department of community development
within 20 working days of the interpretation decision. After receiving a completed application the city clerk must
schedule consideration of the appeal at a regularly scheduled meeting of the review authority. In all cases, the complete
application must include, and will not be deemed filed until, all of the materials required by section 38.220.150 are
submitted.
The appellate review authority must cause to be made such investigation of facts bearing on the application as will
provide necessary information to ensure that the action on each such application is consistent with the intent and
purpose of this chapter. During the time of the appeal all construction must cease and may not commence unless
notified in writing to do so by the by the appellate review authority.
When interpreting the meaning of this chapter, sections of the chapter must be construed in a manner that will give
effect to them all as the chapter derives its meaning from the entire body of text taken together.
Sec. 38.250.050. - Deviations.
All requests for deviations in the neighborhood conservation overlay district or through the PUD process must be heard by the
review authority established in section 38.200.010. Deviations may only be applied for in conjunction with submittal of a
development proposal of a type authorized by divisions 38.230 and 430 of this chapter. Standards and criteria for award of
deviations are contained in divisions 38.340 and 430 of this chapter. The granting of a deviation is an exercise of administrative
power that can effect no change in the chapter. A deviation may be granted only in a specific instance permitting a nonconformity
in order to accomplish the specific objectives of sections 38.340.070 and 38.430.030.D., and provided the standards and criteria
imposed are met. Deviations must not be granted for relief from procedural requirements, or to waive or vary the application of an
ordinance provision imposing specific safety requirements, or to waive or vary the application of other ordinances or statutes.
Sec. 38.250.060. - Departures.
Overview and purpose. This chapter provides for a number of specific departure opportunities to development
standards. The purpose is to provide applicants with the option of proposing alternative design treatments provided
such departures meet the purpose of the particular standard and any additional departure criteria set forth for the
particular departure opportunity.
Departures are voluntary. This provision allows the flexibility for applicants to propose alternative designs on a voluntary
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2.
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b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
basis, provided they meet the purpose of the standard and applicable departure criteria as noted above.
Applicability. Departure opportunities are available only to those specific standards that allow for departures.
Procedures. Permit applications that include departure requests go through the standard review procedures set forth in
article 2 depending on the application type.
Approval criteria. Project applicants must successfully demonstrate to the review authority how the proposed departure
meets the purpose(s) of the standard and other applicable departure criteria that applies to the specific standard.
Documentation. The review authority must document the reasons for approving all departures (to be maintained with
project application records) for the purpose of providing consistency in decision-making by the city.
Sec. 38.250.070. - Zoning variances.
Application. A request for one or more variance must be made by filing an application, with appropriate fees, with the
community development department at least 30 calendar days prior to the review authority's consideration of the
application and must be accompanied by the materials described in section 38.220.160.
Investigation of facts. The review authority must cause to be made such investigation of facts bearing on the application
as will provide necessary information to ensure that the action on each such application is consistent with the intent and
purpose of this chapter.
Criteria for consideration and decision. In acting on an application for a variance, the review authority must designate
such lawful conditions as will secure substantial protection for the public health, safety and general welfare, and must
issue written decisions setting forth factual evidence that the variance meets the standards of MCA 76-2-323 in that the
variance:
Will not be contrary to and will serve the public interest;
Is necessary, owing to conditions unique to the property, to avoid an unnecessary hardship which would unavoidably
result from the enforcement of the literal meaning of this chapter:
Hardship does not include difficulties arising from actions, or difficulties otherwise self-imposed, by the applicant
or previous predecessors in interest, or potential for greater financial returns; and
Conditions unique to the property may include, but are not limited to, slope, presence of watercourses, after the
fact imposition of additional regulations on previously lawful lots, and governmental actions outside of the
owners control;
Will observe the spirit of this chapter, including the adopted growth policy, and do substantial justice;
In addition to the criteria specified above, in the case of a variance relating to the flood hazard provisions of article 6
of this chapter:
Variances may not be issued for areas within a floodway if any additional increase in flood elevations or velocities
after allowable encroachments into the floodway fringe would result;
Variances may only be issued upon:
A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood hazards, present additional
threats to public safety, be an extraordinary public expense, create nuisances, cause fraud, victimize the
public, or conflict with existing state and local laws;
A determination that the proposed use would be adequately floodproofed as specified in article 6 of this
chapter;
A determination that a reasonable alternate location outside the floodplain is not available;
A determination that the variance requested is the minimum necessary to afford relief, considering the flood
hazard; and
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1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
2.
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3.
Approval of the state department of natural resources and conservation, upon request from the city, prior to fo
any permit application that is in variance to these regulations.
Authorization and limitations on approval.
The review authority may, after public notice, opportunity for public comment, and consideration of the application,
deny, approve or conditionally approve all requests for variances meeting all the criteria of this section, including:
Requests to modify dimensional or other numerical requirements of this chapter;
Requests for multiple variances;
Requests to modify flood hazard district requirements subject to the provisions of article 6 of this chapter, except
that no variance may be granted to allow construction of buildings within the floodway of a 100-year frequency
flood as defined in title 76, chapter 5, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 76-5-101 et seq.); and
Requests for variances in conjunction with conditional use permits. Approvals of all such variances must be
conditioned upon review authority approval of the conditional use permit.
The scope and extent of the variance must be limited to the minimum relief necessary to provide reasonable use of
the property.
In no case may the review authority grant variances to allow uses not already permitted pursuant to this chapter or
alter administrative requirements of this chapter. Permission to change uses allowed on a parcel may be sought
through a zone map amendment, or an amendment to the text of the applicable zoning district, or through a
planned unit development subject to division 38.430.
Notifications of approval for variances related to flood hazard requirements of article 6 of this chapter must notify
the applicant that:
The issuance of a variance to construct a building below the 100-year floodplain elevation will result in increased
premium rates; and
Such construction below the 100-year flood elevation increases risks to life and property.
Effective time for decisions; variances void when. The decision of the review authority is final except as provided in
section 38.250.090. If a building permit or land use permit is not obtained for the subject property within six months
from the date of the review authority's decision, the variance will be automatically canceled and become null and void.
Variances. Variances are subject to MCA 76-2-321 through 76-2-328.
Sec. 38.250.080. - Subdivision variances.
Procedure. The subdivider must provide during the pre-application process, and include with the submission of the
preliminary plat, a written statement describing the requested variance and the facts of hardship upon which the
request is based. The relevant advisory bodies must include their findings and conclusion regarding the requested
variance in its recommendation. The city must then consider each variance at the public hearing on the preliminary plat.
A public hearing may not be held on a variance in association with a first minor subdivision.
Review criteria. Per MCA 76-3-506, a variance to this chapter must be based on specific variance criteria, and may not
have the effect of nullifying the intent and purpose of this chapter. The city must not approve subdivision variances
unless it makes findings based upon the evidence presented in each specific case that:
The granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or general welfare, or be injurious to
other adjoining properties;
Because of the particular physical surroundings, shape or topographical conditions of the specific property involved,
an undue hardship to the owner would result if strict interpretation of this chapter is enforced;
The variance will not cause a substantial increase in public costs; and
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C.
D.
E.
F.
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a.
b.
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The variance will not, in any manner, place the subdivision in nonconformance with any other provisions of this chapter
the city's growth policy.
Variances from floodway provisions not authorized. The review authority may not, by subdivision variance, permit
subdivision for building purposes in areas located within the floodway of a flood of 100-year frequency as defined in title
76, chapter 5, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 76-5-101 et seq.). Any variances related to floodways must meet the
standards of 38.250.070.C.4.a.
Conditions. In granting subdivision variances, the review authority may require such conditions as will, in its judgment,
secure the objectives of this chapter. Any approval under this section must be subject to the terms of the conditions
designated in connection therein. Any conditions required must be related both in purpose and scope with the relief
sought through the variance.
Statement of facts. When any variance from this chapter is granted, the motion of approval must contain a statement
describing the variance and conditions upon which the issuance of the variance is based.
Planned unit development. Where the standards and requirements of this chapter are proposed to be modified through
a planned unit development, the applicable process is a deviation rather than a variance.
Limitations on approvals. For subdivision variances, the variance approval will be null and void if the final plat is not filed
within the time allowed for final approval by the city's decision.
Sec. 38.250.090. - Appeals from city commission or board of adjustment actions.
Appeals may be made as authorized by state law.
Sec. 38.250.100. - Reasonable accommodation.
Applicability.
A request for reasonable accommodation may be made by the following:
Any disabled person, their representative, or any entity, when the application of a requirement of this chapter
acts as a barrier to fair housing opportunities based on their physical or mental disability or handicap as defined
under the applicable non-discrimination laws.
Any person, their representative, or any entity, when the application of a requirement of this chapter acts as a
barrier to fair housing opportunities based on race, color, religion, sex, creed, familial status, marital status, age,
or national origin, as defined under the applicable non-discrimination laws, or because of actual or perceived
sexual orientation or gender identity.
A request for reasonable accommodation may include a modification or exception to the rules, standards, and
practices for the siting, development, and use of housing or housing-related facilities that would eliminate regulatory
barriers and provide equal opportunity to housing of their choice.
A reasonable accommodation is granted to the applicant that needs the accommodation and does not apply to
successors in interest to the site.
A reasonable accommodation may be granted in compliance with this chapter without the need for the approval of a
variance.
Procedure.
Application. A request for reasonable accommodation must be submitted on an application form provided by the
community development department or in the form of a letter to the community development director, and must
contain the following information:
The applicant's name, address, and telephone number;
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b.
c.
d.
e.
(1)
(2)
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
2.
3.
a.
b.
4.
a.
b.
Address of the property for which the request is being made;
Authorization from the owner of the subject property for the applicant to request the reasonable
accommodation;
The current actual use of the property;
The basis for the claim as follows:
That the individual or group of individuals is considered physically or mentally disabled or handicapped
under the applicable non-discrimination laws, including identification and description of the disability or
handicap which is the basis for the request for accommodation and current, written medical certification and
description of disability or handicap and its effects on the person's medical, physical or mental limitations; or
That the individual or group of individuals is a protected class based on race, color, religion, sex, creed,
familial status, marital status, age, or national origin, as defined under the applicable non-discrimination
laws, including identification and description of the protected class which is the basis of the request for
accommodation.
The code provision, regulation, procedure and/or policy from which reasonable accommodation is being
requested;
The type and extent of reasonable accommodation sought;
The reason(s) why the accommodation is reasonable and necessary for the needs of the individual(s), including a
summary of any potential alternatives contained in this chapter considered in requesting the accommodation
and why other alternatives contained in this chapter are not feasible;
Copies of memoranda, correspondence, pictures, plans or background information reasonably necessary to
reach a decision regarding the need for the accommodation; and
Other supportive information deemed necessary by the department to facilitate proper consideration of the
request, consistent with applicable non-discrimination laws.
Review with other land use applications. If the project for which the request for reasonable accommodation is being
made also requires some other discretionary approval (including conditional use permit, etc.), then the applicant
must file the information required by subsection 1 of this section for concurrent review of the request for reasonable
accommodation with the application for discretionary approval.
Review authority.
Community development director. A request for reasonable accommodation must be reviewed by the
community development director if no approval is sought other than the request for reasonable
accommodation. No fee may be charged for the review of such a request for reasonable accommodation.
Other review authority. A request for reasonable accommodation submitted for concurrent review with another
discretionary land use application must be reviewed by the authority responsible for the discretionary land use
application. No fee in addition to that charged for the other discretionary land use application may be charged
for the review of such a request for reasonable accommodation.
Review.
Community development director. The director must make a written determination within 20 calendar days of
the application being deemed complete and either grant, grant with conditions, or deny a request for reasonable
accommodation. If necessary to reach a determination on the request for reasonable accommodation, the
director may request further information from the applicant consistent with applicable non-discrimination laws,
specifying in detail the information that is required. In the event that a request for additional information is
made, the 20-day period to issue a decision must be stayed until the applicant responds to the request.
Other review authority. The written determination on whether to grant or deny the request for reasonable
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a.
b.
6.
a.
b.
c.
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b.
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d.
e.
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b.
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accommodation must be made by the authority responsible for the discretionary land use application in
compliance with the applicable review procedure for the discretionary review.
Notice.
Community development director. No advance notice or public hearing is required for consideration of
reasonable accommodation requests by the community development director.
Other review authority. Requests for reasonable accommodation subject to review by other review authorities
require public notice and a public review process pursuant to the requirements for the other discretionary land
use application that is the subject of the review, including all public notice provisions pursuant to section
38.220.420.
Balancing rights and requirements. In reviewing applications for requests for reasonable accommodation, the city
must balance:
The privacy rights and reasonable request of an applicant for confidentiality; with
The land use requirements for notice and public hearing, factual findings and rights to appeal, in the city's
requests for information, considering an application, preparing written findings and maintaining records for a
request for reasonable accommodation.
Any document identifying the disability or medical condition of any specific person must be treated as
confidential and is subject to disclosure by the city for any reason, including for compliance with the Open
Records Act, unless ordered to do so by a court of competent jurisdiction and notice is given to the person who
provided the document to the city. Specifically, any medical records regardless of source, including statements of
medical providers, must not be disclosed. For any other type of document, such as an application or
determination, the document may be subject to disclosure, but only after the nature or description of the
person's disability or medical condition is redacted by the city. A statement regarding the city's handling of
information subject to this provision must be printed on the city's reasonable accommodation application form,
posted on the city's website, and printed at the bottom of any written document issued by the city determining a
reasonable accommodation application.
Findings—Other requirements.
Findings. The review authority must approve the application, with or without conditions, if it can make the following
findings:
The housing will be used by a disabled person or a person from a protected class;
The requested accommodation is necessary to make specific housing available to a disabled person or a person
from a protected class;
There are no uses identified in the Tables of Authorized Uses found in division 38.310 for which the use proposed
in the request for reasonable accommodation would qualify;
The requested accommodation would not impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the city; and
The requested accommodation would not require a fundamental alteration in the nature of the city land use
planning and zoning program.
Other requirements.
An approved request for reasonable accommodation is subject to the applicant's compliance with all other
applicable zoning regulations.
A modification approved under this chapter is considered a personal accommodation for the individual applicant
and does not run with the land.
Where appropriate, the review authority may condition its approval on any or all of the following:
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(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
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a.
b.
Inspection of the property periodically, as specified, to verify compliance with this section and any conditions of
Removal of the improvements, where removal would not constitute an unreasonable financial burden, when
the need for which the accommodation was granted no longer exists;
Time limits and/or expiration of the approval if the need for which the accommodation was granted no
longer exists;
Recordation of a deed restriction requiring removal of the accommodating feature once the need for it no
longer exists;
Measures to reduce the impact on surrounding uses;
Measures in consideration of the physical attributes of the property and structures;
Other reasonable accommodations that may provide an equivalent level of benefit and/or that will result in
reduced variation or waiver of otherwise applicable standards specified for the zone district; and
Other conditions necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
DIVISION 38.260. - TEXT AND ZONING MAP AMENDMENTS
Part 1. - Text Amendments
Sec. 38.260.010. - Initiation of amendments and changes.
The city commission may, from time to time, amend this chapter. An amendment may be initiated by the city
commission, city manager, zoning commission, planning board or upon petition from an owner of property within the
city.
The city commission, planning board or zoning commission may upon a vote of a majority of its members direct the
initiation of an amendment to this chapter. When one of these bodies initiates an amendment, the application must be
signed by the mayor, chair of the planning board or chair of the zoning commission as applicable.
Whenever any person or entity allowed to initiate an amendment desires a change in regulations, they may file with the
community development department, on forms provided by the city for this purpose, an application duly signed and
notarized by that person or authorized representative of that entity requesting an amendment or change of regulations.
When the application initiated by an owner of property, bearing the property owners' signature, is filed with the
department it must contain or be accompanied by:
All the data and information pertinent to the understanding and judgment of the proposal, as may be prescribed
by the commission for that purpose so as to ensure the fullest practicable presentation of facts for the
permanent record; and
A notarized statement by at least one of the owners of property within the area subject to the proposed changes
attesting to the truth and correctness of all facts and information presented with the petition.
Sec. 38.260.020. - Amendments; investigation requirements.
Upon initiation of an amendment, the city must cause to be made an investigation of facts bearing on such initiation or petition.
The purpose of the investigation is to provide the necessary information to ensure that the action of each such petition is
consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter as set forth in section 38.100.040; this includes but is not limited to
accordance with the city growth policy. Amendments only addressing zoning standards will be measured against the zoning
purposes. Amendments which address only subdivision standards will be measured against the purposes related to the subdivision
purposes. Amendments which apply to both zoning and subdivision standards will be reviewed against all the purposes.
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A.
B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
D.
E.
F.
A.
B.
C.
1.
Sec. 38.260.030. - Public hearing procedures and requirements.
The city commission, zoning commission and/or planning board must hold one or more public hearings on the matters
referred to in such initiation or petition at which parties in interest and citizens must have an opportunity to be heard.
Notice of such public hearings must be provided as required by division 38.220 of this chapter.
Any text amendment must be the subject of one or more public hearing before the city commission, after receiving a
recommendation from the zoning commission and/or planning board as set forth in this section.
The public hearings to be heard by the zoning commission and/or planning board must be conducted by the bodies
specified in this subsection:
Any text amendment affecting only zoning provisions of this chapter must be heard by the zoning commission.
Any text amendment affecting only subdivisions must be heard by the planning board.
Any text amendment affecting both zoning and subdivision must be heard as a joint hearing of the planning board
and zoning commission with the president of the planning board to preside. When there is a question as to whether
an amendment would affect both subdivision and zoning, the public hearing must be jointly held.
After such hearing or hearings, the zoning commission and/or planning board will make reports and
recommendations on the petition or initiation to the city commission.
In the event that there is a question as to whether a proposed text amendment affects both zoning and subdivision, or
only one of the subjects, the community development director will determine which subject is affected.
Recommendations to the city commission and other official actions by both the zoning commission and the planning
board will only be official if made by at least a majority of a quorum of the body.
In the case of protest against such changes, signed by the owners of 25 percent or more of either the area of the lots
included in any proposed change or those lots or condominium units 150 feet from a lot included in a proposed change,
such amendment may not become effective except upon a favorable vote of two-thirds of the present and voting
members of the city commission. When considering protests from owners of condominiums the provisions of MCA 76-2-
305(3) apply. The provisions of this subsection D include the ability for an applicant to protest a possible decision to
adopt a zoning less than originally requested when the applicant meets the same criteria as other affected landowners.
Part 2. - Zoning Map Amendments
Sec. 38.260.100. - Initiation of zoning map amendments and changes.
The city commission may, from time to time, amend the zoning district maps appertaining to this chapter. An
amendment may be initiated by the city commission, zoning commission or upon application from an owner of property
within the city.
The city commission or zoning commission may upon a vote of a majority of its members direct the initiation of an
amendment to the zoning map. When either body initiates an amendment, the application must be signed by the mayor
or chair of the zoning commission as applicable.
Whenever the property owner of any land or building desires a reclassification on the owner's property, they may file
with the community development department an application requesting an amendment or change of regulations
prescribed for such property. Applications for change of district boundaries or reclassification of districts as shown on
the zoning district map must be on forms supplied and prepared by the department. When the application, bearing
property owner' signatures, is filed with the department it must contain or be accompanied by:
All the data and information pertinent to the understanding and judgment of the proposal, as may be prescribed by
the commission for that purpose so as to ensure the fullest practicable presentation of facts for the permanent
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2.
D.
1.
2.
E.
A.
1.
B.
C.
D.
1.
2.
record; and
A notarized statement by at least one of the owners of property within the area proposed to be changed attesting to
the truth and correctness of all facts and information presented with the application.
Whenever an owner of any land within the city desires a reclassification on property that they do not own, such as a
request to establish a different zoning classification for a block or other group of properties, they may file with the
community development department on forms provided by the city for this purpose an application duly signed by the
owners of no less than 51 percent of either the area of lots or number of lots of the affected property requesting an
amendment for such property. When the application, bearing property owners' signatures, is filed with the department it
must contain or be accompanied by:
All the data and information pertinent to the understanding and judgment of the proposal, as may be prescribed by
the commission for that purpose so as to ensure the fullest practicable presentation of facts for the permanent
record; and
A notarized statement by at least one of the owners of property within the area proposed to be changed attesting to
the truth and correctness of all facts and information presented with the petition.
An application containing less than the required number of signatures will be considered incomplete and invalid and will
not be processed.
Sec. 38.260.110. - Zoning map amendments and rezonings; investigation requirements.
Upon initiation of an amendment the city must cause to be made an investigation of facts bearing on such initiation or
application as will provide necessary information to ensure that each such application is consistent with the intent and purpose of
this chapter. Specifically the investigation must address the criteria of MCA 76-2-304 which are contained in section 38.100.040.C.
Sec. 38.260.120. - Zoning map amendments—Public hearing procedures and requirements.
The city commission and zoning commission must hold public hearings on the matters referred to in such application at
which parties of interest and citizens must have an opportunity to be heard.
If there is a protest, to be valid the protest must be submitted on a zoning protest form provided by the city.
The community development director must give public notice as required by division 38.220 of this chapter. The
community development director must provide to the city commission and zoning commission a report of the staff's
analysis of the application.
After such hearing or hearings, the zoning commission will make reports and recommendations on the application to the
city commission.
After the zoning commission has forwarded a recommendation on the amendment to the zoning district map, a public
hearing must be held by the city commission for the purpose of acting upon the proposed amendment after public
notice.
In the case of protest against such changes, signed by the owners of 25 percent or more of either the area of the lots
included in any proposed change or those lots or condominium units 150 feet from a lot included in a proposed
change, such amendment may not become effective except upon a favorable vote of two-thirds of the present and
voting members of the city commission. When considering protests from owners of condominiums the provisions of
MCA 76-2-305(3) apply. The provisions of this subsection D include the ability for an applicant to protest a possible
decision to adopt a zoning less than originally requested when the applicant meets the same criteria as other
affected landowners.
If the city commission intends to adopt a zoning designation different than that applied for, the hearing will be
continued for a minimum of one week to enable the applicant to consider their options and whether to protest the
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A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
1.
2.
3.
A.
possible action. In the case of protest against a change to the zoning map by the applicant the same favorable vote
of two-thirds of the present and voting members of the city commission is required as for any other protested
zoning action.
DIVISION 38.270. - IMPROVEMENTS AND SECURITIES
Footnotes:
--- (2) ---
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, adopted July 8, 2021, amended the title of Div. 38.270 to read as herein set out. The former Div. 38.270 pertained to
improvements and guarantees.
Sec. 38.270.010. - Purpose and applicability.
This division provides standards and procedures relating to the installation of physical improvements and compliance
with requirements related to development. As these improvements are necessary to meet requirements of the law and
to protect public health, safety and general welfare and other purposes of this chapter it is also necessary to provide
means by which their installation can be ensured. Such improvements may include, but are not limited to, design
elements such as landscaping or architectural features; and infrastructure, such as parking facilities, storm drainage
facilities, pedestrian walkways, and public utilities. Furthermore, in some situations it is in the best interest of the person
conducting development to be able to provide security for the completion of certain work and be able to begin utilization
of a development sooner than would otherwise be possible if all improvements had to be physically installed before use
could begin. This article therefore protects the public health, safety, and welfare and sources of public funding by:
Ensuring completion of required improvements or compliance with other requirements of development to an
acceptable standard as required in Montana law or these regulations;
Providing a buyer or lessee protection while allowing a person undertaking development to proceed with sales or
leases before the project is totally complete, especially for multi-phased projects;
Ensuring adequate warranty or maintenance, when appropriate, of improvements;
Providing for mechanisms to ensure performance of or conformance with conditions of approval or development
requirements; and
Accomplishing the purposes listed in this subsection A through mechanisms that reduce the need to rely on costly
litigation to accomplish those purposes.
This division applies to all subdivisions and site developments as follows:
Subdivisions must install or provide security for installation of improvements prior to final plat as set forth in this
article.
Site developments, including all developments that are not subdivisions, must install improvements or provide
security for installation prior to receiving a certificate of occupancy or as set forth in this article.
The city may determine the nature and timing of required installation of improvements as part of the subdivision or
site development process. When necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public, and
ensure the function and viability of development, installation of certain improvements may not be allowed to be
delayed and must be installed before use of the property or sale of the property.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.020. - Standards for improvements.
General. The developer must comply with the following procedures and standards for the installation of development
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1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
4.
a.
b.
improvements, including parks.
Construction routes. For all developments, a construction route map must be provided showing how materials and
heavy equipment will travel to and from the site. The route must avoid, where possible, local or collector streets or
streets where construction traffic would disrupt neighborhood residential character or pose a threat to public health
and safety.
Protection of existing improvements. The developer, and the developer's contractors and suppliers are jointly and
severally responsible to ensure that existing improvements are not damaged or rendered less useful by the
operation of the developer, and the developer's contractors or suppliers. Such protection of improvements may
include requirements for cleaning of vehicles leaving a construction site. This provision is intended to preclude
damage to existing roads, streets, water, sewer and drainage systems. The city may instruct the developer as to the
streets or roads to be used for access by construction equipment, and the developer must require the same from
the developer's contractors and their suppliers. The city may require the developer to post a security to guarantee
repair of damages.
Improvements to be dedicated to the public.
Plans and specifications. Engineering and survey plans, specifications and reports required in connection with public
improvements and other elements of the subdivision, or other development required by the city, must be prepared
by a registered engineer or a registered land surveyor as applicable, licensed in the state of Montana, as their
respective licensing laws allow. The plans and specifications must be prepared in compliance with the city's design
standards and specifications policy, park design standards, and other regulations and policies, as applicable. Plans
and specifications for non-engineering improvements must be prepared by a person whose qualifications are
acceptable to the city department with responsibility for that type of improvements. Plans and specifications for non-
engineering improvements must be prepared in compliance with any applicable adopted design standards and
specifications policy.
Scope of work. The intent of these regulations is to provide standards by which the contractor and the developer
must execute their respective responsibilities and guarantee proper construction and completion in every detail of
the work in accordance with the plans, specifications and terms set forth under these regulations.
The developer must furnish the plans, specifications and typical sections for approval by the city.
The city may make or cause to be made any reasonable changes, alterations, amendments and additions to the
standard specifications for infrastructure or park improvements.
The city may require all work to be done to support the subdivision or site development, including off-site
improvements.
Control of work. During the course of construction, and at the completion of each phase of a project, the developer's
registered civil engineer, or other person acceptable to the city, must submit a statement that the improvements
have been inspected and constructed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. Prior to making any
changes, the developer's engineer must notify and receive written approval or disapproval from the city for any
changes in approved plans and specifications.
Improvement procedure.
Approval of the improvement plans and specifications must be completed before installation of improvements or
entering into an agreement where security is to be provided for the completion of the improvements.
The procedure for submittal, review, and approval of improvement plans and specifications is contained in the
city's design standards and specifications policy, and must be followed by the developer and the developer's
contractors. All plans and specifications related to park and public trail improvements must be submitted to the
parks division for review and approval.
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c.
d.
5.
C.
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
3.
a.
4.
After the preliminary plat has received approval or conditional approval, and before the final plat is submitted, the d
either install the required improvements or enter into an agreement with the city securing the installation and perfo
improvements.
After a final site plan is approved, subject to section 38.270.030, and prior to occupancy of any buildings, the
developer must either install the required improvements or enter into an agreement with the city securing the
installation and performance of the improvements.
Sanitary facilities. Water supply, sewage disposal and solid waste disposal systems must meet the minimum
standards of the city and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality as required by MCA 76-4-101 through
76-4-135, and regulations adopted pursuant thereto, and are subject to the approval of the city.
Private improvements. Improvements must be constructed as shown on the approved final site plan, final plat, or plans
and specifications, as applicable. The developer is responsible for coordinating installation with all necessary parties and
to restore to its original condition any public improvements, private improvements, or property damaged during
installation of improvements.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.030. - Completion of improvements.
General. The applicant must provide certification by the architect, landscape architect, engineer or other applicable
professional that all improvements to be dedicated to the public were installed in accordance with the approved site
plan, plans and specifications, or plat as applicable. For required private improvements, the applicant must provide
certification by the architect, landscape architect, engineer or other applicable professional that all improvements,
including, but not limited to, landscaping, ADA accessibility requirements, private infrastructure, and other required
elements were installed in accordance with the approved site plan, plans and specifications, or plat as applicable, unless
a waiver of certification in whole or part is explicitly approved by the DRC.
Improvements to be dedicated to the public. Improvements to be dedicated to the public, such as water mains,
sewer mains, parkland and related improvements, and public streets, must be:
Installed by the developer in accordance with the approved plans and specifications;
Certified by a registered professional civil engineer, licensed in the State of Montana, or other appropriate
professional acceptable to the city;
Accepted by the city prior to the approval of the final plat, building permit, issuance of a certificate of occupancy
or other identified benchmark as appropriate.
Record drawings and project certification complying with the city's design standards and specifications policy,
including timing for submittal of materials, must be provided by a civil engineer licensed in the State of Montana or
other appropriate professional acceptable to the city prior to final plat approval for subdivisions, issuance of a
certificate of occupancy, or release of security associated with the improvements to be dedicated to the public.
As-built drawings complying with the city's design standards and specifications policy, including timing for submittal
of materials, must be provided prior to final plat approval for subdivisions, issuance of a certificate of occupancy, or
release of security associated with the improvements to be dedicated to the public.
Public street or road improvements must be developed to adopted city standards.
Public right-of-way lighting. Lighting, as required in division 38.570 must be incorporated into all development. Prior
to final plat approval, lighting must be installed or secured. If the lighting is secured, it must be considered as part of
the required street improvements and building permits must not be issued until the improvements are installed,
except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose of the initial project review and approved pursuant to
the criteria established in subsection D of this section.
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5.
B.
1.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
C.
1.
a.
Private improvements and other required improvements. Improvements, including, but not limited to, private parks or
space, landscaping, paving, and irrigation must be installed in accordance with the approved preliminary plat or site pla
developer and inspected and found to comply with the city standards and requirements prior to the approval of the fina
issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the building or site, or other identified benchmark as appropriate. All improve
required as part of a subdivision must be installed and accepted, or secured in accordance with an improvements agree
prior to final plat approval.
Completion time for subdivisions.
Improvements. All subdivision improvements, including parks, must be constructed and completed as approved by
the city.
All improvements must be installed prior to the issuance of a building permit for any lot within a subdivision,
except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose of the initial project review and approved pursuant
to the criteria established in subsection D of this section.
The subdivider must meet the requirements of either subsection (1) or (2) for completion of street
improvements. The option must be specified in the preliminary plat submittal. Should the applicant not identify
which option is desired, the option presented in subsection B.1.b.(1) of this section must be required. Altering the
choice of option after approval of the development constitutes a material modification to the project and
requires re-review of the project for modification to the approval subject to the provisions of section 38.100.070.
The subdivision streets improvements must be installed prior to final plat approval. This requirement may be
modified by the review authority for streets where dictated by circumstances, such as cold weather
conditions that do not permit paving, and where acceptable security for the ultimate development of the
streets is provided. However, under no circumstances must the required gravel courses, curbs, gutters, or
sidewalks be waived, and sanitary sewer manhole rims and water valve boxes must be located at a grade that
will not be damaged by traffic. This requirement must generally not be modified for non-residential
developments; or
The subdivider must enter into an improvements agreement guaranteeing the completion of the paving,
curb, gutter, storm drainage, street lighting, sidewalks, or other street infrastructure improvements not yet
completed. The improvements agreement must provide security, as explained in this division. However, at a
minimum, the plans and specifications for the street improvements must be approved by the review
authority prior to final plat approval. Building permits will not be issued until the street improvements are
completed and accepted by the city, except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose of the
initial project review and approved pursuant to the criteria established in subsection D of this section.
Completion time for site development. Whenever any building lots or building sites are created inside the city limits,
municipal water distribution systems, municipal sanitary sewer collection systems, streets, and stormwater collection,
treatment, and detention or retention systems must be provided to the lot or site. Each building site must utilize and be
connected to both the municipal water distribution and municipal sanitary sewer collection systems. Subject to the
provisions of subsection C.1 of this section, these improvements must be designed, constructed, and installed according
to the standards and criteria as adopted by the city and approved by the review authority prior to the issuance of any
building permits, except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose of the initial project review and approved
pursuant to the criteria established in subsection D of this section.
Provision of municipal central water distribution, municipal sanitary sewer collection systems, streets, and
stormwater systems means that the criteria in either subsection a or subsections b and c are met as follows:
Water, sewer, stormwater, and street services are installed and accepted by the city with service stubs being
extended into the site, with such stubs being of adequate size to provide water and sewer service to the
proposed development without modification to publicly owned infrastructure; or
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b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
D.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The water mains, sewer mains, stormwater system, and streets to be extended to provide service to the developme
within a publicly dedicated right-of-way or easement; constructed to city standards; physically adjacent to the site p
construction; installed and accepted by the city; and adequate in capacity to provide necessary service to the propo
development; and
Water mains, sewer mains, stormwater system, and streets must meet all of the following requirements:
Any required on-site or off-site extensions of water mains, sewer mains, stormwater system, or streets to be
dedicated to the public: must be located entirely within publicly held easements or rights-of-way; must serve
only a single lot; are the subject of an irrevocable offer of dedication to the city upon completion of the
project; the development is under the control of a single developer who must retain control of the entire
project until final completion; all work is under the supervision of a single general contractor; and no
subdivision of land is involved;
The DRC must determine when the standards of this subsection C.1 are met. The fire department must
consider whether adequate fire protection services are available from existing hydrants, and water supply
exists to meet needs during construction. If adequate fire protection does not exist then concurrent
infrastructure and development construction may not occur. Based on evaluation by the fire department,
simultaneous construction of infrastructure to be dedicated to the public and private development
construction may be permitted only within a defined portion of the site;
Approval of the final engineering design, including location and grade, for the infrastructure project must be
obtained from the engineering department, and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality when
applicable, prior to issuance of any building permit for the development; and
A certificate of occupancy must not be issued until all on-site and off-site water, sewer, stormwater, and
street improvements necessary to serve the site are installed and accepted or approved as applicable by the
city.
Exception for concurrent construction. In certain circumstances, the issuance of a building permit may be allowed prior
to completion of the public infrastructure, provided that the following criteria are met:
The city will have an opportunity to review and approve future proposed development through a site plan review or
planned unit development;
The property owner must enter into an improvements agreement to ensure the installation of required
infrastructure and other applicable improvements, to be secured by any security or securities found in section
38.270.080. If a financial security is used, the amount will be determined by the city and in an amount not less than
150 percent of the cost of the improvements verified against city publicly bid unit prices, where such are available. If
no publicly bid unit prices are available, any cost estimate acceptable to the city may be used. The security must be in
the name of the city and must be at least six months longer than the time of performance required by the
improvements agreement;
Improvements must be complete within two years of the date of the improvements agreement;
Approval of the final engineering design, including location and grade, for any public infrastructure must be obtained
from the engineering department, and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality when applicable, prior to
issuance of any building permit for the development;
Building permits may be issued incrementally, dependent upon the status of installation of the infrastructure
improvements. All building construction within the development must cease until required phases of infrastructure
improvements as described in the improvements agreement have been completed, and inspected and accepted by
the city;
The developer must provide and maintain hazard and commercial general liability insurance. Insurance policies must
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7.
8.
9.
a.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
E.
A.
1.
2.
B.
not be cancelled without at least 45 days prior notice to the city. The commercial general liability policy must name
the city as an additional insured. The developer must furnish evidence, satisfactory to the city, of all such policies and
the effective dates thereof;
The developer must recognize, acknowledge and assume the increased risk of loss because certain public services do
not exist at the site;
If public funds or other third party funding will be used to fund all or part of the installation of infrastructure, the
improvements agreement between the developer and the city must identify the type or types of predetermined
infrastructure funding. Public or third party funding may include, but is not limited to reimbursement, payment up
front, creation of a special improvements district, or grants;
No occupancy of any structures or commencement of any use constructed or proposed within the boundaries of the
development will be allowed until required infrastructure improvements have been completed, inspected, and
accepted by the city, and a certificate of occupancy has been issued;
No occupancy of structures or commencement of any use is allowed when such action would constitute a safety
hazard in the opinion of the city;
The developer must enter into an agreement with the city to address the provision of any services on an interim
basis during construction, if deemed appropriate;
The developer must execute a hold harmless and indemnification agreement indemnifying, defending and holding
harmless the city, its employees, agents and assigns from and against any and all liabilities, loss, claims, causes of
action, judgments and damages resulting from or arising out of the issuance of a building permit under this section;
The developer must pay for any extraordinary costs associated with the project which the city may identify, including,
but not limited to, additional staff hours to oversee the planning, engineering and construction of the project and
infrastructure improvements, inspection of the infrastructure improvements and any extraordinary administrative
costs;
The development must be under the control of a single developer and all work must be under the supervision of a
single general contractor. The developer and general contractor must agree that there must be no third-party
builders until required infrastructure improvements have been completed, and inspected and accepted by the city;
and
Subsequent to preliminary plat or plan approval, a concurrent construction plan, addressing all requirements of this
section, must be submitted for review and approval of the community development director in consultation with the
city engineer and with a recommendation from the development review committee.
Limitations. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection D of this section, the city may limit the scope, type and
number of projects eligible for concurrent construction consideration.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.040. - Special provisions for timing of certain improvements.
Park, pathway, and boulevard improvements.
These required improvements must be installed, or subject to an approved improvements agreement and financially
secured, prior to final plat approval or occupancy of a building subject to development review, excluding sketch
plans.
Due to seasonal considerations, building and occupancy permits may be issued prior to installation of these
improvements as long as the improvements are subject to an approved improvements agreement and are financially
secured.
Neighborhood center improvements.
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1.
2.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
B.
A.
1.
With the exception of neighborhood commercial and civic buildings and their grounds, neighborhood center
improvements must be installed, or subject to an approved improvements agreement and financially secured, prior
to final plat approval.
Due to seasonal considerations, building and occupancy permits may be issued prior to installation of improvements
related to greens, plazas and squares as long as the improvements are subject to an approved improvements
agreement and are financially secured.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.050. - Acceptance of improvements.
Improvements dedicated to the public.
Acceptance of street, road, and bridge improvements. Before any subdivision street, whether new or existing, can be
accepted into the city street system by the city, it must be built to meet or exceed the required standards. Any
improvements made to county roads must meet or exceed standards set by the county road office, and must be
reviewed and approved by the county road office. Any bridge improvement, within the city or the county, must meet
or exceed standards set by the Montana Department of Transportation and county road office, and must be
reviewed and approved by the county road office and the city, and accepted by the county road office into the
county's bridge maintenance system.
Acceptance of park, water, sewer, and storm drainage improvements. Before any public park, water, sewer or storm
drainage improvement, whether new or existing, can be accepted into the city system by the city, it must be built to
meet or exceed the required standards. Any improvement must meet or exceed standards set by the city, Montana
Department of Environmental Quality, and county road office, as appropriate. Improvements must be reviewed and
approved by the city and other agency, as applicable.
Record drawings. Record drawings and project certification that all public infrastructure improvements comply with
the city's design standards and specifications policy must be provided by a civil engineer licensed in the State of
Montana and must be submitted prior to final plat approval for subdivisions, per section 24.183.1107(5)(f), ARM as
may be amended, or prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for site development, or other identified
benchmark as appropriate.
The city may require verification that all liens have been released and payments made prior to accepting dedication
of improvements.
Private improvements. The city or its agent must conduct an "as-built" inspection to verify compliance and must approve
a certificate of occupancy, final plat, or other conclusory action if all terms and details of the approval are in compliance.
Except as provided in section 38.270.060, no final plat approval can be permitted, or certificate of occupancy issued,
unless the terms and details of an approved plat or site development or sketch plan are met. Prior to receiving a
certificate of occupancy, the developer must certify the completion of the improvements as required in section
38.270.030.A.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.060. - Improvements agreements.
Improvements agreement required. All improvements necessary or required to meet the standards of this chapter or
conditions of approval must be the subject of an improvements agreement and be secured if final plat approval,
occupancy of buildings, or other use of an approved development is allowed before the improvements are completed
and inspected by the city.
Reservation. The city reserves the right to require actual installation of improvements prior to occupancy when such
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B.
1.
2.
3.
C.
1.
2.
D.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
improvements are necessary to provide for health, safety and welfare or adequate function of systems or on-site
development.
When required.
When occupancy of a development subject to zoning review will commence prior to completion of all required site
improvements; or
When a subdivision is to be granted final plat approval prior to the completion of all required improvements, the
applicant must enter into an improvements agreement with the city.
At the discretion of the community development director, certain projects receiving a certificate of appropriateness
may be required to enter into an improvements agreement with the city at the time of final approval of the
certificate of appropriateness.
If an improvements agreement is used to guarantee the completion of required improvements, including infrastructure,
it may allow for the staged installation of improvements in defined areas and in accordance with an approved time
schedule. At the city's discretion, the improvements in a prior increment may be required to be completed or payment
or security provided for costs of the improvements incurred in a prior increment must be satisfied before development
of future increments.
Subdivision. If an improvements agreement is used with a final subdivision plat to secure infrastructure
improvements, a separate document must be filed with the clerk and recorder with the final plat that clearly states
that building permits will not be issued until all water, sewer, storm drainage infrastructure, and streets are installed
and accepted by the city. This requirement may be modified by the city for streets where dictated by circumstances,
and where acceptable security for the ultimate development of the streets is provided. However, under no
circumstances must the required gravel courses, curbs, gutters, or sidewalks be waived. No building permits will be
issued for a subdivision within the city until all required water, sewer, storm drainage, required street lighting, and
street gravel courses are installed and accepted, except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose of the
initial project review and approved pursuant to the criteria established in section 38.270.030.D.
Site development. If an improvements agreement is used with a site development to secure infrastructure
improvements, a separate document must be filed with the clerk and recorder that clearly states that certificate of
occupancy will not be issued until all water, sewer, stormwater systems and streets are installed and accepted by the
city. This requirement may be modified by the city for streets where dictated by circumstances, and where
acceptable security for the ultimate development of the required infrastructure is provided. However, under no
circumstances can the required gravel courses, curbs, gutters, or sidewalks be waived. No building permit will be
issued for a site development until all required water, sewer, storm drainage, required street lighting and street
gravel courses are installed and accepted by the city, except when concurrent construction is an identified purpose
of the initial project review and approved pursuant to the criteria established in section 38.270.030.D.
Standards for improvements agreements.
All agreements. All improvements agreements must meet the following standards:
The agreement and security must be satisfactory to the city attorney as to form and manner of execution;
Detailed cost estimates and construction plans of all required on-site and off-site improvements must be made a
part of the agreement;
Provide for security in the amount equal to 150 percent of the estimated cost of the improvements verified
against city publicly bid unit prices, where such are available. If no publicly bid unit prices are available, any cost
estimate acceptable to the city may be used;
The term for the security referenced in subsection C.1.c of this section must be at least six months longer than
the time of performance required by the improvements agreement;
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e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
The agreement must provide for the city to claim the security by certifying that the developer is in default of the per
be secured;
Requests for partial release of security must only be in amounts such that the security will always equal 150
percent of the value of the remaining uncompleted work, and such that not more than 90 percent of the security
is released prior to completion of all improvements. The city may take into account the location and scope of
development phases in evaluating requests to reduce the amount of a financial security. The city may require
verification that all liens have been released and payments made prior to releasing a portion of the security;
Provide for the city to require a replacement security in the event the issuer of the security becomes insolvent,
enters receivership, or otherwise gives cause for the city to lack confidence in the ability of the issuer to honor
the security;
Permit the city, in the event of default by the developer, to include in the costs to be recovered from the security
those costs resulting from the need to call in the security, including but not limited to costs for the city attorney's
time; and
The financial security must be held in the possession of the city.
Subdivisions. Improvements agreements for subdivisions must meet the following standards in addition to those
listed in subsection C.1 of this section:
The length of time of the agreement must not exceed one year from the date of final plat approval unless
explicitly included as a term of the agreement and the security remains in force. The agreement must stipulate
the time schedule the subdivider proposes and the city accepts for completing the required improvements;
The estimated cost of improvements must be provided by the subdivider's professional engineer and be
consistent with publicly bid unit pricing, where such are available. If no publicly bid unit prices are available, any
cost estimate acceptable to the city may be used. The city engineer has the discretion to require a second
estimate of the cost of improvements, with the cost of obtaining the second estimate borne by the subdivider.
The agreement must stipulate which type of security arrangements will be used; and
Security for improvements for internal subdivision streets, water, storm drainage and sewer mains, or other
internal or external improvements must be reduced only upon recommendation of the city department with
responsibility for the type of infrastructure that has been guaranteed.
Site development. Improvements agreements for developments other than subdivisions must meet the following
standards in addition to those listed in subsection C.1 of this section:
If occupancy of the structure or commencement of the use is to occur prior to installation of the required
improvements, the installation of those improvements must be secured in conformance with the requirements
of this division 38.270;
All secured improvements must be completed by the developer within nine months of occupancy or the security
must be forfeited to the city for the purpose of installing or contracting for the installation of the required
improvements;
At the community development director's discretion, a developer may be permitted to extend the manner of
security, in general for a period not to exceed one additional year. Factors including, but not limited to, progress
of installation achieved to date and phasing of projects may be considered;
The city must determine which, if any, of the required improvements must be installed prior to occupancy,
regardless of the use of an improvements agreement and security. Such determination must be based on a
finding that unsafe or hazardous conditions will be created or perpetuated without the installation of certain
improvements or that the property will have an unacceptable adverse impact on adjoining properties until such
improvements are installed;
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Items include, but are not limited to walkways and signage necessary for ADA compliance, parking surfaces adeq
needs of the uses to be conducted during the term of the improvements agreement, or matters related to life sa
to be installed prior to any occupancy; and
When all provisions are met for occupancy of a facility or commencement of a use prior to the installation of all
improvements, and adequate security has been provided in accordance with the terms of an improvements
agreement, the building official may issue a certificate of occupancy.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the city may limit the scope, type and number of improvements eligible
for being secured by an improvements agreement and require installation prior to final plat approval, issuance of
building permits, occupancy or other similar actions.
The community development director must sign improvements agreements on behalf of the city.
When an improvements agreement is used to allow the filing of a final plat prior to the completion of infrastructure, a
notice of improvements agreement must be recorded along with the plat which indicates that certain infrastructure
work is still not complete and identifying that work. When the work has been completed and is accepted by the city as
complete, the city must record a notice of completion stating that the work that was the subject of the improvements
agreement is complete.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.070. - Payment for extension of capital facilities.
The city may require a subdivider or other site developer to mitigate the impacts of subdivision or site development by
the extension of existing capital facilities or the construction of new capital facilities. The review authority, established in
section 38.200.010, may determine that the payment or the guarantee of payment for the construction of capital
facilities are appropriate measures to coordinate with the city's planned capital facility improvements and to ensure
public health, safety and welfare. Payment to the city of cash-in-lieu of constructing capital facilities by a subdivider or
other site developer is a mechanism for meeting regulatory requirements and mitigating subdivision and other site
development impacts. Should the review authority approve a request to pay cash-in-lieu, a subdivider or other site
developer is not required to obtain a variance from the requirement that such facilities be constructed prior to
development approval. The review authority, in its sole discretion, must determine the appropriate mitigation for any
subdivision or site development impacts.
The city may require a subdivider or other site developer to pay or guarantee payment for part or all of the costs of
extending capital facilities related to public health and safety, including but not limited to public roads or streets, sewer
mains, water supply mains, and stormwater facilities for a subdivision or other site development. The costs must
reasonably reflect the expected impacts directly attributable to the subdivision or other site development. The city may
not require a subdivider or other site developer to pay or guarantee payment for part or all of the costs of constructing
or extending capital facilities related to education.
The review authority may accept direct payment of cash-in-lieu of public street, water, sewer, and stormwater capital
facilities required by this code. For process and standards for payment for park mitigation see section 38.420.030. A
request to meet the terms of chapters 38 and 40 by payment of cash-in-lieu must be submitted by an applicant prior to a
determination of adequacy or any advisory body recommendation during review of a development application. The city
may choose to require payment of cash rather than require the construction of capital facilities as determined by the
review authority. A request received after determination of adequacy or advisory body recommendation is a material
modification to the application and requires re-review and determination of adequacy.
The review authority, established in section 38.200.010, must evaluate proposals of cash-in-lieu of capital facilities
and make a decision to approve, approve with conditions or deny such requests. In evaluating a request to pay cash-
in-lieu, the review authority must consider the following criteria:
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Whether there is a danger to public health and safety of accepting cash-in-lieu rather than constructing the
capital facilities;
Whether the work described in the proposal is part of a project scheduled for commencement of construction on
the most recently adopted capital improvement plan no later than three years from the date of submittal;
Whether a public works project is pending that would substantially damage the work otherwise required to be
constructed;
Whether the installation of the otherwise required capital facilities would be disruptive to planned public
improvements;
Whether the city has made a determination of the reasonableness of the cost estimate of the work; and
Whether the payment would enable a more efficient installation of required capital facilities.
The request to pay cash-in-lieu of capital facilities and the findings of the review authority must be considered in any
final action to approve, approve with conditions, or deny a development application.
All cash paid in-lieu must be held by the city in a fund dedicated to the work for which the monies are paid.
As a condition of accepting cash-in-lieu, the city may require the property owner to execute a waiver of right to
protest creation of a special improvement district, or other legal instrument, assuring participation, on a fair share,
proportionate basis, in future capital facility improvements in the vicinity of the development proposal.
The city manager may adopt procedures by administrative order to implement this section.
The cash paid must include all component costs of the work deferred including but not limited to design, permitting,
traffic management, construction, and record drawings. The cash paid must include a contingency amount to offset
the uncertainty of cost estimating and potential escalation of costs.
Issuance of a refund is a material modification of a development per section 38.100.070. Refunds of cash paid in-lieu
are not available if:
A final plat which relied upon cash-in-lieu of facilities has been recorded;
If building permits for a non-subdivision development have been issued; or
If the city has published an invitation to bid on work which relies upon the paid cash for project funding.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.080. - Types of acceptable securities.
Financial securities. A variety of means of providing for the security of improvements agreements, ensuring adequate
maintenance of required improvements and ensuring compliance with conditions of approval for various developments
may be allowed. One or more of the following instruments may be used to provide a financial security for improvements
to be completed. The method, terms, and amount of security must be acceptable to the city. Financial security is the
primary method to provide security for installation of physical improvements.
Direct payment of cash to the city;
Irrevocable letters of credit satisfactory to the city attorney as to form and manner of execution;
Cash escrows held by the city, or held by an approved escrow agent and subject to an executed escrow agreement;
or
Completion bonds satisfactory to the city attorney as to form and manner of execution.
Nonfinancial securities. In addition to the possible financial securities listed above, the following nonfinancial securities
may be used to ensure compliance with conditions of approval, ensure maintenance of required improvements and
coordinate timing of development. When deemed appropriate, the city may use nonfinancial security methods in
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combination with a financial security method.
Granting of final permits;
Sequential approval of multi-phased projects, with subsequent phases prohibited from receiving approval until prior
approved phases have complied with all requirements;
Formation of a special improvement or maintenance district. This method must not be considered completed until
after all final actions have occurred and the district is in existence and the bonds sold;
Establishment of a property owners' association with duties to maintain certain improvements that must be
enforceable by the city;
Irrevocable offer of dedication of improvements to be dedicated to the public after completion of the project; and
Recording of a special restrictive covenant or deed restriction which may only be released by written agreement of
the city.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.090. - Development or maintenance of common areas and facilities by developer or property owners' association.
General. For the purposes of this section, "common areas and facilities" include:
Public and private parkland;
Boulevard strips in public rights-of-way along external subdivision streets and adjacent to parks or open space;
Common open space (as defined in section 38.700.040);
Neighborhood centers (except for neighborhood commercial and civic uses and their grounds) as set forth in section
38.410.020;
Pathways (as defined in section 38.700.150);
Lighting;
Stormwater facilities, and
Irrigation facilities installed in common areas.
Development. If common areas or facilities will be developed by a developer or a property owners' association, a
development plan for the common area or facilities must be submitted with the preliminary plat application or zoning
application for review and approval. The development plan must be reviewed and approved by the city prior to the
installation of improvements in common areas or the installation of common facilities. An approved park master plan
satisfies this requirement.
Landscaping. When landscaping or irrigation systems will be installed in parkland, boulevard strips or common open
space, the development plan must be accompanied by a landscaping plan that was prepared by a qualified
landscaping professional. When landscaping in common areas is installed by the subdivider, the subdivider must
warrant these improvements against any and all defects for a period of two years from the date of installation of the
landscaping. When landscaping in a park is installed by the subdivider, the subdivider must comply with the parks
design standards and warrant these improvements against any and all defects for a period of two years from the
date of installation of the landscaping.
Tree permits. If trees will be planted in dedicated city parkland or boulevard strips, tree planting permits must be
obtained from the forestry division.
Maintenance. When common areas or facilities will be maintained by the subdivider or by a property owners'
association, a maintenance plan that complies with section 38.220.320 must be submitted with the preliminary plat
application for review and approval. The maintenance plan must include a maintenance schedule, and a mechanism to
assess and enforce the common expenses for the common area or facility. The developer must provide all necessary
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maintenance until the improvements are transferred to a property owners' association, or other final custodian, at
which point the property owners' association or other final custodian will be responsible for all necessary maintenance
of common areas or facilities identified in the maintenance plan. Maintenance must be provided by the property owners'
association for stormwater facilities, with the exception of storm sewer mains, inlets, and manholes located in public
streets, until the city establishes a stormwater maintenance district or other dedicated funding source and affirmatively
accepts responsibility for maintenance. The provisions of sections 38.220.300—38.220.320 apply to this section.
Landscaping warranty. The maintenance plan must provide that any required or proposed landscaping must be
maintained in a healthy, growing condition at all times, and that any plant that dies must be replaced with another
living plant that complies with the approved landscape plan.
Irrigation system warranty. The maintenance plan must provide that any required or proposed irrigation system
must be maintained in an appropriate and efficient manner and kept in good operating condition, and that any
components of the irrigation system that break must be fixed and replaced if necessary with components approved
in the irrigation system design plan.
Shade tree maintenance. The forestry division must be responsible for the trimming, removal, or similar
maintenance of shade trees in all city rights-of-way and on city-maintained property, including parks.
Maintenance area. For a multiphase project with common areas and facilities, the maintenance mechanism must include
all phases of the project, and must be created for the entire project with the first phase. No property can be removed
from the maintenance area or mechanism without prior approval by the city to ensure continued maintenance of
common areas and facilities, and on-going fulfillment of all obligations.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.270.100. - Warranty.
Publicly dedicated. All publicly dedicated improvements must be subject to a warranty of duration and scope to meet the
city's design standards and specifications manual and park design standards as applicable.
Private improvements. If an improvements agreement is entered to guarantee installation of private improvements, the
improvements must be subject to a warranty of not less than one year from the date of installation.
( Ord. No. 2074 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
DIVISION 38.280. - NONCONFORMING SITUATIONS
Sec. 38.280.010. - Nonconforming uses.
Any use lawfully existing upon the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter or any predecessor title or
code is derived may be continued at the size and in the manner of operation existing upon such date except as
hereinafter specified, or in the case of signage as specified in division 38.560 of this chapter.
Except as otherwise specified in this division, the right to operate and maintain a nonconforming use must terminate
when the structure or structures housing such use are destroyed by any means to an extent of more than 50 percent of
its replacement cost at the time of destruction. However, in the event of damage by natural disaster to the extent
described herein, said nonconforming use or uses may be reestablished through a conditional use permit procedure as
set forth in division 38.230 of this chapter. Such restoration must comply to the maximum extent reasonably feasible
with the requirements of this chapter.
When any lawful nonconforming use of any structure or land in any district has been changed to a conforming use, it
must not thereafter be changed to any nonconforming use.
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Whenever a lawful nonconforming use of a building, structure or land is discontinued for a period of 90 days, any future us
building, structure or land must be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
Normal maintenance of a building or other structure containing or related to a lawful nonconforming use is permitted,
including necessary structural repairs, provided such structural repairs do not enlarge, intensify or otherwise redefine
the nonconforming use.
Sec. 38.280.020. - Changes to or expansions of nonconforming uses.
Lawful nonconforming non-residential use.
A lawful nonconforming non-residential use must not be changed except in conformance with the use requirements
of the zone in which it is located. Except, however, a lawful nonconforming non-residential use may be changed to
another nonconforming use, provided that the proposed use is not of greater intensity than the original use, as
determined by the criteria in section 38.280.020.A.2, and that a conditional use permit is obtained from the review
authority. A lawful nonconforming non-residential use may be expanded only through the granting of a conditional
use permit by the review authority. In considering the appropriateness of the conditional use permit application, the
review authority must weigh the criteria set forth in 38.230.110. In addition, the review authority must consider
whether the expansion is reasonable, natural and incidental to the growth and use of an existing business. In
general, proposals to expand nonconforming uses must not be approved if the expansion would encompass new
land or property which was not in use at the time of the enactment of zoning or a change in zoning.
To approve a conditional use permit to change or expand a nonconforming non-residential use, the review authority
must determine that the proposed nonconforming use is more appropriate to the district than the existing
nonconforming use, and that no unsafe or unhealthy conditions are perpetuated. In making such a determination,
the review authority must weigh the following criteria in addition to the criteria applicable to all conditional use
permits:
Traffic impacts, both on-site and off-site;
Off-street parking and loading requirements;
The visual impact on the surrounding area;
The degree of compliance with the adopted growth policy and this chapter;
The level of conflict with other uses in the surrounding area;
The presence of other nonconformities in the surrounding area;
The degree to which any existing unsafe or hazardous conditions would be mitigated;
The viability of the subject structure; and
On-site and off-site impacts from noise, dust, smoke, surface or groundwater contamination, or other
environmental impacts.
Lawful nonconforming residential use.
A lawful nonconforming residential use may be reduced in terms of the number of dwelling units, in an effort to
achieve greater conformance with the underlying zoning designation, through the review process required by
divisions 38.340 and 38.230 of this chapter, without the need to obtain a conditional use permit from the review
authority. A lawful nonconforming residential use must not be permitted to increase the number of dwelling units.
The maintenance and reconstruction of existing nonconforming residential dwelling units is allowed, in compliance
with applicable fire and building codes, including expansion of up to 20 percent of the existing total residential area,
without the need of a conditional use permit, as long as the number of dwelling units on the lot is not increased. In
instances where new construction is allowed, all appropriate approvals such as a certificate of appropriateness or
building permit must be obtained prior to the initiation of construction.
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Sec. 38.280.030. - Nonconforming area and bulk requirements for existing lots.
At the time of the enactment of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived if any owner of a plot of land consisting
of one or more adjacent lots, as defined in section 38.700.110 of this chapter, in a subdivision of record does not own
sufficient land within the lot of record to enable the owner to conform to the minimum lot size requirements, or does
not have sufficient lot width to conform to the minimum lot width requirements, such plot of land may nevertheless be
used as a building site. The lot dimension requirements of the district in which the piece of land is located may be
reduced by the smallest amount that will permit a structure of acceptable size to be built upon the lot, with such
reduction to be determined by the review authority designated in section 38.200.010. Existing buildings on
nonconforming lots may be expanded without deviations or variances so long as the expansion does not increase or
create one or more nonconformities.
In the R-S, R-1 and R-2 districts, the reduction must permit only a single-household residence.
In the R-3, R-4 and R-O districts, the reduction must permit only a two unit structure.
No lot, even though it may consist of one or more adjacent lots in common ownership at the time of passage of the
ordinance from which this chapter is derived, may be reduced in size so that lot width or size of setbacks or lot area per
household or any other requirement of this chapter is not maintained except as provided for in this chapter. This section
views lots as merged for the purposes of planning and zoning regulation of bulk, size, or similar dimensional standards
only, and does not aggregate individual parcels of land in a manner affected by MCA 76-3-103(17)(b). This section does
not apply when a portion of a lot is acquired for a public purpose.
Adjacent parcels which do not conform to minimum lot requirements, and which are in common ownership, are
considered individual lots of record for the purposes of this code only if they are each greater than one acre in size and
were created prior to the passage of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
Sec. 38.280.040. - Nonconforming structures.
Any nonconforming structure lawfully existing upon the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is
derived may be continued at the size and configuration existing upon such date except as hereinafter specified, or in the
case of signage as specified in division 38.560 of this chapter and lighting as specified in section 38.570.110.
The right to operate and maintain a nonconforming structure terminates when the structure is destroyed by any means
to an extent of more than 50 percent of its replacement cost at the time of destruction. However, in the event of damage
by natural disaster to the extent described herein, said nonconforming nonresidential structure may be reestablished
through a conditional use permit procedure as set forth in division 38.230 of this chapter. Such restoration must comply
to the maximum extent feasible with the requirements of this chapter.
Normal maintenance of a lawful nonconforming structure is permitted, including necessary structural repairs provided
such structural repairs do not enlarge the structure or intensify the use.
Sec. 38.280.050. - Changes to or expansions of nonconforming structures.
A lawful nonconforming structure must not be changed except in conformance with the requirements of the zone in
which it is located or as provided in this division.
A lawful nonconforming structure may be expanded through the plan review process required by divisions 38.340 and
38.230 of this chapter. Unless the proposed expansion would create a new nonconformity or increase an existing
nonconformity, no deviation or variance is required for the expansion.
If a lawful nonconforming structure is proposed to be changed or expanded in a manner which would increase the
degree of nonconformity, or would create a new nonconformity, a deviation or variance must be properly granted prior
to or in conjunction with the site development approval required in divisions 38.340 and 38.230 of this chapter.
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The maintenance and reconstruction of existing nonconforming residential structures is allowed, in compliance with applica
and building codes, as well as the provisions of this division, so long as the number of dwelling units on the lot is not increa
Maintenance activities may not increase the degree of nonconformity.
Figure 38.280.050
Clarifying acceptable and unacceptable examples of expanding nonconforming structures.
ARTICLE 3. - ZONING DISTRICTS AND LAND USES
DIVISION 38.300. - ZONES, MAPS AND DESIGNATIONS
Footnotes:
--- (3) ---
State Law reference— Municipal zoning, MCA 76-2-301 et seq.
Part 1. - Zoning Districts and Zoning Map
Sec. 38.300.010. - Purpose.
Individual zoning districts are adopted for the purposes described in section 38.100.040. Furthermore:
A variety of districts is established to provide locations for the many uses needed within a healthy and dynamic
community.
Each district, in conjunction with other standards incorporated in this chapter, establishes allowable uses of
property, separates incompatible uses, and sets certain standards for use of land.
This provides predictability and reasonable expectation in use of land within particular zoning designations and sites.
The zoning provisions implement the community goals and objectives that are contained in the city's adopted growth
policy.
Zoning districts and the zoning map communicate the City's expectation for land use in each particular district.
Sec. 38.300.020. - Use districts designated, zoning map adopted.
The city is divided into zones, or districts, as shown on the official zoning map which, together with all explanatory
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matter thereon, is adopted by this reference and declared to be a part of this chapter.
The purpose statements for each zone and map designation set forth in part 2 of this division shall be used to guide the
application of the zones and designations to all lands in the city. The purpose statements also shall guide interpretation
and application of land use regulations within the zones and designations, and any changes to the range of permitted
uses within each zone through amendments to this title. For the purpose of this chapter, the city is divided and classified
into the following use districts:
R-S Residential Suburban District
R-1 Residential Low Density District
R-2 Residential Moderate Density District
R-3 Residential Medium Density District
R-4 Residential High Density District
R-5 Residential Mixed-Use High Density District
R-O Residential-O ce District
RMH Residential Manufactured Home Community District
B-1 Neighborhood Business District
B-2 Community Business District
B-2M Community Business District - Mixed
B-3 Downtown Business District
UMU Urban Mixed-Use District
M-1 Light Manufacturing District
M-2 Manufacturing and Industrial District
B-P Business Park District
PLI Public Lands and Institutions District
NEHMU Northeast Historic Mixed-Use District
NC Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District
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REMU Residential Emphasis Mixed-use District
Placement of any given zoning district on an area depicted on the zoning map indicates a judgment on the part of the
city that the range of uses allowed within that district are generally acceptable in that location. It is not a guarantee of
approval for any given use prior to the completion of the appropriate review procedure and compliance with all of the
applicable requirements and development standards of this chapter and other applicable policies, laws and ordinances.
It is also not a guarantee of immediate infrastructure availability or a commitment on the part of the city to bear the cost
of extending services.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 4, 4-18-2018; Order No. 2019-01 , 9-13-2019)
Sec. 38.300.030. - O cial map availability, certi cation and authority; changes.
The official maps must be available in the community development department and must bear a certificate with the
signature of the mayor attested by the city clerk and the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
This certificate should read as follows:
This is to certify that this is an O cial Zoning Map referred to in section _______ of Ordinance No. _______ of the City
of Bozeman, Montana.
Mayor _______
Attested _______
Date of Adoption _______
Regardless of the existence of purported copies of the official zoning maps, which may from time to time be made or
published, the official zoning maps kept in the community development department must be the final authority as to the
current zoning status of land and water areas, buildings and other structures in the city.
Sec. 38.300.040. - O cial map replacement conditions.
In the event that the official zoning maps become damaged, destroyed, lost or difficult to interpret because of the nature
or number of changes or additions thereto, the city commission may adopt and certify new official zoning maps which
must supersede the prior official zoning maps. The new official zoning maps may correct drafting or other errors or
omissions in the prior map, but no such corrections shall have the effect of amending the original official zoning maps or
any subsequent amendment thereof.
If any changes to the map are made by amendment of this chapter in accordance with division 38.260 of this chapter,
such changes must be made to the official zoning maps and signed, dated and certified upon the map or upon the
material attached thereto. Interpretations per 38.300.050 and revisions to the map to accommodate annexations and
other changes necessitating interpretation must be reflected.
The new official zoning maps must be identified by signature of the mayor attested by the city clerk. The certificate
should read as follows:
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This is to certify that this O cial Zoning Map supersedes and replaces the O cial Zoning Map adopted as part of
Ordinance No. _______ of the City of Bozeman, Montana.
Mayor _______
Attested _______
Date of Adoption _______
Sec. 38.300.050. - Boundary interpretation guidelines.
Where uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of districts as shown on the official zoning map, the boundaries must be
interpreted as following the nearest logical line to that shown:
Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centerline of streets, highways or alleys must be construed to
follow such centerlines;
Boundaries indicated as approximately following platted lot lines must be construed as following such lot lines;
Boundaries indicated as approximately following city limits must be construed as following such city limits;
Boundaries indicated as following railroad lines must be construed to be midway between the main track or rails;
Boundaries indicated as following the centerline of streams, rivers, canals or ditches must be construed to follow
such centerlines; and
Boundaries indicated as parallel to or extensions of features indicated on the official zoning map must be
determined by the scale of the map.
When a parcel subject to two or more districts is subdivided and the district boundary is near a new parcel boundary
the district must be construed to follow the new boundary.
Where physical or cultural features existing on the ground are at variance with those shown on the official zoning map,
or where other circumstances or controversy arise over district boundaries, the community development director must
interpret the district boundary. Such interpretation is subject to appeal as set forth in division 38.250 in this chapter.
Where district boundaries divide a lot or parcel into two or more districts, the following rule applies:
For the purpose of determining permitted uses and development form and intensity, the community development
director may allow minor adjustments (up to ten percent increase or decrease in area, not to exceed one acre, of either
zone on the applicable lot) to the zoning boundary. The criteria for making such a determination must include an
evaluation of site topography, proximity of non-compatible uses adjacent to the subject property, and overall function and
integration of the development with the community.
Sec. 38.300.060. - Zoning of annexed territory.
All territory which may hereafter be annexed to the city must, in conjunction with the annexation, be the subject of a
zone map amendment in order to be designated and assigned to a city zoning district.
Areas of annexed public right-of-way must be considered to be zoned according to the provisions of section
38.300.040.A. The city commission must determine the appropriate zoning for any and all areas to be annexed to the city
but must request a recommendation from the zoning commission and must take into consideration the city growth
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policy. Any ordinance adopting such zoning amendment must not take effect prior to the effective date of such
annexation.
Part 2. - Zoning District Intent and Purpose Statements
Sec. 38.300.100. - Residential zoning districts—Intent and purpose.
The intent and purpose of the residential zoning districts is to establish areas within the city that are primarily residential in
character and to set forth certain minimum standards for development within those areas. The residential districts also allow
complementary non-residential uses. The purpose in having more than one residential district is to provide opportunities for a
variety of housing types and arrangements within the community while providing a basic level of predictability. There is a
presumption that the uses set forth for each district will be compatible with each other when the standards of this chapter are met
and any applicable conditions of approval have been satisfied. The presumption of compatibility may be overcome by a showing of
specific evidence through the development review process that proves a development to be non-compliant with applicable
standards.
Additional requirements for development apply within overlay districts. All development is subject to section 38.100.050.
Residential density is correlated with many community goals and objectives that are contained in the city's adopted growth policy,
as well as many standards and purposes of this chapter. Section 38.320.020 and Table 38.320.030 sets standards for minimum
densities in residential districts which will advance these goals, objectives, and purposes.
Residential suburban district (R-S). The intent and purpose of the R-S residential suburban district is to
commemorate and preserve existing RS zoning only. These purposes are accomplished by:
Subdivision and site plan developments in this district are subject to the provisions of division 38.430 of this
chapter, pertaining to planned unit development, and shall be developed in compliance with the adopted city
growth policy.
Allowing permitted uses in circumstances where environmental constraints limit the desirable density.
Providing for a minimum lot size in developed areas consistent with the established development patterns while
providing greater flexibility for clustering lots and housing types in newly developed areas.
This district is not available for newly created subdivisions, undeveloped land, or any land annexed into the city
on or after January 1, 2018.
Residential low density district (R-1). The intent of the R-1 residential low density district is to provide for primarily
single-household residential development and related uses within the city at urban densities. These purposes are
accomplished by:
Providing for a minimum lot size in developed areas consistent with the established development patterns while
providing greater flexibility for clustering lots and housing types in newly developed areas.
Providing for such community facilities and services as will serve the area's residents while respecting the
residential character and quality of the area.
Residential moderate density district (R-2). The intent of the R-2 residential moderate density district is to provide for
one- and two-household residential development at urban densities within the city in areas that present few or no
development constraints. These purposes are accomplished by:
Providing for minimum lot sizes in developed areas consistent with the established development patterns while
providing greater flexibility for clustering lots and housing types in newly developed areas.
Providing for community facilities to serve such development while respecting the residential quality and nature
of the area.
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Use of this zone is appropriate for areas with moderate access to parks, community services and/or transit.
Residential medium density district (R-3). The intent of the R-3 residential medium density district is to provide for
the development of one- to five-household residential structures near service facilities within the city. This purpose is
accomplished by:
Providing for minimum lot sizes in developed areas consistent with the established development patterns while
providing greater flexibility for clustering lots and mixing housing types in newly developed areas.
Providing for a variety of housing types, including single household dwellings, two to four household dwellings,
and townhouses to serve the varied needs of households of different size, age and character, while reducing the
adverse effect of non-residential uses.
Use of this zone is appropriate for areas with good access to parks, community services and/or transit.
Residential high density district (R-4). The intent of the R-4 residential high density district is to provide for high-
density residential development through a variety of housing types within the city with associated service functions.
This purpose is accomplished by:
Providing for minimum lot sizes in developed areas consistent with the established development patterns while
providing greater flexibility for clustering lots and mixing housing types in newly developed areas.
Providing for a variety of compatible housing types, including single and multi-household dwellings to serve the
varying needs of the community's residents.
Allowing office use as a secondary use, measured by percentage of total building area.
Use of this zone is appropriate for areas adjacent to mixed-use districts, commercial districts, and/or served by
transit to accommodate a higher density of residents in close proximity to jobs and services.
Residential mixed-use high density district (R-5). The intent of the R-5 residential mixed-use high density district is to
provide for high-density residential development through a variety of compatible housing types and residentially
supportive commercial uses in a geographically compact, walkable area to serve the varying needs of the
community's residents. These purposes are accomplished by:
Providing for a mixture of housing types, including single and multi-household dwellings to serve the varying
needs of the community's residents.
Allowing offices and small scale retail and restaurants as secondary uses provided special standards are met.
Use of this zone is appropriate for areas adjacent to mixed-use districts and/or served by transit to accommodate a
higher density of residents in close proximity to jobs and services.
Residential-office district (R-O). The intent of the R-O residential-office district is to provide for and encourage the
development of multi-household and apartment development and compatible professional offices and businesses
that would blend well with adjacent land uses. These purposes are accomplished by:
Providing for a mixture of housing types, including single and multi-household dwellings to serve the varying
needs of the community's residents.
Use of this zone is appropriate for areas characterized by office or multi-household development; and/or areas along
arterial corridors or transitional areas between residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Residential manufactured home community district (RMH). The intent of the RMH residential manufactured home
community district is to provide for manufactured home community development and directly related
complementary uses at a density and character compatible with adjacent development. Use of this zone is
appropriate for existing mobile home parks and areas adjacent to commercial or mixed-use districts and/or served
by transit.
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Sec. 38.300.110. - Commercial and mixed-use zoning districts—intent and purpose.
The intent and purposes of the commercial zoning districts are to establish areas within the city that are primarily commercial in
character and to set forth certain minimum standards for development within those areas. The purpose in having more than one
commercial district is to provide opportunities for a variety of employment and community service opportunities within the
community, while providing predictability. There is a rebuttable presumption that the uses set forth for each district will be
compatible with each other both within the individual districts and to adjoining zoning districts when the standards of this chapter
are met and any applicable conditions of approval have been satisfied. Additional requirements for development apply within
overlay districts.
Neighborhood business district (B-1). The intent of the B-1 neighborhood business district is to provide for smaller
scale retail and service activities frequently required by neighborhood residents on a day to day basis, as well as
residential development as a secondary purpose, while still maintaining compatibility with adjacent residential land
uses. Design standards emphasizing pedestrian oriented design are important elements of this district. Use of this
zone is appropriate for areas functioning as a center for surrounding residential neighborhoods.
Community business district (B-2). The intent of the B-2 community business district is to provide for a broad range
of mutually supportive retail and service functions located in clustered areas bordered on one or more sides by
limited access arterial streets. Multi-household dwellings, townhouses, and apartments are allowed as a secondary
use due to their complementary nature and ability to enhance the walkability of these districts. Design standards
emphasizing pedestrian oriented design are important elements of this district. Use of this zone is appropriate for
arterial corridors, commercial nodes, and/or areas served by transit.
Community business district-mixed (B-2M). The intent of the B-2M community business district-mixed is to function
as a vibrant mixed-use district that accommodates substantial growth and enhances the character of the city. This
district provides for a range of commercial uses that serve both the immediate area and the broader trade area and
encourages the integration of multi-household residential as a secondary use. Design standards emphasizing
pedestrian oriented design are important elements of this district. Use of this zone is appropriate for arterial
corridors, commercial nodes and/or areas served by transit.
Downtown district (downtown B-3). The intent of the downtown B-3 business district is to provide a central area for
the community's business, government service and cultural activities with urban residential development as an
essential supporting use. The downtown B-3 district should be the area of greatest density of development, intensity
of use, and appropriate infill. Design standards reinforcing the area's historical pedestrian-oriented context are very
important.
This district encourages high volume, pedestrian-oriented uses in ground floor space in the "core area" of the city's
central business district, i.e., along Main Street from Grand to Rouse and to the alleys one-half block north and south
from Main Street. Lower volume pedestrian uses such as professional offices may locate on ground floor space in
the downtown B-3 area outside the above-defined core.
Urban mixed-use zoning district (UMU) The intent and purposes of the UMU urban mixed-use district are to establish
areas within the city that are mixed-use in character, and to set forth certain minimum standards for development
within those areas which encourage vertical mixed-use development with high density. The purpose in having an
urban mixed-use district is to provide options for a variety of employment, retail and community service
opportunities within the community, with incorporated opportunity for some residential uses, while providing
predictability in uses and standards to landowners and residents. There is a rebuttable presumption that the uses
set forth for each district will be compatible both within the individual districts and with adjoining zoning districts
when the standards of this chapter are met and any applicable conditions of approval have been satisfied. Additional
requirements for development apply within overlay districts.
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It is the further the intent of this district to:
Allow complementary land uses which encourage mixed uses on individual floors including, but not limited
to, retail, offices, commercial services, restaurants, bars, hotels, recreation and civic uses, and housing, to
create economic and social vitality and to encourage the linking of trips;
Foster the development of vertically oriented mixed uses, in contrast to single use development distributed
along high vehicle capacity roadways;
Encourage development that exhibits the physical design characteristics of vibrant, urban, pedestrian-
oriented, storefront-style shopping streets with pedestrian amenities;
Provide roadway and pedestrian connections to residential areas;
Provide appropriate locations and design standards for automobile and truck-dependent uses;
Create central urban gathering places such as community squares or plazas;
Allow for urban oriented recreational activities consistent with the standards and intent of the district; and
To encourage and support the use of sustainable building practices.
To accomplish the intent of the district, the UMU district should ideally be located at the intersections of major
traffic corridors; that is, at the intersections of two arterials, or, less frequently, an arterial and a collector street.
The major intersections should have or be planned to have a stop light or other active traffic control. While
placement at major intersections is a necessary precondition, not all major intersections should have the UMU
district adjacent to them. Additionally, placement of this district should be adjacent or near to dense residential
development to enhance walking and bicycle use.
Residential emphasis mixed-use zoning district (REMU). The intent and purpose of the REMU district is to establish
areas within Bozeman that are mixed-use in character and to provide options for a variety of housing, employment,
retail and neighborhood service opportunities within a new or existing neighborhood. These purposes are
accomplished by:
Emphasizing residential as the primary use, including single household dwellings, two to four household
dwellings, townhouses, and apartments.
Providing for a diverse array of neighborhood-scaled commercial and civic uses supporting residential.
Emphasizing a vertical and horizontal mix of uses in a compact and walkable neighborhood setting.
Promoting neighborhoods that:
Create self-sustaining neighborhoods that will lay the foundation for healthy lifestyles;
Support compact, walkable developments that promote balanced transportation options;
Have residential as the majority use with a range of densities;
Provide for a diverse array of commercial and civic uses supporting residential;
Have residential and commercial uses mixed vertically and/or horizontally;
Locate commercial uses within walking distance;
Incorporate a wider range of housing types; and
Encourage developments that exhibit the physical design characteristics of vibrant, urban, and pedestrian-
oriented complete streets.
Providing standards and guidelines that emphasize a sense of place:
Support or add to an existing neighborhood context;
Enhance an existing neighborhood's sense of place and strive to make it more self-sustainable;
Encourage a new neighborhood commercial center(s) with a unique identity and strong sense of place;
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Develop commercial and mixed-use areas that are safe, comfortable, and attractive to pedestrians; and
Reinforce the principle of streets as public places that encourage pedestrian and bicycle travel, transit, on-
street parking and physical elements of complete streets.
Providing standards and guidelines that emphasize natural amenities:
Preserve and integrate the natural amenities into the development; and
Appropriately balance a hierarchy of both parks and public spaces that are within the neighborhood.
Providing standards and guidelines that emphasize the development of centers:
Group uses of property to create vibrant centers;
Where appropriate create a center within an existing neighborhood;
Facilitate proven, market driven projects to ensure both long and short-term financial viability;
Allow an appropriate blend of complementary mixed land uses including, but not limited to, retail, offices,
commercial services, restaurants, bars, hotels, recreation and civic uses, and housing, to create economic
and social vitality;
Foster the master plan development into a mix of feasible, market driven uses;
Emphasize the need to serve the adjacent, local neighborhood and as well as the greater Bozeman area; and
Maximize land use efficiency by encouraging shared use parking.
Promoting the integration of action:
Support existing infrastructure that is within and adjacent to REMU zones;
Encourage thoughtfully developed master planned communities;
Provide flexibility in the placement and design of new developments and redevelopment to anticipate
changes in the marketplace;
Provide flexibility in phasing to help ensure both long and short term financial viability for the project as a
whole;
Providing standards and guidelines that promote sustainable design
Use of this zone is appropriate for sites at least five acres in size and areas located adjacent to an existing or planned
residential area to help sustain commercial uses within walking distance and a wider range of housing types.
Northeast historic mixed-use district—intent and purpose.
The intent of the northeast historic mixed-use district is to provide recognition of an area that has developed
with a blend of uses not commonly seen under typical zoning requirements. The unique qualities and nature of
the area are not found elsewhere in the city and should be preserved as a place offering additional opportunities
for creative integration of land uses. The intent of this area is to allow private and case-by-case determination of
the most appropriate use of land in a broad range of both non-residential and residential uses. Standards for
buffering between different land uses are deliberately not as high as standards elsewhere in the community as it
is assumed that persons choosing to locate in this area are aware of the variety of possible adjacent land uses
and have accepted such possibilities as both acceptable and desirable. It is expected that the lots within this
district will continue to develop under a variety of uses which may increase or decrease in scope in any given
portion of the district.
The clear intent of this district is to support a mix and variety of non-residential and residential uses. Nothing in
division 38.300 of this article shall be interpreted to be discouraging or prejudicial to any listed use except as set
forth as principal and conditional uses.
Sec. 38.300.120. - Industrial zoning districts—Intent and purpose.
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The intent and purpose of the industrial zoning districts is to establish areas within the city that are primarily industrial in
character and to set forth certain minimum standards for development within those areas. The purpose in having more than one
industrial district is to provide opportunities for a variety of employment and community service functions within the community
while providing predictability. There is a rebuttable presumption that the uses set forth for each district will be compatible with
each other when the standards of this chapter are met and any applicable conditions of approval have been satisfied. Additional
requirements for development apply within overlay districts.
Light manufacturing district (M-1). The intent of the M-1 light manufacturing district is to provide for the community's
needs for wholesale trade, storage and warehousing, trucking and transportation terminals, light manufacturing and
similar activities. The district should be oriented to major transportation facilities yet arranged to minimize adverse
effects on residential development, therefore, some type of screening may be necessary.
Manufacturing and industrial district (M-2). The intent of the M-2 manufacturing and industrial district is to provide
for heavy manufacturing and industrial uses, servicing vocational and employment needs of city residents.
Business park district (B-P). The intent of the B-P business park district is to provide for high quality settings and
facilities for the development of a variety of compatible employment opportunities. These areas should be
developed so as to recognize the impact on surrounding or adjacent development and contribute to the overall
image of the community. Compatibility with adjacent land uses and zoning is required.
Sec. 38.300.130. - Public lands and institutions district—Intent.
The intent of the PLI public lands and institutions district is to provide for major public and quasi-public uses outside of other
districts. Not all public and quasi-public uses need to be classified PLI. Some may fit within another district; however, larger areas
will be designated PLI.
DIVISION 38.310. - PERMITTED USES
Sec. 38.310.010. - Interpretation of land use tables.
Uses in the various districts are depicted in Tables 38.310.030—38.310.040. Principal uses are indicated with a "P,"
conditional uses are indicated with a "C," special uses are indicated with a "S", accessory uses are indicated with an "A"
and uses which are not permitted within the district are indicated by a "-."
Additional uses for wireless facilities are contained in sections 38.370.010 to 38.370.040.
The uses listed are deliberately broad and some are given special definitions in article 7 of this chapter. The intent of this
method is to provide general guidance for uses while allowing the unique needs and circumstances of each proposal to
be specifically addressed through the review process. Some uses are the subject of special regulations contained in
division 38.360 of this article.
Clarification of permitted uses and special conditions:
If a * appears after the use, then the use is defined in article 7.
Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that code
section.
If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in the
footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all applicable
development conditions.
Where a number with a "sf" reference appears below a P or C in the box, it means that the use is permitted or
conditionally permitted up to the (maximum) listed square footage in gross building area.
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If more than one letter-number combination appears in the box (e.g., P ), the use is allowed in the zone subject to
different sets of limitations or conditions depending on the review process indicated by the letter, the general
requirements of the code and the specific conditions indicated in the development condition with the corresponding
number immediately following the table.
Sec. 38.310.020. - Classi cation of uses; community development director and city commission authority.
When a use is not clearly defined or otherwise identified in the code so that it may be determined if it is allowed within a
district the community development director must determine the appropriate classification of a particular use. In making
this determination, the community development director must find:
That the use is the same as one or more uses permitted in the district wherein it is proposed to be located; or
That the use is so similar to one or more uses permitted in the district wherein it is proposed to be located as to be
interpreted as the same, so long as:
The use and its operation are comparable with the uses permitted in the district wherein the use is proposed to
be located, in terms of:
The amount, type, and pattern of vehicular traffic anticipated for the use, and
The expected outdoor uses and activities associated with the use;
The use will not cause substantial injury to values of property in the neighborhood or district wherein it is
proposed to be located; and
Neither the intent of this chapter nor the intent of the district will be abrogated by such classification.
Persons objecting to a decision of the community development director regarding a classification of a use carry the
burden of proof to establish error in the decision.
If a question arises concerning the appropriate classification of a particular use, the community development director
may submit the question to the city commission to determine whether the particular use is the same or so similar as to
be interpreted the same as a listed permitted or conditional use. In making such a determination, the city commission
must find that the criteria set forth in either subsection A.1 or 2 of this section are met.
If a specific use is not listed and cannot be interpreted to be the same, or so similar as to be interpreted the same, as a
listed accessory, principal or conditional use, the use must not be allowed. However, an amendment to the text of this
chapter may be submitted for review and approval pursuant to the requirements of this chapter to allow such use as a
listed principal, conditional or accessory use (as defined in section 38.700.020).
Sec. 38.310.030. - Authorized uses—Residential zoning districts.
Table 38.310.030.A
Permitted general and group residential uses in residential zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards speci c to
the subject use in that code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table.
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Uses Zoning Districts
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
General residential
Accessory dwelling units*
- attached (38.360.040)
P P P P P P P —
Accessory dwelling units*
- detached (38.360.040)
P P P P P P P —
Apartments/apartment
building*
————P P P —
Apartment building,
limited
———P P P P —
Cottage housing
(38.360.120)*
P P P P P P P P
Manufactured homes on
permanent
foundations(38.360.170)*
P P P P P P P P
Manufactured home
communities*
———————P
Single-household
dwelling (38.360.220)
P P P P P P P P
Two-household dwelling
(38.360.220)
——P P P P P —
Three household
dwelling or four-
household dwelling
(38.360.220)
———P P P P —
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Townhouses* &
rowhouses* (two
attached units)
(38.360.250)
P P2 P P P P P P
Townhouses* &
rowhouses* ( ve
attached units or less)
(38.360.250)
———P P P P —
Townhouses* &
rowhouses* (more than
ve attached units)
(38.360.250)
————P P P —
Group residential
Community residential
facilities* with eight or
fewer residents
P P P P P P P P
Community residential
facilities* serving nine or
more residents
———S P P P —
Cooperative household*S S S P P P P S
Family day care home*P P P P P P P P
Group day care home*P P P P P P P P
Group living
(38.360.135)*
P P P P P P P P
Lodging houses*———S P P P —
Transitional and
emergency housing
(38.360.140)* and related
services
S S S S S S S S
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Notes:
The primary use of a lot, as measured by building area, permitted in the R-O district is determined by the underlying
growth policy land use designation. Where the district lies over a residential growth policy designation the primary
use shall be non-office uses; where the district lies over a non-residential designation the primary use shall be office
and other non-residential uses. Primary use shall be measured by percentage of building floor area.
In the R-S, R-1, and RMH district townhomes are only allowed when utilized to satisfy the requirements of division
38.380, Affordable Housing. May only be utilized in developments subject to division 38.380 of this article.
In the R-3 district, townhouse groups must not exceed 120 feet in total width.
Supplemental use criteria for apartment building, limited are in section 38.360.070.
Table 38.310.030.B
Permitted accessory and non-residential uses in residential zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards speci c to
the subject use in that code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table.
Uses Zoning Districts
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
Accessory uses
Essential services
Type I*
A A A A A A A A
Guest house*A A A A A A A —
Home-based
businesses
(38.360.150)
A/S A/S A/S A/S A/S A/S A/S A/S
1
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Other buildings and
structures typically
accessory to
authorized uses
A A A A A A A A
Private or jointly
owned recreational
facilities
A A A A A A A A
Signs*, subject to
article 5 of this
chapter
A A A A A A A A
Temporary buildings
and yards incidental
to construction work
A A A A A A A A
Temporary sales and
o ce buildings
A A A A A A A A
Non-residential uses
Agricultural uses* on
2.5 acres or more
(38.360.270)
P ———————
Agricultural uses* on
less than 2.5 acres
(38.360.270)
C ———————
Bed and breakfast*C C C C P P P —
Commercial stable
(38.360.230)
C ———————
Community centers*C C C C C C P C
Day care centers*S S S P P P P S
Essential services
Type II*
P P P P P P P P
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Essential services
Type III*
C C C C C C C C
Short Term Rental
(Type 1)*
P P P P P P P —
Short Term Rental
(Type 2)*
——P P P P P —
Short Term Rental
(Type 3)*
————————
General service
establishment*
——————P —
Golf courses C C ——————
O ces*————S S P —
Public and private
parks
P P P P P P P P
Medical o ces,
clinics, and centers*
————C C P —
Recreational vehicle
parks (38.360.210)*
C ——————P
Restaurant*—————P P —
Retail*—————P P —
Uses approved as
part of a PUD per
division 38.380 of
this article
C C C C C C C C
Veterinary uses S ———————
Notes:
The primary use of a lot, as measured by building area, permitted in the R-O district is determined by the underlying
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growth policy land use designation. Where the district lies over a residential growth policy designation the primary
use shall be non-office uses; where the district lies over a non-residential designation the primary use shall be office
and other non-residential uses. Primary use shall be measured by percentage of building floor area.
Only allowed when service may not be provided from an alternative site or a less intensive installation or set of
installations.
Only when in conjunction with dwellings.
Subject uses are limited to 2,500 square feet of gross floor area and only allowed on street corner sites within a
mixed-use building featuring residential units next to and/or above subject uses.
Subject uses are limited to 1,500 square feet of gross floor area per individual tenant.
These uses may not include drive-through facilities.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 2, 3-19-2018; Ord. No. 2041 , § 1, 9-17-2020; Ord. No. 2044 , § 1, 9-17-2020; Ord. No. 2059 , §§ 1, 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.310.040. - Authorized uses—Commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts.
Table 38.310.040.A
Permitted general sales uses in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that
code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all
applicable development conditions.
5. Where a number with a "sf" reference appears below a P or C in the box, it means that the use is permitted or
conditionally permitted up to the (maximum) listed square footage in gross building area.
Uses Zoning Districts
Commercial Mixed Use Industrial PLI
B-1 B-2 B-
2M
B-3 UMU
(38.310.050)
REMU
(38.310.060)
NEHMU BP M-1 M-2
General sales
1
2
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1.
2.
3.
Automobile fuel sales
or repair
(38.360.080)*
S S S S S S P —P P —
Convenience uses
(38.360.110)*
—P P C C P P ————
Heavy retail
establishment (Retail,
large scale -
38.360.160)*
—P P C P C P —P P —
Restaurants*P P P P P P P
1,500sf
—P P —
Retail*
• 0-5,000sf GFA P P P P P P A C A A
C
A
C
—
• 5,001-24,999sf
GFA
—P P P P P A C A A
C
A
C
—
• 25,000sf-39,999sf
GFA
—P P P P —A C A A
C
A
C
—
• Over 40,000sf GFA
(Retail, large scale -
38.360.160)*
—P P —S ——————
Sales of alcohol for
on-premises
consumption
(38.360.060)
S S S S S S S —C C —
Notes:
In the B-1 district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 5,000 square feet.
Authorized uses in the NEHMU district include those uses allowed in the R-2 district (see table 38.310.030 for those
not listed in this table).
Occupying not more than 20 percent of the gross floor area of a building or 1,500 square feet, whichever is less, or
3 3 3
4 4 4 4 4 4,5 6 7 6 6
7
6
7
4 4 4 4 4,5 6 7 6 6
7
6
7
4 4 4 4 6 7 6 6
7
6
7
4 4
8 8 8 8 8,9 8,9 8
8,10 8,10
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4.
5.
a.
b.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
a.
b.
occupying not more than 45 percent of the gross floor area of a food processing facility.
Excluding adult businesses as defined in section 38.700.020 of this chapter.
Special REMU district conditions based on the amount of on-site retail uses:
Retail uses greater than 5,000 square feet and less than or equal to 12,000 square feet are limited to no more
than four structures per 100 acres of contiguous master planned development and subject to section
38.310.060.C.
Retail uses greater than 12,000 square feet and less than or equal to 25,000 square feet are limited to no more
than two structures per 100 acres of contiguous master planned development and subject to section
38.310.060.C.
Retail sales of goods produced or warehoused on site and related products, not to exceed 20 percent of gross floor
area or 10,000 square feet, whichever is less.
Retail establishments as a primary use are conditionally permitted.
Also subject to chapter 4, article 2.
No gaming allowed.
Sales of alcohol for on-premises consumption in the M-1 and M-2 districts are permitted with the following
conditions:
Restaurants serving alcoholic beverages are limited to those with state beer and wine licenses issued since 1997,
prohibiting any form of gambling and occupying not more than 45 percent of the total building area of a food
processing facility; and/or
Retail sales for on-premises consumption of alcohol produced on site, not to exceed 10,000 square feet or 50
percent of the facility, whichever is less.
Table 38.310.040.B
Permitted services and temporary lodging uses in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that
code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all
applicable development conditions.
5. Where a number with a "sf" reference appears below a P or C in the box, it means that the use is permitted or
conditionally permitted up to the (maximum) listed square footage in gross building area.
Uses Zoning Districts
Commercial Mixed Use Industrial PLI
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B-1 B-2 B-
2M
B-3 UMU
(38.310.050)
REMU
(38.310.060)
NEHMU BP M-1 M-2
Personal and general service
Animal shelters ——————C —S S —
Automobile washing
establishment*
—P P C C C P —P P —
Daycare—Family,
group, or center*
P P P P P P S/A S/A C/A C/A C
General service
establishment*
P P P P P P P C P C —
Health and exercise
establishments*
P
S
P P P P P P C P P —
Heavy service
establishment*
—P P C P C P —P P —
Medical and dental
o ces, clinics and
centers*
P P P P P P P P P P —
Mortuary —S S S S ——————
O ces*P P P P P P P P P P —
Personal and
convenience
services*
P P P P P P A A A A —
Truck repair, washing,
and fueling services
——————C —C P —
Temporary lodging
Bed and breakfast*—————P C ————
Short Term Rental
(Type 1)*
—P P P P P P ————
1
2
3 4
4 4 4
3
3 5
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Short Term Rental
(Type 2)*
—P P P P P P ————
Short Term Rental
(Type 3)*
—P P P P P —————
Hotel or motel*—P P P P P
40,000sf
P —P P —
Notes:
In the B-1 district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 5,000 square feet.
Authorized uses in the NEHMU district include those uses allowed in the R-2 district (see table 38.310.030 for those
not listed in this table).
Use not allowed on the ground floor of buildings in the downtown core (those properties along Main Street from
Grand Avenue to Rouse Avenue and from the alley one-half block north of Main Street to the alley one-half block
south of Main Street) unless visitor access is available from an alley and another use not subject to this footnote is
present to a minimum depth of 20 feet from the front building façade adjacent to a street.
If primarily offering services to a single business or group of businesses within the same building or building
complex.
Professional and business offices only.
Table 38.310.040.C
Permitted residential uses in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that
code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all
applicable development conditions.
Uses Zoning Districts
Commercial Mixed Use Industrial PLI
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B-
1
B-2 B-
2M
B-3 UMU
(38.310.050)
REMU
(38.310.060)
NEHMU BP M-1 M-2
General residential
Accessory dwelling
unit (38.360.040)
—————P P ————
Apartments* P P P P P P A —A A —
Apartment buildings*—C P P P P —————
Cottage housing*
(38.360.120)
—————P —————
Single household
dwelling (38.360.220)
—————P P ————
Three household
dwelling or four-
household dwelling
(38.360.220)
—————P —————
Townhouses* &
rowhouses*
(38.360.250)
—C P P —P P ————
Two-household
dwelling (38.360.220)
—————P P ————
Live-work units*P P P P P P P ————
Ground oor
residential
C P P ———————
Group residences
Community
residential facilities
with eight or fewer
residents*
P P P P P P P ————
1
2
3 4 4 5 5 6 6 6
3
5
3 7 7 7 8
5 5
4 4,
5
4,
5
4,
5
4, 5
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Community
residential facilities
serving nine or more
residents*
-C C —P P —————
Cooperative
household*
—————P C ————
Group living
(38.360.135)*
P P P P —P P ————
Lodging houses*—C C C P P —————
Transitional and
emergency housing
and related services
(38.360.140)*
—S S S S S S S S —S
Notes:
In the B-1 district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 5,000 square feet.
Authorized uses in the NEHMU district include those uses allowed in the R-2 district (some of which aren't addressed
in this table).
May be subject to the provisions of chapter 38, article 380.
When located on the second or subsequent floor, or basement as defined in section 38.700.030 of this chapter.
Lobbies associated with residential uses are allowed on the ground floor.
Non-residential uses (except for lobbies associated with residential uses) are required on the ground floor to a
minimum depth of 20 feet from front building façade on properties adjacent to designated storefront streets per
section 38.500.010.
For the purpose of this section, accessory means less than 50 percent of the gross floor area of the building, and not
located on the ground floor.
Five or more attached units.
Five or fewer attached units.
Table 38.310.040.D
Permitted industrial and wholesale uses in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts
4 4 5 4
5 3
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Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that
code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all
applicable development conditions.
Uses Zoning Districts
Commercial Mixed Use Industrial PLI
B-
1
B-2 B-
2M
B-3 UMU
(38.310.050)
REMU
(38.310.060)
NEHMU BP M-1 M-2
Industrial and Wholesale
Junk salvage or
automobile
reduction/salvage
yards
—————————C —
Manufacturing,
artisan*
P P P P P P P P P P —
Manufacturing (light)*—S S C P P P P P P —
Manufacturing
(moderate)*
—C C ———P P P P —
Manufacturing
(heavy)*
————————C P —
Outside storage ——————P A P P —
Refuse and recycling
containers
A A A A A A A A A A —
1
2
3
3 4 5 4 4
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Warehousing*——————P —P P —
Warehousing,
residential storage
(mini warehousing)
(38.360.190)*
——————P —P P —
Notes:
In the B-1 district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 5,000 square feet.
Authorized uses in the NEHMU district include those uses allowed in the R-2 district (some of which aren't addressed
in this table).
Use not allowed on the ground floor of buildings in the downtown core (those properties along Main Street from
Grand Avenue to Rouse Avenue and from the alley one-half block north of Main Street to the alley one-half block
south of Main Street) unless visitor access is available from an alley and another use not subject to this footnote is
present to a minimum depth of 20 feet from the front building façade adjacent to a street.
Completely enclosed within a building.
Limited to 5,000 square feet in gross floor area.
Additional uses for telecommunication facilities are provided for in division 38.370 of this article.
Table 38.310.040.E
Permitted public, regional, recreational, cultural and accessory uses in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zoning districts
Table clari cations:
1. Uses: P = Principal uses; C = Conditional uses; S = Special uses; A = Accessory uses; — = Uses which are not
permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. Where a code section is referenced after the use, then the use is subject to the additional standards in that
code section.
4. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then the use is subject to all
applicable development conditions.
5. Where a number with a "sf" reference appears below a P or C in the box, it means that the use is permitted or
conditionally permitted up to the (maximum) listed square footage in gross building area.
Uses Zoning Districts
Commercial Mixed Use Industrial PLI
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B-1 B-2 B-
2M
B-3 UMU
(38.310.050)
REMU
(38.310.060)
NEHMU BP M-1 M-2
Public, educational, government and regional
Business, trade,
technical or
vocational school
—P P P P P P P P P —
Cemeteries*——————————P
Essential services
(38.360.130)
• Type I A A A A A A A A A A A
• Type II P P P P P P P P P P P
• Type III C P P C C C P
C
P P P P
Meeting hall —P P P P P —————
Production
manufacturing and
generation facilities
(electric and gas)
—————————S —
Public and nonpro t,
quasi-public
institutions, e.g.
universities,
elementary junior
and senior high
schools and hospitals
——————————P
Public buildings and
publicly owned land
used for parks,
playgrounds and
open space
P—P—P P P P P P P P P
1
2
3
3
4 3,
4
4
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Solid waste transfer
station
—————————C P
Solid waste land ll ——————————C
Truck, bus and rail
terminal facilities
——————P —P P —
Recreational, cultural and entertainment
Adult business
(38.360.050)*
————————P P —
Amusement and
recreational facilities
—P P —P —P —P C —
Arts and
entertainment
center*
P P P P P P
12,000sf
—————
Casinos ————————C C —
Community centers
(38.360.090)*
P P P P P P P P P P P
Accessory and/or other uses
Agricultural uses*—————————P —
Home-based
businesses
(38.360.150)*
A A A A A A A A A A —
Other buildings and
structures (typically
accessory to
permitted uses)
A A A A A A A A A A A
Temporary buildings
and yards incidental
to ongoing
construction work
——————A A A A —
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Any use, except adult
businesses and
casinos, approved as
part of a planned unit
development subject
to the provisions of
division 38.430
C C C C C C C C C C —
Notes:
In the B-1 district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 5,000 square feet.
Authorized uses in the NEHMU district include those uses allowed in the R-2 district (some of which aren't addressed
in this table).
Use not allowed on the ground floor of buildings in the downtown core (those properties along Main Street from
Grand Avenue to Rouse Avenue and from the alley one-half block north of Main Street to the alley one-half block
south of Main Street) unless visitor access is available from an alley and another use not subject to this footnote is
present to a minimum depth of 20 feet from the front building façade adjacent to a street.
Only allowed when service may not be provided from an alternative site or a less intensive installation or set of
installations.
Also excludes retail, large scale uses.
Additional uses for telecommunication facilities are provided for in division 38.370 of this article.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 2, 3-19-2018; Order No. 2018-01 , § 5, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2019 , § 1, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2029 , § 8, 12-18-2019;
Ord. No. 2046 , §§ 1—3, 9-17-2020; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.310.050. - Supplemental use provisions for the urban mixed-use zoning district.
Mixed uses required and limited:
Development must include a mix of uses.
Uses must be grouped as commercial, industrial, office, institutional, and residential. A combination of at least two
different groups of uses must be provided within each site plan.
No use group must exceed 70 percent of the total gross building floor area in the entire site development. Multiple
buildings may be shown on a single site plan as allowed in division 38.230 of this chapter. For the purposes of
calculating the percentage of a use within the site development the gross square foot floor area of building for each
use must be utilized. Single use buildings are allowed provided the entire site meets the required use mix standard.
At least 70 percent of the ground level block frontages (see division 38.510) must be occupied by non-residential
uses. To meet this requirement, the depth of non-residential floor area must be at least 20 feet deep. Ground level
lobbies for residential uses on upper floors may qualify as a non-residential use for the purpose of this standard
provided such lobby occupies no more than 50 feet of the block frontage. Structured parking is classified as a non-
residential use. Structured parking at the ground level must include liner buildings of usable proportions along at
least 40 percent of the building façades facing a street or greenway.
5 5 5
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A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
B.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
A.
Sec. 38.310.060. - Supplemental use provisions for the residential emphasis mixed-use zoning district.
Uses required and limited.
REMU districts are intended to be developed with a mix of uses that encourage a range of building types, scales,
densities, and site configurations.
Developments are encouraged to include non-residential uses, especially commercial and neighborhood support
services, mixed horizontally and/or vertically, to promote compact, walkable and sustainable neighborhoods.
Non-residential uses must not exceed 30 percent of the total gross building square footage of all uses within the
master planned area unless otherwise allowed in this section, through a master site plan or planned unit
development (PUD) review.
For the purposes of calculating the percentage of a use within the master planned area, the gross square foot floor
area of building for each use must be utilized.
The specific method of tracking will be determined during the master site plan, PUD, or site plan review.
Home-based businesses are not considered non-residential uses and must not be limited by the provisions of the
section.
Non-residential uses intended for public benefit and shared public amenities must not be limited by the provisions
of this section. These uses include, but are not limited to, schools, parks, community centers, city operated services
and structured parking facilities.
Development review applications.
To accomplish the intent of the district, the REMU district is anticipated to be located on sites five acres or larger.
Development review applications for sites in the REMU district greater than, or equal to, five acres will first be subject
to review as a master site plan per article 2 of this chapter; or as a PUD per division 38.430 of this chapter, as
determined by the applicant.
Project applications for subsequent project phases in compliance with an approved master site plan or PUD may be
reviewed as a site plan review or sketch plan review in accordance with division 38.230 of this chapter.
All development review applications for property in the REMU district smaller than five acres are subject to the
standards in this article and may be subject to review as a master site plan per division 38.230 of this chapter upon a
finding by the city that:
The development application is for a site considered a major infill site, having a significant impact on an existing
neighborhood; or may create a center within an existing neighborhood;
The proposed development is located at an intersection deemed to have special significance;
The proposed development may have a significant impact on existing transportation and open space network,
pedestrian and bicycle travel; and/or
The proposed development requires a multi-year approval and multiple phases for completion.
DIVISION 38.320. - FORM AND INTENSITY STANDARDS
Sec. 38.320.010. - Interpretation of tables.
The form and intensity standards tables within this division include the form and intensity requirements for
development specific to individual zoning districts. The zoning districts are located on the vertical columns and the
form/intensity elements being addressed are located on the horizontal row of these tables. Where a "-" is listed in a cell,
it means that the use type or standard does not apply to the district.
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B.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
D.
E.
Where a code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set forth in that se
or chapter.
If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number immediately
following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
Division 38.350 provides clarification and exceptions to the form and intensity standards herein.
Sec. 38.320.020. - Form and intensity standards elements.
Lot area and width.
All lots must have a minimum area as set forth in the form and intensity standards tables within this division and the
more restrictive applies. These minimums assume a lack of development constraints. All newly created lots must
have a minimum area adequate to provide for required setbacks and parking as set forth in the tables within this
division Lots less than 3,000 square feet, or less than 25 feet wide may be limited in their ability to comply with other
required standards of the municipal code.
All lots must have a minimum width as set forth in the form and intensity standards tables within this division. These
minimums assume a lack of development constraints. All lots must conform to development standards for provision
of public and private utilities.
Lot area and width may be reduced to allow a density bonus through the PUD process. The amount of a bonus,
methodology for calculating the bonus, and standards for allowing a bonus are described in section
38.430.090.E.2.b(6).
Minimum density. New residential development must provide a minimum net density in applicable zones, as set forth in
the form and intensity standards tables within this division. A minimum is required to support efficiency in use of land
and provision of municipal services, and to advance the purposes and goals of this chapter and the adopted growth
policy. Density may be achieved by averaging lot sizes over an entire development.
Lot coverage and floor area.
Maximum lot coverage by principal and accessory buildings are set forth in the form and intensity standards tables
within this division.
Minimum floor area requirements for each dwelling in all districts are that area required by the city's adopted
International Building Code.
Maximum floor area ratios (FAR) must not exceed the ratios set forth in the form and intensity standards tables
within this division. FAR refers to the total floor area of all buildings or structures (excluding basements) on a lot
divided by the size of the lot.
Figure 38.320.020.C
Clari cation of oor area ratio and lot coverage.
Maximum building height for each district are set forth in the form and intensity standards tables within this division.
Minimum setbacks.
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
F.
Minimum setbacks for each district are set forth in the form and intensity standards tables within this division.
When a lot has one or more principal buildings which are oriented to place the functional rear of a building adjacent
to a side lot line, a setback from the property line equal to that for a rear setback must be provided.
All setbacks are subject to the provisions of sections 38.340.060, 38.350.050, 38.410.100, 38.400.100 and 38.550.050.
Setbacks for accessory structures are set forth in section 38.360.030.
Easements for utilities or other special standards may require adjustments to minimum building setbacks.
All developments except single to four-household dwellings are subject to the block frontage standards of division
38.510, which provides standards for building placement and related block frontage provisions depending on the
applicable block frontage designation.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 6, 4-18-2018)
Sec. 38.320.030. - Form and intensity standards—Residential districts.
Table 38.320.030.A
Minimum and maximum lot area
Table clari cation:
1. Where a code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set
forth in that section or chapter.
2. If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number
immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
Use Type/Standard Zoning District
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
Minimum lot area per dwelling (square feet)(38.320.030.A)
Single-household
dwelling
4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 3,000 4,000 3,000
Single-household
dwelling (only for
dwellings to satisfy
minimum
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
2,700 2,700 2,700 2,700 2,700 2,700 2,700 2,700
1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
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Two-household
dwellings
——2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 3,000 —
Two household
dwellings (only for
dwellings to satisfy
minimum
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
——2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 —
Lot area per dwelling
in three- or four-
household dwelling
con gurations
———3,000 3,000 None 3,000 —
Lot area per dwelling
in three- or four-
household dwelling
con gurations (only
for dwellings to
satisfy minimum
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
———2,500 2,500 None 2,500 —
Townhouses &
rowhouses
——3,000 3,000 3,000 None 3,000 —
Townhouses &
rowhouses (only for
dwellings to satisfy
minimum
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 None 2,500 2,500
Apartments and
Apartment Building,
Limited—First
dwelling
————5,000 None 5,000 —
1 1 1
2 3 3 3
3 3 3 3 3 3
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Apartments and
Apartment Building,
Limited —Each
dwelling after the
rst
————1,200 None 1,200 —
Apartment Building,
Limited—Each
dwelling
———3,000 ————
Apartments—Each
dwelling after the
rst (only for
dwellings to satisfy
minimum
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
————900 None 900 —
Additional area
required for an
accessory dwelling
unit
1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 None 1,000 —
All other uses 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 None 5,000 5,000
Maximum lot area (net acres) (38.320.020.A)
Residential use ———2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 —
Notes:
In order to comply with the standards contained in this chapter, lot area in excess of the required minimum may be
needed (for corner lots, parking, landscaping or large residential structures, for example), and may be necessary for
property adjacent to watercourses, ridgelines, or other environmental features in order to provide an appropriate
buildable area on the lot.
Per townhouse lot or rowhouse dwelling.
For townhouse or rowhouse clusters, the lot area per dwelling may be averaged within the cluster.
Extra lot size requirement does not apply when R-S lots are larger than 6,000 square feet.
Departures from the maximum lot size requirements may be allowed where the planned development fits into the
context of the neighborhood and proposed pedestrian and vehicular circulation measures meet community
4
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
5 5 5 5
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objectives.
Table 38.320.030.B
Minimum lot width (feet)
Table clari cation:
1. Where a code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set
forth in that section or chapter.
2. If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number
immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
Use Type/Standard Zoning District
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
Single-household
dwelling
50 50/40 50/40 50/40 50/35 35/25 50/40 50/40
Single-household
dwelling (only for
dwellings to satisfy
requirements of
division 38.380 of
this chapter)
30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30
Two household
dwelling
——60/50 60/40 50/40 50/40 50/50 —
Accessory dwelling
unit
50 40 40 40 40 None 40 —
Accessory dwelling
unit on lots with
Townhouses
30 30 30 Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
—
Dwellings in three-
or four-household
dwelling
con gurations
--—60 60 None 60 —
1 1 1 1 1,2 1 1
1 1 1 1 1
3
4
3
2 2 2 2
2,4
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1.
2.
3.
4.
Townhouses 30 30 30 Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
Width of
interior
units
—
All other uses 50 50 50 50 50 None 50 50
Notes:
When the lot is adjacent to an alley and vehicle access is taken only from that alley.
Lot width is subject to section 38.400.090. Lot widths of 25 feet or less may jeopardize compliance with standards for
legal and physical access, street trees, on-street parking, garage design, drive access width and placement, and
utilities. Home design and size will be restricted as a result. Mitigation measures may be required for placement and
separation of public and private utilities.
Second dwellings in accessory buildings are subject to all restrictions in this chapter relating to accessory buildings.
Lot area and width must be provided as if the dwelling were attached to the principal use. Dwellings to be developed
under this option are subject to section 38.360.040.
Lot widths may be variable provided they are sized and shaped sufficient to accommodate permitted uses and
conform to applicable design and density standards.
Figure 38.320.030.1.
Minimum setback to an individual, garage oriented to the street
Table 38.320.030.C
Density, building height, and setbacks
Table clari cation:
1. Where a code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set
forth in that section or chapter.
2. If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number
immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
,2 ,2 ,2 ,2
2,4
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Use Type/Standard Zoning District
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
Density, oor area and lot coverage
Density, minimum
(dwellings per net
acre)
(38.320.020.B)
2 5 5 5 8 8 6 5
Lot coverage,
maximum
(38.320.020.C.1)
25%40% 40% 40% 50% -—40%
Floor area ratio,
maximum
(38.320.020.C.3)
0.45:1 0.5:1 0.75:1 1:1 1.5:1 —1.5:1 —
Maximum building height (feet) (38.320.020.E)
Roof pitch in feet R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 R-O RMH
Less than 3:12 28 28 30 36 40 50 50 28
3:12 or greater 42 40 40 46 50 60 60 40
Minimum setbacks (feet)(38.320.020.F)
Front setback 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15
Setback to an
individual garage
oriented to the
street
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
Rear setback 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
Side setback 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Notes:
1
2
3 3 3 3 3
4
5
5
6 7
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
6
6 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
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1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
4.
a.
b.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
The minimum density in the R-5 zone is eight dwelling units per "gross" acre.
In all residential zoning districts for those lots used to satisfy the requirements of division 38.380, not more than 60
percent of the lot area can be covered by principal and accessory buildings. When a larger lot has a portion of its
total dwellings subject to the requirements of division 38.380, either directly or inherited from a previous
subdivision, the portion used for those dwellings may have up to 60 percent of the lot area covered by principal and
accessory buildings.
The maximum lot coverage for townhouses and rowhouses:
R-1, R-2, R-3, and RMH districts: 50 percent.
R-4 and townhouses complying with affordable housing provisions of division 38.380 of this chapter: 85 percent.
Floor area ratio adjustments:
For townhouse developments, the floor area ratio standard applies to all townhouse lots. Designated common
area specifically associated with the townhouses may be used as applicable site area in determining compliance
with the floor area ratio requirement.
Dwellings used to satisfy requirements of division 38.380 of this chapter are allowed a 25 percent increase in
allowable floor area ratio.
An area, not to exceed a total of ten percent of the building footprint, may extend above the maximum building
height by up to 12 feet. Such elements may include stair or elevator penthouses, service elements, or habitable area
and must be set back from the edge of the building by at least five feet (see Figure 38.320.030.1 below for an
example) to reduce the visibility of such feature.
Figure 38.320.030.2.
Limited exceptions to height limits for elevator or stair penthouses or similar features are permitted provided
they occupy no more than ten percent of building's footprint and are setback from the edge of the building by at
least ve feet to reduce their visibility from the ground level.
All barns, stables or permanent corrals must be set back not less than 100 feet from any residence or public road
and not less than 50 feet from any property line.
Porches and covered entries in the R-5 district may project as allowed 38.350.050.
All vehicle entrances, oriented to the street, into garages shall be no closer than 20 feet to a property line, unless
explicitly authorized otherwise under this chapter.
No side setback is required for the interior walls of townhouses.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 2, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2019 , § 2, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2059 , § 2, 1-26-2021; Ord. No. 2070 , § 1, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.320.040. - Form and intensity standards—Residential emphasis mixed-use zoning district.
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Table 38.320.040
Table of Form and Intensity Standards—
Residential Emphasis Mixed-Use Zoning District
Table clari cation:
1. Where a code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set
forth in that section or chapter.
2. If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number
immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
Standard Small-lot
single-
household
Single-
household
Townhouse/rowhouse
townhouse/rowhouse
cluster
Two to four
household
dwellings,
group
living,
apartments
Mixed use
(residential
over
commercial)
Non-
residential
Lot and Floor Area Standards
Minimum lot area
(square feet)
(38.320.020.A)
2,500 4,000 None Note None —
Minimum lot
width (feet)
(38.320.020.A)
25 40 15.5 Note None —
Maximum lot
coverage
(38.320.020.C.1)
75%50%75%75% 75% 100%
Maximum
allowable oor
area ratio
(38.320.020.C.3)
1.5:1 1:1 2.5:1 4:1 0.75:1 Max: 0.5:1
Minimum and Maximum Building Height (feet) (38.320.020.D)
(where only one number is shown in the column, the number must represent the maximum height limit)
1
2 3
3
4 4 5
6
6
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Roof pitch: Less
than 3:12
35 35 35 5 stories
maximum
2 stories
minimum &
5 stories
maximum
15 feet
minimum
& 5 stories
maximumRoof pitch: 3:12 or
greater but less
than 6:12
38 38 38
Roof pitch: 6:12 or
greater but less
than 9:12
40 40 42
Roof pitch: Equal
to or greater than
9:12
42 42 44
Minimum-Maximum Setbacks (feet) (38.320.020.E)
(where only one number is shown in the column, there is no "maximum" setback)
Front Setback
(minimum and
maximum)
10-15 10-15 10-15 10-15 Note Note
Setback to an
individual garage
oriented to the
street
20 20 20 ———
Rear Setback 10 15 10 10 ——
Side Setback 5 5 5 5 ——
Garages and Special Parking Standards
Residential
garages
Note Note Note Note Note —
Special Parking
Standards
———Note Note Note
Notes:
7 8
11 11 11
9 9 10
12 12 12 12 12
13 6,13,14 6,13,14
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1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
a.
b.
7.
a.
b.
8.
a.
b.
c.
9.
Supplemental townhouse/rowhouse cluster standards:
Portions of site development review applications within the REMU zone for attached multi-household
developments should be urban in character and may be designed such that each dwelling unit has a ground level
entry oriented to the public realm, and shares one or more walls with another dwelling unit.
Such units should be broadly consistent in scale and level of architectural detail, but must be designed to
emphasize a distinction in individual dwelling units through form, massing, articulation, color and other
architectural means.
Townhouse/rowhouse units may incorporate home-based businesses at the ground level with direct access from
a public right-of-way or other accessible route. These uses are exempt from off-street parking requirements.
Developments incorporating townhouse/rowhouse units may include individual retail uses at the ground level no
greater than 2,000 square feet in area, when located along the primary frontage. The first 2,000 square feet of
any non-residential use in this development type is exempt from off-street parking requirements. Parking lots for
such uses must not be permitted along primary street frontages. Apply standards of section 38.540.050.D for
accessible parking spaces.
Additional area for accessory dwelling unit: 800 square feet minimum.
Apply standards of Table 38.320.030 (lot area standards), section 38.360.135, or if a structured internal parking
facility is provided, then required lot area may be reduced by up to 50 percent.
Lot coverage may be up to 100 percent if a structured parking facility that accommodates all required parking is
provided.
Lot coverage may be up to 100 percent if parking requirements are met by shared or off-site parking facilities, or if a
structured parking facility that accommodates all required parking is provided.
Special parking standards.
Structured parking incentive. A floor area bonus of one square foot of non-residential up to a total of 50 percent
of the gross building area of all uses may be granted for each square foot of structured parking area.
Parking for individual lots may be provided elsewhere within the district with a shared parking agreement,
provided that the overall parking ratio for the district is comparable with documented parking ratios in
developments of similar scale, intensity of use, population density, and scope.
Special setback standards for mixed-use:
No minimum setbacks are required for the mixed-use district. Easements for utilities or other special standards
may require buildings to be placed back from lot lines.
Maximum setback. Buildings must be oriented to the adjacent street. At least 50 percent of the total building
frontage must be placed within ten feet of any minimum required separation from the property line.
Special setback standards for non-residential uses:
Minimum setback. No minimum setback are required for non-residential uses. Easements for utilities or other
special standards may require buildings to be placed back from lot lines.
Maximum setback. Buildings must be oriented to the primary street. At least 50 percent of the total building
frontage must be placed within ten feet of any minimum required separation from the property line.
Special setback requirements. All setbacks associated with non-residential development must be subject to the
provisions of section 38.550.050.B, additional screening requirements, and section 38.550.050.C (parking lot
landscaping), when applicable.
Allow "zero-lot line" development through shared use easements or placement of buildings on or near one of the
side lot lines.
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10.
11.
12.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
13.
14.
Or zero feet for interior walls of townhouses.
All vehicle entrances oriented to the street into garages must be no closer than 20 feet to a property line, unless
otherwise explicitly authorized under this chapter.
Special garage standards for single to four-household uses. To ensure that the subject housing types contribute to a
community-oriented, pedestrian-friendly streetscape, they must comply with the following specific standards of this
chapter:
Section 38.350.070, parking and garages for single to four-household residential uses.
Section 38.400.090.C.2.a, drive access requirements—residential.
Section 38.540.010.A.4, stacking of off-street parking spaces.
Section 38.540.010.A.5, no parking permitted in required front or side setbacks.
Section 38.540.010.A.6, parking permitted in rear setbacks.
Bicycle parking. Covered bicycle parking must be provided by all mixed use development. The covered spaces must
be either ten bicycle parking spaces or one-half of the total minimum bicycle parking, whichever is less.
Mixed-use and non-residential developments are subject to block frontage standards of division 38.510.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.320.050. - Form and intensity standards—Non-residential and other mixed-use districts.
Table 38.320.050
Table of Form and Intensity Standards—
Non-Residential and Other Mixed-Use Districts
Table clari cation:
1. Where an code reference or link appears after the form and intensity topic, the use is subject to standards set
forth in that section or chapter.
2 If a number appears in the box, refer to the development condition with the corresponding number
immediately following the table. If there are multiple numbers, then all development conditions apply.
Standard Zones
Commercial Zoning Districts UMU Industrial Zoning Districts PLI NEHMU
B-1 B-2 B-2M B-3 BP M-1 M-2
Lot and oor area standards
Minimum lot
area (square
feet)
(38.320.020.A)
5,000 —--—43,560 7,500 ——5,000 1
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Minimum lot
width (feet)
(38.320.020.A)
50 100 ———150 75 100 —50
Maximum lot
coverage
(38.320.020.C)
100%100%100%100%100% 60%100%100%-40%—
100%
Minimum oor
area ratio
(38.320.020.C)
————0.50 —————
Building height standards (feet) (38.320.020.E)
Minimum
building height
————22 —————
Maximum
building height
Variable 55/70 60 50 50 —50
Minimum oor
to ceiling height
13 13 13 13 13 —————
Roof pitch <
3:12
40 50 42
Roof pitch
3:12 or >
45 60 48
Minimum setback (feet) (38.320.020.F)
Front Setback Front setback provisions are set forth in the block frontage standards in division 38.510.
Setback to an
individual
garage oriented
to the street
—20 20 20 —————20
Rear Setback 10 10 10 0 0 20 3 3 0 3
Side Setback 5 5 5 0 0 15 3 3 0 3
4
5
6
8
9 10
7 7
7 7
13 15 17 12
14 14 14 15 17,
14
14 14 12
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
a.
8.
a.
Side or Rear
Setback
Adjacent to Alley
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Parking &
loading areas
(feet)
Note Note
Front Setback Note Note Note Note Note Note Note Note
Rear Setback 10 10 5 0 -——
Side Setback 8 8 5 0 ---
Garages and special parking standards
Residential
Garages
—Note Note Note —————Note
Special Parking
Standards
Note Note Note Note Note Note Note Note Note
Notes:
The lot area must provide all required setback areas and off-street parking and loading. Lot area per dwelling must
not be less than 5,000 square feet per detached single-household dwelling and 3,000 square feet per attached
dwelling. Lot area per each dwelling used to satisfy the requirements of division 38.380 must not be less than 2,700
square feet per detached single-household dwelling and 2,500 square feet per attached dwelling.
Reserved.
Reserved.
In the UMU district, the footprint of individual buildings must not exceed 45,000 square feet.
The maximum lot coverage must be 40 percent for principally residential uses or 100 percent for principally non-
residential uses.
Buildings within a development or each phase of a multi-phased development must have varying heights achieved
through the use of multiple stories.
Height exceptions:
Maximum height may be increased by up to a maximum of 50 percent when the zoning district is implementing a
regional commercial and services growth policy land use designation.
B-2M height limits:
For buildings designed for non-residential or mixed-use: Five stories or 60 feet (whichever is less), provided the
top floor of five-story buildings within 30 feet of the front property line feature has a stepback of at least ten feet
15 15
11 11
11 11 11 11 11 11
16 16 16 17
16 16 16 17
18
18 18 18
19, 20 19, 20
19,
20
20
19, 20
20
19,20 19,20
20
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b.
c.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
from the front face of the building.
Figure 38.320.050.1.
The top oor of ve story buildings within 30 feet of a street property line must feature a ten-foot stepback
along the front façade to reduce the perceived scale of the building.
For buildings designed for single purpose residential use: Four stories or 50 feet (whichever is less).
An area, not to exceed a total of ten percent of the floor area which is located at street level, may extend above
the maximum building height by up to 12 feet.
Figure 38.320.050.2.
Limited exceptions to height limits for elevator or stair penthouses or similar features are permitted provided
they occupy no more than ten percent of building's footprint and are set back from the edge of the building by
at least ve feet to reduce their visibility from the ground level.
Maximum building height in the B-3 district must be 55 feet in the district core area and 70 feet outside of the core
area.
Maximum building height may be increased by up to but not more than an additional 25 feet when structured
parking is provided per section 38.330.040.E.2, and when determined to be in compliance with the review criteria of
38.230.100.
Front setback provisions are set forth in the block frontage standards in division 38.510 and in 38.350.070.
In the PLI district, there is no setback requirement except when a lot is adjacent to another district. The setbacks
then must be the same as those in the adjacent district. The setback requirements of RS must be interpreted as
those of R-1.
The minimum rear setback is five feet for accessory buildings.
Zero lot lines are allowed per 38.350.050.B.
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15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
A.
B.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
b.
All vehicle entrances into garages must be no closer than 20 feet to a property line, unless explicitly authorized otherwis
this chapter.
Side and rear setbacks for parking may be allowed to be zero feet when coordinated parking arrangements between
adjacent properties are provided.
Rear and side setbacks adjacent to alleys must be at least five feet.
Garage location standards: for single to four-household uses, see 38.350.070.
This chapter provides opportunities for parking requirements to be met by shared and off-site parking as allowed by
division 38.540 of this chapter.
Non-residential and multi-household developments are subject to the block frontage standards of division 38.510.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 3, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2070 , § 2, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.320.060. - Zone edge transitions.
Intent. To provide measures that help to provide a compatible transition between certain higher and lower intensity
zoning districts.
Zone edge transition standards. The following standards are intended to supersede other form and intensity standards
in this division.
Setback adjustments.
Minimum side and rear setbacks for development within BP, M-1, and M-2 districts where adjacent to a
residential district: 15 feet. No additional setbacks required adjacent to alleys and streets.
Minimum side and rear setbacks for development within B-3 and UMU districts adjacent to a residential district:
five feet. No additional setbacks are required adjacent to alleys and streets
Height/setback adjustments.
For development on sites in the B-3, B-2M, UMU, and R-5 districts that are adjacent to the RS, R-1, or R-2 district,
the following standard applies: From a height of 38 feet at a ten foot setback from the applicable residential
districts, buildings must step back at a 45 degree angle away from the applicable property line as shown in figure
38.320.060. No such 45 degree angle setback is required if separated by a street.
Figure 38.320.060.
45 degree angle stepback rule for certain zone edge development.
For development on sites in the B-3 district that border R-3 and R-4 districts, the following standard applies: From
a height of 38 feet at a five foot setback from the applicable residential districts, buildings must step back at a 45
degree angle away from the applicable property line.
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c.
(1)
(2)
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
1.
2.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
3.
F.
1.
a.
b.
2.
Permitted 45 degree angle stepback encroachments:
Permitted horizontal encroachments include those elements and standards set forth in section 38.350.050.A.
Permitted vertical encroachments include those elements and standards set forth in section 38.350.050.D.
DIVISION 38.330. - ZONE SPECIFIC PROVISIONS
Sec. 38.330.010. - UMU district—Special standards.
A UMU district is anticipated to generally be not less than 20 acres in area. The city may approve a lesser area of not less
than ten acres upon finding that a smaller area will still provide for adequate transition between adjacent districts,
provide a reasonable community setting for the intensity of the district, and that a smaller area will not constitute spot
zoning.
The district must be surrounded by perimeter streets unless precluded by topography.
Block frontages and building orientation. See division 38.510 for applicable standards for all development types.
Site planning and design element standards. See division 38.520 for applicable standards for all development types.
Building standards.
Building design. See division 38.520 for applicable standards for all development types.
Floor-to-floor heights and floor area of ground-floor space.
All commercial floor space provided on the ground floor of a mixed-use building must have a minimum floor-to-
ceiling height of 13 feet.
All commercial floor space provided on the ground floor of a mixed-use building must contain the following
minimum floor area:
At least 800 square feet or 25 percent of the lot area (whichever is greater) on lots with street frontage of less
than 50 feet; or
At least 20 percent of the lot area on lots with street frontage of 50 feet or more.
Street-level openings on parking structures must be limited to those necessary for retail store entrances, vehicle
entrance and exit lanes, and pedestrian entrances to stairs and elevator lobbies. Parking structures adjacent to
streets must have architectural detailing such as, but not limited to, standard size masonry units such as brick,
divided openings to give the appearance of windows, and other techniques to provide an interesting and human-
scaled appearance on the story adjacent to the sidewalk.
Special parking standards.
Maximum surface parking.
In order to achieve the intent of the district and achieve efficiency in the use of land, surface parking provided for
the sole use of an individual development must not exceed 100 percent of the minimum parking requirement for
the subject land use based upon the requirements of division 38.540 of this chapter. The UMU district may utilize
the parking reductions authorized in section 38.540.050.2.c.1. All qualifying reductions must be included in
determining the 100 percent requirement.
Exemptions to section 38.330.010.G.1.a, to allow unstructured surface parking up to 100 percent of the minimum
parking requirement exclusive of reductions may be approved through the development review process for
developments that provide shared parking to other development, valet parking spaces, parking for off-site users
for which an hourly or other regular rent is paid, or similarly managed parking facilities.
Structured parking incentive. A floor area bonus of one square foot may be granted for each square foot of area of
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3.
G.
H.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
A.
B.
1.
a.
b.
c.
parking provided within a building. Additional height of building is allowed to accommodate this additional building
area per Table 38.320.050.
Bicycle parking. Covered bicycle parking must be provided. The covered spaces must be at least one-half of the total
minimum bicycle parking. The minimum number of covered spaces must be the greater of either ten bicycle parking
spaces or five percent of motor vehicle parking provided on-site.
Lighting. All building entrances, pathways, and other pedestrian areas must be lit with pedestrian-scale lighting (e.g., wall
mounted, sidewalk lamps, bollards, landscaping lighting, etc.). Alternative lighting meeting the intent of the design
guidelines and other criteria of this chapter may be approved through site development review.
Public spaces. The UMU district is urban in nature. Public parks and recreational areas are likewise expected to be urban
in nature. This will include elements such as plazas or other hardscapes, landscaping with planters, furniture, developed
recreation facilities such as basketball and tennis courts or indoor recreation facilities, and will be more concentrated in
size and development than anticipated in a less urban setting. The requirements of this section give direction in the
development of park plans and the application of the standards of division 38.420 of this chapter. The parkland
dedication requirements of division 38.420 of this chapter may be satisfied by a cumulative contribution of land and the
value of on-site improvements to create spaces with the characteristics and functions described in this section.
Development within the UMU district may also utilize any of the options of sections 38.420.030 and 38.420.100 to satisfy
the requirements of section 38.420.020.A. The requirements of this section must prevail if these standards conflict with
the application of the standards of article 4 of this chapter.
Public spaces must be designed to facilitate at least three of the following types of activities to encourage consistent
human presence and activity.
Public spaces must be designed to:
Facilitate social interaction between and within groups;
Provide safe, pleasant, clean and convenient sitting spaces adaptable to changing weather conditions;
Be attractive to multiple age groups;
Provide for multiple types of activities without conflicting;
Support organized activities;
Be visually distinctive and interesting;
Interconnect with other public and private spaces; and
Prioritize use by persons.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 2, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.330.020. - REMU district—Special standards.
The special standards set forth in this section are minimum standards for a development review application. Standards
not specifically addressed by this section are subject to the standards set forth in this chapter.
Street and circulation standards.
The policies and standards of the city's long-range transportation plan apply to REMU districts. New streets within
REMU districts must be complete streets that accommodate pedestrians, bicycles, buses, automobiles and
wintertime snow storage, and work in concert with internal property accesses and adjacent development to create a
connected and vibrant public realm. REMU street standards also include the following stipulations:
Natural storm drainage systems are allowed within street rights-of-way.
Boulevard strips and medians may incorporate natural drainage technologies.
Buildings must be oriented with front facades facing the street as specified in the block frontage standards of
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d.
e.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
3.
4.
a.
C.
D.
1.
2.
3.
E.
1.
2.
3.
4.
F.
division 38.510 of this chapter.
Shared drive accesses must be used to reduce the need for additional curb cuts, when feasible.
On-street parking should be maximized wherever feasible.
Front-loaded local streets. To ensure that front-loaded streets are community-oriented and pedestrian-friendly,
adjacent buildings, garages and drive aisles must comply with the following specific standards of this chapter.
Section 38.350.070, parking and garages (for single to four-household dwellings).
Section 38.400.090.C.2.a, drive access requirements—Residential.
Division 38.510, block frontage standards (for all development except single to four-household dwellings)
Section 38.540.010.A.4, stacking of off-street parking spaces.
Section 38.540.010.A.5, no parking permitted in required front or side setbacks.
Section 38.540.010.A.6, parking permitted in rear setbacks.
Woonerfs. Woonerfs, or streets where pedestrians and cyclists have priority over motorists, are encouraged on
private drive accesses or properties in the REMU district. Woonerfs may be permitted on public local streets or alleys
through the subdivision variance or PUD process.
Alleys. Alleys are encouraged, but not required, in the REMU district.
Apply standards of section 38.400.060.B (street improvement standards—alleys) where applicable.
Site planning and design element standards. See division 38.520 for applicable standards for all development types,
except single to four-household dwellings. See section 38.360.220 for applicable standards for single to four-household
dwellings.
Open space standards. The REMU district is urban in nature. Public parks and recreational areas and publicly accessible
private open spaces are likewise expected to be urban in nature. This may include elements such as plazas or other
hardscaping, or landscaping with planters and furniture. Such areas may be more concentrated in size and development
than anticipated in a less urban setting. Public spaces must be designed to facilitate distinct types of activities to
encourage consistent human presence and activity.
Public parks and recreational areas. The requirements of this section must give direction in the development of park
plans and the application of the standards of division 38.420 of this chapter.
Publicly accessible private open space in commercial developments. See section 38.520.060 of this chapter for the
minimum amount and design of pedestrian-oriented open space.
Private residential open space. See section 38.520.060 of this chapter for the minimum amount and design of usable
residential open space.
Building standards.
See division 38.520 for applicable standards for all development types, except single to four-household dwellings.
Parking structures must not have more than one two-way vehicle entrance or two one-way vehicle entrances facing
any public way. Fifty percent of a parking structure's ground floor linear frontage along the primary street must be
retail, commercial, office, civic, residential, or live/work.
Building encroachments are permitted in accordance with section 38.350.050, subject to any and all applicable
International Building Codes.
All projects in the REMU district are exempt from the rear setback lot coverage requirements of section 38.360.030.I.
Landscape and planting standards. Developments are subject to the landscaping standards in division 38.550 of this
chapter and the provisions herein. Table 38.330.020-1 lists the minimum number of points needed for landscape plan
approval for development types within REMU districts.
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G.
A.
Table 38.330.020-1
Special Landscape and Planting Standards
Development type Lot with residential
adjacency
Lot without residential
adjacency
Residential: Small-lot single-household N/A per section
38.550.020.B
N/A per section
38.550.020.B
Residential: Single-household N/A per section
38.550.020.B
N/A per section
38.550.020.B
Residential: Townhouse
2 to 4 attached units
N/A per section
38.550.020.B
N/A per section
38.550.020.B
Residential: Townhouse or townhouse cluster
5 or more attached units
23 23
Residential: Two to four household dwellings N/A per section
38.550.020.B
N/A per section
38.550.020.B
Residential: Apartments
5 or more units
23 23
Mixed use with residential 15 15
Non-residential projects 23 15
PUD 23 23
Lighting standards. See division 38.580 for applicable standards.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.330.030. - PLI district—Applicability.
To the maximum extent allowed by state law, all PLI development must be subject to review and approval as provided for by this
chapter, based upon recommendations received from the applicable review bodies established by article 2 of this chapter as may
be applicable, and must be required to comply with all applicable underlying zoning requirements, as well as any requirements for
certificates of appropriateness as established in design objective plans or other overlay district regulations or guidelines.
Sec. 38.330.040. - NEHMU District—Special standards and requirements.
The requirements for landscape buffering for residential adjacency required by division 38.550 of this chapter are not
applicable in the northeast HMU.
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B.
C.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
1.
a.
b.
All necessary screening or other buffering determined to be necessary between adjoining uses must be the
responsibility of the use established last in time.
When a lot is adjacent to or across the street from a residential zoning district, the setback requirements must be the
same as the adjoining zone and buildings must be screened with either a decorative fence or plantings. The provisions of
R-S must be interpreted as those of R-1.
DIVISION 38.340. - OVERLAY DISTRICT STANDARDS
Part 1. - Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District and Historic Preservation
Sec. 38.340.010. - Intent and purpose.
All new construction, alterations to existing structures, movement of structures into or out of the neighborhood
conservation overlay district, hereinafter referred to as the conservation district, or demolition of structures by any
means or process will be subject to design review unless specifically exempted. The recommendations of the design
review board or administrative design review staff must be given careful consideration in the final action of the review
authority.
Sections 38.340.010 through 38.340.130 define and set forth standards which apply to the conservation district.
The intent and purpose of the conservation district designation is to stimulate the restoration and rehabilitation of
structures, and all other elements contributing to the character and fabric of established residential neighborhoods and
commercial or industrial areas. New construction will be invited and encouraged provided primary emphasis is given to
the preservation of existing buildings and further provided the design of such new space enhances and contributes to
the aesthetic character and function of the property and the surrounding neighborhood or area. Contemporary design
will be encouraged, provided it is in keeping with the above-stated criteria, as an acknowledged fact of the continuing
developmental pattern of a dynamic, changing community.
In view of the fact that most of the area included within the boundaries of the conservation district was developed and
built out prior to the adoption of zoning and contemporary subdivision regulations, the construction, development
pattern and range of uses is highly diverse and may not be in compliance with conventional regulatory requirements.
This part 1 recognizes that this diversity is a contributing element of the historic character of these neighborhoods or
areas. The provisions of this part 1 must be applied in a manner that will encourage the protection and enhancement of
the many diverse features for future generations.
The conservation district boundary is largely coterminous with the area surveyed in the effort that led to the listing of
nine historic districts and 40 additional landmark structures in the National Register of Historic Places, and includes the
nine designated historic districts and 40 individual landmarks. The district boundary may be revised as additional
cultural resource survey work is completed. This part 1 sets forth the means of protecting and enhancing the
conservation district.
It is further the purpose of the conservation district designation to protect and enhance neighborhoods or areas of
significant land planning or architectural character, historic landmarks or other built or natural features for the
educational, cultural, economic benefit or enjoyment of citizens of the city. It will be the policy and responsibility of the
administrative entities of this part 1 to:
Protect, preserve, enhance and regulate historically significant structures, archaeological or cultural sites, and areas
that:
Are reminders of past eras, events or persons important in local, state or national history;
Provide significant examples of land planning or architectural styles, or are landmarks in the history of land
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c.
d.
e.
2.
3.
4.
5.
G.
A.
B.
A.
1.
planning and architecture;
Are unique or irreplaceable assets to the city and its neighborhoods;
Provide examples of physical surroundings in which past generations lived; or
Represent and express the unique characteristics of small agricultural-based, western city developmental
patterns;
Enhance property values through the stabilization of neighborhoods and areas of the city, increase economic and
financial benefits to the city and its inhabitants, and promote tourist trade and interests;
Develop and maintain the appropriate environment for buildings, structures, sites and areas that reflect varied
planning and architectural styles and distinguished phases of the city's history and prehistory;
Stimulate an enhancement of human life by developing educational and cultural dimensions, which foster the
knowledge of the city's heritage, and cultivate civic pride in the accomplishments of the past; and
Seek to maintain and enhance the many private and public elements that are unique to the fabric, theme and
character of each neighborhood and area, including, but not limited to: lighting, pathways, street trees, natural areas
and other features that may, from time to time, be identified by the citizens and property owners' of neighborhoods,
areas and subsections thereof.
It is further the purpose of this article to protect historic structures and sites as defined in article 7 of this chapter by
requiring any person seeking to demolish or move a historic structure or site to comply with section 38.230.080 whether
or not the structure is located within the NCOD.
Sec. 38.340.020. - Design review board and administrative design review sta powers and duties within conservation districts.
The DRB and administrative design review staff will review and make recommendations to the review authority
regarding development within the neighborhood conservation district in order to maintain the underlying and desirable
characteristics of structures and areas within such districts, while recognizing the need for innovation and individual
expression in the development of these districts.
In carrying out this mission, in addition to the duties established in division 38.200 of this chapter, the design review
board and administrative design review staff must review any tax abatement or other incentive programs being
considered by the city commission that are designed to stimulate preservation and rehabilitation of structures and
properties, and to review any proposed action or development utilizing these abatement or incentive programs.
Sec. 38.340.030. - Conservation district designation or recession.
A site, structure, object, area or district may be designated or rescinded as a landmark, or added to or removed from the
conservation district by the city commission upon recommendation of the Historic Preservation Advisory Board subject to the
provisions of division 6, Historic Preservation Advisory Board of article 5, chapter 2, and division 38.260, Text and Map
Amendments, of this chapter. Property owner concurrence is necessary for the designation or recision of landmark status.
Sec. 38.340.040. - Certi cate of appropriateness.
A certificate of appropriateness is required before any and all alteration(s) other than those specifically exempted in
subsection 1 of this section, or repair(s) as defined in section 38.700.160, are undertaken upon any structure in the
conservation district. The review authority for certificates of appropriateness is established in division 38.200.010 of this
chapter. Compliance with the terms of the final decision is required. The Montana Historical and Architectural Inventory
Form must be reviewed and, if necessary, updated to reflect current conditions on the site, prior to the review of the
proposal. Application procedures are as follows:
No building, demolition, conditional use, sign or moving permit may be issued within the conservation district until a
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a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
2.
3.
A.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
certificate of appropriateness has been issued by the appropriate review authority, and until final action on the
proposal has been taken.
Limited exceptions. The following construction located within the neighborhood conservation overlay district,
within an established historic district, or at a site which is individually listed on the National Register of Historic
Preservation, does not require a certificate of appropriateness if the project satisfies the following standards:
Fences meeting all other provisions of this chapter (e.g. height limitations, street vision triangle, finished side
out, etc. per section 38.350.060) which are built of wood, wrought-iron, or any other non-synthetic material
and whose construction allows "transparency" as set forth in Chapter 3, Section F of the design guidelines
referenced in section 38.340.050.D. Chain link fencing is not included in this exception.
Basement egress windows whose window material and configuration is present elsewhere in the structure,
and whose window wells are not on the front or corner-side setback elevation of the structure, and which do
not establish or provide egress from an illegal dwelling unit.
Accessory structures under 120 square feet as measured from the outer edge of the exterior walls, which
meet the setback requirements, are not more than 14 feet to their highest point and which do not require a
building permit.
Alterations in roofing material, if installing wood shingle, slate, tile, or asphalt shingle material, and no
changes are made to the roof shape, pitch or slope.
Photovoltaic panels which are flush mounted to a roof.
Application, review and public notice procedures for proposals located within the conservation district are set forth
in division 38.230, Plan Review, and division 38.220, Applications and Noticing, of this chapter. If demolition or
movement of structures or sites subject to the conservation district requirements is proposed, the procedures in
section 38.340.080 apply.
The architectural designs of individual affordable housing units used to satisfy the requirements of section
38.380.030 and are exempt from the review requirements of this part 1. This exemption does not extend to removal
or alterations of existing structures.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 4, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.340.050. - Standards for certi cates of appropriateness.
All work performed in completion of an approved certificate of appropriateness must be in conformance with the most
recent edition of the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for
Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring and Reconstructing Historic Buildings, published by U.S. Department of the Interior,
National Park Service, Cultural Resource Stewardship and Partnerships, Heritage Preservation Services, Washington, D.C.
(available for review at the community development department).
Architectural appearance design guidelines used to consider the appropriateness and compatibility of proposed
alterations with original design features of subject structures or properties, and with neighboring structures and
properties, must focus upon the following:
Height;
Proportions of doors and windows;
Relationship of building masses and spaces;
Roof shape;
Scale;
Directional expression, with regard to the dominant horizontal or vertical expression of surrounding structures;
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7.
8.
9.
C.
D.
E.
F.
A.
1.
2.
3.
Architectural details;
Concealment of non-period appurtenances, such as mechanical equipment; and
Materials and color schemes (any requirements or conditions imposed regarding color schemes must be limited to
the prevention of nuisances upon abutting properties and prevention of degradation of features on the property in
question. Color schemes may be considered as primary design elements if a deviation from the underlying zoning is
requested).
Contemporary, non-period and innovative design of new structures and additions to existing structures is encouraged
when such new construction or additions do not destroy significant historical, cultural or architectural structures or their
components and when such design is compatible with the foregoing elements of the structure and surrounding
structures.
When applying the standards of subsections A through C of this section, the review authority must be guided by the
design guidelines for the neighborhood conservation overlay district. Application of the design guidelines may vary by
property as explained in the introduction to the design guidelines. When reviewing a contemporary, non-period, or
innovative design for new structures or additions to existing structures, the review authority must be guided by the
design guidelines for the neighborhood conservation overlay district to determine whether the proposal is compatible
with any existing or surrounding structures.
Conformance with other applicable development standards of this chapter. Development in the NCOD must comply with
all other applicable development standards of this chapter.
Tax abatement certificate of appropriateness applications are also reviewed with the procedures and standards
established in chapter 2, article 6, division 2.
Sec. 38.340.060. - Application requirements for certi cates of appropriateness in conservation districts.
Applications for certificates of appropriateness must be made in conjunction with applications for site plan approval in
accordance with division 38.230 of this chapter. Where development projects in the conservation district require only sketch plan
review per division 38.230 of this chapter (i.e., single-household, two-household, three-household and four-household residential
structures, each on individual lots; signs; fences; property alterations; and certain amendments to site plans), applications for
certificates of appropriateness must be made on a form provided by the community development department, and must include
the information and material set forth in division 38.220 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.340.070. - Deviations from underlying zoning requirements.
Because the development of much of historic Bozeman preceded zoning, subdivision and construction regulations, some
buildings within the conservation district do not conform to contemporary zoning standards. In order to encourage
restoration, rehabilitation and appropriate new construction activity that would contribute to the overall historic
character of the community, deviations from underlying zoning requirements may be granted as described in division
38.250 of this chapter. The criteria for granting deviations from the underlying zoning requirements are:
Modifications must be more historically appropriate for the building and site in question and the adjacent properties,
as determined by the standards in section 38.340.050, than would be achieved under a literal enforcement of this
chapter;
Modifications will have minimal adverse effects on abutting properties or the permitted uses thereof; and
Modifications must assure the protection of the public health, safety and general welfare. Approvals may be
conditioned to assure such protection, and such conditions may include a time period within which alterations will
be completed; landscaping and maintenance thereof; architectural, site plan and landscape design modifications, or
any other conditions in conformity with the intent and purpose set forth in this part 1.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
C.
1.
2.
A.
B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
(Ord. No. 1994 , § 2, 3-31-2018)
Sec. 38.340.080. - Review of demolition or movement of historic structures or sites.
The demolition or movement of any structure or site must be subject to the provisions of this article. This process
applies to:
Historic properties and sites, as defined in article 7 of this chapter.
Non-historic properties per section 38.340.100.
Unsafe structures whether historic or non-historic per section 38.340.110. The provisions for unsafe structures take
priority over other provisions for demolition.
An application to move or demolish a structure subject to this article must follow the applicable review procedures.
Optional provisional review of demolition. A property owner may request provisional review of the proposed demolition
of a structure subject to this article prior to submittal of a certificate of appropriateness application for seeking
demolition of the structure. The director of community development may establish criteria for the application for
provisional review of demolition. Provisional review is advisory only and does not constitute approval to demolish a
structure. Provisional review must consider:
The property's historic significance and a neighborhood's historical significance.
Whether the structure has no viable economic life remaining. "No viable economic life remaining" means the costs of
repair and/or rehabilitation to bring the structure to a habitable condition as established by the applicable technical
codes in article 10.02, exceed the costs of demolition and redevelopment to minimum standards with a building of
the same type and scale.
(Ord. No. 1994 , § 3, 3-31-2018)
Sec. 38.340.090. - Demolition or movement of a historic structure or site.
Certificate of appropriateness (COA) for demolition and subsequent development. Approval of the proposed subsequent
development is required for all historic structures proposed for demolition and for the proposed movement of any
structure or site.
Public notice. Proposals for demolition of historic properties within the city limits require public notice. Notice of
application(s) must be provided in accordance with division 38.220 of this chapter.
Criteria. The review authority must consider the following factors in evaluating applications for demolition or movement
of a historic structure or site and subsequent redevelopment:
The property's historic significance.
Whether the structure has no viable economic life remaining. "No viable economic life remaining" means the costs of
repair and/or rehabilitation to bring the structure to a habitable condition as established by the applicable technical
codes in article 10.02, exceed the costs of demolition and redevelopment to minimum standards with a building of
the same type and scale.
Whether the subsequent development complies with section 38.340.050.
Whether the subsequent development includes construction of new building(s) unless the existing character of the
area does not include buildings.
Subsequent development requires a building permit and does not include proposals which leave the site without
building(s) or structure(s).
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D.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
b.
3.
a.
b.
c.
4.
a.
b.
c.
Notwithstanding the above, for projects proposing the removal of a historic structure, which do not qualify for sketch plan
review pursuant to section 38.230.070, the review authority may determine the proposed subsequent site development is
more appropriate for the site based on the criteria in section 38.230.100.
Review process.
Upon application for a COA for demolition and subsequent development the review authority may:
Grant preliminary or final approval of the demolition with standard contingencies and/or project specific
conditions.
Deny the COA application.
COA approval.
Preliminary COA approval. After preliminary approval with contingencies or conditions requiring follow up work,
the applicant may apply for final COA approval and must demonstrate compliance with development standards
and completion of contingencies and conditions, including documentation. The review authority must approve
the COA for demolition and subsequent development.
Final COA approval. If the submitted application materials demonstrate compliance with development standards
and completion of contingencies and conditions, including documentation, the review authority must approve
the COA for demolition and subsequent development.
If an application for demolition or moving is denied due to failure to meet section 38.340.090.C issuance of a
demolition or moving permit must be stayed for a period of two years from the date of the denial in order to allow
the applicant and city to explore alternatives to the demolition or move, including, but not limited to, the use of tax
credits or adaptive reuse. The two-year stay may be terminated at any point in time if an alternate proposal is
approved or if sufficient additional evidence is presented to otherwise satisfy the requirements of this section.
Early termination of two-year stay. An owner of property subject to a stay under this section may seek early
termination of the stay if the owner demonstrates s/he has actively and in good faith sought alternatives to
demolition. These alternatives may include but are not limited to: listing the property for sale as a historic
property; actively seeking input from neighborhood groups and interested parties; exploring alternative funding
sources for stabilization and/or reconstruction; and offering the property for relocation.
If, upon expiration of the two-year stay of demolition, no alternate proposals have been approved or sufficient
evidence has not been presented to otherwise terminate the stay, an application for a demolition permit may be
presented to the city pursuant to chapter 10, article 3 or 4 of this Code. If all requirements of the demolition
permit are satisfied, including documentation of the structure to be moved or demolished and the review
authority has approved the subsequent development and has issued a building permit for the subsequent
development, a demolition permit pursuant to chapter 10, article 3 or 4 must be granted and no other
proceedings under this chapter are required.
The two-year stay does not begin to run if denial of a COA to demolish a historic structure or site is based on the
failure of the applicant to make a complete and adequate submittal or to propose a subsequent treatment which
complies with the standards of this chapter.
Standard requirements.
Subsequent development of the site must receive zoning approval, building permit approval, and pay all related
fees prior to issuance of a demolition permit.
Documentation of the structure must be completed and submitted to the historic preservation officer and
deemed complete and adequate prior to issuance of a demolition permit per paragraph section 38.340.120.
The review authority may require a developer to enter into a development agreement with the city at the time of
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A.
B.
C.
1.
2.
D.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
b.
3.
A.
B.
C.
issuance of a certificate of appropriateness authorizing demolition of all or part of a historic structure in the
neighborhood conservation overlay zoning district or in a designated historic district. The development
agreement may provide for conditions of demolition, timing of reconstruction, and may require the developer to
post a surety bond naming the city as a beneficiary for not more than ten percent of the costs of the overall
reconstruction budget as a guarantee that construction of the replacement structure will commence promptly
upon completion of the demolition. This requirement is in addition to any other requirement of this code.
Sec. 38.340.100. - Demolition or movement of a non-historic structure or site in the NCOD.
Certificate of appropriateness (COA) for demolition and subsequent development. Required for all properties proposed
for demolition or movement of any structure or site. Subsequent development does not include proposals which leave
the site without building(s) or structure(s).
Public notice. Notice must be provided in accordance with division 38.220 of this chapter.
Criteria.
The applicable criteria are the COA criteria of section 38.340.050.
The subsequent development must include construction of new building(s) unless the immediately prior character of
the area did not include buildings.
Review process.
Upon application for a COA for demolition and subsequent development the review authority may:
Grant preliminary or final approval of the demolition with standard contingencies and/or project specific
conditions.
Deny the COA application.
COA approval.
Preliminary COA approval. After preliminary approval with contingencies or conditions requiring follow up work,
the applicant may apply for final COA approval and must demonstrate compliance with development standards
and completion of contingencies and conditions, including documentation. The review authority must approve
the COA for demolition and subsequent development.
Final COA approval. If the submitted application materials demonstrate compliance with development standards
and completion of contingencies and conditions, including documentation, the review authority must approve
the COA for demolition and subsequent development.
Standard requirement. Subsequent treatment of the site must receive zoning approval prior to issuance of a
demolition permit. Subsequent treatment may include replacement with a new building, integration of the area into
a larger site which will support future development, or reclamation of the site to a safe, graded condition where
storm-water runoff and weeds are controlled and landscaping is reestablished.
Sec. 38.340.110. - Demolition or movement of an unsafe structure whether historic or non-historic.
Certificate of appropriateness (COA) for demolition and subsequent development. Upon application and the chief
building official's determination that the property is unsafe, the review authority may approve demolition and
subsequent development. Subsequent development for an unsafe structure may be its replacement with a new building,
integration of the area into a larger site which will support future development, or reclamation of the site to a safe,
graded condition where storm-water runoff and weeds are controlled.
Public notice. Notice must be provided in accordance with division 38.220 of this chapter.
The demolition of unsafe properties/structures may be subject to the public nuisance abatement provisions of chapter
16, article 2 of this code. Upon the chief building official's determination that the property is unsafe and declaration of a
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D.
A.
1.
2.
B.
C.
1.
D.
public nuisance if the property owner does not resolve the unsafe condition, the review authority must give final
approval on a COA, which may be initiated by the city, and the demolition permit will be issued so the city may abate a
nuisance.
The provisions of this section may be initiated by a land owner; or by the city in accordance with article 16.02.
Sec. 38.340.120. - Documentation and administrative procedures.
Documentation. All structures or sites approved for demolition or moving must be fully documented.
The director of community development must establish by administrative order rules for documentation of non-
historic and historic properties. This documentation must be created by a professional who satisfies professional
qualification standards for History, Archeology or Architectural History, as established by the National Park Service
and published in the Code of Federal Regulations, 36 CFR Part 61.
Documentation may be submitted as early in the process as the property owner desires to support the requested
action, and to further the consideration and review of the request, but not later than prior to issuance of a building
permit.
A building permit application, in accordance with applicable codes and requirements, must be submitted and approved
before any demolition or construction is allowed.
All fees and charges applicable to review of the request for demolition and construction of the subsequent development
(e.g. parkland, water rights, impact fees) must be paid prior to issuance of a building or demolition permit.
When required by the city, this must include a financial security in a form approved by the city attorney ensuring
completion of the demolition and reclamation of the site to a safe condition.
In addition to the remedies in division 38.200 of this chapter, the owner of any structure or site that is demolished or
moved contrary to the provisions of this section, and any contractor performing such work, may be required to
reconstruct such structure or site in a design and manner identical to its condition prior to such illegal demolition or
move, and in conformance with all applicable codes and regulations.
Sec. 38.340.130. - Safe condition and good repair.
Each property or structure located in the conservation district must be maintained in safe condition and good repair as required
in sections 16.02.030 and 16.02.040. Nothing in this division 38.340 must be construed to prevent normal maintenance and repair
of any exterior feature of any historic structure which does not involve a building permit. Interior arrangements or alterations to
the interior of a building must not be subject to this requirement.
DIVISION 38.350. - GENERAL LAND USE STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 38.350.010. - Area requirements for individual buildings—restrictions.
No part of any setback, open space, or off-street parking or loading space required in connection with any building for the
purpose of complying with this chapter may be included as part of a setback, open space or off-street parking or loading space
similarly required for any other building except as provided in section 38.540.060.
Sec. 38.350.020. - Setbacks and lots reduction prohibited.
No setback or lot existing at the time of the adoption date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived may be reduced
in dimension or area below the minimum requirements of this chapter except as set forth herein. Setbacks or lots created after the
effective date of said ordinance must meet at least the minimum requirements established by this chapter.
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Sec. 38.350.030. - Use of lands; buildings and structures.
Only uses specifically identified by this chapter are to be built. No building, or structure or part thereof may be erected,
altered or enlarged for a use, nor must any existing building, structure or part thereof, or land, be used for a purpose or
in a manner that is not in conformity with the uses listed as authorized uses for the zone in which such buildings,
structure or land is situated. In addition, any land, building or structure to be erected or used for a purpose listed as a
conditional or special use in such zone must first receive final approval of a permit for the use. Existing nonconforming
uses and structures must comply with division 38.270 of this chapter.
No building, or part thereof, or structure may be erected, nor may any existing building be altered, enlarged or rebuilt,
or moved into any zone, nor may any open space be encroached upon or reduced in any manner, except in conformity
to the setback regulations designed for the zone in which such building or open space is located, except as otherwise
specified in this chapter.
Recreational vehicle parking on residential lot. No person may park or occupy any recreational vehicle or mobile home
on the premises of any occupied dwelling or on any lot which is not a part of the premises of any occupied dwelling,
either of which is situated outside of any approved manufactured home community or recreational vehicle park except
that:
The parking of only one unoccupied recreational vehicle in any accessory individual garage, or in a rear setback in
any district is permitted, provided no living quarters may be maintained or any business practiced in the recreational
vehicle while such recreational vehicle is so parked or stored; and
In the event of hardship, temporary use permits may be granted for occupying such recreational vehicle or mobile
home.
Municipal infrastructure requirements.
Whenever any building lots and/or building sites are created inside the city limits or existing lots are annexed, and
prior to the issuance of any building permits on such lots or sites, municipal water distribution, municipal sanitary
sewer collection, and streets must be provided to the site. Each building site must utilize and be connected to both
the municipal water distribution and municipal sanitary sewer collection systems. Installation of improvements is
subject to division 38.270 of this chapter.
Alternative. When, in the city's sole determination, it is in the city's long term best interests to allow a building lot
or site to be created or developed without immediate access to either municipal water or municipal sewer the
city may, at its sole discretion, make such allowance when all of the following have been met:
The non-municipal system to service the lot or site must be designed, reviewed and constructed to meet city
standards. Systems serving more than one lot or user must be central systems;
The non-municipal system must be designed and constructed in a manner to allow connection to the
municipal system components shown in applicable facility plans to serve the property at such time as it
becomes available;
The landowner must provide waivers of right to protest creation of special improvement districts or other
financing methods to extend municipal water and sewer services. Such extensions or connections may
require construction of system components that are not immediately adjacent to the building lot or site;
The landowner must agree to connect to municipal water and sewer services and abandon and remove non-
municipal services when so instructed by the city. Such agreement must be binding on all successors and run
with the land;
If the city takes responsibility to operate the non-municipal system it may impose a surcharge to cover extra
operational expenses. City operation of the system is at the city's discretion;
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The requirement for future connection to the municipal water and/or sewer system, waivers and agreements, a
applicable materials must be either noted on the plat or final plan or a separate notice be recorded at the count
recorder's office so that such notice will appear on a title report or abstract of the property;
No non-municipal water or sewer systems must be constructed until all necessary approvals from the state
department of environmental quality, City of Bozeman, county health department, and any other relevant
agency have been received; and
The use of municipal water or sewer systems is considered to be the best means to protect the public
interest and welfare. The alternative for the use of non-municipal systems is intended to be used sparingly
and in extraordinary circumstances. In order to protect the public interest, in approving a non-municipal
system the city may impose such conditions of approval as it deems necessary.
These improvements must be designed, constructed and installed according to the standards and criteria as adopted
and approved by the city prior to the issuance of any building permits.
When municipal water distribution and municipal sanitary sewer collection systems are being provided to serve a
development proposal occurring under the provisions of division 38.430, planned unit development (PUD), the
issuance of a building permit may be allowed prior to completion of the public infrastructure, provided the criteria of
section 38.270.030 are met.
Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection D.3 of this section, the city may limit the scope, type and number of
projects eligible for simultaneous construction consideration.
Sec. 38.350.040. - Dwelling unit restrictions.
No use of unfinished structures. No cellar, garage, tent, tepee, yurt, basement with unfinished structure above,
accessory building, or vehicle; or any manufactured home or recreational vehicle outside of an approved manufactured
home community, recreational vehicle park, or approved individual lot in accordance with section 38.360.170 can at any
time be used as a dwelling unit, unless approved for use as a temporary dwelling unit due to a demonstrated hardship.
Use of basements. The basement portion of a finished home must be properly damp-proofed and have nature lighting,
heating, ventilation, and suitable fire protection and exits if used for living.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.350.050. - Setback and height encroachments, limitations and exceptions.
Permitted encroachments into setbacks. The following are permitted encroachments into required setbacks, subject to
any and all applicable International Building Code requirements and/or utility easements:
Architectural features which do not add usable area to a structure, such as chimneys, wing walls, sills, pilasters,
lintels, cornices, eaves, gutters, awnings, window wells and steps, provided such architectural features do not extend
more than five feet into any required front or rear setback;
Architectural features, which do not add usable area to a structure, such as chimneys, wing walls, sills, pilasters,
lintels, cornices, awnings, window wells and steps, provided such architectural features do not extend more than two
feet into any required side setback, except that eaves and gutters may extend two and one-half feet into any
required side setback;
Terraces and patios, uncovered decks and stoops or similar features, provided that such features do not extend
above the height of the ground floor level of the principal structure nor more than five feet into any required front or
rear setback or two feet into any required side setback;
Porches and entries on residential structures, except multi-household developments featuring more than four
attached dwelling units, may project up to five feet into the front setback area except where front setback utility
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easements prevent such projects;
Fire escapes may be permitted in required side or rear setbacks only;
Wheelchair ramps may encroach into any required setback, but must not be located closer than three feet from any
property line;
Flagpoles, ornamental features, trees, shrubs, walkways, and nameplate signs may be located within a required
setback. Street vision triangle requirements apply; and
Essential services Type I and Type II may be located within a required setback when they are within a utility
easement.
Figure 38.350.050.A.
Example of permitted encroachments.
Zero lot line conditions. In districts where zero side setbacks are not otherwise allowed, where an individual owns two or
more adjoining lots, or where the owners of two or more adjoining lots make legal written agreement recorded at the
county clerk and recorder, a zero lot line concept may be used for commercial, or single-household dwelling unit
developments, or detached accessory structures. In all such cases in residential districts, a minimum eight-foot side
setback must be maintained adjacent to the exterior side, or nonzero lot line side, of the structure.
Figure 38.350.050.B.
Zero lot line conditions.
Required setbacks from watercourses are set forth in section 38.410.100.
Height limitation exceptions.
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Non-specific exemptions. No building, or part thereof, or structure must be erected, reconstructed or structurally altere
exceed in height the limit herein designated for the district in which such building is located, except as is specified in div
38.250 of this chapter, or as specifically authorized as an approved condition of a planned unit development. Such appr
conditions must include the recommendations of the city fire marshal.
Specific exemptions.
Height limitations do not apply to church spires, belfries, cupolas and domes; monuments; chimneys and
smokestacks; flag poles; public and private utility facilities; parapet walls extending no more than four feet above
the limiting height of the building except as hereinafter provided: amateur radio antennae; solar energy
collectors and equipment used for the mounting or operation of such collectors; and building mounted
horizontal and vertical axis wind energy collectors under 15 feet in height from the building mounting surface,
and equipment used for the mounting or operation of such collectors.
Places of public assembly in churches, schools and other permitted public and semi-public buildings may exceed
height limitations otherwise established by this chapter, provided that:
The portion of the building that exceeds the height limit must be limited to 10 percent of the total building
footprint; and
That for each one foot by which the height of such building exceeds the maximum height otherwise
permitted in the district, its side and rear setbacks must be increased in width or depth by an additional one
foot over the side and rear setbacks required in the district.
Elevator and stair penthouses, water tanks, monitors and scenery lofts are exempt from height limitations
otherwise established in this chapter, provided that no linear dimension of any such structure exceed 50 percent
of the corresponding street frontage line.
Towers and monuments, cooling towers, gas holders or other structures, where the manufacturing process
requires a greater height, and grain elevators and silos are exempt from this chapter, provided that any structure
above the height otherwise permitted in the district must occupy no more than 25 percent of the area of the lot
and must be at least 25 feet from every lot line.
Height restrictions for wireless facilities are governed by division 38.370 of this chapter.
(Ord. No. 2014 , §§ 5, 6, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.350.060. - Fences, walls and hedges.
Location and height. Except as provided in section 38.400.100, fences, walls and hedges in any district may be located on
lot lines, provided such fences, walls and hedges comply with the following height requirements:
Do not exceed six feet in height in any required rear or required side setback. Fences exceeding six feet in height
must be subject to the minimum setback requirements of the district in which such fences are located. Decorative
post caps may exceed the height limit by no more than one additional foot. Fences in excess of six feet in height
require a building permit before installation may commence. Fences may not exceed eight feet in height.
A gate may be provided which defines an entrance point. The gate may have a defining structure so long as the
defining structure is not more than one foot wide on either side of the gate. Gate structure heights may not
exceed twice the allowed fence height.
For lots with one front setback, do not exceed four feet in height in the front setback. Lots with more than one front
setback, do not exceed four feet in the setback adjacent to the street on which the property has its assigned address.
In non-addressed front setbacks, fences must not exceed four feet in height in the portion of the front setback that is
adjacent to the building façade nearest the front setback. Decorative post caps may exceed the height limit by no
more than one additional foot.
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Fences used in an agricultural pursuit to retain stock animals or for public safety must be excepted.
The height of fences located in the B-3 district must meet the requirements of this section for any provided, not
required, setbacks.
Relation to linear parks. Fences located in the rear or side setback of properties adjoining any city linear park must have
a maximum height of four feet.
Construction and maintenance. Every fence or wall must be constructed in a substantial, workman-like manner and of
substantial material reasonably suited for the purpose for which the fence or wall is proposed to be used. Every fence or
wall must be maintained in a condition of reasonable repair and must not be allowed to become and remain in a
condition of disrepair, damage or unsightliness, or constitute a nuisance, public or private. Any such fence or wall which
is, or has become, dangerous to the public safety, health or welfare, or has become unsightly through improper
maintenance or neglect is a public nuisance and the building official must commence proper proceedings for the
abatement thereof.
Barbed wire and electric fences.
No barbed wire or similar sharp fencing or electric fences is permitted, except in R-S districts; except that barbed
wire or other similar sharp fencing materials may be used on the top of security fences in M-1 and M-2 districts.
When electrically charged fences are used in an R-S district, such fences must be posted with warning signs at
intervals not to exceed 150 feet where such fences are adjacent to public rights-of-way.
Measuring fence and wall height. In case of a fence erected on top of a retaining wall, the height must be measured from
the grade of the high side of the wall.
"Finished" side out. Any fence or wall constructed so as to have only one elevation "finished," which must be defined as
not having its supporting members significantly visible, must be erected such that the finished elevation of the fence is
exposed to the adjacent property.
Fencing of utilities and outdoor storage areas.
All utility substations, wells, storage facilities or other utilities must be screened from view by a wall, fence, hedge or
landscape screen.
All storage for commercial operations must be conducted within a completed enclosed building or within an area
completely enclosed, except for access points, by a wall, fence, hedge or landscape screen at least six feet in height.
Figure 38.350.060.
Fences.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 7, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2061 , § 1, 4-6-2021)
Sec. 38.350.070. - Parking and garages for single to four-household residential uses.
Applicability. The following standards apply to all residential development, except multi-household developments
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featuring more than four attached dwelling units.
General requirements.
Surface parking may be allowed within the front setback when located in front of a parking space that meets setback
provisions of division 38.320.
Surface parking may be allowed in the rear setback.
See section 38.400.090 for drive access requirements.
Residential garage setback standards.
Individual garages are subject to setback standards in Tables 38.320.030—38.320.040.
All garages facing the street must be at least four feet behind the front façade of the structure. Garage entrances
may also be tucked under the second floor to help meet this requirement.
Residential garage width standards.
Where a garage door or doors facing the street occupy more than ten feet of the façade's width, the total width of
the garage door or doors must comprise no more than 50 percent of the width of the ground level façade facing the
street.
There is no restriction on the number of individual garage doors facing the street, only the proportion of the façade
associated with a garage door or doors exceeding ten feet in total width.
Individual garages facing the street are not permitted in the B-3 district when an alley is adjacent to the property.
DIVISION 38.360. - INDEX OF SUPPLEMENTAL USE CRITERIA
Sec. 38.360.010. - Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to further describe the standards and conditions under which certain uses may be permitted as
principal, special, or conditional uses in specific districts.
Sec. 38.360.020. - Applicability.
All uses listed in this section are subject to the specific standards described for each use, in addition to all other applicable
standards.
Sec. 38.360.030. - Accessory buildings, uses and equipment.
An accessory building is an integral part of the principal building if it is connected to the principal building by a common
wall for not less than five feet horizontally and eight feet vertically.
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Figure 38.360.030.A.
Accessory building example.
Accessory buildings, uses or equipment may not be stored or constructed between the front lot line and front façade of
the building. On a corner lot with two streets, the accessory building must be placed behind both front façades of the
primary structure. For lots with three or more frontages, alternate locations may be allowed. The review authority shall
consider the predominant placement of accessory structures in the site vicinity, the consistency of the proposal with the
established and/or desired character of the surrounding area, and the visual impact of the structure given its proposed
placement.
Accessory buildings and garages may not be located within a utility easement without written approval of the easement
holder.
Accessory buildings in any business or industrial district may be located only to the rear of the front line of the principal
building.
No accessory building may exceed the footprint of the principal building unless such accessory building has been
otherwise approved per this chapter.
Accessory buildings with less than five feet separation between walls or with any connecting elements will be considered
a single structure for determination of maximum size allowed.
Accessory building height and setback limitations in residential zoning districts:
Accessory buildings may not exceed the height of the principal building unless such accessory building has been
otherwise approved per this chapter; and
From a height of 15 feet at the minimum side setback as set forth in division 38.320, buildings must step back at a 45
degree angle away from the side property line as shown in figure 38.360.030.G below, except zero lot line situations
meeting the standards of section 38.350.050.B:
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b.
H.
1.
2.
I.
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2.
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b.
Figure 38.360.030.G.
Angled setback plane for accessory buildings alongside setbacks.
Permitted setback plane encroachments:
Permitted horizontal encroachments include those elements and standards set forth in section 38.350.050.A.
Permitted vertical encroachments include those elements and standards set forth in section 38.350.050.D.
Mechanical equipment screening.
Rooftop mechanical equipment must be screened. Screening must be incorporated into the roof form when
possible. The requirement for screening of rooftop mechanical equipment does not apply to solar or wind energy
collection devices.
Ground-mounted mechanical equipment must be screened from public rights-of-way with walls, fencing or
evergreen plant materials. Mechanical equipment may not encroach into required setbacks.
Detached structures setback requirements.
Accessory structures less than or equal to 120 square feet in footprint may not be located in any front, side, or
corner-side setback and must maintain a minimum setback of three feet from the property lines in the rear setback.
Accessory structures greater than 120 square feet but less than or equal to 600 square feet in footprint may not be
located in any front, side, or corner-side setback. The accessory structure must be set back a minimum of either:
Six feet, or
When parking is provided between the structure and the rear property line, 20 feet except when required
parking spaces need a greater setback for back-up maneuverability.
See the following examples:
Alley Right-of-Way Width Setback for Garage
without Stacked Parking
Setback for a Garage with Stacked Parking O of an
Alley
30 feet 6 feet 20 feet
20 feet 6 feet 24 feet
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16 feet 8 feet 28 feet
14 feet 10 feet 30 feet
Accessory structures greater than 600 square feet may not be located in any required front or side setback, or in a
rear setback when no alley is present. Adequate back-up maneuverability for required parking spaces must be
provided.
Accessory structures greater than 600 square feet may be located in required rear setbacks when an alley is present
and must provide adequate backup maneuverability for required parking spaces.
Figure 38.360.030.I.1.
Detached structure setback requirements.
Figure 38.360.030.I.2.
Garage setback requirements.
Structures may occupy no more than 40 percent of the area of the lot located to the rear of the principal building.
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K.
Figure 38.360.030.J.
Accessory structures are limited to a maximum of 40% of the lot area between the principal building and the
rear lot line.
All structures located within the neighborhood conservation district require a certificate of appropriateness unless
exempted in division 38.340 of this article.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 8, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2014 , § 7, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.360.040. - ADU use table in residential zoning districts.
Table 38.360.040
ADU use table in residential zoning districts
Table clari cation:
1. Uses: P = Principal; S = Special uses; — = Uses which are not permitted.
2. If a * appears after the use, then the use is de ned in article 7.
3. If a number appears in the box, then the use may be allowed subject to development condition(s) described in
the footnotes immediately following the table.
Zoning districts
R-S R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-5 RMH REMU
Detached ADU P P P P P P —P
Attached ADU P P P P P P —P
Owner occupied Yes Yes Not
required
Not
required
Not
required
Not
required
—Not
required
2 & 3
2, 3 & 4
1 1
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The following ADU standards apply to all zoning districts:
Occupancy limit 2 persons
Deviations No
# of ADU per lot One
Location ADU's are permitted above accessory buildings and on the ground oor.
Ground oor ADUs require alley access.
Parking requirement In addition to the parking required for the principal residence, one paved
o -street parking space is required for the exclusive use of the ADU. The
parking provided must be located on the lot and may not utilize the on-
street parking provisions of division 38.540 of this chapter.
Unit size In no case may an ADU be larger than 600 square feet or have more than a
single bedroom. The method of calculating the maximum ADU square
footage will be "living area" de ned as "all oor area exclusive of areas with
a sloped ceiling less than three feet in height, stairwells, and exterior
decks." Bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, casework, interior walls,
hallways, closets, bathrooms, and any other living space must be included
in the maximum square footage calculation.
Design requirements Detached ADUs, including second story additions on detached garages
may be approved only if found compatible and consistent with the existing
character and fabric of the neighborhood. The review authority must
consider placement and size of windows, decks, balconies, fencing,
landscape screening, and height and massing of the structure to minimize
impacts to adjacent properties.
Height limit Notwithstanding the limitations in section 38.360.030.G, a detached ADU
may exceed the height of the principal building but may not exceed 22 feet
in height.
Garage conversions Garages may not be converted for use as ADUs unless all required parking
for all uses on the lot is otherwise provided prior to conversion. However,
ADUs may be placed above garages except where otherwise noted.
Minimum standards or "no
guarantee"
A permit for an ADU will not be granted unless the lot has been con gured
to accept an ADU with adequate lot area, utility services, and compliance
with setbacks and height standards.
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R-S and R-1 occupancy. At least one owner of record who possesses at least an estate for life or a 50 percent fee
simple ownership interest must reside on site as their primary residence. No more than one of the dwellings, either
the principal dwelling or the accessory dwelling, may be rented by non-owners at the same time. The city may
require a guarantee of compliance with the requirements of this section, including but not limited to a binding deed
restriction or covenant enforcing the single rental restriction as allowed in section 38.270.080.B, as a condition of
approval.
Any ADU created within an accessory building is subject to the limitations of 38.360.030.
An accessory dwelling unit may not be approved on a reduced size lot created to meet the minimum affordable
housing requirements of chapter 38, division 380.
Location. The ADU may be a part of the principal dwelling unit, provided the ADU is clearly incidental to the principal
dwelling unit and meets all of the following criteria:
Lot area per Table 38.320.030 is provided.
The ADU does not exceed one-third of the total area of the principal structure.
If the entrance for the ADU is separate from the entrance of the principal structure, the entrance must be on a
façade different than that of the main entry.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 8, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2041 , § 2, 9-17-2020)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2014 , § 8, adopted June 3, 2019, repealed the former § 38.360.040, and enacted a new § 38.360.040 as set
out herein. The former § 38.360.040 pertained to accessory dwelling units (ADU) and derived from Ord. No. 1994, § 3, adopted
March 31, 2018 and Order No. 2018-01, § 1, adopted April 18, 2018.
Sec. 38.360.050. - Adult businesses.
In addition to the requirements for all development established in this chapter, the following requirements apply to all
adult businesses:
An adult business must be separated by at least a 500-foot radius from any other adult use, residence, residential
district, school, place of worship, public park or any youth-oriented establishment. Subsequent establishment of one
of the above-listed uses within the required separation radius does not compel the relocation of an adult business.
Sec. 38.360.060. - Alcohol sales for on-premises consumption.
Alcohol sales for on-premises consumption, on either a temporary or permanent basis, may not be conducted on the
same lot or premises where an adult business or the sale of auto retail fuel is permitted.
Pursuant to section 4.02.020, the restrictions in MCA 16-3-306(1) do not apply to:
In zoning districts authorized to serve on premise alcohol, a restaurant if the restaurant serves alcohol on premises
only pursuant to a state issued restaurant beer and wine license or to a person operating a temporary event using a
catering endorsement; or
Restaurants located within the B-2M and B-3 zoning districts if the restaurant serves alcohol on premise only
pursuant to a state issued beer license with wine amendment as long as such restaurant complies with the following
requirements and provides the city an annual certification with its business license application of such compliance:
All alcohol is sold for on premises consumption only;
The restaurant must have individually priced meals prepared and served for on-site dining;
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Must have a dining room, kitchen and necessary employees for preparing food on the premises;
The restaurant must serves an evening meal at least four days a week for at least two hours a day between the
hours of 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. and if food is served beyond these hours may only sell alcohol between the
hours of 11:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.;
Gambling or gaming is prohibited;
Alcohol must be stored on premises; and
Must prevent self-service of alcohol.
(Ord. No. 1999 , § 2, 4-16-2018)
Editor's note— Section 3 of Ordinance No. 1999 , adopted May 16, 2018, states "Section 16-3-306(4), MCA recognizes the City's
authority to supplant the provisions of 16-3-306(1), MCA. The City Commission hereby supplants such restrictions as provided for in
Sections 1 and 2 of this Ordinance."
Sec. 38.360.070. - Apartment buildings, limited.
Apartment building, limited is subject to the following:
No fewer than five or more than eight dwellings in a single building.
Do not exceed 120 feet in width or length and 10,000 square feet in maximum floor area within all dwellings,
attached parking structures, and parking spaces internal to the building combined. Common interior spaces are not
included in the calculation of the 10,000 square feet maximum area. Common interior spaces means enclosed
spaces which are designed for use by occupants of more than a single dwelling. Examples include but are not limited
to elevators, shared stairs, walkways, atriums, laundry rooms, and mail rooms.
The maximum area of common interior spaces attached to or included within an individual apartment building,
limited is :
One thousand square feet plus 250 square feet per dwelling in the individual building; and
If an apartment building, limited is part of a larger development, and there are common spaces attached to the
building to serve the larger development, an additional 150 square feet per dwelling in the larger development is
allowed to be added to the common interior spaces attached to an apartment building, limited.
Departure criteria. Departures to the above standards that feature the symbol will be considered by the
review authority provided the alternative proposal meets the intent of the standards, plus the following criteria.
A departure may be granted to alter the proportion of area of common interior spaces to area of dwellings. The
criteria for the departure is the combined area of dwelling area and common interior spaces does not exceed
13,000 square feet.
A departure for additional building length or width may be granted on lots larger than 24,000 square feet at a
rate of one linear foot of building length or width per 3,500 square feet of lot area in excess of 24,000 square feet
up to 160 total lineal feet of building length or width.
Departures must demonstrate the additional common area or length/width meets the intent of the apartment
buildings, limited designation to allow more flexibility in building form and dwelling unit arrangement while also
being consistent with the mass and scale of medium density zoning districts.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, adopted Jan. 26, 2021, renumbered the former §§ 38.360.070—38.360.260 as 38.360.080—
38.360.270, and added a new § 38.360.070 as set out herein. The historical notations have been kept with the amended provisions
for reference purposes.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
a.
b.
c.
d.
A.
B.
Sec. 38.360.080. - Automobile repair and/or fuel sales.
In addition to applicable project design standards in article 5 of this chapter and the requirements for all convenience
uses in section 38.360.110 and elsewhere in this chapter, the following requirements apply to all service station and
automobile uses as listed in this section. Compliance with all criteria listed in this section does not necessarily guarantee
approval by the city.
Gas pump and pump island canopies must be located not closer than ten feet to any side or rear property line.
Design of the canopy must architecturally match the design of the main building. All canopies must be connected to
the roof of the main structure unless otherwise approved. All lighting must meet the lighting standards of this
chapter. The maximum height of the canopy must not exceed 18 feet. All signs must conform to the sign regulations
of division 38.560 of this chapter;
All on-site activities, except those normally performed at the fuel pumps, must be performed within a completely
enclosed building;
Where towing service is to be provided, a parking bay for the towing vehicle must be provided. Vehicles that are
either under repair or vehicles that have been repaired may be stored on a temporary basis, not to exceed seven
days, and designated parking bays must be provided for each vehicle awaiting repairs. Vehicle storage areas are
subject to the same screening requirements as parking lots;
All structures approved under these standards must be of a design character that is appropriate to the area in which
they are to be constructed. Color renderings of buildings must accompany each application and construction must
be in conformity thereto. Architectural detailing must be consistent on all four sides of the building;
Parking space for each service stall in the station must be provided. Pump islands must not be considered as service
bays. Standing areas at pump islands and interior circulation areas must not be used as parking areas in calculating
required parking spaces;
No outside storage of, and no sale, lease or rental of trailers, trucks or similar equipment is permitted except as may
be specifically allowed in that zone;
Automotive repair facilities.
All repairs or painting must be performed within a building;
No site plan will be approved which exposes unassembled vehicles, auto repair activities or auto parts to any
street or residential district;
Any facility must be designed to contain and minimize noise and odors; and
All facilities must have a water quality facility (oil/water separator) as part of the water quality design for
stormwater runoff, and must conform to section 38.410.080.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.090. - Community center.
Within residential districts, there must be public street access onto an arterial or collector standard street within 600 feet
of the entrance to a community center site.
Community centers located within residential districts must, when any individual structure exceeds 5,000 square feet in
gross floor area or exceeds the district's allowed maximum height, provide a 20 foot landscaped setback between the
building and adjacent residential uses. A structure separated from the adjacent residential uses by a parking lot, public
street, watercourse, public open space, or similar separation is exempt from the additional setback width requirement.
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C.
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
A.
Each community center site with more than 40 parking spaces must provide a minimum of two ingress/egress points which
comply with section 38.400.090.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.100. - Condominiums.
Unit ownership act. Condominium developments must comply with all provisions of the Unit Ownership Act, MCA 70-23-
101 et seq., and all regulations adopted to implement to Act.
Condominium association. A condominium association must be established for each condominium development. The
developer must prepare bylaws for the condominium association, as well as covenants, conditions and restrictions for
the condominium development, in compliance with division 38.220 of this chapter. The bylaws, covenants, conditions
and restrictions must be submitted to the city for review and approval prior to the granting of plan approval or approval
for condominiumization of existing development.
Internal circulation in a condominium development must be designed in accordance with division 38.540 of this chapter,
and must, when deemed necessary by the city engineer, comply with section 38.400.020.
Condominiums may be subject to chapter 38, division 380.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.110. - Convenience uses and drive-through/drive-in restaurants.
In addition to applicable building design standards in division 38.530 of this chapter, the following supplemental
architectural guidelines must apply:
All convenience uses must be designed with an architectural and design character that is appropriate for and
compatible with the area;
Standardized corporate identification themes integrated into the architectural design is considered sign area and is
subject to the requirements of division 38.560. Excessive use of such themes may be grounds for denial of the
project;
When located in shopping centers, the architectural character of the building must be integrated with the design
theme of the center through the use of the same building materials, shapes and details. The effect of color in
creating a design character that is appropriate for and compatible with the area will be considered. All parking,
circulation, drive aisles, setbacks and signage must be integrated with the entire design theme of the project;
The elevation design of the building must provide design character and detailing on all four sides; and
Screening of drive-through areas may be required to control glare affecting public right-of-way or adjacent
properties.
Noise from drive-through speakers must not be audible from adjacent residential districts.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.120. - Cottage housing subdivisions.
Purpose and intent.
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1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
C.
D.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
The purpose of this section is to achieve the goals and objectives of the land use and housing chapters of Bozeman's gr
and the goals of the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, division 38.380. Cottage housing enables higher density developm
allowing smaller lots, smaller home sizes, and clustered home sites, which are subject to design standards. This housing
development option encourages more efficient use of land and energy.
Cottage housing development regulations are designed to:
Provide opportunities for creative, diverse and high quality infill and greenfield development compatible with
existing neighborhoods;
Support development of diverse housing in accordance with the growth policy;
Increase the variety of housing types available within the community;
Support the creation of neighborhoods with a mix of housing opportunities for mixed incomes; and
Provide opportunities for small, detached cottages within existing neighborhoods.
Goals.
Increase housing supply and the choice of housing styles available in the community as encouraged by the growth
policy;
Provide for development of housing that responds to changing demographics and smaller-sized households;
Support the efficient use of land and higher density infill in developed areas;
Promote housing affordability and greater choice by encouraging smaller and more diverse home sizes;
Promote high-quality housing design to minimize impacts of more dense development on adjacent properties;
Allow flexibility in site and design standards while promoting infill projects compatible with existing single-household
developments;
Ensure cottage housing contributes to the overall character of residential areas;
Provide for centrally located and functional common open space that fosters a sense of community;
Provide for semi-private areas around individual cottages to enable diversity in landscape design and foster a sense
of ownership;
Minimize visual impacts of parking areas; and
Provide opportunities for creative, diverse and high quality developments compatible with existing neighborhoods.
Affordable housing applicability. The requirements of division 38.380, unless specifically modified in this article, apply to
all cottage housing subdivisions regardless of the number of cottages proposed to be included in the development.
Notwithstanding the provisions of division 38.380, a cottage housing subdivision must provide at least one lower-priced
home, or three moderate-priced homes. A cottage housing subdivision may have more affordable homes than the
required minimum.
Cottage housing subdivisions.
Cottage housing developments involve the subdivision of a parcel of land, referred to herein as the primary lot, into:
a) dependent lots for individual dwellings; and b) a private common area for the common use of the owners of the
dependent lots.
The review procedures for cottage housing subdivisions are as follows:
For the creation of five or fewer lots, the provisions for approval of a first minor subdivision apply;
For the creation of six or more lots, the provisions for approval of a major subdivision apply;
A cottage housing subdivision is exempt from subdivision review pursuant to section 38.240.310 if;
The primary lot was previously reviewed as part of a subdivision;
All public street, water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure (excluding individual services to proposed lots
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(3)
d.
(1)
(2)
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
(1)
(2)
and internal main extensions) is installed; and
All park requirements applicable to the proposed density of dwellings have been satisfied.
Cottage housing subdivisions meeting the requirements of section 38.360.120.D.2.c must:
Include notice to the public equal to that required for a site plan in Table 38.220.420; and
The subdivision application is subject to review for acceptability and adequacy pursuant to section
38.230.090.
Requirements and restrictions.
The development as a whole must meet the development standards of this chapter applicable at the time the
subdivision application is deemed adequate.
The primary lot must meet the size, length, width, frontage, and similar development standards of this chapter.
Homes on dependent lots do not need to meet the lot size, lot coverage, lot configuration, or setback
requirements (except watercourse and overlay district) in this chapter except as shown in table 38.360.120.G-1.
Private open space for each cottage must be provided on the same lot as the cottage it serves and any structure
must be within the boundary of the dependent lot.
Lot subdivisions and subsequent platting actions, additions or modifications to the structure(s) may not create or
increase any nonconformity of the primary lot.
Notes on the conditions of approval page of the plat must include the restrictions applicable to the dependent
lots including but not limited to:
The dependent lot is not a buildable lot independent of the primary lot and associated cottage housing
development;
Additional development of the dependent lots may be limited as a result of the application of development
standards applicable to the primary lot;
Any and all restrictions that apply to the common open areas; and
Permitted cottage square footages.
A cottage housing subdivision may use the concurrent construction provisions of section 38.270.030.D without
the requirement of a planned unit development.
Reciprocal joint use and maintenance agreements, for each dependent lot within the primary lot, must be
executed for access, use and maintenance of common garage or parking areas, common open area and other
similar features, and recorded with the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder's Office along with the final plat.
A cottage housing subdivision must include establishment of a property owner's association which meets the
requirements of sections 38.220.310 and 38.220.320. The property owner's association must hold title to and
maintain all common areas.
Separation or use of a dependent lot in a manner contrary to the approved cottage housing subdivision is a
material modification of the project and subject to section 38.100.070.
If a subdivision exemption is used to create a cottage housing subdivision, installation of all required water and
sewer mains and services, parking areas, and similar features must be completed and accepted by the city prior
to recording of the subdivision exemption; or the developer may enter into an improvements agreement to
secure the same work.
The following modifications require compliance with section 38.100.070:
Increasing the number of cottages;
Altering the character of the development by relocating common spaces, adding or removing common
buildings, or changing the design of more than 20 percent of the cottages;
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(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
E.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
2.
F.
1.
2.
3.
4.
G.
Increasing the floor area in one building by more than ten percent;
Changing access points to the primary lot;
Moving buildings around on the site;
Reducing the area of common open spaces by more than two percent; or
Diminishing the effectiveness of perimeter buffers.
Density standards.
The following density standards apply to cottage housing subdivisions and replace those listed in sections 38.320.020
and 38.320.030. A "cluster" refers to a group of cottages oriented toward a common open area.
Up to two cottages may be built for each non-cottage single-household dwelling allowed under the zoning
applied to the property.
Existing single-household dwellings on the primary lot will count towards total units. If the existing dwelling
exceeds the maximum allowed gross floor area of a cottage it counts as two cottages in determining maximum
allowed density.
Minimum units per cottage cluster: four.
Maximum units per cottage cluster: 12.
Maximum units per cottage housing development: 24.
Accessory dwelling units are not allowed within a cottage development.
When cottage housing units meet the definition of affordable housing under division 38.380 the maximum units
under (d) and (e) do not apply. Every unit in the proposed development would have to be affordable in order to
exceed the maximum.
Existing dwellings. An existing detached single-household dwelling that is incorporated into a cottage housing
subdivision as a residence and which exceeds the standards of this section may remain and will be counted as one
or more of the allowed units. However, the extent of the noncompliance may not be increased unless the proposed
change is determined by the review authority to be consistent in character, scale and design with the cottage
housing development. Repair, maintenance and reconstruction of a nonconforming dwelling are regulated by
division 38.280. An existing dwelling may be replaced with cottage units consistent with this section.
Departures from the design standards in this section.
An applicant may request departures from the provisions of paragraphs G-I of this section. Departures must be
consistent with the purpose, intent and requirements of this section.
The applicant must describe each requested departure, and document in writing how the departure is consistent
with the purpose, intent and requirements of this section.
A departure must not exceed ten percent of any numeric standard. A departure may not alter procedural
requirements. A departure may only apply to the application of standards internal to the primary lot and not to
standards applicable to the separation or interaction of cottage housing to an adjacent parcel.
The review authority may approve a departure after documenting in writing that the departure is consistent with the
intent, purpose and requirements of this chapter; and do not threaten the public health, safety, or welfare.
Design standards. The cottage housing option minimizes the required sizes of side, rear, and front setbacks on
dependent lots. As a result, small lots are ultimately shaped by building configuration. Designers should consider how
the arrangement of interior space affects exterior massing and how the configuration of building elements responds to
adjacent buildings. Design strategies incorporating neighborhood context include considerations of: building height
transitions, arrangement of buildings and open space, landscape elements, vehicular drive aisles and pedestrian paths,
and architectural details and scaling devices that break down the massing of the development. With reduced setback
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
requirements and small lot areas, providing access to air, light, and ventilation is more challenging than with typical
single dwelling designs. Architects and builders must use the following design standards to take full advantage of the
unique design opportunities presented to them to create livable environments.
These design standards:
Ensure that cottage designs are based on a coherent architectural concept;
Ensure that the overall sizes of cottages are smaller and cause less visual impact than standard sized single-
household dwellings;
Ensure that cottages contribute positively to the architectural character of the neighborhood;
Provide flexibility in design and contrast among individual cottages while assuring attention to design features and
character; and
Provide variety in cottage housing developments through a mixture of building sizes and footprints.
The following table establishes specific performance standards for development of cottages and cottage housing. All
cottage development must be evaluated against the standards of this table.
Table 38.360.120.G-1
Standard Requirement
Minimum number of cottages with less than 1,000
square feet gross oor area
25% of total cottages
Maximum number of cottage exceeding 1,200 square
feet gross oor area
25% of total cottages
Maximum gross oor area per cottage 1,500 square feet
Maximum cottage footprint 1,000 square feet (includes attached garages)
Maximum size of 2 oor 100% of gross oor area of 1 oor
Minimum oor area per cottage Minimum livability standards as de ned by Chapter 3 of
the International Residential Code
Minimum common open space per cottage (See
subsection H below for more information)
400 square feet
Minimum private open space per cottage (See
subsection F.10 below for more information)
200 square feet
Maximum height for cottages 25 feet for two stories and 18 feet for single story
cottages
nd st
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6.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
7.
8.
9.
a.
b.
c.
Maximum dormer size Dormers greater than 40% of sidewall width in
aggregate will be considered a oor
Setbacks (to exterior property lines of primary lot)See 38.320.020 or 38.320.030 as applicable; except that
porches and steps may encroach up to ve feet into a
required front setback
Maximum height for accessory structures and
community buildings
18 feet
Minimum distance between detached structures
(including accessory structures)
Seven feet with allowed eave protrusion into the
required distance of up to 18 inches
Lot coverage Allowed lot coverage within individual dependent lots -
100% so long as all other standards are met allowed lot
coverage within primary lot - As otherwise restricted in
this section
Cottage size. Areas within a cottage which do not count toward the gross floor area or footprint calculations:
Interior spaces with a finished ceiling height of six feet or less, such as in a second floor area under the slope of
the roof;
Unheated storage space located under the ground floor of the cottage;
Attached unenclosed porches;
Detached garages;
Carports; or
Architectural projections (i.e., bay windows, fireplaces or utility closets) no greater than 12 inches in depth and
four feet in width.
Documentation of approved cottage size. The total approved square footage of a cottage must not be increased
from its approved size by more than two percent. A note must be placed on the conditions of approval sheet of the
final plat stating this limitation for each dependent lot and noting the approved size of the cottage for that
dependent lot.
Roofs. A gable, hipped, or other sloped roof form is required. Non-sloped roofs may be considered as a departure.
Dormers are allowed.
Orientation of cottages.
Each cottage must be oriented toward a common open space, and not less than 60 percent of the units must
abut the common open space;
Dependent lots in a cottage housing development are not required to abut a public street. Lots not abutting a
public street must provide legal and physical access from a public street to the dependent lot;
Each cottage abutting a public street (not including alleys) must have a secondary entrance, porch, bay window,
or other architectural enhancement oriented to the public street;
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d.
10.
11.
12.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
13.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
d.
14.
a.
Cottages must be arranged around the common open space. The cottage's main entries may be either off the comm
space or from the public street.
Private open space. The private open space required in Table 38.360.120.G-1 must be provided contiguous to each
cottage and be contained within the boundary of the dependent lot for the exclusive use of the cottage residents.
Orientation of private open spaces toward the common open space is required unless applicant demonstrates that
an alternative location provides a superior outcome for both the individual cottage and cottage housing subdivision.
The area of an unenclosed porch may be included in the required private open space. Private open space must have
no dimension less than ten feet.
Basements. Cottages may have basements. In areas where groundwater is determined to be at a depth of less than
nine feet no basement is allowed.
Cottages located facing a public street. Cottages located facing a public street must provide:
A covered entry feature (with a minimum dimension of six feet by six feet) visible from the street;
At least two architectural details visible from the street, such as:
Decorative lighting;
Decorative trim;
Special door details;
Trellis or decorative building element;
Bay window; or
Alternative design treatments, which may be considered by the review authority on a case-by-case basis.
Character and diversity. Cottages and accessory buildings within a cluster must be designed within the same family
of architectural styles.
Examples of unifying architectural elements include:
Similar building/roof form and pitch;
Similar siding materials;
Similar porch detailing; and
Similar window trim.
Variety in building and site design. Cottage housing developments must avoid the repetitive use of the same
combination of building size, styles, features, and site design elements within an entire cottage housing
subdivision and between adjacent dwellings. Dwellings with the same combination of features and treatments
may not be located adjacent to each other.
Porches. Porches must create a visual and physical connectivity to the common open space and to other
cottages. Cottage porches must:
Be unenclosed, covered;
Surround or enclose the primary entrance to the cottage;
Be oriented toward a common open space or a public street; and
Have at least 80 square feet in area with no horizontal dimension shorter than six feet.
Façade transparency. Transparent windows and/or doors are required on the façades of cottages facing a street
and common open space. The area of the windows and doors must be at least ten percent of the area of the
façade on which they are located.
Fence design standards. The standards of this paragraph are in addition to the standards of section 38.350.060.
Fencing and screening. The intent of internal decorative fencing and screening is to delineate private yards and
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b.
c.
d.
H.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
(1)
(2)
(3)
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
3.
a.
b.
I.
1.
to screen parking structures, community assets and cottage walls. A cottage housing development must
internally be an open community sharing common areas;
Decorative fencing may be used for delineating private yards;
Fencing or shrubbery may be used to screen parking areas, community assets, and cottage walls;
Dependent lot fencing and shrubbery may not exceed 36 inches in height, except directly adjacent to a parking
area.
Community assets.
Common open space. Setbacks and common areas serve a dual function, and therefore deserve particular attention.
They act both as habitable outdoor space for owners and as shared areas within the proposed development and the
neighborhood. The setback is a visual amenity to the development, neighborhood, and passers-by. Additionally, it
serves as a semi-transparent bridge between the private interior of the home and common areas. Landscaping
should be visually interesting, sustainable, and relatively easy to maintain. The minimum common open space
requirements set forth in this section are intended to provide a sense of openness, visual relief, and community.
Common open spaces provide many of the functions of required rear and front setbacks in sections 38.320.020 and
38.320.030. Common open space must provide a centrally located, focal area for the cottage housing subdivision.
The total common open space must be at least 1,600 square feet, regardless of the number of units in the
cluster;
The required common open space may be divided into no more than two separate areas per cluster;
To be included as part of the common open space requirement, a common area must have minimum
dimensions of 20 feet on all sides;
At least two sides of each common open space must have cottages along the perimeter;
Common open space must comply with the term's definition in section 38.700.040. However, the building
footprints of community buildings, excluding garages, are counted towards the common open space
requirements;
Landscaping requirements:
All common open spaces must have landscaping as defined in section 38.700.110 except those portions
developed for play structures, common structures, gardens or similar uses;
All cottage housing developments must be designed to have a minimum of 160 square feet of tree canopy
cover per dwelling at maturity of the species selected for the landscaping;
The provisions of section 38.550.060 do not apply to cottage housing subdivisions.
Community buildings.
Community buildings are permitted in cottage housing developments.
Community buildings must be clearly incidental in use and size to cottages.
Design must be similar to and compatible with the design of the cottages.
Other shared facilities could include tool sheds, gazebos, workshops, or similar common elements.
Storage.
Storage closets for each cottage may be included as part of community buildings or added to garages.
Storage for gardening supplies or similar shared items may be included as part of a community building.
Access and parking.
Purpose. The intent of these access and parking standards is to minimize the visual impact of vehicles and parking
areas for residents of the cottage housing development and adjacent properties and to provide for adequate off-
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2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
4.
a.
b.
A.
B.
C.
street parking for cottage housing.
Off-street parking.
No off-street parking space is required to be enclosed.
Garages may not exceed 125 percent of the minimum width or area required by Table 38.540.020 for a single
vehicle.
Guest parking may be clustered with resident parking. Guest parking must be clearly identified as reserved for
visitors.
At least one stall of each parking type must meet the accessibility standards of the building code.
Enclosed garages may not be located on the façade of the cottage with the primary entrance. Carports or
unenclosed parking adjacent to a cottage may be on the façade with the primary entrance.
Parking design. The intent of these parking design standards is to create unobtrusive parking, by screening parking
structures and spaces from surrounding properties, including screening by architectural design and/or vegetation,
and by minimizing the number of contiguous parking spaces.
Shared detached garage structures may not exceed four garage doors per building and a total footprint of 1,200
square feet.
Parking must be separated from the common open space, adjacent properties, and public streets by landscaping
and/or architectural screening. Solid board fencing is not allowed as an architectural screen. Exception: One
parking structure may be adjacent to the common open area, if the garage includes architectural features to
make it look consistent with the cottages and community buildings.
Parking, including garages, must be set back a minimum of 20 feet from a public street.
The parking layout must be designed to minimize walking distance to cottages.
A sloped roof is required for all parking structures.
The design of garages and carports, including roof lines, must be similar to and compatible with that of the
cottages within the cottage housing development.
Parking may be located between or adjacent to cottages or common garages, if it is located toward the rear of
the structure and is served by an alley or driveway.
Parking stalls, circulation areas, and related spaces must comply with division 38.540. If there is a conflict
between division 38.540 and this paragraph, the provisions of this paragraph apply.
Walkways.
A system of interior paved walkways must connect all cottages with each other, the parking area, and the
sidewalks abutting any public streets bordering the cottage housing development.
Interior walkways must be a minimum of five feet and a maximum of eight feet in width.
(Ord. No. 1994 , §§ 5, 6, 3-31-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.130. - Essential services.
In recognition of Section 69-4-201, MCA, city ordinances cannot conflict with the National Electric Safety Code (NESC).
In recognition of Section 69-3-102, MCA, vesting control over fees, charges, and tariffs for public utilities in the public
service commission, the city does not determine the costs charged to customers for services.
Essential services of Types I, II, or III operable prior to September 3, 1991, must be considered to have developed under
an approved plan, and must be reviewed under section 38.230.160. Reuse, change in use or further development of sites
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A.
B.
1.
2.
3.
D.
E.
A.
B.
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developed prior to September 10, 2014 (Ordinance No. 1893).
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.135. - Group living.
Applicability. All group living uses (as defined in section 38.700.080) except for health care facilities and community
residential facilities with eight or fewer residents are subject to the standards of this section.
Density.
The density of residents in a group living use is limited to generally approximate and correspond with the density
limits that apply to other types of housing in residential zoning districts. Limiting density addresses areas of
legitimate public concern and the purposes of zoning as established by the state legislature and adopted locally in
section 38.100.040.
For the purpose of these regulations, "residents" include all people living at the site, including children; except that
people who provide support services, building maintenance, care, and supervision, are not considered residents.
Group living use requires the following area of land within the site for each resident.
District Name Minimum Area Required per Resident in Square Feet
REMU, R-4, and R-O 602
RS and R-1 1,000
R-2, R-3, R-5, RMH 750
C. On-site service and facilities. In any R district other than REMU, on-site services and facilities may be provided only to
residents of the group living use.
Group living is not a substitute for a hotel, motel, or other transitory service facility. Therefore, duration of terms of
occupancy for residents is 30 days or greater.
On-site open space for group living uses is required per section 38.520.060.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 9, 12-18-2019; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.140. - Transitional and emergency housing.
Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to provide for the regulation of transitional and emergency housing
and related services to ensure compatibility of uses and to promote public health, safety and welfare.
Applicability. This section applies to all transitional and emergency housing and related services as defined in section
38.700.180.
Required standards. All applicable development standards of this chapter apply unless noted in this subsection C. In
addition, the following standards must be met in order for a special use permit to be granted for the use:
Transitional and emergency housing may be provided in:
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A shared structure on any level where residential use is allowed;
A mixed-use structure on any level where residential use is allowed;
Detached ground-level units only if the units include individual bathrooms.
The structure must be on a permanent foundation.
The tract or parcel of land on which the use is proposed must be under single ownership, or the application for the
use must be filed jointly by all of the owners of the property to be included in the development.
On-site facilities and related services are provided only for the residents of the transitional and emergency housing
unless the provision of such services to non-residents is permitted in the applicable zoning district.
This use is exempt from parkland dedication requirements. Open-space requirements per section 38.520.060 apply.
A management plan from the applicant addressing the following factors:
Provision for continuous on-site management from an employee or volunteer during all hours of operation.
Staff training.
Intake screening of clients to insure compatibility with services provided at the facility.
Client code of conduct.
Provision of on-site storage for clients' belongings.
Security measures to be adopted.
Additional criteria. The review authority may, in its sole discretion, apply additional criteria the review authority deems
necessary to mitigate impact(s) of the proposed use as a condition of approving a special use permit, including but not
limited to:
The site where such use is proposed is within ¼ mile of a sheltered public transit stop.
Limitation on the maximum occupancy and/or number of beds provided by the facility.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 3, 3-19-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.150. - Home-based businesses.
Generally. A home-based business is a use that is considered accessory to a dwelling unit. Buildings combining live/work
arrangements located in districts where both the residential and non-residential uses to be combined are authorized are
not subject to the requirements of this section.
Home-based business as accessory use.
The use must be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling for residential purposes and must not
change the character of the dwelling or adversely affect the uses permitted in the residential district of which it is a
part. The home-based business must not be conducted in an accessory structure, and must comply with the
standards of subsection C of this section.
Purpose. It is in the intent of this section to eliminate as accessory home-based businesses for all uses except those
that conform to the standards set forth in this section. In general, an accessory home-based business is a use so
located and conducted that the average neighbor, under normal circumstances, would not be aware of its existence
with the exception of permitted signage as allowed by division 38.560 of this chapter. The standards for home-based
businesses included in this section are intended to ensure compatibility with other permitted uses and with the
residential character of the neighborhood. A clearly accessory or incidental status in relation to the residential use of
the main building is the criteria for determining whether a proposed accessory use qualifies as an of-right home-
based business.
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Necessary conditions for accessory use. Accessory home-based businesses are permitted accessory uses in residential d
only so long as all the following conditions are observed:
Such home-based business must be conducted by resident occupants in their residence with not more than one
on-premises halftime nonresident employee;
No more than 25 percent of the gross area of all structures may be used for such purpose;
No use may require internal or external alterations or involve construction features or the use of electrical or
mechanical equipment that would change the fire rating of the structure;
No home-based business may cause an increase in the use of any one or more utilities (water, sewer, garbage,
etc.) so that the combined total use for dwelling and home-based business purposes exceeds the average for
residences in the neighborhood;
There shall be no outside storage of any kind related to the home-based business;
The use may increase vehicular traffic flow and parking by no more than one additional vehicle at a time.
Depending on the individual circumstances of each application, an additional off-street parking space may be
required; and
No use must create noise, dust, vibration, smell, smoke, glare, electrical interference, fire hazard or any other
hazard or nuisance to any greater or more frequent extent than that usually experienced in an average
residential occupancy in the district in question under normal circumstances where no home-based business
exists.
Notice of intent to operate an accessory home-based business. Any individual applying for a business license, with
the intent of operating the business from such person's home, must acknowledge by signature such person's
understanding of the requirements and conditions of this chapter.
Home-based business as special use.
Purpose. The use must be secondary to the use of the lot for residential purposes and must not be incompatible with
the character of the zoning district thereof or adversely affect the principal uses permitted in the residential district
of which it is a part. When a home-based business has been established through the SUP process, it means that the
owner, lessee or other persons who have a legal right to the use of the dwelling also have the right to conduct the
home-based business whether in the principal or an accessory structure. The home-based business must comply
with the standards of subsection C.3 of this section.
Special use. It is the intent of this section to provide, through the special use process established in division 38.230 of
this chapter, opportunities for home-based businesses which are more intensive in nature than those which would
be allowed as an accessory use. In general, a home-based business approved through the special use process is an
accessory use which complies with the requirements of this chapter and is subordinate to the primary use of the
particular lot for residential purposes. The standards for home-based businesses included in this section are
intended to ensure compatibility with other permitted uses and with the residential character of the neighborhood.
A secondary, but not incidental, status in relation to the residential use of the main building is the criteria for
determining whether a proposed use may, under certain circumstances, qualify as a home-based business which
may be approved by the special use process. Special uses start from the presumption that they are incompatible
with the zoning district but may under specific and limited conditions become compatible. Unless such conditions
are found, there is no right to the practice of a home-based business which does not comply with the terms of an
accessory home-based business as listed in this section.
Necessary conditions for special use. Home-based businesses permitted through the special use permit process are
allowed in residential districts only so long as all the following conditions are observed:
Such home-based business must be conducted by resident occupants with not more than one on-premises
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halftime nonresident employee;
No more than 30 percent of the gross area of all structures may be used for such purpose;
No use may require internal or external alterations or involve construction features or the use of electrical or
mechanical equipment that would change the fire rating of the structure beyond that allowed in a residential
use;
No home based business may cause an increase in the use of any one or more utilities operated by the city so
that the combined total use for dwelling and home-based business purposes exceeds the average for residences
in the neighborhood;
There may be no outside storage of any kind related to the home-based business;
No use may create noise, dust, vibration, smell, smoke, glare, electrical interference, fire hazard or any other
hazard or nuisance to any greater or more frequent extent than that allowed by this chapter;
Home-based businesses by special use permit may only be allowed on lots occupied by single-household
detached dwellings;
Such special use must be subject to all conditions set forth in this chapter, except the provisions of section
38.550.060, Landscape Performance Standards; and
All permits required by the city, including, but not limited to, building permits and business licenses, must be
received prior to establishing the home-based business.
Home-based business allowed through a special use permit. Any individual seeking to operate a home-based
business greater in scope than that allowed by an accessory home-based business, must make application for a
special use permit under the terms of division 38.230 of this chapter. The community development director must
determine if a home-based business requires a special use permit.
Complaints. Complaints by citizens of the city may be cause for termination of the home-based business. Final
administrative actions in relation to complaints are subject to appeal per article 2 of this chapter.
Prohibited uses. The following uses are not permitted as home-based businesses: adult businesses; auto repair, minor
or major; carpentry work; dance instruction; dental offices; medical offices; medical marijuana not meeting the exclusion
in section 38.360.180.A.3; mobile oil and lube services; painting of vehicles, trailers or boats; private schools with
organized classes; radio or television repair; and upholstering.
Appeal to city commission. Any person may appeal the community development director's action relating to a home-
based business as provided for by article 2 of this chapter.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 10, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.160. - Large-scale retail, size limitations and design and site development guidelines and requirements.
Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to establish general development standards for large scale retail developments. These
standards are intended and designed to ensure compatibility of uses; to prevent urban blight, deterioration and
decay; and to enhance the health, safety and general welfare of the residents living within the city.
These standards are also intended to supplement applicable project design standards of article 5 of this chapter and
be used as guidelines for evaluating the quality and design of proposed large scale retail developments. The
particulars of any large scale retail development will be evaluated against their respective standards contained in this
division 38.360. It is expected that the quality and design of large scale retail developments, while not necessarily
complying with the exact standards of this division, will meet or exceed the intent behind these standards.
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Applicability. All uses listed in this division 38.360 must comply with the specific standards described for each use, in ad
other applicable standards which may apply.
Design and site development guidelines for certain retail developments.
Retail development consisting of a single-tenant building greater than 40,000 square feet must comply with the
design and site development criteria and development standards contained in subsections B.2 and 3 of this section.
These guidelines must be applied as part of the review and approval process for use permits and detailed
applications. If there is any conflict between the project design standards in article 5 of this chapter and the
guidelines herein, the more restrictive provision must apply. The guidelines in this section must not be applied to any
development or portion of a development that is covered by an approved use permit as of March 21, 2003, unless
modifications to the use permit are proposed by the applicant.
Design criteria and development standards. In addition to all other applicable review procedures and design criteria,
all development governed by this section must exceed the site, building, and landscaping design standards of
divisions 38.520—38.530 and 38.550, regardless of location or zoning district. Said design standards must be
exceeded through design practices such as additional architectural detailing, exceptional landscape design,
improved public spaces, use of renewable energy and/or recycled construction materials, and provisions for
alternative modes of transportation. The review authority must determine whether established design standards
have been exceeded based on a recommendation from the design review board.
Adaptability for reuse/compartmentalization. The building design must include specific elements for adaptation for
multi-tenant reuse. Such elements may include but are not limited to compartmentalized construction, including
plumbing, electrical service, heating, ventilation and air conditioning. The building design must also allow for:
The interior subdivision of the structure into separate tenancies;
Façades that readily adapt to multiple entrances and adapt to entrances on all but one side of the building;
Parking lot schemes that are shared by establishments or are linked by safe and functional pedestrian
connections;
Landscaping schemes that complement the multiple entrance design; and
Other elements of design which facilitate the multi-tenant reuse of the building and site.
Appeals. Appeals may be taken as provided for in division 38.250 of this chapter.
Additional criteria and site development guidelines for certain retail developments.
Applications for large scale retail development must include a renewal plan that will afford maximum opportunity,
consistent with the sound needs of the municipality as a whole, for the rehabilitation or redevelopment of the
structure in the event of closure or relocation by the original occupant. Such plan will be approved if the review
authority finds that:
The plan conforms to the city's growth policy and the requirements of this chapter or parts thereof for the
municipality as a whole;
A sound and adequate plan exists for said redevelopment;
The plan affords maximum opportunity for rehabilitation or redevelopment of the structure by both private
enterprise and the city; and
The renewal plan provides a maintenance plan for normal repairs and upkeep of property, including but not
limited to building, parking lot and surfacing, landscaping, signage and elimination of legible impressions,
images, or remnants of signs remaining on a building or sign surface after the use for which the sign was
permitted ceases to operate.
The city may enter into an agreement with the owner of the real property and undertake activities, including the
acquisition, removal or demolition of structures, improvements or personal property located on the real property, to
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prepare the property for redevelopment. A development agreement entered into in accordance with this section
must contain provisions obligating the owner to redevelop the real property for a specified use consistent with the
provisions of this chapter and offering recourse to the city if the redevelopment is not completed as determined by
the city.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.170. - Manufactured homes on individual lots.
Intent. It is the intent of this section to allow manufactured homes, as defined in section 38.700.120 of this chapter, in
specified zoning districts in which similar single-household dwellings constructed on the site are permitted subject to
requirements and procedures set forth herein to ensure acceptable similarity in exterior appearances between such
manufactured homes and dwellings that have been or might be constructed under these and other regulations on
adjacent lots in the same district or area. It is the intent of this section to permit only those manufactured homes
certified as meeting the Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
Application, material to be supplied. One copy of the application for the proposed manufactured home on the individual
building lot must be submitted to the building department in conjunction with the application for a building permit for
the building foundation. The application must include all information deemed necessary by the community development
director to make determinations as to conformity with subsection C of this section, and it must include a minimum of
color photographs of all sides of the manufactured home; the nearest existing residences or other grounds or buildings
on each side of the proposed site; existing residences or grounds fronting upon the same street as the proposed site
and opposite thereto, and those within 150 feet of each corner of the proposed site. As a minimum requirement, it must
also include a description of siding and roofing material in sufficient detail as to make possible determination as to its
appearance and durability.
Standards for determination of acceptable similarity in exterior appearance and construction. The following standards
must be used in determinations of acceptable similarity in appearance and construction between manufactured homes
with permanent foundations and residences constructed near the site to ensure that such manufactured homes will be
compatible in appearance with site built housing that has been or may be constructed in adjacent or nearby locations:
The roofing material must be shake, tile, composition shingle, or other materials commonly found on conventionally
built homes in the surrounding areas.
The exterior covering material must be similar or closely compatible to that found on conventionally built residential
structures in the surrounding area. Reflection from such exterior must not be greater than from siding coated with
clean, white, glossy, exterior enamel.
The exterior covering material must extend below the top of the foundation.
A solid concrete or masonry perimeter foundation must be used.
The exterior covering and roofing materials of additions or accessory buildings must be compatible with the
materials on the manufactured home.
The manufactured home must be located on the lot so that the home presents a primary entrance to the principal
street frontage. Such primary entrance may be established by the presence of porches, overhanging gables, and
similar architectural features consistent with the character of site built homes in the near vicinity.
Manufactured homes may be approved for location on individual building lots only if they have been certified as
meeting the Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
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( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.180. - Medical marijuana.
Any activity involving medical marijuana must meet all requirements of state law including, but not limited to, the
standards of title 50, chapter 46, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 50-46-101 et seq.), and limits on possession, clean air,
etc., and any applicable administrative rules established by the state. Should such rules or laws change, any medical
marijuana facility must immediately begin any required process to come into compliance with the new rules. This
includes submittal for review of applications to the city as they may relate to zoning, business licensing, or other
municipal programs. Compliance with city zoning regulations does not shield any person, corporation, or other legal
entity from the requirements of, or enforcement by, other governing entities, or from civil liabilities.
Unless specifically exempted, any person or existing or proposed entity intending to conduct activities which meet
the definitions of "agriculture," "manufacturing," "office" or "retail" as established in division 38.700 of this chapter
which is for the purpose of growing, processing, distribution, and/or any other activity related to medical marijuana
must, in addition to this section, comply with all other provisions of this Code, and must not be located within 400
linear feet of the exterior property line of:
All schools or facilities, where students are regularly present, owned or operated by Bozeman School District 7
whether located inside or outside the city limits; or
All private schools, not including home schools, where students are regularly present, whether located inside or
outside the city limits, which provide instruction in the class range from kindergarten to 12th grade and which
are either subject to MCA 20-5-109, or listed as a kindergarten provider by the county superintendent of schools.
For purposes of this section, specified distances will be measured in a straight line, without regard to intervening
structures from the property line of a school as stated in subsections 1.a and b of this section, regardless of
whether those schools are located within the jurisdictional limits of the city, to the property line of the business
providing medical marijuana.
Any activities meeting the definitions of "agriculture," "manufacturing," "office" or "retail" as established in article 7 of
this chapter which is for the purpose of growing, processing, distribution, and/or any other activity related to medical
marijuana may not be located in the R-4 and R-5 districts, or on properties adjacent to Main Street within the core
area of the B-3 district as defined in section 38.300.110.D.
The requirements of subsections 1 and 2 of this section do not apply to:
An individual registered qualifying patient who possesses marijuana in accordance with the limits and
requirements of title 50, chapter 46, Montana Code Annotated (MCA 50-46-101 et seq.) solely for that qualifying
patient's own use; or
To a caregiver providing care to not more than two qualifying patients who reside within the same dwelling as
the caregiver. The caregiver and qualifying patients must maintain appropriate state agency qualification at all
times when medical marijuana is present.
Establishing a medical marijuana facility may result in a change in the designation of building code occupancy type. A
change in use or occupancy type may require physical modifications to the structure, which must be approved by the
building division prior to any construction as required by section 38.200.100.
Air discharge control. Any medical marijuana growing or processing operation that contains 24 or more marijuana
plants at any one time must provide a forced air vent discharge point that is:
Located no closer than 30 feet from an adjacent property line or a residence; or
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Provides a mechanical filtration system to control discharges of particulates and odors. The ventilation filtration sys
designed by a mechanical engineer licensed to practice in the state such that odors and particulates may not be det
unaided human observation at the property boundary, and noise produced by the system must be controlled and m
Any person making application for a zoning approval for a medical marijuana business must provide evidence of
DPHHS approval as a caregiver at the time of application and must maintain such DPHHS approval at all times.
Failure to maintain approval immediately suspends zoning approval to operate a medical marijuana business in the
city.
These regulations are for review of applications to the city and do not restrict property owners' from establishing
more stringent standards for their properties.
(Ord. No. 1994 , § 7, 3-31-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.190. - Mini warehouses.
Minimum site size must be one acre.
On-site circulation, drives and parking.
Each mini warehouse site must provide a minimum of two exits;
All one-way drive aisles must provide for one ten-foot parking lane and one 12-foot travel lane. Traffic direction and
parking must be designated by signing or painting;
All two-way drive aisles must provide for one ten-foot parking lane and two ten-foot travel lanes; and
The parking lanes may be eliminated when the driveway does not serve storage cubicles.
Figure 38.360.190.
Mini warehouses.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.200. - Outdoor sales and display.
Merchandise which is offered for direct sale, rental or lease to the ultimate consumer or user may be displayed beyond
the confines of a building in any commercial district, but the area occupied by such outdoor display must not constitute
a greater number of square feet than ten percent of the ground floor area of the building housing the principal use,
unless such merchandise is a type customarily displayed outdoors, such as automobiles and garden supplies. In such
cases, the maximum area for outdoor sales and display must not exceed 50 percent of the total lot area.
Outdoor sales and display areas must not be located in any required setback and are also subject to section 38.320.110.
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Figure 38.360.200.
Outdoor sales and display.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.210. - Recreational vehicle park and overnight campground.
Recreational vehicle parks and overnight campgrounds are included in the state classification of land subdivisions by
rent or lease. Therefore, applicants for such developments must apply for and be reviewed under both site plan and
subdivision procedures unless exempted by section 38.240.200.
Recreational vehicle parks must be screened from view of any adjacent residential development.
Internal circulation roads must be paved with a concrete or asphaltic concrete surface.
Individual recreational vehicle parking pads must be plainly marked and maintained with a dust free surface.
Individual recreational vehicle parking pads must be set back at least 30 feet from the perimeter of the park and 30
feet from any public street right-of-way.
Approved trash disposal, bathroom and laundry facilities, including facilities for the handicapped, must be provided
for use of overnight campers.
Recreational vehicle spaces must be separated by no less than 15 feet and must be no less than 1,500 square feet in
area.
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2.
3.
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Figure 38.360.220.
Recreational vehicle park and overnight campground.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.220. - Single, two, three, and four-household dwellings.
Purpose.
To enhance the character of the street.
To maintain "eyes on the street" for safety to pedestrians and to create a more welcoming and interesting
streetscape.
To de-emphasize garages and drive aisles as major visual elements along the street.
To provide usable setback space for residents.
Entries.
Clear and obvious pedestrian access between the sidewalk and a building entry that faces the street is required for
new dwellings (the driveway may be used to help meet this requirement).
All new dwellings must provide a covered pedestrian entry with minimum weather protection of three feet by three
feet.
Residential garages.
Where lots abut an alley, it may be necessary to take access from alley to meet another standard in the municipal
code.
See section 38.350.070 for garage location and design standards.
Driveway access standards. See section 38.400.090.
Minimum useable open space for alley-loaded lots. All new alley-loaded dwelling units must provide a contiguous open
space within the side or rear yard with a minimum dimension of 15 feet on all sides. The open space(s) must be
equivalent to ten percent (minimum) of the lot size (excluding area within an adjacent alley or right-of-way). For example,
a 6,000 square foot lot would require a contiguous open space of at least 600 square feet, or 20 feet by 30 feet in area.
Drive aisles do not count in the calculations for usable open space. Additions must not create or increase any
nonconformity with this standard.
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B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
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H.
Figure 38.360.220.E.
Examples of how to meet open space requirements for alley-loaded lots.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 11, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2014 , § 9, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.230. - Stable, commercial.
The minimum property size must be ten acres.
Structures or facilities used for stabling, storing, showing or training of animals must be set back a minimum of 100 feet
from any adjacent privately owned property. Dwelling units, accessory structures incidental to dwelling units and
irrigated pasturage may occur within the 100-foot setback area, subject to the setback requirements of the applicable
zoning district.
There must be at least a 20-foot setback adjacent to any street.
Shows or other activities which would generate more traffic than is normal to a residential area are prohibited, unless
the proposed site has direct access from an arterial street as set forth in the city growth policy. Permission for such
shows and activities must be obtained from the city. Notification must be provided in a letter that explains the nature
and duration of the activity, and accommodations for spectators, traffic control and additional parking for cars and
trailers. This letter must be submitted to the community development department at least one month prior to the date
of the show or activity.
All pasture and animal storage areas must be enclosed with fences or walls of a minimum of four feet six inches in
height. The design of these enclosures must be shown on drawings submitted with the conditional use permit
application.
All laws applicable to public health and appropriate care of animals must be complied with for the entire period of
operation of the stable.
All activity and pasture areas that are not grassed must be treated for dust control.
Adequate parking for daily activities must be shown on the site plan and improved to city parking standards. Additional
parking must be provided for shows or other special events. Amounts and required improvements to temporary parking
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must be determined through a special temporary use permit if such temporary parking was not shown and approved
through the original approval.
Figure 38.360.230.
Stable, commercial.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.240. - Tennis and racquet club.
The use will be compatible with any adjacent neighborhood and will not be detrimental to the same due to:
Increased automobile traffic;
Noise generated from within the site.
Perimeter fencing of the site may be required. Fencing of outdoor courts must not exceed 16 feet in height, and fencing
may be required to be opaque by the review authority.
When the club is located within a residential zoning district, shows, tournaments or other activity which would generate
more traffic than is normal to a residential area are prohibited, unless access is provided from an arterial street as set
forth in the city's long range transportation plan. If access is not provided from an arterial street, permission for such
shows and activities must be obtained from the city through the special temporary use process.
There must be a landscaped 50-foot buffer strip adjacent to any residential zoning district, or as otherwise determined
by the ADR or DRB.
Hours of operation may be controlled by the review authority.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.250. - Townhouse and rowhouse dwellings.
Purpose.
To enhance the character of the street.
To maintain "eyes on the street" for safety to pedestrians and to create a more welcoming and interesting
streetscape.
To de-emphasize garages and drive aisles as major visual elements along the street.
To provide usable open space for residents.
To reduce the apparent bulk and scale of large townhouse/rowhouse buildings.
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To promote architectural variety that adds visual interest to the neighborhood.
Parking and garage access.
Setbacks. See division 38.320 for minimum building and garage setbacks for the applicable district.
For buildings with less than five attached units, see section 38.350.070 for parking and garage standards.
Buildings with five or more attached units are subject to the landscaped block frontage standards as set forth in
section 38.510.030.C. This includes standards for entrances, façade transparency, weather protection, parking,
landscaping, and sidewalk widths.
Individual garages facing the street are not allowed in the B-3 district when an alley is adjacent to the property.
See section 38.400.090.C. for driveway standards.
For rowhouses where the primary pedestrian access to the dwelling is from an alley or private internal vehicular access,
buildings must emphasize individual pedestrian entrances over individual garages by using both of the following
measures:
Enhance entries with a trellis, small porch, or other architectural feature that provides cover for a person entering
the unit and a transitional space between outside and inside the dwelling.
Provide a planted area in front of each pedestrian entry of at least 20 square feet in area, with no dimension less
than four feet.
Alternative designs will be considered, provided they meet the intent of the standards.
Figure 38.360.250.C.
Good and bad examples of garage/entry con gurations. The left example features a landscaped area and a
trellis to highlight the entry. In the middle image, the balconies and landscaped areas deemphasize the garage.
In the right image, the lack of landscaping near the entries would not be allowed (where this is the primary
pedestrian entry to the unit).
Internal drive aisle standards.
Must meet minimum widths of any city adopted International Fire Code.
Minimum building separation along uncovered internal drive aisles must be 24 feet. The purpose is to provide
adequate vehicular turning radius, allow for landscaping elements on at least one side, and to provide adequate light
and air on both sides of the dwelling units and drive aisles, which often function as usable open space for residents.
Upper level building projections over drive aisles are limited to three feet, and must comply with provisions in
subsection D.2 of this section.
Usable open space. Townhouse and rowhouse dwellings must provide open space at least equal to ten percent of the
building living space, not counting automobile storage. The required open space may be provided by one or more of the
following ways:
Usable private open space directly adjacent and accessible to dwelling units. Such space must have minimum
dimensions of at least 12 feet on all sides and be configured to accommodate human activity such as outdoor eating,
gardening, toddler play, etc. Front setbacks may be used to meet this standard, provided they are defined with a
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fence meeting the standards of section 38.350.060.
Balconies, roof decks and/or front porches.
Figure 38.360.250.E.2.a.
Usable open space examples for townhouses/rowhouses.
Figure 38.360.250.E.2.b.
Usable open space examples for townhouses/rowhouses.
Building design.
Townhouse/rowhouse articulation. Townhouse and rowhouse buildings must comply with residential building
articulation standards as set forth in section 38.530.040.C except that the articulation intervals must be no wider
than the width of units in the building. Thus, if individual units are 15 feet wide, the building must include at least
three articulation features for all façades facing a street, common or other shared open space, and common parking
areas at intervals no greater than 15 feet.
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Repetition with variety. [see figures 38.360.250.F.1 and 2] Townhouse and rowhouse developments must employ one o
the following "repetition with variety" guidelines:
Reversing the elevation of two out of four dwellings.
Providing different building elevations by changing the roofline, articulation, windows, and/or building
modulation patterns.
Adding a different dwelling design or different scale of the same design, such as adding a one-story version of the
basic dwelling design where two-stories are typical (or a two-story design where three stories are typical).
Other design treatments that add variety or provide special visual interest. While the variable use of color on
buildings can be effective in reducing the perceived scale of the building and adding visual interest, color changes
alone are not sufficient to meet the intent of the standards.
Figure 38.360.250.F.1.
Acceptable townhouse con guration employing the repetition with variety concept.
Figure 38.360.250.F.2.
Acceptable townhouse/rowhouse buildings integrating the "repetition with variety" guidelines. The internal
units in the left image each have distinct, but identical windows and roof forms. The outside unit is
di erentiated through the use of building materials, window design, unit size, and façade detailing. The internal
and external units in the right example include reverse elevations.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 12, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
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Sec. 38.360.260. - Short term rentals.
Purpose and intent. The purpose of this article is to provide for the regulation of short term rentals in certain zoning
districts within the city in order to preserve neighborhood character while encouraging economic activity and diversity,
and to promote public health, safety, and welfare.
Applicability.
The provisions of this article apply only to short term rentals as defined herein.
This article does not apply to any rental of a dwelling unit which is governed and defined by The Montana Residential
Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 (Landlord Tenant Act). This article applies only to transient occupancy of a short
term rental as defined herein.
A lower-priced or moderate-priced home subject to and defined by chapter 38, article 380, or a dwelling that
received financial support from the city, including but not limited to down payment assistance, impact fee payment,
or other financial subsidy, may not be used as a short term rental until such time as the lien instrument against the
property in favor of the city securing the amount of such subsidy has been released and the release recorded with
the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder's Office.
Definitions. For purposes of this article, the following definitions apply:
Hosting platform means a person or entity that provides a means through which an owner may advertise and offer
for rent a short term rental to the general public.
Owner includes any part owner, joint owner, tenant in common, joint tenant, tenant by the entirety, or lessee with
exclusive possession under a valid long-term lease or rental agreement.
Owner-occupied means the owner occupies the dwelling as his or her principal residence for more than 50 percent
of the calendar year.
Operation of or operating a short term rental means the short term rental has been rented by or on behalf of the
owner to the general public for compensation for transient occupancy. "Operation of" or "operating" a short term
rental does not include mere advertisement of or offering to rent short term rental(s).
Responsible person means the person responsible for addressing all maintenance, nuisance, and safety concerns
related to a short term rental.
Short term rental is defined in article 7 of this chapter.
Transient occupancy of a short term rental means occupancy which has the following characteristics:
The period of occupancy is less than 28 consecutive days, and
The renter has a principal residence other than the short term rental, and
The short term rental is furnished with personal property necessary to make the unit ready for immediate
occupancy by the renter.
Short term rental classifications. Short terms rentals are classified as:
Type-1: A short term rental of one or more bedrooms in an owner-occupied dwelling while the owner is occupying
the same dwelling unit for the entire rental period.
Type-2:
A short term rental of an owner-occupied dwelling if the owner is not occupying the dwelling during the entire
rental period.
A short term rental of a permitted accessory dwelling unit (ADU) whether or not the ADU's owner is present in
the primary dwelling unit during the rental period.
A short term rental of one dwelling unit within a duplex whether or not the duplex's owner is present in the
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duplex's other dwelling unit during the rental period.
Type-3: A short term rental that is not owner-occupied.
Where allowed. An owner may operate a short term rental in all zoning districts where such use is authorized in Chapter
38, articles 8-11 and 14 subject to the requirements of this article.
Compliance with laws.
In addition to the provisions of this article, the short term rental owner must comply with all other applicable local,
state and federal laws, including but not limited to city parking regulations, including time limitations and ADA
parking restrictions; lodging facility use tax and accommodations sales tax regulations; health department permitting
requirements; the Americans with Disabilities Act; fair housing laws; building codes and fire codes, and the non-
discrimination provisions in chapter 24, article 10. Loss of any required permit or license will result in revocation of
the short term rental registration in accordance with subsection J of this section.
Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations is the sole responsibility of the owner and city approval of an
application for short term rental registration in no way waives or transfers to the city such responsibility. In addition,
the owner is solely responsible for verifying the use of a property as a short term rental is compatible with insurance
and mortgage contracts, home owners' association covenants, rental agreements and any other contracts which
govern the use of the property.
Administration. The director will collect all registration fees and will issue registrations and renewals thereof in the name
of the city to all persons qualified under the provisions of this article and has the power to:
Make rules. The director will promulgate and enforce all reasonable rules and regulations necessary to the operation
and enforcement of this article. All rules are subject to city commission review and modification.
Adopt forms. The director will adopt all forms and prescribe the information to be given therein.
Obtain approvals. The director will submit all applications to interested city officials for their approval as to
compliance by the applicant with all city regulations which they have the duty of enforcing.
Investigate. The director will investigate and determine the eligibility of any applicant for a short term rental
registration as prescribed herein.
Examine records. The director may examine the books and records of any applicant when reasonably necessary to
the administration and enforcement of this article.
Give notice. The director shall notify any applicant of the acceptance or rejection of the application and will, upon the
director's refusal of any registration, at the applicant's request, state in writing the reasons therefor and deliver them
to the applicant.
Record keeping. The director will maintain at all times a record of registered short term rentals, including the full
name of each registrant, the address at which such short term rental is operated, the date of issuance, the fee paid
therefor, the telephone and address of the applicant, and the time such registration will continue in force.
Registration. The following requirements apply to all short term rentals unless otherwise noted.
General. It is unlawful for any person to operate within the city a short term rental without having first registered the
short term rental with the department of community development. A separate registration shall be required for each
short term rental.
Application; submittal materials. The applicant must complete and submit an application for a short term rental
registration to the department of community development using a form provided by the city. The form will include
an acknowledgement and agreement the short term rental meets and will continue to meet the definition of short
term rental classification (Type-1, Type-2, or Type-3) during the registration term. Before the application will be
accepted by the director, the applicant must provide:
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The name, telephone number, address, and email address of all property owners and of the responsible person, if d
property owner is a business, the name(s) and contact information of all business owners must be provided.
The Montana Department of Revenue tax registration number for the short term rental.
A sketch plan with a description of the short term rental, including street address, number of bedrooms, and
number of off-street parking spaces available for guests' use.
Certification the short term rental meets and will continue to meet the definition of short term rental
classification (Type-1, Type-2, or Type-3) during the registration term.
For Type-2 and Type-3 short term rentals, certification the applicant has read and understood the standards in
subsection I of this section and the property applied for meets the standards.
For Type-2 short term rentals in residential zoning districts, certification that residents adjacent to the proposed
short term rental have been provided written notice in accordance with subsection 6 of this section.
The registration fee and fire inspection fee.
Safety inspections.
Initial inspection. Prior to issuance of a short term rental registration, an inspection by the city fire department
must be completed and signed off by a city fire inspector, or by an NFPA-certified fire inspector using an
inspection form approved by the city fire marshal. A fire inspection checklist form will be provided to the
applicant with the application materials. If a short term rental registration lapses for any period of time, upon
reapplication for registration an inspection must be completed and signed off as described in this subsection
before the short term rental registration will issue.
Re-inspection. If re-inspection or multiple visits by a fire inspector are required before the inspection form may
be signed, additional inspection fees will apply.
Subsequent inspections; self-certification. The city fire marshal may require a repeat inspection on a periodic
basis, and at any time upon complaint or evidence of noncompliance. Applications for annual renewal of
registration will include a self-certification by the applicant that they continue to comply with the fire inspection
checklist. By applying for renewal of registration, the applicant will acknowledge and agree that the city may
randomly select a certain percentage, not to exceed ten percent, of the renewal applications for a full inspection
as described in subsection (a). If selected, the registration renewal will be conditioned on completion of the fire
inspection and payment of the fire inspection fee. The owner of a short term rental selected for a full inspection
will be allowed to continue to operate the short term rental pending completion of the inspection, provided all
other renewal requirements have been met.
Safety hazards. The short term rental owner acknowledges that the city, or any authorized representative thereof,
have the right to suspend operation of any short term rental when the city determines the rental is causing or
contributing to an imminent public health or safety hazard.
Fees. Short term rental registration and inspection fees shall be established by resolution of the city commission.
Additional notice requirements for registrations and registration renewals of Type-2 short term rentals in residential
zoning districts. The applicant for a Type-2 short term rental registration in a residential zoning district included in
section 38.310.030 must give notice on a form provided by the city to each residence adjacent, including those
residences adjacent across a public right-of-way and properties connected to the applicant's property by property
corners. The notice must include a description of the proposed use and the name, address, telephone number and
email address (if any) of the responsible person.
Issuance of registration. Once the applicant submits the completed application form, all required submittal
materials, and registration and inspection fees, the director will review the application form and submittal materials
and determine whether the short term rental meets all city requirements for registration. The city will issue the short
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term rental registration when:
The director determines the short term rental meets all city requirements for registration; and
The applicant has provided either a signed pre-operational inspection report from the health department
indicating the short term rental may operate as a public accommodation or a valid and current public
accommodation license issued by the state of Montana department of health and human services pursuant to
Title 50, Chapter 51, MCA.
Listing of registration. The short term rental registration form will require the applicant to agree to inclusion in an
online listing of short term rentals registered with the city.
Display of short term rental registration number. The owner must include the short term rental registration number
in all listings of the short term rental on any hosting platform and print advertising.
Change in ownership. A short term rental registration does not run with the land, and a change in ownership of the
short term rental terminates the registration. The new owner wishing to continue operation of the property as a
short term rental must apply for registration following the process described in this section.
Expiration. Registrations issued pursuant to this article are valid for one year from the month in which such
registration is issued and will expire automatically unless renewed in accordance with this section.
Renewal. The registrant may apply to renew the registration annually using a form provided by the city. It is the
registrant's responsibility to renew the registration on time even if a courtesy reminder is not received by the
registrant.
Short term rental standards. The following requirements apply only to Type-2 and Type-3 short term rentals unless
otherwise noted.
Short term rental agreement; written rules for guests. The short term rental owner must enter into a written rental
agreement with the guest for each stay in the short term rental.
The guest must be provided with a written list of rules applicable to the short term rental with the rental
agreement, and the rental agreement must include a written acknowledgement by the renters of their
agreement to comply with such rules.
The list of rules must include those rules required by this article to be included.
The list of rules must be prominently displayed within the short term rental.
Responsible person. The applicant must designate a person responsible for addressing all maintenance, nuisance,
and safety concerns related to a short term rental. The responsible person must be available to take and respond to
reports of concerns and complaints 24 hours per day, 7 days per week during the registration term. The name and
contact information for the responsible person must be included in the list of rules.
Maximum occupancy for Type-2 and Type-3 short term rentals. The maximum occupancy of a Type-2 or Type-3 short
term rental is two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons, except that this number may be reduced by the
city based on available parking spaces. The maximum occupancy will be noted on the short term rental registration
and must be included in the list of short term rental rules.
Maximum number of bedrooms that may be rented in a Type-1 short term rental; maximum occupancy. The owner
of a Type-1 short term rental may rent or offer for rent up to two bedrooms in the dwelling, except that in a two-
bedroom dwelling, only one bedroom may be rented or offered for rent. No other area of the dwelling may be
rented or offered for rent. The maximum occupancy of a Type-1 short term rental is two persons per bedroom.
Trash removal. The responsible person must ensure proper disposal of solid waste pursuant to local and state rules,
regulations and laws. The schedule for trash and recycling collection and instructions for proper disposal must be
included within the short term rental rules.
Signage. Exterior signs identifying the unit as a short term rental are prohibited on short term rentals. During a
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rental period, there must be a sign posted inside the front door of the short term rental showing the locations of all
fire extinguishers in the unit, the gas shut-off valve, and fire exits.
Noise and nuisance.
The owner of the short term rental must ensure that use of the short term rental by guests is in compliance with
the noise provisions of chapter 16, article 6 and all nuisance provisions of the Bozeman Municipal Code.
A prohibition against making loud noise in such a manner as to disturb the quiet, comfort or repose of a
reasonable person of normal sensitivity must be included in the short term rental rules.
All outdoor activities producing noise discernible from a neighboring property shall cease by 10:00 p.m. This
requirement must be included in the short term rental rules.
Violations; enforcement.
Registration suspension or revocation. The director may suspend or revoke a short term rental registration when the
registrant commits one or more of the following acts or omissions:
Failure to comply with any provision of this article;
Operating or allowing the operation of the short term rental in such a manner as to create a public nuisance,
cause a breach of the peace, constitute a danger to the public health, safety, welfare or morals, or interfere with
the rights of abutting property owners;
Cancellation of the health department's public accommodation license, tax authority registration, or any other
required permit; or
The securing of the registration by fraud or misrepresentation, to specifically include false or incorrect
information on the registration application.
Procedure. Should the director decide to suspend or revoke a registration, the registrant will be given notice and an
opportunity to respond following the procedures in this subsection, except that should the director determine the
short term rental or its operation present a safety hazard or require immediate remedy, the director may order
operation of the short term rental to cease immediately.
The registrant will be notified in writing by the director at least seven days prior to the action contemplated and
the reasons therefore.
Upon receipt of the notice, the registrant may request a meeting with the director. Such request must be in
writing and must be received by the director within seven days of the registrant's receipt of the notice. Failure on
the part of the registrant to request in writing a meeting and within the specified time period shall be a waiver of
the registrant's right to a meeting.
If a meeting is requested by the registrant, the director will set a time, date and place and will so notify the
registrant, in writing.
When a meeting is conducted, the city will present the evidence supporting the contemplated action. The director
may request evidence be presented by other parties. The registrant may present evidence. The director will take
all evidence admitted under advisement and once a decision has been made the director will notify the registrant
of the findings and decision in writing.
Appeal. Any person aggrieved by a decision of the director will have the right to appeal to the city commission by
following the procedures in section 38.250.030.
Unpaid fee constitutes debt. The amount of any unpaid fee, the payment of which is required hereunder, constitutes
a debt due the city.
Violation constitutes a misdemeanor. In addition to suspension or revocation under subsection A of this section, a
knowing violation of this article constitutes a misdemeanor punishable as described in section 38.200.160.
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(Order No. 2018-01 , § 13, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
Sec. 38.360.270. - Agricultural uses in residential suburban.
Agricultural use standards per two and one-half acres: one horse or one cow; two sheep or two goats; ten rabbits; 36 fowl
(chickens, pheasants, pigeons, etc.) or six larger fowl (ducks, geese, turkeys, etc.). For larger parcels the review authority may
determine that a larger number of livestock is consistent with the requirements of this section.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.360.070.
DIVISION 38.370. - WIRELESS FACILITIES
Sec. 38.370.010. - Intent, purpose and applicability.
It is the duty of the city to protect the public health, safety and welfare and the city has the authority to regulate the
placement, construction and modification of wireless facilities in the advancement of that duty.
The city commission finds that:
The aesthetic character of the city is a matter of substantial economic importance and general concern to the
citizens of the city, as described in the city's adopted growth policy, and is an important part of the public welfare;
Wireless facilities are often visually obtrusive due to their necessary height, support equipment and interruption of
the viewscape, and can have substantial negative impacts on the character of the city and its surrounding viewsheds;
The impacts of wireless facilities can be reduced by establishing standards for location, structural integrity,
compatibility and collocation;
To reduce visual and other impacts on the community the city desires to promote collocation, use of stealth
installations of wireless facilities and the use of smaller less intrusive facilities to minimize the need to construct new
large scale wireless facilities;
The city desires to provide clear and consistent regulations for review of proposed wireless facilities;
The city desires to support the ability of telecommunication service providers to deliver such services to the
community consistent with other community objectives;
The construction of new large scale wireless facilities is the action of last resort to provide for wireless
communication services and should only be undertaken when alternatives are not available;
It is necessary to determine the locations and circumstances most appropriate for placement of wireless facilities to
serve the community;
Consistent with applicable law, the city desires to minimize the adverse visual impacts of towers and antennas
through careful siting, design, landscape screening and innovative camouflaging screening;
The city seeks to protect against potential health and safety hazards to citizens and prevent damage to adjacent
properties;
The city intends to exercise its authority with respect to the regulation of the placement, construction and
modification of wireless facilities, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law;
The city recognizes the need to respond to the policies in the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and has constructed
its regulations in a manner that does not unreasonably discriminate between providers of functionally equivalent
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personal wireless service, and that does not prohibit or has the effect of prohibiting personal wireless service in the
city;
The city recognizes that the Federal Communication Commission exercises certain sole authority in the licensing and
other regulation of wireless services;
The adequate review of a telecommunications application may require expertise not typically possessed by city staff
which would require the city to obtain qualified outside expertise to properly evaluate an application; and
Outside review would generate additional costs to the public to preserve the public interest these costs must be
mitigated and should properly be mitigated by those causing such additional costs.
General application. All uses listed in this division 38.370 are subject to the specific standards described for each use, in
addition to all other applicable standards which may apply, and are limited to those districts specified. The provisions of
this division 38.370 apply to development and modification of large scale wireless facilities, micro-scale wireless facilities,
non-broadcast telecommunication facilities and small scale wireless facilities. These and other terms are defined in
article 7 of this chapter.
The provisions of this division 38.370 only apply to facilities which meet the definition of a wireless facility or that are
otherwise specifically brought under the authority of this division 38.370.
Sec. 38.370.020. - Special submittal requirements.
In addition to the materials required by division 38.220 of this chapter for site plans, conditional use permits, and planned unit
developments, the materials required by section 38.220.170 must be submitted.
Sec. 38.370.030. - Uses within districts and required review procedures.
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to describe the procedures under which certain uses may be permitted as
principal or conditional uses in specific districts. Unless specifically exempted by this division 38.370, all other standards
and procedures of this chapter must apply.
The Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-3-101 et seq.) may require subdivision review when land interests
are created by rent or lease. Depending on how the ownership and use of land for a facility subject to this division
38.370 is established, subdivision review may be required in addition to site plan review.
No wireless facility may be permitted except in accordance with the development review processes indicated in Table
38.370.030 in subsection B.1 of this section, based on the applicable zoning district and scope of the proposed facility.
Principal uses are indicated with a "P", conditional uses are indicated with a "C", accessory uses are indicated with an "A",
planned unit development is indicated with a "PUD", and uses which are not permitted within the district are indicated
by a "-". All applications are subject to the review processes, submittal requirements and other requirements of articles
38.230, 38.430 and 38.220 of this chapter as may be applicable.
Review procedures.
Table 38.370.030
Zoning District Large scale Small scale Micro scale Non-broadcast
PLI P P A P
M-2 P P A P
M-1 P P A P
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B-3 C P/C A P
B-2 C P/C A P
B-2M C P/C A P
B-1 C P/C A P
UMU C P/C A P
REMU PUD P/C A C
NEHMU P P A P
R-O PUD C P C
R-5 PUD C P C
R-4 PUD C P C
R-3 PUD C P C
R-2 PUD C P -
R-1 PUD C P -
R-S PUD C P C
Note:
Conditional use review is required when the proposed facility exceeds the height limitation of the district.
Collocation upon a previously approved wireless facility, when such additional facilities were contemplated as part of
the original review, must be reviewed as a sketch plan in all zones.
A wireless facility may be permitted as an accessory use in any non-residential district when:
It is for the exclusive use of a single on-site business when the business has otherwise been approved under
division 38.230 or 38.430 of this chapter, rather than offered to additional parties;
It is in compliance with the maximum building height limitations of the zoning district;
It complies with all setback and other zoning requirements; and
Has eight or less square feet of total antenna surface area.
Installations located within the neighborhood conservation overlay district must be reviewed against the criteria of
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
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5.
6.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
7.
8.
A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
division 38.340 of this chapter as applicable, and a certificate of appropriateness is required before issuance of a
building permit.
Prior to submitting an application for a large scale or small scale wireless facility, the applicant must request in
writing a pre-application conference with the community development department. The purpose of the pre-
application conference is to acquaint the participants with the applicable requirements of this division 38.370, as well
as with any preliminary concerns the department may have.
The applicant's written request for a preapplication conference must include the following information with regard to
the proposed facility:
Location;
Overall height;
Number of antennas proposed, including those of other providers to be collocated;
Type of wireless communication services to be provided; and
Coordination of ground equipment shelters.
Adequate review of applications may require the city to retain consultants or other third party assistance to review
an application. In such event the applicant must reimburse the city for the actual costs incurred prior to issuance of a
building permit.
The provisions of division 38.280 of this chapter must apply for all nonconforming facilities subject to this division
38.370.
Sec. 38.370.040. - Standards.
Safety. All wireless facilities subject to this division 38.370 must meet the following standards:
The structural design for all wireless facilities greater than ten feet in height or which have more than four square
feet of total antenna area must be certified by a professional structural engineer licensed to practice in the state. A
building permit must be obtained prior to the installation of any facility subject to this division 38.370.
All wireless facilities must meet or exceed current standards and regulations of the FCC, FAA and any other agency
with the authority to regulate wireless facilities. If such standards are changed, the owner must modify the
installation to comply with the new standards within six months of the effective date of the new standards or
regulations unless a different implementation schedule is required by the issuing agency.
Wireless facilities with a base located at grade must be enclosed within a secure fence not less than six feet in height,
or the tower itself must be equipped with an appropriate anti-climbing device.
Aesthetics.
All wireless facilities.
The provisions of section 38.370.040.B may be waived by the review authority as determined by division 38.220
of this chapter where it has been demonstrated that the waiver will result in superior compliance with the intent
and purposes of this chapter.
All installations must be as visually unobtrusive as is feasible. Facilities and equipment mounted on existing
structures must be visually incorporated into the structure or background by the use of architectural elements,
color, screening or other methods.
No lighted signage is permitted.
All structures must be constructed in conformance with the standards of the city's adopted International Building
Code.
In addition to landscaping required by division 38.550, visual screening of ground mounted equipment must be
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f.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
d.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
provided in all residential areas and where a facility is located within a non-residential area which is visible, from
a viewpoint five feet above grade, from a residential area. Screening must provide an opaque screen within 18
months of establishment and be a minimum of four feet in height. The screening may be of landscape materials
or a fence which otherwise complies with this chapter. The site must comply with the landscaping provisions of
article 5 of this chapter.
Exterior façade materials and the character of equipment shelters used in residential areas must be of materials
commonly used in the immediate area. The architectural design of the exterior of the shelter must be compatible
with surrounding residential structures. The intent of the requirements of this subsection B.1.f may be met by
providing opaque fencing or other visual screening compatible with the neighborhood, in compliance with all
other sections of this chapter, which will obscure the entire equipment shelter. The screening must be in place
prior to the commencement of operations of the facility.
Preferences. In order to justify the construction of a wireless structure, the applicant must demonstrate that higher
ranking alternatives in the following hierarchy, beginning with subsection 2.a.(1) of this section, do not constitute
feasible alternatives. The order of preference, from most preferred to least preferred and based on technical
feasibility, for new wireless facilities is:
Facility size.
Micro-scale wireless facilities or collocation on existing large scale wireless facilities;
Small scale wireless facilities;
Large scale wireless facilities 50 feet or less in height; and
Large scale wireless facilities in excess of 50 feet in height.
A facility meeting the definition of stealth, as defined in section 38.700.170 of this chapter, is always preferred
over a facility of the same scope which does not meet the definition of stealth. Stealth facilities may be required
in historic districts and under other circumstances.
As appropriate, the following evidence may also be submitted to demonstrate compliance with this section:
That no existing wireless communications facility within the search area meets the applicant's radio
frequency engineering or height requirements;
That no structure within the search area has sufficient structural strength to support the applicant's
proposed antennas; or
That there are other verifiable limiting factors that render collocated or other more preferred options
unsuitable or unreasonable.
Self-supporting lattice or guyed structures are generally preferred over monopoles.
Special standards. The following special standards apply as shown in Table 38.370.040:
Stealth installation is required;
Wireless facilities are exempt from the height limitations of section 38.350.050, but are subject to the height
limitations of section 38.370.040;
The height limitation of the district may be exceeded by the least amount necessary to provide services, but only
when service may not otherwise be provided by a less intensive facility or an alternative site; and
Only allowed when service may not be provided from an alternative site or a less intensive installation or set of
installations.
Table 38.370.040
Zoning District Large-scale Small-scale Micro-scale Non-broadcast
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4.
a.
b.
5.
PLI b b b -
M-2 b b b -
M-1 b b b -
B-P c a, c b -
B-3 c a, c b -
B-2 c a, c b -
B-2M c a, c b -
B-1 c a, c b -
UMU c a, c b -
REMU d a, c b -
NEHMU b b b -
R-O d a, c a, b -
R-5 d a, c a, b -
R-4 d a, c a, b -
R-3 d a, c a, b -
R-2 d a, c a, b -
R-1 d a, c a, b -
R-S d a, c a, b -
Stealth.
Installations located within the conservation overlay district must be stealth facilities.
A stealth wireless facility may exceed the height limitations of the district by ten feet.
Small scale wireless facilities. All small scale wireless facilities established in the neighborhood conservation district
must be installed in such a way as to maintain the historic or architectural character of the host site. All sites must
maintain the least possible visual obtrusiveness.
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6.
a.
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
d.
e.
(1)
(2)
f.
Large scale wireless facilities. No large scale wireless facility will be permitted unless the applicant demonstrates that th
facility cannot be accommodated on an existing structure or by placement of a smaller facility. In order to justify the con
of a large-scale wireless facility, the applicant must demonstrate that higher ranking alternatives in the hierarchy, begin
section 38.370.040.B.2.a.(1), do not constitute feasible alternatives. Such demonstration must be made by submission o
statement of position, qualifications and experience by a licensed radio frequency engineer; and must address the requ
findings of this section.
If collocation is feasible, the owner of the large scale wireless facility must certify in writing, prior to final permit
approval, that the owner will accept for collocation any FCC-licensed or licensing exempt wireless communication
provider using compatible technology at reasonable and customary rates and terms up to the structural capacity
to accommodate additional antennas. Collocation may be denied based on verifiable and substantial
expectations of interference from additional users. Later failure to comply with the requirements supporting
collocation may result in the revocation of city approvals or other penalties stipulated by the municipal code as
the requirements of the title will have been violated.
The city must find the proposed guarantee, assurances or provisions for the perpetual maintenance and for
removal of an abandoned large scale wireless facility to be adequate.
A large scale wireless facility must not either:
Exceed 190 feet in height; or
When located east of the alignment of Church Avenue/Sourdough Road and west of the extended alignment
of Bozeman Trail Road/Arnica Drive;
Exceed 100 feet in height when its base elevation is greater than 4,800;
Exceed 40 feet in height when its base elevation is above 4,850;
Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections B.6.c.(2)(a) and (b) of this section, these restrictions must
not apply for those areas lying east of the extended alignment of Bozeman Trail Road/Arnica Drive and
south of Interstate 90.
Where multiple service providers will be utilizing the same ground area and/or support structure, a single
structure must be provided to house all ground based equipment.
Special setbacks for large scale wireless facilities must be provided and/or a design for internal structural
collapse to avoid damage or injury to adjoining property or users must be provided.
Residential district setbacks for a large scale wireless facility must be 100 percent of facility height, which may
be reduced to no less than 50 percent upon the provision and approval of an engineered design, stamped by
a professional structural engineer licensed to practice in the state, establishing a smaller collapse area.
A large scale wireless facility in non-residential zones must provide a minimum setback from the property
lines of 75 percent of facility height, which may be reduced to no less than 30 percent of facility height upon
the provision and approval of an engineered design, stamped by a professional structural engineer licensed
to practice in the state, establishing a smaller collapse area. Large scale wireless facilities located within non-
residential zones, but adjacent to a residential zone or residentially developed areas, must maintain a
minimum setback from residential zoning or property boundaries of at least 50 percent of facility height. All
installations must maintain the minimum zoning district setbacks, including special setbacks for applicable
block frontage in division 38.510 of this chapter.
New large scale wireless facilities greater than 50 feet in height must be designed in all respects to accommodate
both the applicant's antennas and antennas for at least two additional users. A new large scale wireless facility
may meet this requirement by correctly sizing the foundation and other structural elements to allow the future
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g.
h.
i.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
j.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
7.
C.
1.
addition of height to the structure to accommodate additional users rather than immediately constructing the
entire large scale wireless facility. This requirement may be waived by the governing body upon a showing of fact
to overcome the presumption that multiple transmitters are desirable on the proposed facility.
All large scale wireless facilities 50 feet or greater in height, regardless of the zoning district in which the
structure is located, must be located at least one mile, measured in a straight line, from any other large scale
wireless facility that is 50 feet or greater in height. An exception to this requirement may be granted by the
approval body when it is found and factually supported in the written record that the criteria of subsection B.6.i
of this section are met and a critical need exists for the proposed location, or that a closer placement is desirable
to advance the intent of this chapter.
A large scale wireless facility greater than 50 feet in height must only be approved when the applicant can
demonstrate in writing that no existing or approved micro-scale, small scale or large scale wireless facility within
the required separation distance of the proposed site can accommodate the applicant's proposed antenna.
In addition to the other review criteria of this chapter, affirmative findings for at least one of the following items
must be made in order for the conditions necessary for approval to exist:
No existing or proposed structures located within the geographic area are adequate to support the proposed
antennas are required to meet the applicant's engineering and service requirements;
Existing or approved structures are not of sufficient height to meet the applicant's engineering and service
requirements and a combination of smaller scale facilities will not provide for adequate service delivery;
Existing or approved structures do not have sufficient structural strength to support the applicant's proposed
antenna and related equipment and cannot be reinforced to provide sufficient structural strength;
The applicant's proposed antennas would cause electromagnetic interference with the antenna on the
existing or approved antenna support structures, or the antenna on the existing or approved antenna
support structures would cause interference with the applicant's proposed antenna;
Property owners' or owners of existing or approved wireless facilities or locations for smaller scale
installations are unwilling to accommodate the applicant's needs; or
The applicant demonstrates that there are other factual and verifiable limiting factors that render existing or
approved wireless facilities unsuitable.
Height and number of users. A large scale wireless facility may be reviewed as a multiple phase project and be
constructed over time as provided for in section 38.370.040.B. Prior to the approval of a final site plan, or a
building permit if it is a latter phase of a phased project, an applicant must provide:
For the first 70 feet of tower height, for an applicant who is not a wireless service provider, a copy of an
executed lease from a wireless service provider of not less than 12 months duration;
For a height of greater than 70 feet and not more than 110 feet of structure height, one additional executed
lease;
For a height greater than 110 feet, a second additional executed lease;
Leases may be redacted to remove proprietary information but must identify the parties.
Non-broadcast. A non-broadcast telecommunication facility located within a B-1, B-2, B-2M or B-3 district, a mixed-
use district, the neighborhood conservation overlay district or a residential zoning district must be enclosed within a
structure. The structure must be of materials and architectural character compatible with the adjacent properties.
The facility must comply with all applicable side, front and rear setback setbacks.
Administrative.
An inventory of existing sites utilized by the applicant must be provided. The inventory must note the feasibility of
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
A.
B.
accommodating other users. The city may share this information with other applicants or interested parties to
encourage collocation.
The public land and agencies exemption from full compliance with zoning in MCA 76-2-402 does not apply to private
entities utilizing publicly owned lands.
Any antennas or antenna support structures not utilized for the provision of wireless services for a continuous
period of six months will be considered abandoned. All facilities must be removed within six months of the cessation
of operations. If a facility is not removed within six months the city may remove the facility at the facility or
landowner's expense. Where multiple users share a facility, the non-operational antennas and associated ground-
mounted equipment may be removed, but any common equipment may be retained until all users have terminated
the utilization of the site.
Any emergency power supply or other equipment installed at the facility must comply with section 38.520.070.
No facilities which require employees to be present on a routine basis may be established in residential areas, with
the exception of periodic maintenance activities, unless the zone allows offices as a permitted or conditional use and
appropriate review has been completed.
Failure to comply with the terms of this chapter is grounds for facilities to be removed by action of the city at the
facility or landowner's expense.
Any modifications to existing wireless sites shall only occur in compliance with the review procedures required in
section 38.370.030.
Denial of an application must be made only after the review body has determined that specific criteria of this chapter
cannot be met. Said determination must be made in writing and must include the reasons for the denial and the
evidence which supports those reasons. Public opposition alone is not sufficient to deny the application.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 14, 4-18-2018)
DIVISION 38.380. - AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Part 1. - Findings and Purpose
Sec. 38.380.010. - Legislative ndings.
The city commission hereby finds:
The Bozeman Community Plan establishes a goal to encourage an adequate supply of affordable housing and land for
affordable housing in Bozeman. A lack of affordable housing affects the ability of many residents to find housing which is
adequate for their basic housing needs. A lack of adequate housing affects health, social stability, and other issues which
can have negative and intergenerational effects. To fulfill this goal, the community plan establishes an objective to
promote the development of a variety of housing types, designs, and costs to meet the wide range of needs of Bozeman
residents.
The Affordable Housing Action Plan: 2012—2016 (Action Plan) analyzed housing needs and existing market conditions
and determined housing affordability has become an acute problem as demonstrated by the number of households
paying over 30 percent of their incomes for housing. A 2015 update to the city's housing needs analysis (Action Plan
Update) concluded that the group of homebuyers with significant affordability gaps have incomes at or below 80 percent
of the area medium income and are in need of subsidies and/or below-market home prices. The Action Plan Update also
determined that buying opportunities are increasingly scarce for homebuyers with incomes between 60 percent and 100
percent of AMI, and that housing and land prices have increased faster than incomes for many of Bozeman's residents.
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C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
1.
2.
Since the adoption of the Bozeman Community Plan and the Action Plan, the median sales price of housing has continued t
climb. According to the Action Plan Update, as of the end of November 2014, the median home price was $287,000.00.
The Action Plan Update states that the number of detached homes priced below $250,000.00, a rough indicator of
housing affordability for a family of three at 100 percent of AMI, has fallen from 48.4 percent of the market in 2012 to
just 18.6 percent in 2014.
There is a critical shortage of for-sale housing affordable to Bozeman households with incomes at and below the area
median income, as currently calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. As a result, some
residents pay excessive amounts of income for housing, reducing the amounts available for other necessities and a
decent and adequate standard of living.
Limited housing opportunities within the city requires households to seek housing outside of the city limits which has a
negative impact on transportation infrastructure by adding unnecessary trips to the network. Increased driving distance
to affordable housing also negatively impacts air and water quality. To maintain a sufficient resident workforce in all
fields of employment, and to ensure the public safety and general welfare of the residents of the city of Bozeman,
affordable housing needs must be addressed.
The city can achieve its goals of providing more affordable housing and its goal of achieving an economically balanced
community only if part of the new housing built is affordable to households with low and moderate incomes.
The inclusionary housing regulations codified in this ordinance will substantially advance the city's legitimate interest in
assuring that additional housing is built in the city that is affordable to residents, including low- and moderate-income
households and dispersed throughout the city in order to encourage economic integration of the city's residents.
This ordinance is adopted pursuant to the city's self-governing powers and the city's independent general police power
to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Requiring affordable housing within certain developments is consistent with
the community's housing goals of protecting the public welfare by fostering an adequate supply of housing for persons
at all economic levels and maintaining both economic diversity and geographically dispersed affordable housing.
Requiring developers of newly created market-rate housing to provide some housing affordable to low and moderate-
income households is reasonably related to the impacts of their projects because:
Rising land prices are a key factor in preventing development of new affordable housing. New market-rate housing
construction in Bozeman has generally created strong and increasing demand for a finite stock of unbuilt land within
the city, and thus continues to drive up the price of remaining land. New development without affordable units
reduces the amount of land development opportunities available for the construction of affordable housing.
New residents of market-rate housing place demands on services provided by both public and private sectors,
creating a demand for new employees. Some of these public and private sector employees needed to meet the
needs of the new residents earn incomes only adequate to pay for affordable housing. Because affordable housing is
in short supply in the city, such employees may be forced to live in less than adequate housing within the city, pay a
disproportionate share of their incomes to live in adequate housing in the city, or commute ever increasing distances
to their jobs from housing located outside the city. These circumstances harm the city's ability to attain employment
and housing goals articulated in the community plan and place strains on the city's ability to accept and service new
market-rate housing development.
Sec. 38.380.020. - Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that the affordable housing needs of
the residents of Bozeman are addressed. In addition, the purpose of this article is to ensure that quality housing is dispersed
throughout Bozeman's neighborhoods for households of a variety of income levels including low- and moderate-income residents
to meet the goals of the community plan and the action plan by encouraging a mix of housing types throughout the city and
integrating affordable housing so as to not concentrate affordable housing in a particular area.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
In addition, the ordinance is intended to alleviate the impacts that would result from the use of available residential land solely
for the benefit of households that are able to afford market-rate housing and to mitigate the service burden imposed by
households in new market-rate residential developments by making additional affordable housing available for service employees.
The ordinance is also intended to mitigate environmental and other impacts that accompany new residential development by
reducing traffic, transit and related air quality impacts, promoting jobs/housing balance and reducing the demands placed on
transportation infrastructure.
The ordinance provides residential developers with a menu of options from which to select alternatives to the construction of
inclusionary units on the same site as market-rate residential developments, and provides procedural adjustments and subsidies
for housing developers to ensure houses are constructed and sold in a manner that furthers the city's affordable housing goals.
Finally, the ordinance provides procedural adjustments and subsidies for housing developers who are not legally required to
comply with the requirements for construction of inclusionary housing, but nevertheless choose to construct affordable housing.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 1, 1-14-2019)
Part 2. - Applicability and De nitions
Sec. 38.380.030. - Applicability.
This article applies to:
Subdivisions and site plans which propose ten or more market-rate homes, to be created through development, new
construction, substantial improvement or reuse.
Annexations where the net developable area of the annexing parcel when considering the applicable zoning could
result in ten or more dwellings. In such a case, the annexation agreement shall require the provision of affordable
housing pursuant to this article.
Developments seeking to use procedural adjustments and subsidies to develop affordable housing.
Contiguous tracts under common ownership and control. A developer may not avoid the requirements for construction
of affordable homes by submitting piecemeal applications for development. At the time of the initial application for
approval of a subdivision or site plan, the developer shall identify all contiguous property under common ownership and
control in the affordable housing plan required by section 38.380.100.
Development applications approved prior to the effective date of this article. A site plan or subdivision having received
sufficiency approval as of the effective date of this article or a preliminary site plan or preliminary plat granted approval
prior to the effective date of this article may apply for one or more of the procedural adjustments and subsidies
described herein. Only that portion of the amended preliminary plat or site plan pertaining to the request for approval
of one or more procedural adjustments and subsidies will be subject to review. The requirements of section 38.19.130
for the amendment of plans will not apply.
Newly proposed residential developments which include affordable housing in excess of this article's requirements for
building affordable homes are eligible for procedural adjustments and subsidies as provided in section 38.380.130. Such
request shall require the preliminary plat or site plan to evidence compliance with all other requirements of this article.
Exemptions. Developments comprised exclusively of rental housing units are exempt from this article.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 2, 1-14-2019)
Sec. 38.380.040. - De nitions.
Affordable housing or affordable home. A dwelling for purchase by an owner-occupant that requires no more than 33
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B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
A.
1.
percent of a household's income for housing payments and meets the definition of a lower-priced home or moderate-
priced home. For purposes of 38.380, "affordable housing" or "affordable home" does not include condominium units.
Area median income or AMI. As calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), AMI is the
median income for a family of four within a specific geographical area, such as Gallatin County. For each such region,
HUD adjusts this AMI calculation for households of different sizes and updates the calculations annually based on
estimated changes in area incomes. For purposes of this article, the city hereby adopts HUD's AMI calculations as an
equitable and reasonable method to determine affordability, based on percentages of AMI specified in this article.
Common ownership or control. "Common ownership or control" refers to property owned or controlled by the same
person, persons, or entity, or by separate entities in which any shareholder, partner, member, or family member of an
investor of the entity owns ten percent (10%) or more of the interest in the property.
Developer. For purposes of this article, a developer is the person or legal entity, or their successor(s) in interest who: (a)
submits an affordable housing plan for a subject property along with other submissions required for land use approvals,
zoning, or permit reviews by the city, and/or (b) is the owner of property subject to this article during the development
phase or a successor in title, such as a builder, obligated to implement the affordable housing plan required by this
article with respect to one or more lots or parcels of land and/or (c) receives incentives for the production of affordable
housing.
Liquid Assets. Assets such as cash, stocks, bonds or similar that can readily be converted to cash with no significant loss
in value, but excluding long retirement assets such as IRA accounts, 401K accounts, pension funds, etc. Explicitly
excluding retirement
Lower-priced home. Newly created dwelling for purchase, priced at a price affordable to a buyer-household with an
income at 70 percent of area median income (AMI) as determined by the city in accordance with section 38.380.070 of
this article.
Market-rate home. Any dwelling for purchase subject to this article which is not an affordable home. The number of
market-rate homes in a development is used to determine the required number of affordable homes, as described in
this article. For the purposes of 38.380, "market rate home" does not include condominium units.
Moderate-priced home. Newly created dwelling for purchase, priced at a price affordable to a buyer-household with an
income from 70.1 percent to a maximum of 90 percent of AMI as determined by the city in accordance with section
38.380.070 of this article.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 3, 1-14-2019)
Part 3. - Requirements
Sec. 38.380.050. - Requirement to build and sell a ordable homes.
All development subject to this article must include affordable homes.
Sec. 38.380.060. - Number of a ordable homes required.
The number of affordable homes a developer is required to build is a percentage of the total market-rate homes proposed in
the development plan.
The developer may:
Build and sell lower-priced homes to qualified buyers. Ten percent of the total dwellings constructed within the
subdivision or site plan must be lower-priced homes, as defined in 38.380.040.F; or
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2.
3.
B.
C.
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
Build and sell moderate-priced homes to qualified buyers. Thirty percent of the total dwellings proposed must be mode
homes as defined in 38.380.040.H; or
Build and sell a mix of both types of affordable homes. If a developer proposes a mix of both lower-priced and
moderate-priced homes, the developer starts with the ten percent calculation for lower-priced homes. For each
lower-priced home eliminated from the resulting number, the developer may substitute three moderate-priced
homes.
The distribution of homes between the two categories of affordable homes will be identified in the affordable housing
plan required by section 38.380.100.
Fractions. If the calculation of the required number of affordable homes results in a fraction of a home, this
obligation will be satisfied by payment of a fee-in-lieu pursuant to section 38.380.140 or by providing an additional
moderate-priced home.
Calculating number of affordable homes in phased developments. It is anticipated that in developments being built
in phases, the number of market-rate homes may not be certain at the time the developer submits the affordable
housing plan pursuant to section 38.380.100. In such cases, the developer must estimate the number of market-rate
homes and number of affordable homes required for all phases. If the number of homes in the first phase of such
development is certain at the time of the city's approval of the affordable housing plan, a separate affordable homes
pricing and delivery schedule for that phase shall be incorporated in the affordable housing plan at the time of
development or construction of each subsequent phase. As the number of homes in future phases becomes certain,
the affordable housing plan shall provide for subsequent affordable homes pricing and delivery schedules for future
phases of the development, consistent with the affordable housing plan and section 38.380.070.B.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 4, 1-14-2019)
Sec. 38.380.070. - Pricing of a ordable homes.
The city will calculate on an annual basis the maximum sales price a developer may charge for each category of
affordable home required by this article as follows:
Lower-priced homes. The sales price for lower-priced homes affordable to buyer-households with incomes at or
below 80 percent of AMI will be calculated based on a household income of 70 percent of AMI.
Moderate-priced homes. The sales price for moderate-priced homes affordable to buyer-households with incomes
from 81 percent to 100 percent of AMI will be calculated based on a household income of 90 percent of AMI.
Affordable home sales price schedule.
The city will annually publish a schedule of sales prices for low-priced homes and moderate-priced homes within 30
calendar days of the HUD's annual publication of updated AMI calculations. The sales price schedule will be effective
on the date of publication by the city. The new sales price schedule will apply to applications for building permits
received after the effective date of the new sales price schedule. A developer may request that a new sales price
schedule apply to the sale of an affordable home approved under a previous sales price schedule.
The city, at the city's sole discretion, may recalculate the sales price schedule if prevailing mortgage interest rates
have adjusted by 50 basis points or more over the assumption used for the previous schedule.
Considerations. The following factors will be considered by the city in calculating the sales price schedule. The
Director of community development may make de minimis exceptions to application of these factors:
AMI for the Bozeman area;
Gross monthly income will be calculated as the appropriate HUD AMI calculations income divided by 12;
The maximum monthly payment will be 33 percent of gross monthly income. The maximum monthly payment
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d.
e.
f.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
A.
B.
C.
A.
will include costs directly applicable to a mortgage such as payment of principal, interest, as well as assumptions
for typical costs of taxes, public assessments, property insurance premiums, mortgage insurance premiums
(assuming the higher of either government or private mortgage insurance), and homeowner association fees;
The interest rate will be determined by the city by a survey of at least three local mortgage lenders, averaging
their current rates for loans for homes with price ranges within the low-priced homes range and the moderate-
priced homes range;
The financing will be a conventional or government-insured fixed-rate loan with a term of 15 to 30 years; and
A borrower will typically contribute $1,000.00 toward the purchase price.
Household occupancy assumptions. To determine the maximum sales prices of affordable homes with different
numbers of bedrooms, the city will base its calculation on the AMIs for households of different sizes, as follows:
Zero bedroom or studio unit - AMI for a one-person household;
One bedroom unit - AMI for a two-person household;
Two bedroom unit - AMI for a three-person household; and
Three bedroom unit or larger - AMI for a four-person household.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 5, 1-14-2019)
Sec. 38.380.080. - Timing of delivery of a ordable homes.
Required affordable homes must be provided in accordance with the following:
In each development in which more than one affordable home is required to be sold, the affordable housing plan
shall specify that affordable homes are to be sold concurrently and in proportion to the sale of unimproved lots or
market-rate homes. Such timing of compliance will be represented in an affordable homes pricing and delivery
schedule as described in section 38.380.100.
A developer may build and sell affordable homes earlier than required in an affordable housing plan.
Sec. 38.380.090. - Minimum design and construction standards for a ordable homes.
Required number of bedrooms in affordable homes. In each development subject to the requirements of this article,
affordable homes shall represent a mix of bedrooms per unit as similar as possible (given rounding of numbers) to the
mix of bedrooms per unit of the market-rate homes in the development.
Standards for design and construction. The city shall define reasonable standards for the design and construction of
affordable homes to ensure livability and compatibility with nearby market-rate homes in the development. Affordable
homes may have different interior finishes and features than other dwellings within the development, as long as the
finishes and features are functionally equivalent and of good quality. Finishes include, but are not limited to, design and
materials, the provision of appliances, cabinets, and floor treatment. Features include, but are not limited to, the
numbers of bathrooms, garages and parking areas, mechanical equipment and hookups, and green building features.
Amenities. Affordable homes shall have the same amenities as the market-rate homes in the development, including the
same access to and enjoyment of common open space and facilities in the development.
Sec. 38.380.100. - Submission of a ordable housing plan; approval.
Affordable housing plan. The applicant for any development seeking to utilize the incentives to create affordable housing
or subject to the requirements of this article must submit an affordable housing plan in a form provided by or approved
by the city that describes how the requirements of this article will be satisfied. When approved by the city, the affordable
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B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
D.
E.
housing plan must be incorporated by reference in the recorded subdivision plat, site plan or annexation agreement.
The applicant will provide only one affordable housing plan to meet the requirements of this article.
Affordable housing plan as binding agreement. An affordable housing plan approved by the city will be considered a
binding contract between the developer and the developer's successors in interest to the lot or dwelling. Such plan will
be included in a separate recorded written agreement between the developer and the city, or incorporated into another
recorded document wherein the developer is required to implement the affordable housing plan.
Contents of affordable housing plan. The affordable housing plan submitted by the developer must include, at a
minimum:
Number of affordable homes proposed in each affordable home category;
The number of bedrooms in each affordable home;
Number of market-rate homes in the development;
The number of bedrooms in each market-rate home;
Location of affordable homes in the development (lots in the plat or units within a site plan);
Timing of delivery of the affordable homes in relation to the market-rate homes in the development;
Marketing plan describing how affordable homes will be offered to the public;
Plan for construction of affordable homes in phased developments. It is anticipated that in developments being built
in phases, the number of market-rate homes may not be certain at the time the developer submits the affordable
housing plan. In such cases, the developer must estimate the number of market-rate homes and number of
affordable homes for each phase. If the number of homes in the first phase of such development is certain at the
time of the city's approval of the affordable housing plan, a separate affordable homes pricing and delivery schedule
for that phase shall be incorporated in the affordable housing plan at the time of development or construction of
each subsequent phase. As the number of homes in future phases becomes certain, the affordable housing plan
shall provide for subsequent affordable homes pricing and delivery schedules for future phases of the development,
consistent with the affordable housing plan; and
A description of the procedural adjustments and subsidies requested in the affordable housing plan.
Any other information that is reasonably necessary to evaluate the compliance of the affordable housing plan with
the requirements of this article.
Pricing and delivery schedules in affordable housing plans. The affordable homes pricing and delivery schedule shall be
in the form of a chart that contains the numbers of required affordable homes by bedroom count and affordable home
category, and shall indicate the current affordable home prices as calculated by the city.
Approval of affordable housing plan. The affordable housing plan will be reviewed as part of the initial application
approval process for the type of development proposed. A condition shall be attached to the approval of any subdivision
plat or site plan to require recordation of the affordable housing plan or other separate agreement obligating the
developer to meet the requirements of this article.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 6, 1-14-2019)
Sec. 38.380.110. - Marketing, sales and occupancy of a ordable homes.
Developers subject to this article shall market and sell affordable homes in accordance with provisions described in the city's
published instructions for preparing affordable housing plans. These provisions will address factors such as waiting list
management, marketing materials, responsibilities for marketing affordable homes, actions to be taken in the event of inability to
identify qualified buyers, procedures for certification of buyer eligibility, purchase contracts, and full disclosures to buyers of their
obligations and rights under this article. If after 120 calendar days of marketing efforts on the part of the developer of an
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affordable home in compliance with the city's published instructions the developer has not executed a purchase contract with a
qualified buyer, the developer may enter into a purchase contract with a buyer at a sales price that shall not be subject to the
maximum sales prices established pursuant to section 38.380.070. In such a case, upon closing of the sale the developer must pay
the city the difference between the sales price and the price of the affordable home as set out in the approved affordable housing
plan in accordance with section 38.380.180.B.
Sec. 38.380.120. - Recording requirements upon sale of a ordable home.
The developer, or the city or its agent if the city is involved in the sale of an affordable home shall cause to be recorded in the
offices of the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder, simultaneously with the recording of the deed of conveyance, a restrictive
covenant, deed of trust or other legal instrument, approved as to form by the Bozeman City Attorney that fulfills the resale and
recapture requirements described in section 38.380.160.
Part 4. - Incentives
Sec. 38.380.130. - Procedural adjustments and subsidies available for a ordable housing.
Developers may apply for procedural adjustments and subsidies in conjunction with a development application by submitting
an affordable housing plan pursuant to section 38.380.100.
Procedural
adjustments
and subsidies
Description Lower-
pricedHomes
Moderate-
priced homes
Impact fee
subsidy
Full or partial subsidization of impact fees, paid from municipal
funds if such funds are available; such subsidization must be
secured with a lien instrument due upon sale, transfer or non-
rate/term re nance of the home.
X
Down
payment
assistance
Subject to the availability of funds, the city will provide on a rst-
come rst-served basis, down payment assistance not to exceed
$10,000.00 per home bene ting households. Down-payment
assistance will only be provided directly to the qualifying
homebuyer. This assistance shall be secured with a lien
instrument due upon sale, transfer or non-rate/term re nance
of the home.
X
Reduced
minimum lot
sizes
A subdivision satisfying the requirements of this article 38.380
through the construction of a ordable homes (not by cash in
lieu or land donation) may use any of the minimum lot area, lot
width, and oor area reductions as described in article 38.320,
Form and Intensity Standards, for lots for qualifying homes.
X X
1
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A.
B.
1.
2.
a.
Concurrent
infrastructure
housing
construction
Concurrent construction of infrastructure and housing
development at the installation of gravel-base roads, provided
the developer has provided assurance through a performance
bond, letter of credit or other nancial security acceptable to
the City Attorney ensuring the completion of infrastructure and
meets all applicable criteria in 38.270.030.D.
X
Reduced
parking
requirements
Reduced parking requirement of two spaces per three-bedroom
dwelling.
X
The procedural adjustments and subsidies in this column may also be requested for moderate-priced homes
with a sales price a ordable to a buyer-household with an income from 70.1 percent to a maximum of 80 percent
of AMI as determined by the city in accordance with section 38.380.070 of this article.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 7, 1-14-2019)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2012 , § 7, adopted Jan. 14, 2019, amended the title of § 38.380.130 to read as herein set out. The former §
38.380.130 title pertained to incentives available for affordable housing.
Part 5. - Alternative Means of Compliance
Sec. 38.380.140. - Alternative means of compliance; payments of fees-in-lieu.
Alternatives to building lower-priced homes. The city may authorize a developer otherwise required to provide
affordable homes within a development to provide an alternative means of compliance of equal value to the affordable
homes otherwise required to be constructed pursuant to this article.
Allowable alternative means of compliance. If approved by the city, a developer may satisfy the affordable housing
requirements of this article by providing (i) a cash or in-kind payment in lieu or (ii) a donation of land.
Payment of cash in lieu. Payment shall be made to the city of a payment of cash-in-lieu per a fee schedule adopted
annually by the city commission. For each required affordable home not built, the cash-in-lieu amount will be the
difference between the sales price of a lower-priced home according to the then-current schedule of affordable
home prices and the average of the median sales price of homes within the city with the same number of bedrooms
over the two years prior to the adoption of the schedule. Cash-in-lieu payments shall be paid prior to issuance of a
certificate of occupancy for any dwelling or building in the development subject to this article.
Donation of land. Credits for donation of house lots or multi-family parcels. The city may accept donations to a city-
designated community housing nonprofit entity of: (a) ready-to-build house lots; or (b) parcels of land suitable for
construction of affordable multifamily housing. Restrictions on the donated lots or parcels will run with the land.
Such donations, if approved, will provide credits against this article's requirements for building lower-priced homes.
The credits will be determined as follows:
House lots. The value of the lot or lots, as determined by a professional appraisal paid for by the developer, will
1
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b.
C.
1.
2.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
5.
be divided by the city's then-current average of cash-in-lieu payments for homes of different sizes. The product
of that division to two decimal points will constitute the credit against the otherwise required number of lower-
priced homes.
Parcels of land. The city shall periodically adopt a valuation for donation of parcels of land intended for
multifamily development, for purposes of determining credits against the number of affordable homes that
would otherwise be required in a development subject to this article. The parcel of land must be zoned for the
development of multi-family housing, such as R-3, R-4 and REMU.
Timing of delivery of alternative means of compliance.
Timing of providing in-lieu contributions. In-lieu contributions when permitted shall be due and deliverable to the
city before the recordation of the affordable housing plan. A developer may propose an alternative to this
requirement in which staged contributions are made upon the predicted occurrence of certain events, such as the
sale of lots, which alternative may be approved at the sole discretion of the city.
Staged delivery of in-lieu contributions. In the case of staged delivery of in-lieu contributions, when permitted, the
city's determination of the value of each contribution shall take into account the differential financial value of
payments that are made later than recordation of the affordable housing plan using conventional methods of
discounting future cash flows to present value.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 8, 1-14-2019)
Part 6. - Buyer Quali cation and Subsidy Recapture
Sec. 38.380.150. - Quali cation of buyers of a ordable homes.
Lower-priced homes. To qualify for purchase of a lower-priced home, a buyer must meet the following criteria:
A household income at or below 80 percent AMI range, as verified and certified by the city; such certification must
have been provided more than one year prior to the closing date of the purchase. Income verification will be
performed using HUD's online income certification tool or a similar method that meets Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) 24 part 5, as amended, which adjusts gross incomes based on extraordinary expenses and imputation of assets
to income.
Maximum liquid assets of $25,000.00 at the time of income certification. Exceptions may be granted by the Director
of community development based on extraordinary circumstances.
The household occupying the lower-priced home must meet the definition of "Household" in section 38.700.090.
The buyer must meet one of the following definitions of "first-time homebuyer":
An individual who has had no ownership interest in a principal residence during the three-year period ending
with the date of purchase; or
A single parent whose only prior home was owned with a former spouse while married; or
An affected individual, defined by HUD as a displaced homemaker, who has only owned with a spouse; or
An individual who has only owned a principal residence not permanently affixed to a permanent foundation in
accordance with applicable regulations; or
An individual who has only owned a property that was not in compliance with state, local or model building codes
and which cannot be brought into compliance for less than the cost of construction a permanent structure.
The buyer must contribute at least $1,000.00 towards the purchase of the home unless waived in writing by the city
because of extraordinary circumstances, such as death of primary or secondary income earner or qualification as
displaced homemaker.
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6.
7.
B.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
The buyer must utilize conventional or government-insured fixed-rate first-mortgage financing with a term of 15 to
30 years.
The household in a lower-priced home must occupy the home as its primary residence. Lower-priced homes may not
be rented to another party, since the intent of the program is to provide these homes only for income-qualified
owner occupants, with the exception of rentals for a limited period of time necessitated by a family hardship or a
temporary move for one year or less, if approved in advance by the city.
Moderate-priced homes. To purchase a moderate-priced home, a buyer must occupy the home as a primary residence.
The developer must provide evidence satisfactory to the city verifying the initial owner will use the home as their primary
residence at time of sale.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 9, 1-14-2019)
Sec. 38.380.160. - Subsidy recapture for lower-priced homes.
To ensure that the community investment in affordable housing is perpetuated and that beneficiaries of affordable housing
programs do not receive a windfall financial benefit, the city requires repayment of subsidies as follows:
Requirement for repayment of cash subsidy. The buyer of a lower-priced home that received cash support in the
form of funds from the Affordable Housing Fund or other funding through the city, including but not limited to down
payment assistance, impact fee payment, or other funding shall be required to repay the subsidy, at zero percent
interest, when the dwelling or property is sold, transferred, refinanced with equity converted to cash out or when the
initial buyer who qualified for the subsidy has failed to abide by the requirements of this article. The subsidy will be
recorded as a lien against the property at the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorders office.
Requirement for repayment of non-cash subsidy. Because affordable homes which received procedural adjustments or
subsidies will be sold at a discount from market value, the city commission finds that it gives a subsidy with cash value to
the initial buyer which may be recaptured under certain circumstances. Therefore, upon resale or transfer of the
affordable home, the city aims to further its housing affordability goals by recapturing the principal amount of the
subsidy by use of a lien in favor of the city in that amount, which will be due and payable to the city, at zero percent
interest, when the home is sold or transferred or when the initial buyer who qualified for the affordable home has failed
to abide by the terms of this article.
Determination of non-cash subsidy amount. The community development director determines the amount of non-cash
subsidy based on the difference between 98 percent of the fair market value of the affordable home and the sales price
of the home. To determine the fair market value the director may rely on market data or analysis or one or more
professional appraisals provided by the buyer's mortgage lender or, the purchaser, or such other professional appraisal
as may be obtained by the director for this purpose. An appraisal report used for purposes of this section must provide
the fair market value of the affordable home. The commitment letter instructions provided to the appraiser must include
a requirement that the appraiser not use as comparables other homes that have received subsid(ies) pursuant to this
article 380, or through any affordable housing assistance from the city, State of Montana or federal program. If such
property must be used as a comparable in the appraisal report, the appraiser must clearly indicate and adjust for the
value of such subsidy in determining the fair market value of such property.
Reconsideration of director's determination of fair market value. Any party involved in the affordable home sale
transaction, including buyer, seller, or the city's agent may request reconsideration of the director's determination of fair
market value of an affordable home. In the event of such a request, the requesting party may provide the city with an
appraisal that meets the requirements of subsection C of this section and/or any other written evidence the requesting
party believes the director should consider in his determination.
Use of repayments to the city. The city shall only use repayments of the lien amounts to fund:
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1.
2.
3.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
C.
D.
A.
Down payment assistance for buyers of new or existing homes in Bozeman with household incomes at or below 80
AMI;
Affordable rental opportunities for residents of Bozeman with incomes at or below 60 percent of AMI; or
Any other use approved by the city commission that increases affordable homeownership opportunities for
residents of Bozeman with income at or below 80 percent of AMI.
(Ord. No. 2012 , § 10, 1-14-2019)
Part 7. - Administration and Enforcement
Sec. 38.380.170. - Administration.
Director of community development authority. The director of community development or an agent designated by the
city commission shall have authority to promulgate and enforce all reasonable rules and regulations and take all actions
necessary to the effective operation and enforcement of this article, unless such authority is expressly reserved to the
city commission or another city official, including but not limited to:
Reviewing a developers' affordable housing plan for compliance with this article;
Adopting all forms and prescribing the information to be given therein;
Monitoring developers' compliance with this article, notifying the developer of noncompliance, and ordering
compliance;
Imposing any and all sanctions permitted by this article; and
Calculating the annual pricing targets for affordable homes and causing a sales price schedule to be published. The
director of community development may make de minimis exceptions to the factors considered in calculating the
price targets.
Administrative manual. The city will publish administrative rules and instructions approved by the city commission,
including but not limited to instructions for completing the affordable housing plan, valuations required by this article,
and the distribution of the required number of affordable homes between the two affordable home categories and
required number of bedrooms. Such distribution by affordable home category shall be based primarily upon an
assessment by the city of housing needs among the income groups corresponding to each affordable home category,
but shall take into account the economic impact on developments subject to the requirements of this article.
Verification of sales prices and income certification prior to closing. The city manager may create standards for
documentation the city will use to verify the sale price of a home created pursuant to this article. For the initial sale of an
affordable home, the seller must provide the city with a copy of the HUD-1 form prepared by an attorney or title
company indicating the sales price. The final sales price on the HUD-1 form may not exceed the maximum price for a
specific affordable home as described in the current price schedule pursuant to section 38.380.070 plus an allowed
maximum of $3,000.00 in buyer selected upgrades, if allowed by the first mortgage lender underwriters. In addition, the
city shall require certification satisfactory to the city of homebuyer income qualification.
Monitoring completed sales. Upon receipt of a settlement statement for an affordable home, the city will determine if
the completed affordable home sale complies with the approved affordable housing plan and the requirements of this
article, and if not, respond to the noncompliance as provided in section 38.380.180.
Sec. 38.380.180. - Noncompliance; sanctions.
Discovery of noncompliance. If the city determines a developer subject to an affordable housing plan has failed to
comply with any terms or conditions of the affordable housing plan or this article, the Director of community
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B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
A.
1.
2.
3.
development or authorized agent shall notify the developer of the noncompliance in writing and order compliance by
the most reasonable and expeditious means as determined by the city. Notification shall describe a date certain by
which the developer must be in full compliance (which may not be less than one week or more than one year from the
date of the notice), and shall describe: (i) the exact nature of the noncompliance; and (ii) the possible sanctions for
noncompliance with this notification.
Cancellation of incentives provided. If a developer sells a home for a price not in compliance with the approved
affordable housing plan or any other recorded documentation obligating developer to comply with this article, the
developer must, prior to the release by the city of the dwelling from the affordable housing plan or binding agreement,
pay the city the difference between the sale price and the price of the affordable home as set out in the approved
affordable housing plan.
Sanctions for noncompliance. In addition to other remedies available to the city pursuant to this article, if on a date
certain by which compliance has been ordered by the director of community development or authorized agent, the
developer remains in noncompliance, the director of community development or authorized agent shall notify the city
attorney of the noncompliance and request that sanctions be imposed. The city shall have the authority to impose one
or more sanctions including but not limited to the following which the city deems most effective and appropriate
considering the nature of the noncompliance:
Withholding or revoking building permits,
Issuing stop-work orders, and/or
Withholding certificates of occupancy.
ARTICLE 4. - COMMUNITY DESIGN
DIVISION 38.400. - TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES AND ACCESS
Sec. 38.400.010. - Streets, general.
All streets must comply with the adopted growth policy and/or transportation plan. The arrangement, type, extent,
width, grade and location of all streets must be considered in their relation to existing and planned streets, to
topographical conditions, to public convenience and safety, and to the proposed uses of the land to be served by such
streets. The design standards contained in these regulations apply to all construction, reconstruction and paving of
streets. Review authority for exceptions or modifications to this section is specified in division 38.200.010.
Relation to undeveloped areas. When a proposed development adjoins undeveloped land, and access to the
undeveloped land would reasonably pass through the new development, streets and alleys within the proposed
development must be arranged to allow the suitable development of the adjoining undeveloped land. Streets and
alleys within the proposed development must be constructed to the boundary lines of the tract to be developed,
unless prevented by topography or other physical conditions. If the development being reviewed is a subdivision, a
request for an alteration of this standard must be processed as a subdivision variance. If the development being
reviewed is not a subdivision, a request for an alteration of this standard must be reviewed against the criteria of
section 38.250.080.B, but will not alter the review authority who would otherwise decide upon the application.
Relation to developed areas. The developer must arrange the streets and alleys to provide for the continuation of
streets and alleys between adjacent developed properties when such continuation is necessary for the convenient
movement of traffic, effective provision of emergency services and efficient provision of utilities.
Separation of through and local traffic. Where a development abuts or contains an existing or proposed arterial or
collector street, the developer may be required to provide frontage roads, reverse frontage with a reservation
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4.
5.
a.
6.
7.
8.
a.
9.
10.
a.
b.
(1)
11.
12.
prohibiting access along the rear property line, screen planting, or such other treatment as may be necessary for
protection of residential properties and to afford separation of through and local traffic.
Distance between parallel rights-of-way. Where a development borders on or contains a railroad, limited access
highway, canal, ditch or stream right-of-way, the developer may be required to provide a street approximately
parallel to and on each side of such right-of-way at a distance suitable to allow for the appropriate use of the
intervening land. Such distances must also comply with the requirements of approach grades and future grade
separation.
Dead-end streets and alleys. Dead-end streets must comply with city design specifications and standards, and with
any city-adopted International Fire Code. No dead-end streets longer than 150 feet are permitted without an
approved turn-around. Where streets terminate, the developer must provide a cul-de-sac at the terminus. Where it is
planned that a dead-end street will be extended in the future, a temporary cul-de-sac must be provided. All
approved turnarounds must be signed as no parking.
"T" turnarounds, in-lieu of temporary culs-de-sac, must be specifically approved by the review authority. "T"
turnarounds must include two straight backup lengths of 45 feet each to accommodate city fire trucks. All other
design requirements are established by the review authority.
Local streets. Local streets must be laid out to discourage speeding.
Half streets. Half streets are prohibited except when they are essential to the development, are beneficial to the city,
or when the review authority is satisfied that the half street will be dedicated to the public after the adjoining
property is developed. Half streets must be approved by the review authority, and when adjacent to unannexed
land, the county road office. When an existing half street is adjacent to a tract to be developed, the undeveloped half
of the street must be provided with the new development.
Second or emergency access. To facilitate traffic movement, the provision of emergency services and the placement
of utility easements, all developments must be provided with a second means of access. If, in the judgment of the
development review committee (DRC), a second dedicated right-of-way cannot be provided for reasons of
topography or other physical conditions, the developer must provide an emergency access, built to the standards
detailed in these regulations.
This provision may be waived or conditionally waived by the DRC.
Culs-de-sac. Culs-de-sac are generally prohibited. The review authority may consider and approve the installation of
a cul-de-sac only when necessary due to topography, the presence of critical lands, access control, adjacency to
parks or open space, or similar site constraints. Pedestrian walks must be installed at the end of culs-de-sac where
deemed appropriate.
Bridges and culverts. Culverts or bridges must be provided and installed by the developer where drainage channels
intersect any street right-of-way.
Bridges. Bridges must be built to state department of transportation H-20 load standards, and must be reviewed
and approved by the county road office and the city engineering department.
Culverts. All culverts must, at a minimum, extend across the entire improved width of the street cross section.
When culverts are determined necessary by the city engineering department, the size and length of the culvert
and the amount of backfill over the culvert must be determined by a registered professional engineer.
Each culvert or other drainage facility must be large enough to accommodate potential runoff from upstream
drainage areas. The minimum capacity of a culvert must be equivalent to a circular diameter of 15 inches.
Encroachment permits. The person or entity undertaking the development must obtain encroachment permits for all
access to state highways.
Traffic control devices. Street signs and other traffic control devices must be installed at all intersections and any
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13.
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(a)
(b)
c.
A.
1.
2.
other location required by the city. The location, size, shape and height of all traffic control devices must comply with
city requirements, and must conform with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the city
modifications to state public works standard specifications.
Sight distances. The alignment of all streets must provide adequate sight distances based on design operating
speeds.
Sec. 38.400.020. - Street and road dedication.
General. All streets or alleys within, or providing access to, the proposed development must be dedicated to the public,
be private streets to be owned and maintained by an approved property owners' association, or, if the criteria of this
section are met, be a public street easement.
Public street easements. Public street easements must:
Be approved by the city attorney's office;
Be recorded in the county clerk and recorder's office; and
Clearly grant to the public an unrestricted right of ingress and egress from a public street to the property to be
subdivided.
Private streets.
Private streets may be required to have a public access easement if deemed necessary by the city.
If a private street is proposed, the project must be reviewed as a planned unit development. However,
development proposals containing private streets are exempt from the PUD review requirement if:
A local private street is proposed and the street would comply with the city standard right-of-way
requirement of 60 feet, and the standard back-of-curb to back-of-curb width of 31, 33 or 35 feet; or
A local private street is proposed and the street would comply with the city standard right-of-way
requirement of 60 feet. The back-of-curb to back-of-curb width may vary from city standards, provided that:
A permanent funding source, such as the levying of assessments against all properties within the
development, for street maintenance is established and the funding levels will be adequate for all future
private street maintenance; and
The developer signs a waiver of right to protest the creation of SIDs, or other perpetual legal instrument,
acknowledging that the city will not assume dedication and/or maintenance of the streets unless the
street is brought up to city standards, or the property owners' have agreed to an assessment to fund
improvements required to bring the street up to city standards. The developer must record the waiver, or
other legal instrument, at the time of final plat recordation, or prior to issuance of building permits if no
final plat recordation is required.
Documented proof of adequate funding and scheduling for maintenance of all private streets, must be provided,
subject to section 38.220.200.
Sec. 38.400.030. - Intersections.
The following requirements apply to street intersections:
Streets must intersect at 90-degree angles except when topography prohibits this alignment. In no case may the
angle of an intersection be less than 60 degrees to the centerline of the street or road being intersected;
Two streets meeting a third street from opposite sides must be offset at least 125 feet for local roads and 300 feet
for arterials or collectors. Distances must be measured from the inside edge of the access, extended at its
intersection with the projected curb line of the intersecting street, to the right-of-way line, along the street frontage
right-of-way line. See Figure 38.400.030;
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
A.
1.
2.
A.
1.
2.
A.
B.
No more than two streets may intersect at one point;
Intersections of local streets with major arterials or highways must comply with section 38.400.090;
Intersections must be designed to provide adequate visibility for traffic safety based on the designated operating
speeds of the intersecting roadways;
Hilltop intersections are prohibited, unless no alternatives exist. Intersections on local streets within 100 feet of a
hilltop are prohibited. Intersections on arterial and collector streets within 200 feet of a hilltop are prohibited. If no
alternatives to a hilltop intersection exist, additional traffic control devices are required;
The grade of approaches to major highways may not exceed five percent; and
Any street which intersects a paved minor collector or greater street must be paved for at least 75 feet from the
existing edge of pavement.
Figure 38.400.030.
Intersections.
Sec. 38.400.040. - Street names.
The following requirements apply to street names:
New streets aligned with existing streets must have the same name as the existing streets.
All street names must be approved by the county geographic information systems and city engineering department
prior to final plat or plan approval in order to avoid duplication and confusion with names of existing streets and
roads.
Sec. 38.400.050. - Street and road right-of-way width and construction standards.
All streets and roads providing access to, and within, the proposed development must meet the following standards:
Right-of-way width and construction standards contained in this chapter: the most recently adopted long range
transportation plan; the City of Bozeman Design Standards and Specifications Policy; and the City of Bozeman
Modifications to Montana Public Works Standard Specifications.
Access streets and roads which are not on the city's or county's road maintenance system must be dedicated to the
public or must have a public easement which meets the criteria of this division 38.400.
Sec. 38.400.060. - Street improvement standards.
All street improvements must be designed by and constructed under the supervision of a professional civil engineer,
registered in the state, and must meet or exceed the right-of-way and construction standards adopted by the city
(including but not limited to an adopted transportation plan or specifications manual) and required for the type of street
to be constructed.
Plans and specifications for all public or private streets (including but not limited to curb, gutter, storm drainage, street
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1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
4.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
lighting and sidewalks), must be provided to and approved by the review authority. The developer must provide
professional engineering services for construction inspection, post-construction certifications and preparation of Mylar
record drawings. The plans and specifications must be approved and a preconstruction conference must be conducted
before any construction is initiated on the street improvements.
Surfacing. A pavement design report, based upon specific site soil data and design-year traffic loading conditions,
prepared by a professional engineer, or other qualified professional approved by the review authority, must be
submitted to the review authority for approval prior to plan and specification submittal if using the self-certification
process, or with the plans and specifications if using the standard process. Pavement design must be in accordance
with the city design standards and specifications policy and the city modifications to state public works standard
specifications.
Alleys. In subdivisions where alleys are proposed, a 20-foot-wide right-of-way must be provided. The driving surface
of the alley must be 16 feet wide and must be improved with gravel.
Subdividers may elect to pave subdivision alleys provided that adequate stormwater facilities are available.
Alleys must be designed and constructed in accordance with the city design standards and specifications policy
and the city modifications to state public works standard specifications, and subject to approval by the city
engineer.
Alleys used for backing under section 38.540.020.D must be designed to provide the required aisle width.
Traffic progression. Traffic progression is of paramount importance. Consequently, all potential intersections with
signals must be placed on quarter-mile points unless otherwise approved by the review authority.
Level of service standards. All arterial and collector streets and intersections with arterial and collector streets must
operate at a minimum level of service "C" unless specifically exempted by this section. The city determines level of
service (LOS) values by using the methods defined by the most recent edition of the Highway Capacity Manual. The
review authority may approve a development only if the LOS requirements are met in the design year, which must be
a minimum of 15 years following the development application review or construction of mitigation measures if
mitigation measures are required to maintain LOS. Intersections must have a minimum acceptable LOS of "C" for the
intersection as a whole.
Exception: If an intersection within the area required to be studied by section 38.220.060.A.12 does not meet LOS
"C" and the intersection has been fully constructed to its maximum lane and turning movement capacity, then an
LOS of less than "C" is acceptable.
Exception: The review authority may grant a waiver from an LOS of less than "C" at a specific intersection if the
review authority determines:
Granting a waiver for the intersection would not be contrary to public health and safety and is in the public
interest;
Improvements to the intersection to raise the overall level of service to a "C" or better are currently
scheduled for commencement of construction within three years as shown on the most recently adopted
Transportation Capital Improvement Plan;
All rights-of-way necessary for the required intersection improvements have been obtained by the city or by
the Montana Department of Transportation; and
The commission has approved a financing plan for the intersection improvements.
A waiver granted under this subsection is valid for the initial entitlement period of the project and applies only to the
real property for which the waiver is granted. A request for the extension of the initial development approval relying
upon an intersection level of service waiver is a material modification to the application per 38.100.070.
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c.
A.
B.
A.
B.
C.
1.
2.
A.
1.
a.
2.
B.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
If the review authority does not grant a waiver from the level of service standard under this subsection B.4, a subdiv
site developer may request a variance from the requirements of this section. If a variance is granted from the requir
section, the variance applies only to the specific development proposal for which it was granted and must not be co
evidence for any other development proposal.
Sec. 38.400.070. - Street lighting.
Standards. For street lighting standards, see division 38.570.
Timing. For the timing of street lighting improvements, see section 38.270.030.B.3.
Sec. 38.400.080. - Sidewalks.
General. City standard sidewalks (including a concrete sidewalk section through all private drive approaches) must be
constructed in all developments on all public and private street frontages, except for alleys. The requirements of the city
design standards and specifications policy and the city modifications to state public works standard specifications and
per the block frontage standards of division 38.510 apply.
Sidewalks adjacent to public lands. The developer must install sidewalks adjacent to public lands, including, but not
limited to, parks, open space, and the intersection of alleys and streets or street easements. Applicable sidewalks and
development frontages adjacent to public lands are subject to the provisions of section 38.510.030.I.
Timing. The following requirements regarding the timing of the installation of sidewalks apply:
For subdivision improvements, please refer to section 38.270.030.B.2.
For site development improvements, sidewalks must be installed prior to issuance of an occupancy permit, or must
be subject to an approved improvements agreement and financially guaranteed, as specified in division 38.270 of
this chapter.
Sec. 38.400.090. - Access.
General. All final site plans and plats must contain a statement requiring lot accesses to be built to the standard
contained in this section, the city design standards and specifications policy, and the city modifications to state public
works standard specifications.
Lot access standards. The drive approach must be constructed in accordance with the city's standard approach,
which includes a concrete apron, sidewalk section and drop-curb.
A city curb cut and sidewalk permit must be obtained from the engineering department prior to installation of
the approach.
Access must comply with any city-adopted International Fire Code.
Drive access from improved public street, approved private street or alley required.
For purposes of this Code, "improved" public street, approved private street, or alley means and includes:
Any street or alley within the city constructed to a standard which meets or exceeds standards established by
this chapter, the city design standards and specifications policy, and the city modifications to state public works
standard specifications;
Constructed public streets which may not meet current city standards but which are constructed to a standard
that has historically provided an adequate level of service to adjacent properties, which level of service would not
be degraded as a result of a pending development proposal.
Unless otherwise allowed by this chapter, all lots must be provided with legal and physical access via one of the
following options:
Twenty-five feet of frontage on a public or approved private street;
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b.
c.
C.
1.
2.
3.
a.
(1)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
b.
(1)
(2)
Twenty-five feet of frontage on a public or approved private street and an improved alley; or
Twenty-five feet of frontage on an improved alley and a greenway corridor or trail corridor with public access.
This option may require additional improvements to the alley to accommodate emergency access, snow removal
and storage, and the provision of utilities. The alley may also require signage for the provision of emergency
services.
Drive access requirements.
Drive accesses are required for commercial parking lots and parking lots for residential developments subject to the
site plan review procedures of division 38.230 of this chapter.
Parking areas for residential developments subject to the sketch plan review procedures of section 38.230.070, may
take access directly from an improved public street, approved private street or improved alley as defined in
subsection B.1 of this section with access provided according to the provisions of this section and section
38.540.020.D.
All drive accesses installed, altered, changed, replaced or extended must comply with the following requirements:
Residential.
Residential lots must not have direct access to arterials or collectors, unless the standards contained in table
38.400.090-1 are complied with;
Residential drive access standards apply to all residential development with drive access facing a street,
except apartment buildings.
Individual residential drive accesses facing the street with a single internal parking bay meeting the
standard of table 38.540.020 may not exceed 12 feet in width measured at the right-of-way line and 18
feet in width measured at the curb line.
Individual residential drive accesses facing the street with two or more internal parking bays meeting the
standard of table 38.540.020 may not exceed 20 feet in width measured at the right-of-way line and 26
feet in width measured at the curb line.
Individual and shared drive accesses must be physically separated by means of a landscaped area greater
than or equal to ten feet in width between paved areas and extending from the front line of the building
to the right-of-way line.
Residential complexes with 25 or more dwelling units must meet the commercial access standards in
section 38.400.090.C.3.b.
Non-residential.
Commercial drive access widths must be no greater than 35 feet measured at the inside edge of the drive
access extended, at its intersection with the projected curbline of the intersecting street. Two-way drive
access must be a minimum of 24 feet and one-way drive access must be a minimum of 16 feet.
Industrial drive access widths must be no greater than 40 feet measured at the inside edge of the drive
access extended, at its intersection with the projected curbline of the intersecting street. Two-way drive
accesses must be a minimum of 24 feet and one-way drive accesses must be a minimum of 16 feet.
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c.
d.
e.
D.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Figure 38.400.090.C.2.b.
Commercial and industrial accesses.
Drive accesses for all multiple tenant commercial buildings or complexes/centers, or industrial drive accesses
must be set back a minimum of 20 feet from the adjacent property line unless such drive access is approved as a
shared drive access.
Drive accesses to drive-in theaters, stadiums, racetracks, funeral homes or uses generating very heavy periodic
traffic conflicts must be located not closer than 200 feet to any pedestrian or vehicular entrance or exit to a
school, college, university, church, hospital, public emergency shelter or other place of public assembly.
All commercial and industrial drive accesses on arterial streets must have 15-foot return radii unless otherwise
approved by the review authority. All commercial and industrial drive accesses on other streets may have either
return radii or depressed curbs. The minimum radius allowed is four feet.
Spacing standards for drive accesses.
General.
Consolidation of access points onto public streets, to achieve a distance between access points in excess of the
minimum standards in this section, is desired and must be considered during all levels of site plan review.
For the purposes of this section, public or private access means any street, alley, driveway or other point of
vehicular access to a publicly controlled street.
The distance between public and/or private accesses on a public street must be measured between the right-of-
way line for public accesses and the nearest inside edges of private accesses according to the following distances
specified in subsections D.2 and 3 of this section.
Subsection D of this section does not apply to single-household, two, three, or four unit structures on individual
lots.
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2.
E.
1.
2.
F.
G.
H.
1.
2.
3.
Figure 38.400.090.D.
Spacing standards for drive accesses.
These standards apply to the minimum distance between public and/or private accesses and intersections, and the
minimum distance between public and/or private accesses and other public and/or private accesses.
Table 38.400.090-1
Minimum distance between public and/or private accesses and intersections and the minimum distance between public
and/or private accesses and other public and/or private accesses
Access Located on
Arterial Streets
Access Located on
Collector Streets
Access Located on Local
Streets
Average Spacing In All Districts In All Districts In All Districts
Partial access 315'150'40'
Full access 660'330'40'
Minimum separation 315'150'40'
Partial access includes right turn in and out only.
Full access allows all turn movements, in and out.
Accesses on local streets must be at least 150 feet from an intersection with an arterial.
Number and location of drive accesses.
Single-household uses are limited to one drive access per street face, except on properties abutting arterial streets,
in which case shared accesses, or drive aisles facilitating the turning of automobiles on-site are required.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, drive accesses may not be located closer than five feet to any
side property line, unless shared access, as defined in section 38.700, with the adjoining property is approved. This
standard does not apply to the shared side property line of townhouses units with adjacent garages using attached
drive aisles.
Shared drive access. The city desires and encourages sharing access drives, as defined in section 38.700.170 of this
chapter, between separate parcels.
Access approval required. All drive accesses may be approved by the review authority for width and location.
Modifications of property access standards.
Some of the standards listed in subsections C through E of this section, may be relaxed by the review authority if it is
shown during the development review process that more efficient design can be accomplished without jeopardizing
the public's health, safety and welfare, the intent of this chapter, or the intent of the city's growth policy.
Modifications from access standards may be approved by the review authority.
Commercial developments (including residential complexes for five or more households) which may not be able to
meet the requirements of subsections C through E of this section, and are requesting modifications from the
1 3
2 3
1
2
3
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
1.
2.
E.
standards, must submit to the city engineer a report certified by a professional engineer addressing the following
site conditions, both present and future:
Traffic volumes;
Turning movements;
Traffic controls;
Site design;
Sight distances; and
Location and alignment of other access points.
Based upon the above data, the review authority will determine whether a modification from the required standards
is justified and, if so, what alternative requirements will be necessary.
Sec. 38.400.100. - Street vision triangle.
Arterial streets. On corner lots on arterial streets in all districts, no fence, wall or planting in excess of 30 inches above
the street centerline grade is permitted within a triangular area defined as follows: beginning at the intersection of the
projected curblines of the two intersection streets, thence 50 feet along one curbline, thence diagonally to the point 50
feet from the point of beginning on the other curblines, then to the point of beginning, except when traffic control
signals are installed, in which case the a local street vision triangle shall apply. Nothing in this section prohibits portions
of buildings 12 feet or more above grade from encroaching into required vision triangle setbacks.
Collector and local streets. On corner lots, on collector and local streets, in all districts, no fence, wall or planting in
excess of 30 inches above the street centerline grades is permitted within a triangular area defined as follows: beginning
at the intersection of the projected curblines of two intersecting streets, thence 40 feet along one curbline, thence
diagonally to a point 40 feet from the point of beginning on the other curbline, then to the point of beginning.
Drive aisles and alleys. At the intersection of each driveway or alley with a street, no fence, wall or planting in excess of
30 inches above the street centerline grade is permitted within a triangular area where corners are defined by two
points on the right-of-way line, 15 feet on each side of the centerline of the driveway or alley and a point on centerline
ten feet outside the right-of-way. Any driveway or alley wider than 30 feet curb to curb at the right-of-way line must use
the vision triangle standard for local streets when intersecting local, collector, or arterial streets.
Provision for trees in street vision triangle.
Single-stem canopy trees are discouraged but may be permitted in street vision triangles as described in this section,
provided that mature trees do not significantly affect safe driving conditions and are maintained such that no canopy
foliage exists below a height of ten feet above centerline of intersecting streets.
Trees which are located in the street vision triangle and which preexisted the adoption of the ordinance from which
this chapter is derived may be allowed to remain, provided the trees are trimmed such that no limbs or foliage exist
below a height of ten feet above centerline grades of intersecting streets.
The review authority may grant a departure from the standards of this section for intersections with traffic signals,
intersections on one-way streets, or intersections on streets classified as an urban route by the Montana Department of
Transportation. Departure criteria are: a revision can be accomplished without jeopardizing the public's health, safety
and welfare, the intent of this chapter, or the intent of the city's growth policy.
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A.
B.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
(1)
e.
f.
2.
C.
D.
Figure 38.400.100.
Street vision triangles.
( Ord. No. 2045 , § 2, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.400.110. - Transportation pathways.
General. Pathways must be installed in accordance with this chapter, the growth policy, the most recently adopted long-
range transportation plan, any adopted citywide park plan, and any adopted individual park master plan, and must
comply with City of Bozeman Design Specifications. See also sections 38.410.100, 38.420.070 and 38.420.110.
Pathway categories. The development review committee (DRC) must determine whether a pathway is a transportation
pathway or a recreation pathway. For subdivision and planned unit development proposals, this determination must be
made during the pre-application process.
Transportation pathways. Developers must install transportation pathways, to provide adequate multimodal
transportation facilities within the development, as part of the required development improvements. Transportation
pathways must be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible, and include the following types of facilities:
Sidewalks (also see division 38.510 for sidewalk standards, depending on the applicable block frontage
designation);
On-street bike lanes and bike routes;
Boulevard trails; and
Class I trails;
With the exception of trail corridors within required watercourse setbacks, corridors for Class I trails must be
dedicated to the city. The dedicated trail corridor must be at least 25 feet in width to ensure adequate room
for the construction, maintenance and use of the trail. Transportation trail corridors cannot be used to satisfy
parkland dedication requirements; and
Pathways that connect community or neighborhood commercial nodes by a reasonably direct route; or
Pathways that connect major residential, employment, educational, or other service nodes by a reasonably direct
route.
Recreation pathways. For the definition of recreation pathways, please see section 38.420.110.B.
Related facilities. If pathways are proposed or required, stream crossings and other similar improvements, where
necessary, must be installed. Bridge design and construction must comply with city specifications and standards, and
must be submitted to the community development department for review and approval. Any necessary permits for
bridges must be obtained by the developer from the appropriate agency prior to installation of the stream crossings.
Trail requirements. The class of the trail must be determined by the review authority, and the trail must be designed and
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E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
B.
1.
2.
3.
constructed according to any adopted park or recreation plan or other city specifications and standards. Trails and
bridges must meet ADA specifications for recreational facilities and maintain a natural appearance. Trail plans and
specifications must be submitted to the planning and parks departments for review and approval prior to installation.
Bikeways and boulevard trails. Wherever new streets are to be developed as a result of a development proposal, or
wherever existing streets or roads are required to be improved, the developer may be required to incorporate striped
bicycle lanes along the shoulder, meeting current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
(AASHTO) standards, into the design and construction or improvement of the streets or roads. The decision to install a
boulevard trail instead of a bike lane must be based on the most recently adopted long-range transportation plan. The
review authority may consider exceptions based on the particular characteristics of a transportation corridor and
recommendations from the DRC and the Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board. Boulevard trails and bike lanes must be
designed and constructed in accordance with the most recently adopted long-range transportation plan, and any other
applicable city specifications and standards.
Pathway maintenance. Trails within and adjacent to the proposed development, as well as off-street pathways (i.e.,
sidewalks and boulevard trails) along external development streets, must be maintained by the developer (including
snow removal) in accordance with an approved maintenance plan until 50 percent of the lots within the development
are sold. Thereafter, the property owners' association must be responsible for maintenance. The property owners'
association may establish an improvement district to collect assessments to pay for the maintenance.
Pathway easements. Where pathways cross private land or common open space, the proper public access easements
must be provided. Public access easements for pathways must be at least 25 feet wide. The director of public works may
accept an alternate easement width when said easement is parallel to a road ROW.
Trails in required watercourse setbacks. Trail corridors within required watercourse setbacks must not be dedicated to
the city, and such land may not be used to satisfy parkland dedication requirements. When publicly accessible trails are
established within required watercourse setbacks, public access easements at least 25 feet in width must be provided to
ensure adequate room for the construction, maintenance and use of the trail.
Corridors. Corridors for transportation pathways may not be used to satisfy parkland dedication requirements.
Development frontages adjacent to trails are subject to the block frontage provisions of section 38.510.030.I.
Sec. 38.400.120. - Public transportation.
Street design. All interior and exterior development streets that are designated as transit routes must be designed to
accommodate transit vehicles and facilities. Considerations for transit street design include but are not limited to:
Pavement design;
Lane width;
Corner radii;
Street grade;
Curb height; and
Right-of-way width.
Other transit considerations. Developments with designated transit routes must be designed with consideration to the
following requirements:
Spacing of transit stops. All lots within the development must not be further than one-half mile from a designated
transit route;
Length of transit stops. Developments must be designed to accommodate a bus length of at least 90 feet on
designated transit routes;
Distance from intersection. Transit stops must be at least five feet from pedestrian crosswalks or the end of corner
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4.
5.
C.
A.
B.
C.
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
2.
3.
radii;
Driveway conflicts. Lots and lot accesses must be configured to avoid conflicts with transit stops; and
Lighting. Subdivision street lighting must be configured to provide adequate lighting at transit stops.
Transit facilities. If any streets on the interior or exterior of the development are designated as transit routes, the review
authority may require the developer to provide transit facilities such as transit stop signage, benches, bike racks, lighting
and bus shelters.
DIVISION 38.410. - COMMUNITY DESIGN AND ELEMENTS
Sec. 38.410.010. - General standards.
Conformance. The design and development of all land uses must conform to this chapter, adopted growth policies, any
relevant adopted neighborhood or subarea plan, and other resolutions and regulations, including any and all
amendments thereto.
Natural environment. The design and development of all land uses must be properly related to topography, and must, to
the extent possible, preserve the natural terrain, natural drainage, existing topsoil, trees and other existing vegetation.
Lands unsuitable for development. Land which the city has found to be unsuitable for development because of potential
hazards such as flooding, landslides, excessive slope, rock falls, subsidence, high water table, presence of wetlands; or
because of unreasonable burdens on the general public such as requirements for the excessive expenditure of public
funds, environmental degradation, or congestion in the streets or roads must not be used for building or residential
purposes unless the hazards or excessive public burdens are eliminated or will be overcome by appropriate design and
construction plans. Slopes of 25 percent or greater are presumed unbuildable unless demonstrated otherwise by the
developer.
Sec. 38.410.020. - Neighborhood centers.
To provide a neighborhood focal point, all residential subdivisions or planned unit developments that are ten net acres
in size or greater, must have a neighborhood center. Developments may be exempted from this requirement if every lot
within the development is within one-half mile of an existing neighborhood center. Generally, the center must be no less
than one acre in size. The center must be comprised of a park, square, green, plaza, transit stop, neighborhood
commercial center, civic use or any combination of these. The following requirements apply to all neighborhood centers:
The geographic center point of the neighborhood center must be no further than 600 feet from the geographic
center point of the development. This requirement may be waived in the following circumstances:
The development would create parcels that are all non-residential;
The center is a neighborhood commercial center or is adjacent to a neighborhood commercial center;
The site is constrained by the presence of critical lands;
The site is part of an approved subarea plan that shows the center in a different location; or
The topography of the site presents physical constraints on the property.
With the exception of civic and neighborhood commercial center uses, the developer must install all center-related
improvements as part of the required development improvements. When a multi-phase project is developed,
improvements must be installed with each phase. Required improvements must be based on the definition of each
feature found in article 7 of this chapter, and/or city standards.
The neighborhood center must have frontage along 100 percent of its perimeter on public or private streets or
roads. The city may consider and approve the installation of streets along less than 100 percent, but not less than 50
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4.
5.
a.
b.
6.
7.
A.
B.
C.
D.
1.
2.
3.
4.
percent, of the perimeter in accordance with section 38.420.060.
With the exception of civic and neighborhood commercial center buildings and grounds, the center is considered a
common area to be owned and maintained by the property owners' or a property owners' association. The property
owners' association may establish an improvement district to collect assessments to pay for the maintenance.
After receiving a recommendation from the city recreation and parks advisory board, areas within neighborhood
centers used for park, square, or green may count towards parkland dedication requirements (subject to review and
approval by the review authority) if they meet the following criteria:
The area is predominantly open space with enhanced natural features, but may contain amenities such as
sidewalks, seating, drinking and ornamental fountains and public art; and
The area provides active and/or passive recreation opportunities.
The neighborhood center may be used for limited stormwater retention/detention facilities if reviewed and approved
by the review authority. However, any part of the center used for stormwater management does not count towards
park dedication requirements.
New neighborhood commercial centers are subject to the community design framework master plan provisions of
sections 38.210.130 and 38.510.030.L.
Sec. 38.410.030. - Lot.
Dimensions and orientation. Lot size, width, shape and orientation must be appropriate for the location and
contemplated use of the development. In residential developments, a variety of lot sizes must be provided to facilitate
housing diversity and choice, and to meet the projected requirements of people with different housing needs. Lot
designs with irregular shapes, narrow necks, points and flag shapes are permitted only when the developer can
demonstrate that the proposed lot designs are necessary due to topography or other physical constraints on infill. Each
lot must contain a satisfactory building site adequate for the uses permitted in its zoning district. Each lot must conform
to this chapter, any growth policies, any applicable adopted neighborhood or subarea plan, and to any applicable
regulations of the state department of environmental quality.
Division by rights-of-way. No single lot must be divided by a public street, alley, or public or private utility right-of-way or
easement that would reduce the amount of buildable land to less than the minimum lot size required by this chapter for
the applicable zoning district.
Double/through and reverse frontage. Double/through frontage and reverse frontage lots are prohibited except where
essential to provide separation of residential development from arterial streets; to provide access to development
adjacent to limited access streets; to overcome topography or other physical conditions; or to overcome specific
disadvantages of existing design and orientation. Lots fronting on a street and an alley are not considered
double/through or reverse frontage lots.
Courtyard access lots. This includes a series of lots clustered around a private internal roadway. Minimum standards:
Maximum number of lots served by a courtyard access: Five (this includes lots fronting the street on either side of
the courtyard access).
Maximum length of a courtyard access: 100 feet (or deeper if approved by the fire marshal). The length may be
increased to 150 feet if all structures beyond 100 feet of the street are equipped with automatic fire sprinkler
systems.
Surface width of courtyard access: 15 feet minimum, to provide access for ambulances. Provisions must be made to
keep the access clear of snow, vehicles ("no parking" signs), and vegetation.
An easement of 20 feet in width must be secured over the applicable parcels to allow lots legal access to the public
street. A maintenance agreement is required for all applicable lots and must be recorded on the plat.
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5.
E.
1.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
A.
B.
C.
Buildings accessed from a courtyard access are limited to two-stories in height, due to aerial apparatus access limitation
Figure 38.410.030.D.
Examples of courtyard access lots.
Corner lots. Corner lots must have sufficient width to permit appropriate building setbacks from both streets and
provide acceptable visibility for traffic safety.
Homes on corner lots must have the same orientation as homes on lots on the interior of the block, unless otherwise
approved through an overall development plan.
Width. Lots must have a width sufficient to allow normal construction without the construction encroaching on property
lines, and must comply with the building setback requirements of this chapter.
Depth. Except for individual lots for individual townhomes; lots used to meet the requirements of chapter 38, division
38.380; lots serviced by an alley; or when necessitated by physical features of the land, no lot may have an average
depth greater than three times its average width.
Side lot lines. Side lot lines must be at substantially right angles to street or road lines and radial to curved street or road
lines.
Frontage. Unless otherwise allowed by this chapter, all lots must have frontage in compliance with section 38.400.090.B
to provide, among other things, adequate room for snow removal, lot access and utility easements.
Civic uses. If lots are reserved or identified for civic uses, these lots must be prominent sites at the termination of street
vistas, or in the neighborhood center.
Exceptions. Commonly owned lots designated for accessory uses (i.e., stormwater management, open space, utilities)
are exempt from the provisions of this section.
All tracts except ROW must have an identifying lot number restarting with each block.
Sec. 38.410.040. - Blocks.
Size and orientation. Blocks must be designed to ensure a high level of multimodal connectivity, traffic safety, and ease
of traffic control and circulation; to accommodate the special needs of the use contemplated; and to take advantage of
the limitations and opportunities of the topography.
Block length. Block length must not be designed, unless otherwise impractical, to be more than 400 feet in length or less
than 300 feet in length. Block lengths may be longer than 400 feet if necessary due to topography, the presence of
critical lands, access control, or adjacency to existing parks or open space. In no case may a block exceed 1,320 feet in
length.
Block width. Blocks must not be less than 200 feet or more than 400 feet in width, except where essential to provide
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D.
1.
2.
3.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
separation of residential development from a traffic arterial or to overcome specific disadvantages of topography and
orientation.
Rights-of-way for pedestrians. Rights-of-way not less than ten feet wide for pedestrian walks are required where deemed
necessary to provide circulation or access to parks, open space, schools, playgrounds, shopping centers, transportation,
and other community facilities. In addition, no continuous length of block may exceed 600 feet without intersecting a
street or pedestrian walk. Pedestrian walks must also be installed at the end of cul-de-sac where deemed appropriate.
Setbacks adjacent to pedestrian rights-of-way less than 30 feet wide must be not less than ten feet. Setbacks
adjacent to pedestrian rights-of-way 30 feet wide or greater must be not less than five feet.
The pedestrian walks must be maintained by the adjacent property owner or by the property owners' association.
The party responsible for maintenance of pedestrian walks must be identified in the preliminary plat application.
Pedestrian walks must be constructed as a city standard sidewalk, and comply with the provisions of section
38.400.080.
Developments which have clearly delineated blocks must use block numbers or letters; each block must contain its own
grouping of lot numbers and must be wholly surrounded by a street, separated by a park or pathway, not an alley.
Figure 38.410.040.
Blocks.
Sec. 38.410.050. - Utilities.
Utilities must be placed underground, wherever technically and economically feasible. Underground utilities, if placed in
a street right-of-way, must be installed after the street has been brought to grade and before it is surfaced.
If overhead utility lines are used, they must be located at the rear property line.
Utility facilities must be designed by utility firms in cooperation with the developer. The facilities are subject to all
applicable laws, rules and regulations of the appropriate regulatory authorities.
The developer must provide adequate and appropriate utility easements in compliance with section 38.410.060.
Sec. 38.410.060. - Easements.
Required easements. Where determined to be necessary, public and/or private easements must be provided for private
and public utilities, drainage, vehicular or pedestrian access, etc.
In subdivisions, all easements must be described, dimensioned and shown on the final plat in their true and correct
location.
In all other developments, the proper easements documents must be prepared for review and approval by the city,
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3.
B.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
a.
b.
4.
C.
1.
2.
3.
and filed at the county clerk and recorder's office. The easement documents must be accompanied by an exhibit
indicating the dimensions, and true and correct location, of all easements.
No lot may be encumbered by a public or private utility easement in a way that would decrease the amount of
buildable land to less than the area required by this chapter for the applicable zoning district.
Private utility easements. Private utilities include, but are not limited to, natural gas, electricity, telephone, cable and
fiber optic lines. The developer must provide private utility easements necessary to extend private utilities to the
development, and to provide for the construction and maintenance of private utilities within the development.
General.
Building setbacks must be coordinated with all provided utility easements. If a utility easement will be greater
than the building setback required by this chapter, a note to that effect must be placed on the final plat and/or
final site plan as appropriate.
Where a utility easement is to be located in an existing, dedicated right-of-way, an encroachment permit must be
obtained from the local or state street or road department having jurisdiction.
If placed in a city right-of-way, easements must be in a location required by and agreed upon in writing by all of
the appropriate utility companies and the review authority.
Easement size.
Front setback utility easements. Front setback utility easements must be ten feet wide, and must always be
provided unless written confirmation is submitted to the community development department from all utility
companies providing service indicating that front setback easements are not needed.
Rear setback utility easements. The provision of rear setback utility easements is not mandatory unless they are
required by any or all of the utility companies to adequately serve the development. If provided, rear setback
utility easements on each lot must be six feet wide if adjacent to a public alley and ten feet if not adjacent to a
public alley.
Side setback utility easements. The provision of side setback utility easements is not mandatory unless they are
required by any or all of the utility companies to adequately serve the development. If provided, the width of the
side setback utility easement must be determined on a case-by-case basis based on the needs of the utility
companies.
Private utility plans.
When the concurrent construction option will be used, based on the provisions of section 38.270.030.D, private
utility plans must be included with the preliminary PUD submittal.
Private utility plans must be provided with any plans and specifications submittals for the construction of new
water, sewer or street infrastructure as specified in the city's design standards and specifications policy.
No building shall be constructed that encroaches on a private utility easement unless written approval from all utility
companies is provided to the community development department.
Public utility easements. Public utilities include water, sewer and stormwater facilities that are dedicated to and
maintained by the city.
A public utility easement must be granted for all public utility mains not located within public street right-of-way. An
easement must be at least 30 feet wide for either one or two utility mains. An additional ten feet of width is required
for each additional main that occupies the easement. Wider easements may be required at the discretion of the city
for large utility lines.
Public utility easements must be provided for all meter pits and fire hydrants maintained by the city.
No permanent structures shall be placed within public utility easements unless an encroachment permit has been
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D.
1.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
c.
2.
a.
b.
3.
4.
5.
6.
obtained from the city.
Easements for agricultural water user facilities.
Except as noted in subsection D.2 of this section, the developer must establish appropriate agricultural water user
facility easements that:
Are in locations of appropriate topographic characteristics and sufficient width to allow the physical placement
and unobstructed maintenance of active open ditches or below ground pipelines. The easement must facilitate
the delivery of water for irrigation to persons and lands legally entitled to the water under an appropriated water
right or permit of an irrigation district or other private or public entity formed to provide for the use of the water
right;
The easements must ensure the conveyance of irrigation water through the land to be developed to lands
adjacent to or beyond the development's boundaries in quantities and in a manner consistent with historic
and legal rights; and
A minimum easement width of ten feet is required on each side of irrigation canals and ditches.
Are a sufficient distance from the centerline of the agricultural water user facility to allow for construction, repair,
maintenance and inspection of the ditch or pipeline; and
Prohibit the placement of structures or the planting of vegetation other than grass within the agricultural water
user facility easement without the written permission of the facility owner.
The developer need not establish agricultural water user facility easements as provided above if the following
provisions were met or will be met via the subdivision or site plan process:
The average lot size is one acre or less and the developer provides for disclosure, in a manner acceptable to the
review authority, that adequately notifies potential buyers of lots that are classified as irrigated land and may
continue to be assessed for irrigation water delivery even though the water may not be deliverable; or
The water rights are removed or the process has been initiated to remove the water rights from the subdivided
or developed land. If the water rights have been or will be removed from the land within the development it must
be so noted with the preliminary plat or plan submittal. If removal of water rights is not complete upon filing of
the final plat or approval of the final site plan, the developer must provide written notification to prospective
buyers of the intent to remove the water right and must document that intent, when applicable, in agreements
and legal documents for related sales transactions.
The realignment or relocation of active irrigation ditches or pipelines is discouraged. If an agricultural water user
facility or points of diversions thereon are proposed to be realigned or relocated, the developer's professional
engineer must certify, prior to final plat or final plan approval, that the water entering and exiting the realigned or
relocated agricultural water user facility is the same quality and amount of water that entered or exited the facility
prior to realignment or relocation.
Stormwater from a development must not be discharged to an agricultural water user facility without written
approval from the owner of the facility and corresponding stormwater conveyance easements.
If the developer demonstrates that easements have been extinguished pursuant to state law, or the holder of the
easement consents in writing to the extinguishment, or the easement is not required per subsection D.2, the
developer may remove ditch laterals from within the subdivision.
If agricultural water user facility easements are required, a notice must also be recorded with a final plat or prior to
final plan approval, stating that the easements are subject to the requirements of Section 70-17-112, MCA restricting
interference with canal or ditch easements and that irrigation works are subject to Section 85-7-2211 and 85-7-2212,
MCA regarding duties and liability. The notice must include language to assure the duties are binding upon all
successors in interest and remain in effect until such time that the agricultural water user facility is abandoned in
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E.
A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
1.
2.
A.
B.
accordance with the requirements of Montana Law or alternative requirements are agreed to in writing by all
applicable parties. The easements must be prepared as documents separate from a final plat but may be referenced
on a final plat.
Other easements. Public access easements for streets and trails must be provided in accordance with the provisions of
divisions 38.400 and 38.420 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.410.070. - Municipal water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems.
General. All municipal water supply, sanitary sewer and storm sewer system facilities must comply with the following
requirements:
The developer must install complete municipal water and sanitary sewer system facilities, or a system allowed by
section 38.350.030.D, and may be required by the city to install municipal storm sewer system facilities. These
systems must be installed in accordance with the requirements of the state department of environmental quality
and the city, and must conform with any applicable facilities plan. The city's requirements are contained in the
Design Standards and Specifications Policy and the City of Bozeman Modifications to Montana Public Works Standard
Specifications, and by this reference these standards are incorporated into and made a part of these regulations. The
developer must submit plans and specifications for the proposed facilities to the city and to the state department of
environmental quality and must obtain their approvals prior to commencing construction of any municipal water,
sanitary sewer or storm sewer system facilities.
The cutting of any city street must be done in compliance with the city's street cut policy.
When a proposed development adjoins undeveloped land, and municipal infrastructure mains would reasonably
pass through the new development to the undeveloped land, municipal infrastructure mains must be arranged to
allow the suitable development of the adjoining undeveloped land. Municipal infrastructure mains within the
proposed development must be constructed to the boundary lines of the tract to be developed, unless prevented by
topography or other physical conditions. An exception to this standard may be granted upon written request of the
applicant if the applicant demonstrates during the development review process that more efficient design can be
accomplished without jeopardizing the public's health, safety and welfare, the intent of this chapter, or the intent of
the city's growth policy.
Municipal water supply system; additional requirements. Municipal water supply system facilities must also comply with
the following requirements:
When the city's municipal water main is extended, the length of a dead-end water main typically may not exceed 500
feet in length, unless approved in writing by the city.
The length of service lines from the main to the structure may not exceed 150 feet in length, unless approved in
writing by the city.
Sec. 38.410.080. - Grading and drainage.
The developer must install complete drainage facilities in accordance with the requirements of the state department of
environmental quality and the city, and must conform to any applicable facilities plan and the terms of any approved site
specific stormwater control plan. The city's requirements are contained in the Design Standards and Specifications Policy
and the City of Bozeman Modifications to Montana Public Works Standard Specifications, and by this reference these
standards are incorporated into and made a part of these regulations. The developer must submit plans and
specifications to the city and to the state department of environmental quality (if applicable), and must obtain their
approvals prior to commencing construction of any drainage system facilities.
Provisions must be made for the control and drainage of surface water around buildings. Generally, all lots and street
boulevard areas must be graded no lower than the back of curb or level of street, whichever is applicable, prior to final
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C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
A.
1.
2.
a.
b.
A.
1.
plat or final occupancy approval as appropriate. Exceptions may be granted by the city when adequate drainage facilities
are provided. All drainage plans must comply with the requirements of the International Building Code and International
Residential Code as adopted by the city, and by this reference these standards are incorporated into and made a part of
these regulations.
Drainage systems must not discharge into any sanitary sewer facility or agricultural water user facility.
Stormwater retention or detention ponds may be located within public parkland, but such areas must not count towards
the parkland dedication requirement. Any stormwater ponds located on parkland must be designed, constructed and/or
added to so as to be conducive to the normal use and maintenance of the park. Stormwater ponds serving multiple lots
in separate ownership must not be located on private lots or public rights-of-way. Stormwater retention or detention
ponds must be maintained by the property owners' association.
The city may require the developer to establish easements or other perpetual controls to prevent encroachment or
disruption of drainageways or facilities.
Stormwater facilities generally must not occupy more than one-third of a required front setback. Departures will be
considered (per section 38.250.060) for stormwater facilities with Low Impact Development (LID) components,
underground components, or exceptional design.
All finish grades in landscaped areas must comply with the provisions set forth in section 38.550.050.L.
Stormwater retention/detention facilities in landscaped areas must be designed as landscape amenities. They must be
an organic feature with a natural, curvilinear shape. The facilities must have 75 percent of surface area covered with live
vegetation appropriate for the depth and design of the retention/detention facility, and be lined with native grasses,
indigenous plants, wet root tolerant plant types and groupings of boulders to create a functional, yet natural site feature.
A cross section and landscape detail of each facility must be submitted with the final landscape plan for review and
approval. Facilities with a slope up to and including ten percent grade may be grassed and irrigated to blend into the
adjacent landscaped area.
Sec. 38.410.090. - Fire protection requirements.
All developments must be planned, designed, constructed and maintained so as to minimize risk of fire and to permit
the effective and efficient suppression of fires in order to protect persons and property.
The placement of structures must minimize the potential for flame spread and permit adequate access for
firefighting equipment; and
Adequate firefighting facilities must be provided, including an adequate and accessible water supply and water
distribution system.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for hydrant systems must be met.
City's requirements as contained in the design standards and specifications policy and the city modifications to
state public works standard specifications must apply.
Sec. 38.410.100. - Watercourse setback.
Where a development is crossed by or is adjacent to a watercourse, the developer must mitigate the impacts of the
development on the watercourse. This mitigation may not be less restrictive than the requirements of the city floodplain
regulations or any other applicable regulation of this chapter. The purpose of this mitigation is bank stabilization;
sediment, nutrient and pollution removal; and flood control.
Setback for developments granted preliminary plan or plat approval prior to July 10, 2002. These provisions apply to
all developments granted preliminary plan or plat approval prior to July 10, 2002, including applicable subdivision
exemptions:
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a.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(2)
(3)
2.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(a)
Setbacks. A minimum 100-foot setback must be provided along both sides of the East Gallatin River. A minimum 35-
must be provided along both sides of all other watercourses.
A portion of the required setback, immediately adjacent to the ordinary high water mark, must be left in a
natural vegetative state as follows:
East Gallatin River—50 feet.
Other watercourses—Five feet.
No fence, residential or commercial structure, fill material, parking or other similar improvements shall be
located within required watercourse setbacks.
All watercourse setbacks must be measured from the ordinary high water mark as defined in section
38.700.140. When no ordinary high water mark is discernible, setbacks must be measured from the top of
the stream bank.
Setbacks for developments granted preliminary plan or plat approval on or after July 10, 2002. These provisions
apply to all developments granted preliminary plat or plan approval on or after July 10, 2002:
In the event a site with an existing development, that is subject to subsection 1 of this section, is submitted to the
city for a review subject to divisions 38.230, 38.430 and 38.280 of this chapter after July 10, 2002, the proposed
development must comply with this subsection 2 to the extent reasonably feasible given the existing site
conditions. The final approval body for the proposed development must determine the extent that is reasonably
feasible, subject to any appeal provisions that may apply. Such administrative relief must not reduce setbacks
below those provided for in subsection 1 of this section.
In addition to any relaxation of watercourse setbacks provided by subsection 2.a of this section, nothing in this
section prohibits an owner of affected property from:
Applying for a variance to dimensional standards of the watercourse setbacks as allowed by and subject to
the requirements of division 38.250 of this chapter;
When applicable, seeking a deviation to dimensional standards of the watercourse setback as allowed by and
subject to the requirements of divisions 38.340 or 38.430 of this chapter;
Combining two or more lots to assemble a larger and more usable parcel;
Petitioning the state department of fish, wildlife and parks and the county water conservation district to seek
the reclassification of the relevant watercourse as an irrigation facility not subject to the requirements of this
section;
After receipt of required permits, relocating the watercourse; or
Pursuing any other lawful means of relief from the effects of this section.
Setbacks. Unless otherwise specified in subsection 2.e of this section, the following setback requirements must
be met:
East Gallatin River. A minimum 100-foot setback must be provided along both sides of the East Gallatin River.
Sourdough/Bozeman Creek and Bridger Creek. A minimum 75-foot setback must be provided along both
sides of Sourdough/Bozeman and Bridger Creeks.
Other watercourses. A minimum 50-foot setback must be provided along both sides of all other
watercourses.
All required watercourse setbacks must be extended as necessary to address these additional requirements.
The setback must extend to the edge of the delineated boundary of the regulated flood hazard area per
section 38.600.130.B if the regulated flood hazard boundary is larger than the setbacks established in this
subsection 2.c;
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(b)
(c)
(d)
(5)
d.
e.
(1)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(3)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(4)
(5)
The setback must include immediately adjacent wetlands (i.e., fringe). The buffer width must be extended by
wetland;
Areas with a slope greater than 33 percent do not count towards the width of the setback; and
The setback must include connected wetlands. The buffer width must be extended by a minimum of 50
feet beyond the perimeter of the connected wetlands.
All watercourse setbacks must be measured from the ordinary high water mark as defined in section
38.700.090. When no ordinary high water mark is discernible, setbacks must be measured from the top of
the stream bank.
No newly constructed residential or commercial structure, addition to an existing structure, fence, deck, fill
material (other than that required for exempt uses), parking lot or other impervious surfaces, or other similar
improvements may be located within required watercourse setbacks, unless approved through, and in
conformance with, a variance or deviation process as authorized in this chapter.
Exceptions. The watercourse setback is divided into two zones. Zone 1 consists of the 60 percent of the setback
closest to the watercourse, and Zone 2 consists of the 40 percent of the setback furthest from the watercourse.
On-site stormwater treatment facilities may be located in Zone 2.
Trails and trail-related improvements may be placed within the required watercourse setback subject to the
following provisions:
Trails, and trail-related improvements such as benches and trail signage, may be placed in Zone 2;
Limited, non-looping developed spur trails to the water's edge may cross all zones. Benches and limited
informational/interpretive signage may be placed in Zone 1 at the terminus of spur trails;
Due to topography, avoidance of wetlands, or other geographical constraints, portions of non-spur trails
may need to be placed within Zone 1. Trail construction within Zone 1, inclusive of watercourse crossings
and spur trails, per each side of the watercourse, may not exceed the length of 300 percent of the width
of the applicable watercourse setback per 500 lineal feet of watercourse;
All trails must be constructed to minimize bank instability, sedimentation, nutrient and pollution runoff.
Trails must be aligned to minimize damage to plant and wildlife habitat; and
Trails crossing the watercourse and trail-related bridge structures may be located within all zones
provided that the appropriate local, state and federal permits are obtained.
Streets, sidewalks, utility lines or similar public construction may be permitted within all zones for the
purpose of crossing a watercourse or protecting public health and safety. The following practices must be
observed:
Crossings must be minimized to the greatest extent feasible;
Crossings with direct angles (90 degrees) must be used to the greatest extent feasible instead of oblique
crossing angles;
Construction must be capable of withstanding 100-year flood events;
The subdivision grading and drainage plan must be designed to prevent the discharge of untreated
stormwater into a watercourse; and
A bank stabilization plan for all public construction watercourse crossings must be prepared and
approved by the city prior to site preparation and installation of the improvement.
Outlets from stormwater treatment facilities may pass through all zones in order to discharge to the
receiving watercourse, provided that all required permits are obtained.
Control of noxious weeds is required and activities required within limits outlined in any approved noxious
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f.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
g.
3.
a.
b.
weed control plan may occur in all zones.
Setback planting. A setback planting plan must be prepared by a qualified landscape professional, and must be
reviewed and approved by the community development department prior to the commencement of
development or site preparation. The plan must include a schedule, and plantings must be depicted on the plan
as follows:
Zone 1: Zone 1 must be planted with new or existing native materials suited for a riparian area based on the
following calculations. One hundred percent of the disturbed areas of Zone 1 must be planted with a ground
cover of native riparian sedges, forbs and grasses suited for the area. In addition, a minimum of one shrub
for every ten linear feet and one tree for every 30 linear feet of the watercourse is required along each side of
the watercourse. Grouping or clumping of trees and shrubs as appropriate in a riparian area is encouraged.
Species that are appropriate to the soil hydrologic conditions (wetness of soil and depth to the water table)
must be used. Tree and shrub species selected must be suitable for the climate and for planting in a riparian
area with an emphasis on native species. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the state native
plant society and the county local water quality district (LWQD) are good sources of landscaping materials
and/or landscaping information.
Zone 2: Disturbed areas of Zone 2 must be planted with new or existing native grasses suited for the area.
Maintenance of the watercourse setback landscaping is required. If it can be demonstrated that irrigation is
present for the trees and shrubs, and fencing is provided for the trees and shrubs, the number of required
trees may be reduced to one tree for every 60 linear feet and one shrub for every 20 linear feet of the
watercourse along each side of the watercourse.
Planting materials are exempt from the size requirements of section 38.550.050.G.3.
To prevent soil erosion and the invasion of noxious weeds, the watercourse setbacks on all land proposed for
development must be covered with existing vegetation or must be seeded with native grasses as soon as
seasonally feasible or prior to commencement of any site development or site preparation work.
Native must mean those plants which are native to the Gallatin Valley.
Use native grasses, forbs, sedges and other herbaceous plants in areas of disturbance (e.g., bridges, culverts,
utilities installation, trails) within the watercourse setback. Native woody plantings are required in all zones in
both disturbed and undisturbed areas.
Except as otherwise allowed in subsections 2.e and f of this section, no disturbance of soils and existing
vegetation shall occur in any zones.
Other provisions.
The watercourse setback must be depicted on all preliminary and final plats and plans.
These provisions do not apply to agricultural uses, including lands controlled in the conservation reserve
program (CRP), and activities and structures that existed prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which
this section is derived. Any agricultural uses, activities or structures established after the effective date of the
ordinance from which this section is derived must comply with these regulations. An agricultural use, activity or
structure is considered abandoned if not used for agricultural purposes for more than 180 consecutive days.
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Figure 38.410.100-1.
100 year oodplain.
Figure 38.410.100-2.
Watercourse setback on a slope.
Figure 38.410.100-3.
Watercourse Setback.
Figure 38.410.100-4.
Wetlands.
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A.
1.
a.
A.
B.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 3, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.410.110. - Ridgelines and viewsheds.
For the purpose of having structures blend more naturally into the landscape rather than being a prominent focal point,
ridgeline protection areas are established. These areas are defined in division 38.700 of this chapter and are identified
and designated based on topographic characteristics. The Bozeman Ridgeline Map identifies areas with a high likelihood
of meeting the standards for ridgelines.
All buildings located within a ridgeline protection area must be set back from the ridgeline a distance not less than
three times its height above grade. The distance of the setback must be measured perpendicular from the ridgeline.
Exception. In the event a building permit is sought for a lot approved or created prior to January 1, 2004, the
proposed development must comply with this section to the extent reasonably feasible given the lot dimensions,
orientation, and other characteristics. The final approval body for the proposed development must determine
the extent that is reasonably feasible and may relax the special setback required by this section, subject to
applicable appeal provisions. Such administrative relief must not reduce setbacks below those required
elsewhere in this chapter.
Figure 38.410.110.
Ridgeline protection area.
Sec. 38.410.120. - Mail delivery.
If mail delivery will not be to each individual lot within the development, the developer must provide an off-street area for mail
delivery within the development in cooperation with the United States Postal Service. The city will not be responsible for
maintaining or plowing any mail delivery area constructed within a city right-of-way.
Sec. 38.410.130. - Water adequacy.
Subject to subsections B and C, prior to final approval by the review authority of development occurring under this
chapter or chapter 10, the applicant must offset the entire estimated increase in annual municipal water demand
attributable to the development pursuant to subsection D.
Compliance with this section is triggered if the estimated increase in annual municipal water demand attributable to the
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1.
2.
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3.
E.
F.
1.
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3.
development exceeds 0.25 acre-feet after accounting for the following items as they relate to the development:
Current average annual municipal metered water demand;
Water demand offsets from a prior payment of cash-in-lieu of water rights;
Water demand offsets from a prior transfer of water rights into city ownership, and;
Water demand offsets from an existing water adequacy agreement or similarly purposed document.
Compliance with this section is deferred for the following developments until the occurrence of future development if
the applicant records a notice of restriction on future development in a form acceptable to the review authority with the
Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder:
An annexation that expressly defers this section under an annexation agreement;
Individual lots of a subdivision final plat planned for future multiple-household development;
Individual lots of a subdivision final plat planned for future commercial, industrial, or institutional development, or;
Future phases of a phased site development.
The city will determine the estimated increase in annual municipal water demand attributable to the development. The
applicant must offset the estimated increase in annual municipal water demand attributable to the development
through one or more of the following means:
Transfer of water rights into city ownership that are appurtenant to the land being developed, or other water rights
that may be available for transfer, that the city determines to be useful.
Implementation of onsite and/or offsite water efficiency and conservation measures that reduce the estimated
annual municipal water demand attributable to the development by one or more of the following methods:
Installation of high efficiency indoor water using fixtures, appliances, and products that are more water efficient
than city-adopted plumbing codes or state or federal minimum standards.
Installation of unirrigated, or minimally irrigated, drought resistant or drought tolerant landscaping that exceeds
the minimum requirements of division 38.550 of this chapter.
Installation of high efficiency or water conserving irrigation componentry that exceeds the minimum
requirements of division 38.550 of this chapter.
Installation of non-potable water supply systems for landscaping irrigation purposes.
Other water efficiency and conservation methods brought forward as part of the development by the applicant
that the review authority may at its discretion approve.
Payment to the city of cash-in-lieu of water rights for that portion of the estimated annual municipal water demand
attributable to the development that is not offset under subsections D.1 and D.2.
The unit cost for payment of cash-in-lieu of water rights will be established by city commission resolution. The cash-in-
lieu of water rights payment amount provided by the applicant under subsection D.3 must be calculated using the unit
cost effective on the date the payment is made to the city. The director of public works must deposit all payments
received under this section, upon receipt, in the cash-in-lieu of water rights fund.
The city manager may adopt, and from time to time amend, administrative procedures to implement this section. The
administrative procedures may at a minimum include the following items:
Standards established by the director of public works to determine the estimated increase in annual municipal water
demand attributable to development.
Standards established by the director of public works to determine water demand offset amounts for
implementation of water efficiency and conservation measures and water rights transferred into city ownership
Standards governing acceptance of water rights transferred into city ownership.
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5.
6.
7.
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1.
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(1)
Standards to establish and govern the use of water demand offsets credits for that portion of demand offsets provided
applicant that are in excess of the estimated increase in annual municipal water demand attributable to the developme
A process that provides for administrative appeals of determinations made by the review authority under this
section.
Specific criteria that if met may authorize the review authority to waive this section.
Standards governing acceptance of water right transfers and establishing water demand offset credits may enable a
deferral of payment of cash-in-lieu of water rights provided that the applicant records with the Gallatin County Clerk
and Recorder an executed water adequacy agreement and related documents as approved by the city attorney
securing the amount due.
( Ord. No. 2043 , § 1, 9-17-2020)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2043 , § 1, adopted Sept. 17, 2020, repealed the former § 38.410.130, and enacted a new § 38.410.130 as
set out herein. The former § 38.410.130 pertained to water rights and derived from the original codification of this Unified
Development Code.
DIVISION 38.420. - PARK AND RECREATION REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 38.420.010. - General.
Except as provided in section 38.420.020.B, all subdivisions and residential developments subject to division 38.230 of this
chapter, must comply with the provisions of this division 38.420. The purpose of this division 38.420 is to comply with sections 76-2-
304 and 76-3-621 MCA; to advance the city's adopted plans for parks, trails and open space; to provide equal protection and
treatment for different housing types and review processes with similar impacts on demand for service; to advance public health
by encouraging and facilitating physical activity; and to address housing affordability.
Sec. 38.420.020. - Park area requirements.
The requirements of this article are based on the community need for parks and the development densities identified in the
growth policy and this chapter.
The area required by this subsection must be provided as a land dedication unless an alternate method of
compliance is approved by the review authority.
When the net residential density of development is known, 0.03 acre per dwelling unit of land must be provided.
When the net residential density of development is known at the time of preliminary plat and net residential
density is in excess of eight dwellings per acre, the requirement for dedication for that density above eight
dwellings per acre must be met with a cash donation in-lieu of the additional land unless specifically
determined otherwise by the review authority.
If net residential density is in excess of eight dwellings per acre, the requirement for dedication for that
density above eight dwellings per acre must be met with a cash donation in-lieu.
When developed as group quarters, such as group living or community residential facilities, rather than
individual dwelling units, in lieu of 0.03 acres per dwelling unit, an area of 575 square feet per resident must
be provided.
Land dedication or its equivalent must not be required for any dwelling units or group quarters occupancy in
excess of the following:
For development within the R-1, R-2, and R-MH zoning districts, the maximum net residential density
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(2)
(3)
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
b.
3.
must be ten dwelling units or 22.5 persons in group quarters per acre.
For development within the R-3, R-4, R-5, R-O, and REMU zoning districts, the maximum net residential
density must be 12 dwelling units or 27 persons in group quarters per acre.
For development within other zoning districts not previously specified and developed for residential uses,
the maximum net residential density must be 12 dwelling units or 27 persons in group quarters per acre.
If net residential density of development is unknown, 0.03 acres per dwelling unit must be provided as follows:
For initial subdivision or other development:
Within the R-1, R-2, and R-MH zoning districts: an area equal to that required for six dwelling units or 13.5
persons in group quarters per net acre.
Within the R-3, R-4, R-5, REMU, and unless legally restricted from residential uses the R-O zoning districts:
an area equal to that required for eight dwelling units or 13.5 persons in group quarters per net acre.
Within other zoning districts which are intended for residential development: the equivalent to an area
dedication for six dwelling units or 13.5 persons in group quarters per net acre must be provided as cash-
in-lieu.
For subsequent development when net residential density becomes known, the net residential density per
acre above the minimum established above must be rounded to the nearest whole number and applied as
shown in the following table. All prior provision of parkland for the project site must count towards the
maximum required dedication.
Table 38.420.020.A
Parkland Dedication Provisions
Zoning District Required Dedication per
Dwelling
Maximum Required
Dedication per Acre
Cash-in-Lieu Required
R-1, R-2, R-MH .03 acres or equivalent 10 dwellings Yes
R-3, R-4, R-5, R-O, and
REMU
.03 acres or equivalent 12 dwellings Yes
All other districts .03 acres or equivalent 12 dwellings Yes
Required area per person Maximum required
dedication per net acre
Group quarters 575 square feet or
equivalent
27 persons Yes
Special case. The city has established chapter 38, division 380, to encourage the provision and development of
affordable housing. Reductions in required parkland dedication are established in section 38.380.300. The
reductions in parkland dedication to conform to division 38.380, may not reduce the development's parkland
requirements below the minimum established by MCA 76-3-621.
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A.
Exceptions. Land dedication or its equivalent cash donation in-lieu of land dedication must not be required for:
Land proposed for subdivision into parcels larger than five acres. Development of a parcel larger than five acres
may require parkland dedication pursuant to section 38.420.020.C.
Subdivision into parcels which are all non-residential.
A subdivision in which parcels are not created, except when that subdivision provides permanent multiple spaces
for recreational camping vehicles or manufactured homes.
A subdivision in which only one additional parcel is being created. Development of the additional parcel may
require parkland dedication pursuant to section 38.420.020.C.
A development for which the required amount of parkland is shown to have already been provided.
Section 38.420.020.A.2 does not apply to subsequent site development located within major subdivisions which
received preliminary plat approval after July 1, 1973, and which received final plat approval prior to October 1,
2005.
Development creating only one additional dwelling unit or increasing occupancy of group quarters by no more
than four persons.
Development of a lot previously exempted from park dedication must be reviewed pursuant to this article. If the lot
is no longer exempt from the park dedication requirement the development is subject to section 38.420.020.A.
To ensure coordination when parks are being created by a multiphase development, the entire parkland dedication
must be accomplished at the time of the initial phase of the development. If necessary, this may be accomplished
through the grant of public access easements during later phases.
The following land is unacceptable for parkland dedication:
Required watercourse setbacks unless approved by the review authority for incorporation into the design of the
larger park area.
Stormwater retention or detention ponds, unless approved by the review authority and designed and
constructed to the city's adopted standards for joint park/stormwater control use. The city may accept such land
for dedication to the city but must be maintained by the property owners' association unless and until
responsibility is assumed by affirmative action of the city.
Land with a grade of 25 percent or greater, unless the city commission makes specific findings in its favor as part
of the adoption of a park master plan.
Other land such as landslides, rock falls, or subsidence areas, debris deposition areas, environmentally
contaminated areas, and land containing deteriorated structures or other public or private nuisances, unless the
review authority determines the hazards or excessive public burdens can be eliminated or will be overcome by
appropriate design and construction plans.
When land offered to the city for dedication as parkland exceeds the amount required, the additional usable land
may be dedicated to the city in the same manner and subject to the same standards as minimum required areas.
Public use. Land donated or dedicated to meet the requirements of this section must be provided for public use. The
developer must execute the appropriate public access easements on privately-owned common land. The easements
must be held by the city. The city's responsibilities for parkland dedicated by easement must be the same as for fee
simple parkland dedication.
Sec. 38.420.030. - Cash donation in-lieu of land dedication.
The review authority may determine whether the park dedication must be a land dedication, cash donation in-lieu of
land dedication or a combination of both. For the purposes of this section construction of park improvements above the
minimum improvements required by ordinance may be allowed as a method of cash donation. When making this
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determination, the review authority must consider the factors established by resolution of the city commission. The
approval authority is governed by section 38.200.010.
When a combination of land dedication and cash donation in-lieu of land dedication is required, the required cash
donation may not exceed the proportional amount of the total required mitigation not covered by the land dedication.
Nothing in this section prohibits a developer from offering more than the required minimum.
Cash donation in-lieu of land dedication must be equal to the fair market value of the amount of land that would have
been dedicated. The fair market value is the value of the unsubdivided, unimproved land after it has been annexed and
given a municipal zoning designation.
The city commission may adopt procedures to be used by the director of parks and recreation to determine the fair
market value. The amount of the cash-in-lieu to be provided must equal the city's established fair market value per square
foot times the amount of land required to be dedicated. The city must periodically update the market value as deemed
necessary to reflect changes in the price of land. The valuation used for calculating the amount due will be the valuation in
effect at the time an application for final plat or final plan approval is complete.
Alternative. A developer may provide an alternate market valuation which complies with the following:
The developer must provide an appraisal of the fair market value by a certified real estate appraiser of their
choosing and is responsible for the appraisal fee.
When a land value must be established for cash-in-lieu of land dedication to satisfy the requirements of section
38.420.020, and the value of the land in an unsubdivided, unimproved, but annexed and zoned condition cannot
be reasonable determined, the developer may provide an appraisal of residentially zoned property with a zoning
designation that allows the density of dwellings proposed for development.
The appraisal provided for the purpose of section 38.420.030 must be conducted not sooner than 90 days prior
to the submittal of an application for final plat or final site plan approval.
Where a cash donation has been accepted in-lieu of land dedication, the amount of cash donation must be stated on the
final plat or plan as appropriate.
Where a cash payment or construction of improvements has been accepted in-lieu of land dedication, the city must
record in the meeting minutes or other written decision why the dedication of land for parks was undesirable.
Use of cash donations.
The city must use a cash donation for development or acquisition of parks to serve the development.
The city may use the cash donation to acquire or develop parks or recreational areas within its jurisdiction or for the
purchase of public open space or conservation easements, only if:
The park, recreational area, open space or conservation easement is within a reasonably close proximity to the
proposed development; and
The city commission has formally adopted a citywide park plan that establishes the needs and procedures for
use of the cash donation.
Sec. 38.420.040. - Park use.
As part of an individual park master plan, the developer must indicate the proposed use of the park as active, passive,
playground, ball field, etc. However, the final use of the park must be determined by the review authority.
Sec. 38.420.050. - Location.
General. The review authority, in consultation with the developer, recreation and parks advisory board, and the planning
board if applicable, may determine suitable locations for parks and playgrounds. Parkland must be located on land
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suitable to and supportive of the activities and functions depicted in the relevant park plan, and unless the park plan
indicates a requirement for another configuration, should be kept in a large block.
Subarea or neighborhood plans. If a subarea or neighborhood plan has been adopted for the area, the subdivision must
comply with the subarea or neighborhood plan for the location of parks.
Sec. 38.420.060. - Frontage.
Parkland, excluding linear trail corridors, must have frontage along 100 percent of its perimeter on public or private
streets or roads. The city may consider and approve the installation of streets along less than 100 percent, but not less
than 50 percent, of the perimeter when:
Necessary due to topography, the presence of critical lands, or similar site constraints; and/or
When the following elements are included:
When direct pedestrian access is provided to the perimeters without street frontage;
When additional land area is provided in the park to accommodate the off-street parking which would have
otherwise been provided by the additional length of perimeter streets and the additional land is developed as a
parking area; or
When additional land area is provided in the park to accommodate the off-street parking which would have been
provided by the additional length of perimeter streets and, in lieu of the constructed parking area, an equivalent
dollar value of non-parking improvements within the park are provided according to the individual park plan.
Figure 38.420.060.
Acceptable park frontages.
Sec. 38.420.070. - Linear parks.
General. If consistent with the growth policy or citywide park plan, and if reviewed and approved by the review authority,
linear parks must be dedicated to the city to provide corridors for recreation pathways as defined in section 38.420.110.
Pathway corridors within required watercourse setbacks must not be dedicated to the city as linear parks and such
land may not be used to satisfy parkland dedication requirements. Instead, cash donation in-lieu of land dedication
credit must be granted only for the cost of constructing Class II or III recreational trails if public access is provided.
The developer must provide a detailed cost estimate for installation of the trail, for review and acceptance by the
city, to determine the cash donation credit.
Within required watercourse setbacks, a public access easement that is at least 25 feet in width must be
provided to ensure adequate room for the construction, maintenance and use of the trail.
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1.
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2.
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Width. To ensure adequate room for pathway construction, maintenance and use, linear parks must be at least 25 feet in w
Maintenance. These areas must be maintained in accordance with section 38.420.110.E until an alternative method (e.g.,
a citywide parks maintenance district) of funding and maintaining the linear park is established.
Sec. 38.420.080. - Park development.
General. Developers must consult any adopted citywide park plan, and with the recreation and parks advisory board
which implements the plan, to determine the types of parks needed for the proposed development and surrounding
area. Parks must be developed in accordance with the citywide park plan and any approved park master plan. At a
minimum, all parks must be improved to the following standards by the developer, prior to final plat or final occupancy
approval as appropriate:
Minimum required improvements to land dedications. The subdivider must level any park area, amend the soil, seed
disturbed areas to allow mowing with turf type mowers, and install an underground irrigation system in compliance
with city standards and specifications.
Parks must be seeded with drought tolerant grass seed unless approved otherwise in writing by the park
superintendent.
Irrigation. The developer must irrigate the park area until 50 percent of the subdivision lots or condominium units
are sold. Thereafter, the property owners' association must be responsible for park irrigation. The property owners'
association may establish an improvement district to collect assessments to pay for irrigation.
Wells must be used to irrigate parkland.
Boundaries. The park boundary bordering all private lots must be delineated at the common private/public corner pins,
with flat, flexible fiberglass posts, a minimum of six feet in length with no less than two feet driven into the ground. Each
post must be labeled with a permanent glued on sign stating "Park Boundary" or "Property Boundary." Other forms of
boundary marking may be approved by the planning or other appropriate department.
Sidewalks. Sidewalks, when required within the development, must be installed by the developer at points where the
park borders or crosses public or private streets.
Stormwater detention/retention ponds. Stormwater retention or detention ponds may be located within public parkland,
but such areas do not count towards the parkland dedication requirement. Any stormwater ponds located on parkland
must be designed, constructed and/or added to so as to be conducive to the normal use and maintenance of the park.
Stormwater ponds may not be located on private lots. Stormwater retention or detention ponds must be maintained by
the property owners' association.
Clean up required. All fencing material, construction debris and other trash must be removed from the park area.
Sec. 38.420.090. - Waiver of park maintenance district.
When required, the developer must sign, and file at the county clerk and recorder's office, a waiver of right to protest the
creation of a park maintenance district. The waiver must be filed with the final subdivision plat, or recorded at the time of other
final approval.
Sec. 38.420.100. - Waiver of required park dedication.
The review authority may waive the park dedication or cash donation in-lieu of land dedication requirement if land equal
to or exceeding the area of the dedication otherwise required by this division 38.420 is set aside by one of the following
means:
The proposed development provides: long-term protection of critical wildlife habitat; cultural, historical,
archaeological or natural resources; agricultural interests; or aesthetic values.
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2.
3.
a.
4.
a.
b.
c.
5.
6.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
b.
7.
B.
The proposed development provides for a planned unit development or other development with land permanently set
park and recreational uses sufficient to meet the needs of the persons who will ultimately reside in the development.
The development is a land subdivision created by rent or lease (i.e., manufactured housing communities and
recreational vehicle parks) with land permanently set aside for parks or playgrounds within the subdivision for rent
or lease for the common use of the residents of the development.
These park or playground areas must be maintained by the property owners' association.
The developer provides for land outside of the subdivision to be set aside for park and recreational uses sufficient to
meet the needs of the persons who will ultimately reside in the subdivision.
The land being developed must be within the service area, as designated by an adopted citywide park plan, of the
dedicated parkland; and
The developer must dedicate the off-site parkland to the city; or
The developer must execute the appropriate public access easements on privately-owned land. The easements
must be held by the city. The city's responsibilities for parkland dedicated by easement must be the same as for
fee simple parkland dedication.
The developer provides land outside the development that affords long-term protection of critical wildlife habitat;
cultural, historical, archaeological or natural resources; agricultural interests; or aesthetic values; and the area of the
land to be subject to long-term protection equals or exceeds the area of the dedication otherwise required by this
division 38.420.
A subdivider dedicates land to School District 7 to provide some or all of the land area required by section
38.420.020. The area dedicated to the school district may be used for school facilities or buildings, including but not
limited to playgrounds or other recreational facilities. Any dedication to the school district must be subject to the
approval of the review authority and acceptance by the board of trustees of School District 7.
In approving a dedication of land to the school district the review authority must make affirmative findings that:
Adequate public parkland already exists within the vicinity of the dedicating subdivision to meet service
standards established by the city's parks master plan;
The land is located within the city limits or within one mile of city limits;
The school district has established a facility plan to demonstrate how the dedicated property will be utilized;
The school district's facility plan must describe any coordination intended for joint use of the property by the
school district and the city; and
The option for cash-in-lieu of land described in section 38.420.030 must not be used in place of a land
dedication to the school district.
It must be noted in a certificate on the plat and in any deed to the land that if School District 7 later chooses to
dispose of the property, it must revert to the city to be used for park purposes. The land must be transferred to
the city from School District 7 with clear title and in a condition meeting the minimum development standards for
parks established in section 38.420.080.
If a tract of land is being developed under single ownership as a part of an overall plan, and part of the tract has
previously been subdivided or developed, and sufficient parkland dedication or cash donation in-lieu of land
dedication has been provided from the area that has been previously subdivided or developed to meet the
requirements of this section for the entire tract being developed, the city commission must issue an order waiving
the land dedication and cash donation requirements for the subsequently developed area.
Section 38.420.020 requires mitigation of recreational impacts, usually by dedication of land for parks. Under defined
circumstances in this section the required dedication may be waived. However, the underlying issue of mitigating
recreational impacts must be addressed. If an application provides one or more of the alternatives under paragraph A of
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B.
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
2.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
this section then the required mitigation has been partially provided. To complete the mitigation, the alternative to land
dedication must allow public access. The developer must execute the appropriate public access easements in a form
acceptable to the city attorney prior to final approval of the development. The easements must be held by the city.
Sec. 38.420.110. - Recreation pathways.
General. Developers must install pathways in accordance with this chapter, the growth policy, the most recently adopted
long-range transportation plan, any adopted citywide park plan, and any adopted individual park master plan, and must
comply with City of Bozeman Design Specifications.
Pathway categories. The development review committee (DRC) is responsible for determining whether a pathway is a
transportation pathway or a recreation pathway. For subdivision proposals, this determination must be made during the
pre-application process.
Recreation pathways. The review authority may require developers to install recreation pathways and/or to provide
recreational and physical fitness opportunities within the development as part of the required development
improvements. Recreation pathways include the following:
Pathways that do not connect major residential, employment, educational or service nodes;
Pathways that connect parks, but do not connect major residential, employment, educational or service nodes;
Pathways that are not ADA accessible due to topography;
Pathways located within parks; and
Class II and III trails.
Transportation pathways. For the definition of transportation pathways, see section 38.400.110.
Related facilities. If pathways are proposed or required, stream crossings and other similar improvements, where
necessary, must be installed. Bridge design and construction must comply with city specifications and standards, and
must be submitted to the community development department for review and approval. Any necessary permits for
bridges must be obtained by the developer from the appropriate agency prior to installation of the stream crossings.
Trail requirements. The class of the trail must be determined by the review authority and the trail must be designed and
constructed according to any adopted park or recreation plan or other city specifications and standards. Trails and
bridges must meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications for recreational facilities and maintain a natural
appearance. Trail plans and specifications must be submitted to the planning and parks departments for review and
approval prior to installation.
Pathway maintenance. Recreation pathways within the proposed development must be maintained, in conformance
with an approved maintenance plan, by the developer until 50 percent of the lots or condominium units are sold.
Thereafter the property owners' association is responsible for maintenance. The property owners' association may
establish an improvement district to collect assessments to pay for the maintenance.
Pathway easements. Where pathways cross private land or common open space, the proper public access easements
must be provided. Public access easements for pathways must be at least 25 feet wide.
Linear parks. Corridors for recreation pathways may be dedicated to the city in accordance with section 38.420.070.
Park and pathway development frontages. All developments adjacent to existing or planned trails or parks are subject to
the block frontage standards of section 38.510.030.I (trail/park frontages).
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Figure 38.420.110.
Acceptable park and pathway development frontages.
DIVISION 38.430. - PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENTS
Sec. 38.430.010. - Intent.
It is the intent of the city through the use of the planned unit development (PUD) concept, to promote maximum
flexibility and innovation in the development of land and the design of development projects within the city. Specifically,
with regard to the improvement and protection of the public health, safety and general welfare, it is the intent of this
chapter to promote the following community objectives:
To ensure that future growth and development occurring within the city is in accord with the city's adopted growth
policy, its specific elements, and its goals, objectives and policies;
To allow opportunities for innovations in land development and redevelopment so that greater opportunities for
high quality housing, recreation, shopping and employment may extend to all citizens of the city area;
To foster the safe, efficient and economic use of land, transportation and other public facilities;
To ensure adequate provision of public services such as water, sewer, electricity, open space and public parks;
To avoid inappropriate development of lands and to provide adequate drainage, water quality and reduction of flood
damage;
To encourage patterns of development which decrease automobile travel and encourage trip consolidation, thereby
reducing traffic congestion and degradation of the existing air quality;
To promote the use of bicycles and walking as effective modes of transportation;
To reduce energy consumption and demand;
To minimize adverse environmental impacts of development and to protect special features of the geography;
To improve the design, quality and character of new development;
To encourage development of vacant properties within developed areas;
To protect existing neighborhoods from the harmful encroachment of incompatible developments;
To promote logical development patterns of residential, commercial, office and industrial uses that will mutually
benefit the developer, the neighborhood and the community as a whole;
To promote the efficient use of land resources, full use of urban services, mixed uses, transportation options, and
detailed human-scale design; and
To meet the purposes established in section 38.100.040.
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A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
a.
b.
c.
Sec. 38.430.020. - Application and uses of a planned unit development.
A planned unit development may be applied to any subdivision, or to any development having one or more principal
uses or structures on a single parcel of real property or contiguous parcels of real property. Land use patterns and uses
must conform to growth policy land use designations and underlying zoning districts. Approval for an additional use or
combination of uses may be allowed in a planned unit development only when such additional uses are consistent with
the city growth policy and relevant criteria in section 38.430.090.E and are not prohibited elsewhere in this chapter.
All planned unit developments must consist of a harmonious arrangement of lots, uses, buildings, parking areas,
circulation and open spaces. All planned unit developments must be designed as an integrated unit, in such a manner as
to constitute a safe, efficient and convenient development.
Any planned unit development is considered as a conditional use within the zoning district in which it is to be located.
All planned unit developments must complement or be harmonious with existing adjacent development.
Sec. 38.430.030. - Special conditions of a planned unit development.
The following special conditions apply to any planned unit development:
Single ownership. The tract or parcel of land involved must be either in one ownership or the subject of an
application filed jointly by the owners of all the property to be included.
Title holdings. The approved final plan must specify the manner of holding title to areas and facilities of joint use and
how areas of joint use must be maintained. Normally such areas and facilities must be retained in title by the
developers or deeded to an organization composed of all owners in the development meeting the requirements of
section 38.220.310.
Reserved.
Use of general building and development standards.
All planned unit developments must be reviewed against the development standards established in this chapter.
However, in order to encourage creativity and design excellence that would contribute to the character of the
community, deviations from the requirements or the standards of this chapter may be granted by the review
authority after considering the recommendations of the applicable review bodies established by this chapter.
The PUD application must be accompanied by written and graphic material sufficient to illustrate the initial and
final conditions that the modified standards will produce. Such written and graphic materials may include textual
descriptions, site plans, renderings of proposed elevations or landscapes, or similar materials.
All requested deviations, waivers of submittal requirements and other relaxations of regulatory requirements
must be identified in writing at the time of preliminary plan submittal. Failure to identify such items may result in
the delay of application processing in order to receive necessary materials, provide additional public notice or
implement other curative actions.
The review authority must make a determination that the deviation will produce an environment, landscape
quality and character superior to that produced by the existing standards of this chapter, and which will be
consistent with the intent and purpose of this division 38.430, with the adopted goals of the city growth policy
and with any relevant adopted design objectives plan. Upon deciding in favor of the deviation request, the review
authority may grant deviations, above or below minimum or maximum standards respectively as established in
this chapter, including the complete exemption from a particular standard. If the review authority does not
determine that the proposed modified standards will create an environment, landscape quality and character
superior to that produced by the existing standards of this chapter, and which will be consistent with the intent
and purpose of this division 38.430 and with any relevant design objectives plan, then no deviation will be
granted.
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5.
6.
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Establishing additional standards. In addition to the general building and development standards, the city has the right
general design standards, guidelines and policies, for the purpose of implementing and interpreting the provisions of th
38.430.
Conformance to sign code. All signs proposed in conjunction with a planned unit development must comply with
division 38.560 of this chapter. All signage must be approved as part of the PUD and must be designed as an integral
element of the overall planned unit development. Approval of signs within a planned unit development rests upon a
determination by the city commission, as provided by the specific proposal, that the intent of the sign regulations is
achieved. The review authority may approve a deviation for signs which do not comply with division 38.560 of this
chapter.
Sec. 38.430.040. - Planned unit development review procedures and criteria.
When a subdivision is proposed in conjunction with a zoning planned unit development, the subdivision review must be
coordinated with the zoning review. All steps listed in this section apply whether the application is for a subdivision or
zoning PUD, and references herein to plan includes plat unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Approval of a
planned unit development consists of three procedural steps: pre-application, preliminary plan, and final plan. All
subdivision PUDs must also meet all standards for plats.
Pre-application review.
A pre-application review is mandatory for all planned unit development proposals.
A pre-application must be submitted for review and discussion with the DRC, DRB, and planning staff of the
applicant's proposal and any requirements, standards or policies that may apply. This step represents an
opportunity to identify any major problems that may exist and identify solutions to those problems before
formal application.
Pre-application review procedures. Pre-application review meetings will be held by the DRC and DRB and will
provide guidance for planned unit development applications. The general outline of the planned unit
development proposal, presented as graphic sketch plans, must be submitted by the applicant to the community
development department at least ten days prior to the meeting of the review bodies. The outline must be
reviewed by the DRC and DRB. Thereafter, the community development department must furnish the applicant
with written comments regarding such submittal, including appropriate recommendations to inform and assist
the applicant prior to preparing the components of the planned unit development preliminary plan application.
Preliminary plan review. Sufficient information must be submitted to permit review of the land use relationships,
densities and the type, size and location of the principal design elements of the planned unit development by the
advisory bodies and review authority. For a planned unit development that will be developed in phases, the
developer must submit either a preliminary plan for all phases, or else submit a preliminary plan for the initial phase
or phases and development guidelines for all subsequent phases. Submittal requirements are in addition to those
required for site plan and conditional use permit review.
Application process. Upon completion of pre-application review and receipt of the community development
department's comments on the pre-application, an application for preliminary plan approval may be filed with
the community development department.
Public hearings and meetings. Notice of public hearings and/or public meetings for any preliminary plan
application must be provided in accordance with division 38.220 of this chapter.
Review criteria. In order to approve an application for a planned unit development the city commission must
determine that the application is in conformance with all applicable standards, objectives and criteria of this
chapter unless an appropriate deviation is granted.
Recommendations. The DRC and DRB must recommend the approval, conditional approval or denial of the
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e.
3.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
c.
(1)
d.
(1)
(a)
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
preliminary plan to the review authority and must include in such recommendation the basis upon which such
recommendation was determined.
Preliminary plan approval. The city commission, after conducting a public hearing, may approve, disapprove or
approve with conditions the proposed planned unit development. The city commission must issue a written
record of its decision to discuss and weigh the review criteria and standards applicable to the PUD.
Final plan review and approval. The final plan must be in compliance with the approved preliminary plan and/or
development guidelines except as provided for in subsection 3.d of this section, and must be reviewed by DRC and
ADR staff and approved by the review authority.
Application process. Upon approval or conditional approval of a preliminary plan and the completion of any
conditions imposed in connection with that approval, an application for final plan approval may be submitted.
Review criteria; compliance with preliminary plan. For approval to be granted, the final plan must comply with
the approved preliminary plan. This means that all conditions imposed by the city commission as part of its
approval of the preliminary plan have been met and:
The final plan does not change the general use or character of the development;
The final plan does not increase the amount of improved gross leasable non-residential floor space by more
than five percent, does not increase the number of residential dwelling units by more than five percent and
does not exceed the amount of any density bonus approved with the preliminary plan;
The final plan does not decrease the open space and/or affordable housing provided;
The final plan does not contain changes that do not conform to the requirements of this chapter, excluding
properly granted deviations, the applicable objectives and criteria of section 38.430.100, or other objectives
or criteria of this chapter. The final plan must not contain any changes which would allow increased
deviation/relaxation of the requirements of this chapter; and
The final plat, if applicable, does not create any additional lots which were not reviewed as part of the
preliminary plan submittal.
Final plan approval. The final plan may be approved if it conforms to the approved preliminary plan in the
manner described above. Prior to final plan approval, the review authority may request a recommendation from
the DRB, DRC, ADR staff, or other entity regarding any part of a proposed final plan. If a final plat is part of the
final plan submittal, the review authority per section 38.200.010 is responsible for approval of the final plat.
Final plats associated with a PUD must comply with the requirements of sections 38.240.150 and 38.220.070.
Amendments to final plan. Issuance of building permits and other development approvals are based on the
approved final plan and any conditions of approval. No city administrative personnel are permitted to issue
permits for improvements which are not indicated on the approved final plan with the exception of the following:
Minor changes.
Minor changes to a planned unit development may be approved administratively and in writing,
whereupon a permit may be issued. Such changes may be authorized without additional public notice at
the discretion of the review authority. This provision does not prohibit the review authority from
requesting a recommendation from the DRB, DRC, ADR staff or other entity.
Minor changes are defined as follows:
Those developments that do not change the character of the development;
An increase of less than five percent in the approved number of residential dwelling units;
An increase of less than five percent in the approved gross leasable floor areas of retail, service, office
and/or industrial buildings;
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(iv)
(v)
(vi)
(vii)
(c)
(2)
(a)
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
A.
1.
A change in building location or placement less than 20 percent of the building width without compromi
UDO;
An increase in the number of lots less than two percent without increasing the density by more than five
percent. This is applicable only to zoning PUD plans, not subdivision PUD plats;
A final plan which does not contain any changes which would allow increased deviation/relaxation of
the requirements of this chapter; and/or
A final plat, if applicable, which does not create any additional lots which were not reviewed as part of
the preliminary plan submittal.
When a planned unit development has been prepared in sufficient detail to address the concerns of
division 38.230 of this chapter including but not limited to general building envelopes, design character of
buildings, and landscaping for some or all of the parcels within its boundaries the final site development
plans may be reviewed as an amendment to the PUD final plan. The intention to use this provision must
be part of the initial submittal and review of the PUD.
Major changes.
Major changes to a planned unit development must follow the same planned unit development review
and public notice and comment process required for approval of preliminary plans. The final plan must
not contain any changes which would allow increased deviation/relaxation of the requirements of this
chapter without being individually noticed and reviewed for the proposed change.
Major changes are defined as follows:
A change in the character of the development;
An increase of greater than five percent in the approved number of residential dwelling units;
An increase of greater than five percent in the approved gross leasable floor areas of retail, service,
office and/or industrial buildings;
A reduction in the approved open space and/or affordable housing units provided;
A change in the location and placement of buildings; and/or
An increase in the number of lots above what was approved through the preliminary plan review. This
is applicable only to zoning PUD plans, not subdivision PUD plats. The final plat, if applicable, may not
create any additional lots which were not reviewed as part of the preliminary plan submittal.
Sec. 38.430.050. - Plan submittal requirements.
For each stage of the review process, the applicable information and data described in division 38.220 of this chapter must be
submitted unless the DRC determines that the information is unnecessary for the proper evaluation of the development based on
the evaluation of the pre-application review. Only after the community development department has determined that all required
information has been submitted will the application be processed. When a proposed PUD includes both a subdivision and zoning
component, a coordinated application on a form to be provided by the community development department must be used to
coordinate submittal materials and prevent redundant requirements.
Sec. 38.430.060. - Duration of planned unit development approval.
Duration of preliminary plan approval. The provisions of this subsection A do not apply to subdivision elements of a
PUD.
Within a maximum of one year following the approval of a preliminary plan, the applicant must file with the
community development department a final plan in detailed form covering the entirety, or one or more phases, of
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2.
3.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
1.
a.
b.
2.
the development.
Upon application and in accordance with the standards of section 38.230.140.F, the community development
director may administratively extend the period for filing a final plan for six-month periods. The granting of
administrative extensions under this section may, at the discretion of the community development director, be
referred to the city commission.
If no final plan is filed covering all or any portion of the preliminary plan within the above time limits, the right to
proceed under the preliminary plan will expire for any portion of the preliminary plan for which a final plan has not
been timely filed.
Duration of final plan approval.
The applicant must undertake and complete the development of an approved final plan within two years from the
time of final plan approval. For the purposes of this section, a development is substantially complete once all
engineering improvements (water, sewer, streets, curbs, gutter, streetlights, fire hydrants and storm drainage) are
installed and completed in accordance with city rules and regulations. Extensions for periods of not more than one
year may be administratively granted by the community development director in accordance with the standards of
section 38.230.140.F. The granting of administrative extensions under this section may, at the discretion of the
community development director, be referred to the city commission.
A request for extension of final approval under this section must be submitted to the community development
director in writing by the applicant at least 30 days prior to the date of expiration. Failure to submit a written request
within the specified time period will cause forfeiture of the right to extension of final approval. Failure to construct
the development and implement improvement requirements within the specified time limit will cause a forfeiture of
the right to proceed under the final plan and require resubmission of all materials and re-approval of the same
through the preliminary plan procedures.
The timing of all extensions of final plan approval must be coordinated with the approval period established for any
subdivision plat approval that is part of the PUD so that any expiration dates are consistent.
Final plan approval may occur multiple times under the provisions for phased PUDs described in section 38.430.070.
Sec. 38.430.070. - Phasing of planned unit developments.
Applications for phased planned unit developments. If a planned unit development is intended to be developed over
time in two or more separate phases, application for approval of a phased planned unit development must follow
procedures established for pre-application review as outlined in this division 38.430. After pre-application review is
completed, phased PUDs may be proposed in accordance with one of the following procedures:
Application for simultaneous approval of all phases of the PUD.
Where all phases of a PUD are planned in detail, an application for approval of all phases of the PUD may be
made in accordance with preliminary plan review and approval procedures outlined in this division 38.430. In
such cases, preliminary plans and all required supplemental information must clearly set forth phased
development boundaries, schedules and other details pertaining to the phasing of the project.
Upon approval of the preliminary plan for all phases of the PUD, each phase of the development may occur in
accordance with the review and approval procedures for final plans as specified in this division 38.430.
Application for approval of initial phase of the PUD with subsequent phases master planned and subject to
development guidelines. Where the applicant wishes to gain preliminary and final approval for the initial phase of a
PUD, and further wishes to gain master plan and development guidelines approval for subsequent phases of the
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B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
D.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
PUD, preliminary and final plan review and approval procedures for the initial phase must be followed in accordance
with this division 38.430. A master plan and development guidelines for the remaining phases of the development
must be provided for review and approval as outlined in subsection B of this section.
Phased PUD approval process. Master plans and development guidelines will be reviewed and approved according to
the procedures established for preliminary plans as set forth in this division 38.430. When a master plan and
development guidelines for a phased PUD have been reviewed and approved by the review authority, each phase of the
PUD may be developed in accordance with the review and approval procedures set forth in this division 38.430 for final
plan reviews.
Phased PUD review criteria.
The review criteria for phased preliminary and final PUDs is the same as that for PUDs as set forth in this chapter.
In those cases where master plans and development guidelines are proposed to govern the development of future
phases of the PUD, the review authority must determine that the proposed master plan and development guidelines
are provided in sufficient detail to support a determination that the phased PUD will comply with all requirements
for PUD approval if developed in accordance with the approved master plan and development guidelines.
DRB or ADR staff, as applicable, and DRC must review preliminary and final plans, for those phases of a PUD which
have an approved master plan and development guidelines, for compliance and consistency with said master plan
and development guidelines.
Should DRC, DRB or ADR staff, as applicable, determine that proposals to develop subsequent phases of a PUD are
not in compliance with the approved master plan and development guidelines, the determination may be appealed
to the city commission subject to the provisions of division 38.250.
Phased planned unit development submittal requirements.
Master plan submittal requirements. Master plans for phased PUDs must consist of a detailed site plan depicting:
Existing conditions for the entire phased PUD as required by section 38.220.120.A.2 and 3; and
Proposed conditions pertaining to such elements as building location, open spaces, vehicular and pedestrian
circulation, and boundaries of the individual phases of the PUD in as much detail as is required by the evaluation
of the pre-application review as outlined in this division 38.430.
Development guidelines submittal requirements. Development guidelines for phased PUDs must be submitted to
the community development director as detailed in application forms. Development guidelines for phased PUDs
must contain the information as is required by the evaluation of the pre-application review as outlined in this
division 38.430. Such information may include, but is not limited to, the following:
A description of submittal requirements and review procedures for the approval of preliminary and final plans
submitted in accordance with the master plan and development guidelines (to be developed with the assistance
of staff);
A description of the coordination with any other applicable review procedures, e.g., subdivision review;
A complete list of proposed or potential land uses;
Sign guidelines: type, location, design, illumination, size and height;
Perimeter buffering guidelines with specific regard to adjoining land uses;
Landscaping guidelines, including a description of the landscaping theme in relation to the streetscape, the
buildings on site, and any proposed signage, open space treatment, parking and circulation areas, display areas
and screening;
Design guidelines for outdoor storage and/or display;
Protective covenants which may include requirements, property owners' association provisions, provisions for
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i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
o.
E.
F.
G.
A.
B.
1.
2.
3.
maintenance, etc.;
Parking: guidelines for design, provision for shared facilities, circulation between lots, coordination with sidewalk
system, and service areas;
Dimensional requirements: building heights, setbacks (interior and perimeter), open space, etc.;
Lighting;
Architectural guidelines;
Provisions for utilities, communications and refuse;
Guidelines for noise, emissions, glare, hazardous materials, etc.; and
Improvements schedule.
Open space provisions for phased PUD developments. If a project is to be built in phases, each phase must include an
appropriate share of the proposed recreational, open space, affordable housing and other site and building amenities of
the entire development used to meet the requirements of section 38.430.090.E.2. The appropriate share of the
amenities for each phase must be determined for each specific project at the time of preliminary approval and may not
be based solely upon a proportional or equal share for the entire site. Requirements may be made for off-site
improvements on a particular phased project.
Final plans for phased PUD developments. Final plans for a planned unit development may be submitted in phases. The
final plan must conform to the preliminary plan of a planned unit development, as approved.
Duration of phased PUD development guidelines approval. Within a maximum of five years following the approval of
development guidelines for a planned unit development, development must commence or the development guidelines
must be reviewed for renewal. Any subsequent approvals of a preliminary plan must conform to the development
guidelines.
Sec. 38.430.080. - Enforcement of approval requirements and conditions.
The failure to comply with any of the terms, conditions of approval or limitations contained on the site plan, landscape plan,
building elevations, other approved documents, or other element pertaining to a planned unit development which has received
final approval from the city may subject the applicant or current landowner to the enforcement remedies contained in section
38.200.160.
Sec. 38.430.090. - Planned unit development design objectives and criteria.
General. For any planned unit development proposal to be approved it must first be found, by the review authority, after
recommendation from the DRC, DRB or WRB (if applicable), to be in compliance with this chapter including any
applicable criteria of this section.
Land use classifications.
The design objectives and criteria with which a planned unit development proposal must comply are dependent
upon the designated growth policy land use classification and zoning district of the site proposed for the planned
unit development.
All planned unit developments are reviewed against the objectives and criteria designated for all development. Each
individual planned unit development is then reviewed against the objectives and criteria established for the land use
classification of the site on which the proposal is to be located. A planned unit development must satisfy all the
objectives and criteria of all applicable groups.
In evaluating planned unit developments, the city may determine that certain criteria are not applicable or are
irrelevant to a particular development proposal and therefore do not apply to that proposal unless those criteria are
applicable to a deviation which is being sought by the applicant. Subsection E of this section contains the groups of
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C.
D.
1.
2.
3.
4.
E.
1.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
objectives and criteria against which planned unit developments are reviewed.
Evaluation process. The acceptability and performance of a planned unit development proposal will be evaluated as
follows: Each of the relevant objectives and criteria for the applicable land use classification and for all development
contained in subsection E of this section, will be answered "Yes," "No" or "Not Applicable" (NA). A "No response" to any of
the applicable objectives and criteria will automatically preclude the development proposal from further consideration
and eventual approval, unless a deviation is granted by the review authority. An objective or criterion is applicable if it
can reasonably be applied to the development proposal. The applicant must clearly demonstrate how the planned unit
development specifically addresses each applicable objective and criterion.
Responsibility for impact mitigation. To protect the character of new and existing neighborhoods against intrusive and
disruptive development, any negative or adverse impacts must be effectively mitigated in the planned unit development
plan, per the following guidelines:
When two adjacent parcels are developed simultaneously, the responsibility for mitigating conflicts is upon the more
intense use.
When a use is the first to develop on two adjacent vacant parcels, the first use must provide the necessary buffer to
any reasonable future use as determined by the city.
The second use to develop must, at the time it develops, take all additional steps necessary to mitigate conflicts.
When a planned unit development includes a use or uses which are not otherwise permitted in the underlying
zoning district, the responsibility for impact mitigation lies exclusively with the planned unit development proposal.
Design objectives and PUD review criteria.
The city will determine compatibility of a project based upon the evidence presented during evaluation of the
community design objectives and criteria of this chapter.
In addition to the criteria for all site plan and conditional use reviews, the following criteria will be used in evaluating
all planned unit development applications.
All development. All land uses within a proposed planned unit development must comply with the applicable
objectives and criteria of the mandatory "all development" group.
Does the development comply with all city design standards, requirements and specifications for the
following services: water supply, trails/walks/bike ways, sanitary supply, irrigation companies, fire protection,
electricity, flood hazard areas, natural gas, telephone, storm drainage, cable television, and streets?
Does the project preserve or replace existing natural vegetation?
Are the elements of the site plan (e.g., buildings, circulation, open space and landscaping, etc.) designed and
arranged to produce an efficient, functionally organized and cohesive planned unit development?
Does the design and arrangement of elements of the site plan (e.g., building construction, orientation, and
placement; transportation networks; selection and placement of landscape materials; and/or use of
renewable energy sources; etc.) contribute to the overall reduction of energy use by the project?
Are the elements of the site plan (e.g., buildings, circulation, open space and landscaping, etc.) designed and
arranged to maximize the privacy of residents of the project?
Parkland. Does the design and arrangement of buildings and open space areas contribute to the overall
aesthetic quality of the site configuration, and has the area of parkland or open space been provided for each
proposed dwelling as required by section 38.420.020?
Performance. All PUDs must earn at least 20 performance points. Points may be earned in any combination
of the following. The applicant must select the combination of methods but the city may require
documentation of performance, modifications to the configuration of open space, or other assurances that
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(a)
(i)
(ii)
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(c)
(d)
(e)
the options selected will perform adequately.
Provision of affordable housing. Exclusive of housing used to satisfy division 38.380:
Five points for each percent of dwellings to be constructed in the residential development which are
provided by donation to the city or nonprofit Community Housing Development Organization; or
three points for each build-ready lot donated to the city or nonprofit Community Housing
Development Organization for affordable housing provided by a residential or non-residential
development; or
Three points for each percent of dwellings to be constructed in the residential development which are
provided by long term contractual obligation to an affordable housing agency, for a period of not less
than 20 years, with a written plan assuring ongoing affordability pricing and eligibility monitoring, and
annual re-certification. The city's affordability guidelines and subsequent revisions establish
affordability and eligibility,
Additional open space.
One point for each percent of the project area that is provided as non-public open space; or 1¼ points
for each percent of the project area that is provided as publicly accessible open space.
The portion of the project to be considered in determining the size of area to be provided for open
space will be the gross project area less areas dedicated and transferred to the public, and/or used to
meet the parklands requirements of subsection E.2.a.(6) of this section. The area provided for open
space must be exclusive of setbacks on individually owned lots and interior parking lot landscaping,
and subject to the performance standards of division 38.420 of this chapter. The area may be
provided through a combination of one or more of the following means:
Open space within the project boundaries and commonly held by the property owners'
association for the use of owners, residents and their guests;
Open space within the project boundaries and developed as usable recreation space with a
corresponding public use easement;
Outside of the project boundaries as an addition to an existing off-site park adequate in location
and size to meet the recreational needs of the residents;
Cash-in-lieu of open space subject to the standards of section 38.420.030; or
Open space outside of the project boundaries adequate in size and location to meet the
recreational needs of the residential development. The site is subject to the standards of division
38.420 of this chapter and must demonstrate a geographic and service relationship to the
residential development.
Adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Two points for each ten percent of total number of dwelling units in a
residential development which are provided by the adaptive reuse of an individually listed or eligible to
be listed historic structure; one point for each ten percent of total commercial and/or industrial floor area
which is provided by the adaptive reuse of an individually listed or eligible to be listed historic structure;
up to a total of one-third of the performance points required to be earned.
Underutilized and brownfield sites. One point for each 50 percent increase in the total square footage of
commercial and/or industrial floor area on underutilized sites; one point for each 50 percent increase in
the total number of dwelling units on underutilized sites; one point for each acre developed of the
environmentally contaminated land; up to a total of one-third of the performance points required to be
earned.
Designed to meet LEED-ND and be conditionally approved or have pre-certification by the authority (15
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(f)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(g)
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(8)
points).
Inclusion of a low impact development plan (6 points) that includes the following:
On-site stormwater treatment systems that exceed the requirements of chapter 40, article 4,
Stormwater, including but not limited to: incorporating drainage methods and technologies that treat,
detain and/or infiltrate stormwater as close as possible to the source of run-off and the use of natural
drainage systems across sites, rather than underground closed-pipe systems to the extent feasible.
Natural drainage systems reduce the negative impacts of stormwater runoff by redesigning
residential streets to take advantage of plants, trees, and soils to clean runoff and manage
stormwater flows. Vegetated swales, stormwater cascades, and small wetland ponds allow soils to
absorb water, slowing flows and filtering out many contaminants.
The low impact development plan must be integrated with the snow storage and management plan.
At least 75 percent of new planting should be chosen from the list of Drought Tolerant Plants &
Xeriscaping in Montana (2010), produced by the Montana Nursery & Landscape Association, or
approved/updated equivalent list approved by the city. Any species listed as noxious or invasive in the
state must be avoided.
Inclusion of weather-based irrigation controllers.
Limitations in the covenants or design guidelines on the amount and type of sod permitted.
Sustainable design and construction. (6 points)
Covenants or design guidelines that include a commitment to design the majority of buildings to meet
LEED certification requirements or approved equivalent certification approved by the City of
Bozeman. Equivalent certification programs will also be considered during preliminary PUD review.
Energy use reduction. Residential covenants or design guidelines must include a commitment to build
third party certified homes, which meet guidelines that make them at least 20 percent more efficient
than standard homes. Non-residential covenants and design guidelines must include a commitment
to build and certify buildings that meet the EPA's Energy Star challenge or approved equivalent
program. Equivalent programs will also be considered during Preliminary PUD review.
Water use reduction. Covenants or design guidelines must include a commitment to use EPA's
WaterSense certified products for all kitchen, bathroom and irrigation hardware. Equivalent programs
will also be considered during preliminary PUD review.
Provision of solar, wind or other alternative energy sources or participation in an approved cash-in-
lieu program. A coordinated and detailed plan on how the development will address this component
must be submitted.
Integrated and coordinated way-finding measures beyond minimum requirements within the overall
project (4 points).
On-site recycling transfer station (4 points).
Public transportation bus station or enhanced covered bus stop. (One point per station or enhanced
stop.)
Streetscape improvements (6 points): Streetscape design features that exceed the minimum street
standards including street furniture, pedestrian lighting, low-impact development techniques, on-street
parking standards, crosswalks, landscape and planting, way-finding, public art or other design elements.
Such elements must be installed as part of the street infrastructure.
Is the development being properly integrated into development and circulation patterns of adjacent and
nearby neighborhoods so that this development will not become an isolated "pad" to adjoining development?
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b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
c.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
Residential. Planned unit developments in residential areas (R-S, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, RMH and R-O zoning
districts) may include a variety of housing types designed to enhance the natural environmental, conserve
energy, recognize, and to the maximum extent possible, preserve and promote the unique character of
neighborhoods, with provisions for a mix of limited commercial development. For purposes of this section,
"limited commercial development" means uses listed in the B-1 neighborhood service district (division 38.310 of
this chapter), within the parameters set forth below. All uses within the PUD must be sited and designed such
that the activities present will not detrimentally affect the adjacent residential neighborhood. The permitted
number of residential dwelling units must be determined by the provision of and proximity to public services and
subject to the following limitations and considerations:
On a net acreage basis, is the average residential density in the project (calculated for residential portion of
the site only) consistent with the development densities set forth in the land use guidelines of the city growth
policy?
Does the project provide for private outdoor areas (e.g., private setbacks, patios and balconies, etc.) for use
by the residents and employees of the project which are sufficient in size and have adequate light, sun,
ventilation, privacy and convenient access to the household or commercial units they are intended to serve?
Does the project provide for outdoor areas for use by persons living and working in the development for
active or passive recreational activities?
If the project is proposing a residential density bonus as described below, does it include a variety of housing
types and styles designed to address community-wide issues of affordability and diversity of housing stock?
Is the overall project designed to enhance the natural environment, conserve energy and provide efficient
public services and facilities?
Residential density bonus. If the project is proposing a residential density bonus (30 percent maximum)
above the residential density of the zoning district within which the project is located and which is set forth in
division 38.310 of this chapter, does the proposed project exceed the established regulatory design
standards and ensure compatibility with adjacent neighborhood development? The number of dwelling units
obtained by the density bonus is determined by dividing the lot area required for the dwelling unit type by
one plus the percentage of density bonus sought. The minimum lot area per dwelling obtained by this
calculation must be provided within the project. Those dwellings subject to division 38.380, must be excluded
in the base density upon which the density bonus is calculated.
Does the overall PUD recognize and, to the maximum extent possible, preserve and promote the unique
character of neighborhoods in the surrounding area?
Commercial. Planned unit developments in commercial areas (B-1, B-2, B-2M, B-3 and UMU zoning districts) may
include either commercial or multi-household development; however, adequate but controlled access to arterial
streets is required. Activities may include a broad range of retail and service establishments designed to serve
consumer demands of the city area.
If the project contains any use intended to provide adult amusement or entertainment, does it meet the
requirements for adult businesses?
Is the project contiguous to an arterial street, and has adequate but controlled access been provided?
Is the project on at least two acres of land?
If the project contains two or more significant uses (for instance, retail, office, residential, hotel/motel and
recreation), do the uses relate to each other in terms of location within the PUD, pedestrian and vehicular
circulation, architectural design, utilization of common open space and facilities, etc.?
Is it compatible with and does it reflect the unique character of the surrounding area?
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(6)
(7)
(8)
d.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
e.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
Is there direct vehicular and pedestrian access between on-site parking areas and adjacent existing or future off
which contain more than ten spaces?
Does the project encourage infill, or does the project otherwise demonstrate compliance with the land use
guidelines of the city growth policy?
Does the project provide for outdoor recreational areas (such as additional landscaped areas, open spaces,
trails or picnic areas) for the use and enjoyment of those living in, working in or visiting the development?
Industrial. Planned unit industrial developments in industrial areas (M-1, M-2, BP and NEHMU zoning districts)
may include employment, wholesaling, manufacturing and utility centers for the community. The particular types
or combination of uses are determined based upon its merits, benefits, potential impact upon adjacent land uses
and the intensity of development.
Is the project located adjacent to an arterial or collector street that provides adequate access to the site?
Is the project developed such that the least intense uses must be located along the arterial streets, where
visibility to the public is likely. More intense uses such as heavy industrial uses and warehousing activities
must be located away from the arterial streets, buffered by the other uses.
Does the project utilize a landscaping theme that will tie adjacent uses or projects together?
Is the project being developed on land substantially surrounded by property approved for development or
developed property with existing services and utilities already available?
Mixed use. Planned unit developments in mixed-use areas (REMU, UMU, and NEHMU zoning districts) may
include commercial, light industrial, residential and mixes of various primary and accessory uses. The particular
types or combination of uses are determined based upon its merits, benefits, potential impact upon adjacent
land uses and the intensity of development.
Is the project substantially consistent with the intent and purpose statements for the underlying zoning
district?
Is the project located adjacent or within proximity to an arterial or collector street that provides adequate
access to the site?
Is the project on at least two acres of land?
Do the uses relate to each other in terms of location within the PUD, pedestrian and vehicular circulation,
architectural design, utilization of common open space and facilities, streetscape, etc.?
Does the overall project achieve or exceed the FAR "floor area ratios" envisioned for the underlying district?
Is it compatible with and does it reflect the unique character of the surrounding area?
Is there direct vehicular and pedestrian access between on-site parking areas and adjacent existing or future
off-site parking areas which contain more than ten spaces?
Does the project encourage infill, or does the project otherwise demonstrate compliance with the land use
guidelines of the Bozeman growth policy?
Does the project provide for outdoor recreational areas (such as urban plazas, courtyards, landscaped areas,
open spaces, or urban trails) for the use and enjoyment of those living in, working in or visiting the
development?
Does the project provide for private outdoor areas (e.g., private setbacks, patios and/or balconies, etc.) for
use by the residents and employees of the project which are sufficient in size and have adequate light, sun,
ventilation, privacy and convenient access to the household or commercial units they are intended to serve?
Does the project provide for outdoor areas for use by persons living and working in the development for
active or passive recreational activities?
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(12)
(13)
(14)
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
A.
1.
Is the overall project designed to enhance the natural environment, conserve energy and provide efficient publi
facilities?
If the project is proposing a residential density bonus as described below, does it include a variety of housing
types and urban styles designed to address community-wide issues of affordability and diversity of housing
stock?
Residential density bonus. If the project is proposing a residential density bonus (30 percent maximum)
above the residential density of the zoning district or building type within which the project is located and
which is set forth in division 38.310 of this chapter, does the proposed project exceed the established
regulatory design standards (such as for setbacks, off-street parking, open space, etc.) and ensure
compatibility with adjacent neighborhood development? The number of dwelling units obtained by the
density bonus is determined by dividing the lot area required for the dwelling unit type by one plus the
percentage of density bonus sought. The minimum lot area per dwelling obtained by this calculation must be
provided within the project. Those dwellings subject to division 38.380 must be excluded from the base
density upon which the density bonus is calculated.
ARTICLE 5. - PROJECT DESIGN
DIVISION 38.500. - INTRODUCTION
Sec. 38.500.010. - Purpose.
This article implements the Bozeman's growth policy. Overall, this article:
Provides clear objectives for those embarking on the planning and design of development projects in Bozeman;
Preserves and protects the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Bozeman;
Ensures that new commercial and multi-household development is of high quality and beneficially contributes to
Bozeman's character;
Ensures that new developments within existing neighborhoods are compatible with, and enhance the character of
Bozeman's neighborhoods;
Promotes an increase in walking and bicycling throughout the City;
Enhances the livability of Bozeman's residential developments;
Maintains and enhances property values within Bozeman.
Sec. 38.500.020. - Applicability and compliance.
The provisions in this article apply to development. However, since each division within it addresses different design and
development elements, the applicability of each division is clarified at the beginning of the division. For instance, some divisions
may only apply to new commercial and multi-household development, while individual sections in division 38.540 only apply to
specific housing types.
Relationship to other codes and documents. Where provisions of this article conflict with provisions in any other
section of the UDC, this article prevails unless otherwise noted. Relationship with other notable design provisions
and guidelines:
For sites within the city's established neighborhood conservation overlay district, the provisions of division
38.340 supersede the provisions of this article. However, the review authority may apply the provisions of this
article in the event of a conflict, where the review authority determines that the provisions herein help new
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2.
B.
1.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
3.
development better meet the purpose and intent of neighborhood conservation overlay district per section
38.340.010.
The director of community development will maintain a design manual to illustrate best practices to implement
the design standards of this chapter. The design manual is to assist citizens and design professionals by
providing visuals and illustrative examples of the intent of the city's guidelines and regulations.
For building additions and remodels, three different thresholds have been established to gauge how the project
design standards in this article are applied to such projects. See figure 38.500.020 below for examples of site
development and the respective types of improvements required under each of the three levels of improvements.
Level I Improvements include all exterior remodels, building additions, and/or site improvements commenced
within a three-year period (based on the date of permit issuance) that affect the exterior appearance of the
building/site and/or increase the building's area by up to 20 percent. The requirement for such improvements is
that the proposed improvements meet the standards and do not lead to further nonconformance with the
standards. For example, if a property owner decides to replace a building façade's siding, then the siding must
meet the applicable exterior building material standards, but elements such as building articulation (see section
38.530.040) would not be required.
Level II Improvements include all improvements commenced within a three-year period (based on the date of
permit issuance) that increase the building's area by more than 20 percent, but not greater than 50 percent. All
standards that do not involve repositioning the building or reconfiguring site development apply to Level II
Improvements. For example, if a property owner of an existing home in the B-2 zoning district wants to convert
the home to an office and build an addition equaling 45 percent of the current building's area, then the following
requirements apply:
The location and design of the addition/remodel must be consistent with the block frontage standards
(division 38.510), which address building frontages, entries, parking lot location, and front setback
landscaping. For such developments seeking additions to buildings where off-street parking location
currently does not comply with applicable parking location standards, building additions are allowed,
provided they do not increase any current nonconformity and generally bring the project closer into
conformance with the standards (see division 38.550, Parking).
Compliance with applicable site planning and design elements (division 38.520).
Compliance with all building design provisions of division 38.530, except architectural scale and materials
provisions related to the existing portion of the building where no exterior changes are proposed. The entire
building must comply with building elements/details, materials, and blank wall treatment standards of
section 38.540.070.
Compliance with the off-street parking, landscaping, signage, and lighting provisions of divisions 38.550-580
that relate to proposed improvements.
Level III Improvements include all improvements commenced within a three-year period (based on the date of
permit issuance) that increase the building's area by more than 50 percent. Such developments must conform to
all applicable standards. Site improvements are addressed in sections 38.230.150 and 38.230.160.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
Figure 38.500.020.
Examples of site development and the respective types of improvements required under each of the three
levels of improvements.
DIVISION 38.510. - BLOCK FRONTAGE STANDARDS
Sec. 38.510.010. - Introduction.
Purpose.
To provide standards to implement the growth policy and applicable adopted subarea plans;
To design sites and orient buildings with an emphasis on compatible development and creating a comfortable
walking environment; and
To provide standards that recognize the need for a system of streets and block frontages.
Applicability. The provisions of this division apply to all development within Bozeman, except single to four-household
dwellings in any configuration. Also:
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1.
2.
C.
1.
2.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
1.
a.
b.
For clarification on the relationship between the provisions in this division and other documents and codes, see section
38.500.020.A.
For the application of building additions, remodels and site improvements, see section 38.500.020.B.
How to use this division. Block frontage standards for individual properties depend on the zoning designation adjacent
that the properties front onto and Community Design Framework map. Take the following steps in using this division:
Determine the zoning of your property, then see section 38.510.020 to find the block frontage type designation for
the street or streets fronting your property. For properties in residential zones, the standards for landscaped block
frontages (see section 38.510.030.C) apply. For properties in industrial zones, see section 38.510.030.H. For
properties that front onto multiple streets, see provisions in section 38.510.02.F; and
Go to the appropriate code section in this division for the standards applicable to the block frontage type
designation. Table 38.510.030.A includes a summary of the five primary street frontage type designations along with
links to the appropriate sections, the intention for each block frontage designation, and key design/use provisions.
(Ord. No. 2019 , § 3, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.510.020. - Community design framework maps and standards.
About the maps. The maps, together with the block frontage standards in section 38.510.030, guide the look and feel of
development in commercial and multi-household areas throughout Bozeman when viewed from the street. The
provisions herein recognize that there is a hierarchy of different streets and block frontage types ranging from
pedestrian-oriented storefronts to arterial streets/frontages that warrant greater flexibility in the design of frontages.
The block frontage standards address streetfront elements including:
Building location and orientation.
Parking lot location.
Window transparency.
Weather protection.
Landscaping.
The community design framework maps also identify high visibility street corner sites that warrant special design
treatment. Ultimately, these "form-based" provisions will help to reinforce existing and desired development patterns
intended to implement the growth policy, including adopted neighborhood plans.
All block frontages within residential zones are subject to landscaped block frontage provisions set forth in section
38.510.030.C.
All block frontages within industrial zones are subject to the provisions of section 38.510.030.H.
The default block frontage for new or undesignated streets (such as those within annexed land) in commercial and
mixed-use zones is Mixed (see the mixed block frontage provisions set forth in section 38.510.030.D),
The block frontage designations apply to development on both sides of the street except where otherwise specified.
Multiple frontage situations where a property and building(s) front onto multiple block frontages or internal frontage
designations. Where a property fronts onto more than one block frontage, each building must comply with the
standards for the block frontage upon which it is located, with the following clarifications:
When a building or buildings is located such that it faces and is adjacent to multiple block frontages, the orientation
of the front of the building must be sited and placed on the property in the following order of precedence:
Streets (all types, see subsection F.2 below).
Trail/Park.
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c.
d.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
b.
c.
3.
4.
5.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Special residential or internal roadway (parking areas/lots, block separation corridors).
Departures may be considered provided the location and front orientation of the buildings are compatible with
the character of the area and enhance the character of the street.
When a building(s) is located such that it faces and is adjacent to multiple street block frontages:
The orientation of the front of the building must be sited and placed on the property in the following order of
precedence:
Gateway (38.510.030.E).
Storefront (38.510.030.B).
Landscape (38.510.030.C).
Other (38.510.030.G).
Departures may be considered provided the location and front orientation of the buildings are compatible
with the character of the area and enhance the character of the street.
For corner sites with landscaped block frontage on one street and storefront or mixed on another, a storefront
frontage may wrap around the corner (on the landscaped block frontage side) for up to a half block or no more
than 120 feet (whichever is more).
Each building(s) must address a frontage.
All buildings must be placed and designed to present the front and primary facade to the block frontage or street
block frontage that is highest in the order of precedence.
All buildings on a corner at the intersection of two streets must be placed adjacent to and present a front and
primary façade to both street block frontages.
Entrances:
A publicly accessible entrance must be provided on the front and primary facade unless not required by the
block frontage.
For buildings on a corner at the intersection of two streets, publicly accessible entrances on both street frontages
are encouraged, but only one entrance is required.
For buildings that front on internal and external block frontages, publicly accessible entrances on both types of
block frontages are encouraged, but only one entrance is required.
The publicly accessible entrance must be provided on the storefront block frontage if one is provided.
For buildings on a corner at the intersection of two streets with a mix of block frontage designations the publicly
accessible entrance must be provided on the block frontage according to the order of precedence in subsection 1
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f.
6.
7.
a.
b.
G.
H.
A.
above.
For buildings on lots or sites that have multiple street block frontages the publicly accessible entrance must be
provided on the block frontage according to the order of precedence in subsection 2 above.
Buildings that face two streets and meet the primary frontage parking location standards are not required to meet
building to parking location percentage frontage standards for subsequent building frontages.
Parking: Surface parking (including ground floor parking in a structure) adjacent to a street corner is not allowed,
except:
Corner lots with non-designated frontages (other) on both streets;
Other combination of block frontages, except those with a storefront designation, via a departure and subject to
the applicable departure criteria.
Changes to the default block frontage designation for new and existing streets may be made through the Community
Design Framework Master Plan per section 38.510.030.L.
A reference map of approved community design framework master plans and default block frontages is maintained by
the department of community development. The map is a visual representation of the text of this section and is for
illustrative purposes only.
(Ord. No. 2019 , § 4, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.510.030. - Block frontage standards.
Summary chart. Table 38.510.030.A summarizes standards for each of the six designated block frontage types. Specific
standards for each of the block frontage types are set forth below:
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B.
1.
Table 38.510.030.A.
Summary of block frontage standards.
Storefront block frontages.
Description/intent. Storefront block frontages are the most vibrant and active shopping and dining areas within the
city. Blocks designated as storefront blocks include continuous storefronts placed along the sidewalk edge with small
scale shops and/or frequent business entries.
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2.
Figure 38.510.030.B.
Storefront vision and key standards.
Standards. All development as set forth in UDC 38.510.010.B on sites containing a storefront block frontage
designation must comply with the following standards (on applicable block frontages):
Table 38.510.030.B
Storefront block frontage standards
Element Standards( refers to
departure opportunities, see
subsection 38.510.030 below)
Examples & Notes
Ground oor
Land use
Non-residential uses speci ed in
38.310.040, except for lobbies
associated with residential or
hotel/motel uses on upper oors.
Floor to ceiling height 13' minimum (applies to new
buildings only).
Non-residential space depth 20' minimum (applies to new
buildings only).
Building placement Required at front property line/back
edge of sidewalk. Additional
setbacks are allowed for widened
sidewalk or pedestrian-oriented
space (38.520.060.D).
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Building entrances Must face the street. For corner
buildings, entrances may face the
street corner.
Façade transparency At least 60% of ground oor
between 30" and 10' above the
sidewalk for primary facades and
40% of ground oor between 30"
and 10' above the sidewalk for
secondary facades. Display
windows may count for up to 50%
of the transparency requirement
provided they are at least 30" in
depth to allow for changeable
displays. Tack-on display cases do
not qualify as transparent window
areas.
Window area that is glazed over or
covered in any manner that
obscures visibility into the
storefront space shall not count as
transparent window area.
Weather protection Weather protection with 8-15'
vertical clearance at least 5' in
average depth along at least 60% of
façade. Retractable awnings
may be used to meet these
requirements.
Parking location
Also see division 38.540 of this
division for related parking
requirements
New surface and structured parking
areas (ground oor) must be placed
to the side or rear of structures and
are limited to 60' of street frontage.
Provide a 6' minimum bu er
of landscaping between the street
and o street parking areas meeting
the performance standards of
division 38.550.
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3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
C.
1.
Sidewalk width 12 feet minimum between curb
edge and storefront (area includes
clear/bu er zone with street trees).
Setbacks and utility
easements must also be considered
and may result in a larger minimum
sidewalk width.
Departure criteria. Departures to the above standards that feature the symbol will be considered by the
review authority (per section 38.250.060) provided the alternative proposal meets the intent of the standards, plus
the following criteria:
Retail space depth. Reduced depths will be considered where the applicant can successfully demonstrate the
proposed alternative design and configuration of the space is viable for a variety of permitted retail uses;
Façade transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of façade area between ground level windows
provides visual interest to the pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall areas. No less than 40 percent
of the façade between 30 inches and ten feet above the sidewalk may be approved with a departure;
Weather protection. Other proposed alternative design treatments must provide equivalent weather protection
benefits; and
Parking location. There must be an acceptable tradeoff in terms of the amount and quality of storefront area that
is integrated with the development and the applicable parking location departure. Plus, the alternative must
include design features to successfully mitigate the visual impact of additional parking areas along designated
storefront streets.
Sidewalk width. Alternative designs may be considered where topographical challenges exist. Alternative designs
must be able to accommodate safe and comfortable pedestrian traffic anticipated for full block development.
Landscaped block frontages.
Description/intent. The landscaped block frontage designation emphasizes landscaped frontages and clear
pedestrian connections between buildings and the sidewalk. This designation applies to all new and existing streets
in applicable residential districts, plus includes residential based streets and other streets in commercial/ mixed-use
zoned areas where special landscaped frontages are desired.
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2.
Figure 38.510.030.C.
Landscaped block frontage vision and key standards.
Standards. All development as set forth in section 38.510.010.B on sites containing a landscaped block frontage
designation must comply with the following standards (on applicable block frontages):
Table 38.510.030.C
Landscaped block frontage standards.
Element Standards( refers to
departure opportunities, see
subsection 38.510.030 below)
Examples & Notes
Ground oor:
Land use
See Tables 38.310.030-.040 for
permitted use details.
Building placement 10' minimum front setback. See section 38.510.030.J for special
design provisions associated with
ground level residential uses
adjacent to a sidewalk.
Building entrances Building entrances must be visible
and directly accessible from the
street. For uses that front on
multiple mixed designated block
frontages, an entry along both
streets is encouraged, but not
required.
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Façade transparency For buildings designed with ground
level non-residential uses, at least
25% of the ground oor between
4'-8' above the sidewalk. For
residential uses, at least 15% of the
entire façade (all vertical surfaces
generally facing the street).
Windows must be provided on all
habitable oors of the façade.
Window area that is glazed over or
covered in any manner that
obscures visibility into the
storefront space shall not count as
transparent window area
Weather protection Provide weather protection at least
3' deep over primary business and
residential entries.
Parking location
Also see division 38.540 of this
division for related parking
requirements
Parking must be placed to the side,
rear, below or above uses. For
single and multi-building
developments, surface and
structured parking areas (ground
oor) are limited to no more than
50% of the street frontage.
Private or shared garage entries
must occupy no more than 50% of
façade width.Provide a 10' minimum
bu er of landscaping between the
street and o street parking areas
meeting the performance standards
of division 38.550 of this chapter.
New parking structures must
featurelandscaped setbacks at least
10' in width.
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3.
a.
b.
c.
Landscaping
Also see division 38.550 of this
division for related landscaping
standards
The area between the street and
building must be landscaped,
private porch or patio space, and/or
pedestrian-oriented space.
For setbacks adjacent to buildings
with windows, provide low level
landscaping that maintains views
between the building and the street.
Also provide plant materials that
screen any blank walls and add
visual interest at both the
pedestrian scale and motorist scale.
For extended wall areas, provide for
a diversity of plant materials and
textures to maintain visual interest
from a pedestrian scale.
Sidewalk width 6' minimum sidewalks are required
adjacent to arterial streets and
public parks and 5' minimum width
in other areas, except the review
authority may require wider
sidewalks in special areas where
called for in adopted plans or where
signi cant pedestrian tra c is
anticipated.
Departure criteria. Departures to the above standards that feature the symbol will be considered by the
review authority (per section 38.250.060) provided the alternative proposal meets the intent of the standards, plus
the following criteria:
Building entrances. Block frontages with steep slopes and/or those facing busy arterial streets and very limited
pedestrian traffic may warrant some flexibility to this standard (particularly in residential districts);
Façade transparency. The proposed alternative design treatment of façade area between ground level windows
provides visual interest to the pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall areas. No less than 40 percent
of the façade between 30 inches and ten feet above the sidewalk may be approved with a departure;
Parking location. There must be an acceptable tradeoff in terms of the amount and quality of storefront area that
is integrated with the development and the applicable parking location departure. Plus, the alternative must
include design features to successfully mitigate the visual impact of additional parking areas along designated
landscaped streets.
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D.
1.
2.
Mixed block frontages.
Description/intent. The mixed block frontage designation serves areas that accommodate a mixture of ground floor
uses and allows a diversity of development frontages provided they contribute to the visual character of the street
and enhance the pedestrian environment.
Figure 38.510.030.D. Mixed block frontage options and standards.
Standards. All development as set forth in section 38.510.010.B on sites containing a mixed block frontage have the
option to comply with either the storefront or landscaped block frontage provisions as set forth above, with the
following modifications (on applicable block frontages):
Table 38.510.030.D
Mixed block frontage standards.
Element Standards( refers to
departure opportunities, see
subsection 38.510.030 below)
Examples & Notes
Building placement Buildings may be placed up to the
sidewalk edge provided they meet
storefront standards set forth
above.10' minimum front setback
for other buildings, except where
greater setbacks are speci ed in the
district per division 38.320.
See section 38.510.030.J for special
design provisions associated with
ground level residential uses
adjacent to a sidewalk.
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3.
a.
Façade transparency
Generally, the amount of
transparency of façades depends on
the use and setback from the street.
Any storefront buildings on these
block frontages must meet the
storefront block frontage
transparency standards above.
Other buildings designed with
non-residential uses on the ground
oor within 10' of sidewalk, at least
40% of the ground oor between
4'-8' above the ground level surface.
Other buildings designed with
non-residential uses on the ground
oor within 20' of the sidewalk, at
least 25% of the ground oor
between 4'-8' above the ground
level surface. Residential
buildings, at least 15% of the entire
façade (all vertical surfaces
generally facing the street).
Windows must be provided on all
habitable oors of the façade.
Window area that is glazed over or
covered in any manner that
obscures visibility into the
storefront space shall not count as
transparent window area.
Departure criteria. Departures to the above standards that feature the symbol will be considered by the
review authority (per section 38.250.060) provided the alternative proposal meets the intent of the standards, plus
the following criteria:
Minimum setback. For residential uses, provide design treatments that create an effective transition between the
public and private realm. This could include a stoop design or other similar treatments that utilize a low fence,
retaining wall, and/or hedge along the sidewalk.
Figure 38.510.030.D.4.
Stoop examples.
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E.
1.
2.
Gateway block frontages.
Description/intent. The gateway block frontage designation serves strategic areas fronted by highways or other high
visibility arterials that feature heavy vehicular traffic, but there is a desire to provide attractive landscaped frontages,
limit the extent of visible surface parking, and accommodate the needs of pedestrians.
Figure 38.510.030.E.
Gateway block frontage vision.
Standards. All development as set forth in section 38.510.010.B on sites containing the gateway block frontage
designation must comply with the landscaped block frontage provisions as set forth above, with the following
modifications:
Table 38.510.030.E
Gateway frontage standards
Element Standards ( refers to
departure opportunities, see
subsection 38.510.030 below)
Examples & Notes
Building placement The minimum setback for buildings
is 25'.
Building entrances At least one (publicly accessible for
commercial buildings) building
entrances must be visible and
directly accessible from the street.
Parking location Surface and structured parking
must be placed to the side, rear,
below or above uses. For multi-
building developments, surface and
structured parking areas (ground
oor) are limited to no more than
60% of the street frontage.
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3.
F.
1.
2.
3.
G.
1.
2.
Departure criteria. See subsection C.3 of this section for criteria.
Internal roadway storefront block frontages.
Description/intent. The internal roadway storefront block frontage designation is intended to apply to some existing
commercial storefront areas that are located on internal roadways. This designation intends to reinforce and
enhance the storefront environment if and when changes occur over time.
Standards. Development as set forth in section 38.510.010.B on sites containing the internal roadway storefront
block frontage designation must comply with the storefront block frontage standards as set forth above, with the
following modifications:
Table 38.510.030.F
Internal roadway storefront block frontage standards
Element Standards ( refers to departure opportunities, see subsection 38.510.030
below)
Façade transparency At least 50% of ground oor between 30" and 10' above the sidewalk.
Landscaping A planting strip with a tree must be integrated along the sidewalk every 50' of lineal
frontage on average.
Sidewalk width 12' minimum walking surface (landscape planter areas may not be counted in the
sidewalk width calculations).
Departure criteria. See subsection B.4 of this section for criteria.
Other block frontages.
Description/intent. All other block frontages in districts that are not designated in Community Design Framework
Maps are provided greater flexibility with regard to the design of development frontages. These block frontages
include a combination of side streets (where most uses often front on other adjacent streets) and service oriented
streets (often characterized by industrial or service types of uses). While there is greater flexibility in the amount of
transparency of façades and the location of surface and structured parking, design parameters are included to
ensure that development frontages along these streets provide visual interest at all observable scales and meet the
design objectives of the city.
Standards. All development as set forth in section 38.510.010.B with applicable block frontage designations must
comply with standards below:
Table 38.510.030.G
Other block frontage standards
Element Standard ( refers to departure opportunities, see subsection 38.510.030
below)
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Ground oor land use
Land use
See Tables 38.310.030-.040 for permitted use details.
Building placement 10' minimum front setback for buildings. See section 38.510.030.J for special
design provisions associated with ground level residential uses adjacent to a
sidewalk.
Building entrances Building entrances facing the street are encouraged. At least one building entry
visible and directly accessible from the street is required. Where buildings are
set back from the street, pedestrian connections are required from the sidewalk.
Façade transparency For storefronts, at least 60% of ground oor between 30" and 10' above the sidewalk
is required. Other buildings designed with non-residential uses on the ground
oor within 10' of sidewalk, at least 30% of the ground oor between 4'-8' above the
sidewalk. Other buildings, at least 10% of the entire façade (all vertical surfaces
generally facing the street). Window area that is glazed over or covered in any
manner that obscures visibility into the storefront space must not count as
transparent window area.
Weather protection At least 3' deep over primary business and residential entries.
Parking location
Also see division 38.540 of
this division for related
parking requirements
There are no parking lot location restrictions, except that a 10' bu er of landscaping
between the street and o street parking areas meeting the performance standards
of division 38.550 of this division is required.
Landscaping
Also see division 38.550 of
this division for related
landscaping standards
The area between the street and building must be landscaped and/or private porch
or patio space.
For setbacks adjacent to buildings with windows, provide low level landscaping that
maintains views between the building and the street.
Also provide plant materials that screen any blank walls and add visual interest at
both the pedestrian scale and motorist scale. For extended wall areas, provide for a
diversity of plant materials and textures to maintain visual interest from a pedestrian
scale.
Sidewalk width Where storefront buildings are proposed, sidewalks must meet storefront block
frontage standards above. Otherwise, 6' minimum sidewalks are required adjacent
to arterial streets and public parks and 5' minimum width in other areas, except the
review authority may require wider sidewalks in special areas where called for in
adopted plans or where signi cant pedestrian tra c is anticipated.
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3.
a.
b.
H.
1.
I.
J.
1.
2.
Departure criteria. Departures to the above standards that feature the symbol will be considered by the
review authority (per section 38.250.060) provided the alternative proposal meets the intent of the standards, plus
the following criteria:
Minimum setback. Provide design treatments that create an effective transition between the public and private
realm. This could include a stoop design to other similar treatments that utilize a low fence, retaining wall, and/or
hedge along the sidewalk.
Façade transparency. The design treatment of a façade and/or landscape element provides visual interest to the
pedestrian and mitigates impacts of any blank wall area.
Block frontages in the industrial zones are subject to the standards for "Other" streets as set forth in subsection G above
except:
Planting areas between the sidewalk and the building, outdoor storage, or parking areas must be at least ten feet in
depth and are encouraged to meet the landscaping standards of division 38.550. Departure: Reductions in the
landscaping frontage may be considered for low volume and low visibility streets entirely within the industrial zone.
Land uses with a higher density of employees warrant standard landscaping and pedestrian access provisions.
Trail/park frontages. Where a property fronts onto a park or a public trail, such frontages must comply with the mixed
block frontage standards set forth in subsection D of this section. For non-residential developments/uses where the
review authority determines that an orientation to the trail would not be appropriate based on the context of the site,
the development must be subject to the standards for "other block frontages" set forth in subsection G above, with a
minimum building setback of 20 feet from the applicable park/trail right-of-way, easement, or property line.
Figure 38.510.030.I.
Park/trail frontage examples.
Special residential block frontage standards along sidewalks and internal pathways. For residences with ground floor
living spaces facing a sidewalk or pedestrian path in a residential or mixed use development, the building must feature
at least one of the public/private space transition elements described below. The objective of this standard is to ensure
privacy and security for residents, and an attractive and safe pathway that complements the qualities of adjoining
residences within a residential complex.
Raised deck or porch option. Provide at least a 60 square foot porch or deck raised at least one foot above grade.
The porch or deck must be at least six feet deep, measured perpendicular to the building face. (The deck may be
recessed into the unit floor plan so that deck does not extend from the building face a full six feet.) A low fence, rail
or hedge, two feet to four feet high, may be integrated between the sidewalk or internal pathway and deck or porch.
Front setback options. Provide a minimum ten-foot setback between the sidewalk or internal pathway and the face
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a.
b.
3.
K.
L.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
of the residence. Design options for the front setback:
Landscaped area, meeting the provisions of division 38.550.
Semi-private patio space screened by a low fence or hedge (see section 38.350.060).
Raised ground floor. If the residence's ground floor is a minimum of three feet above the grade adjacent to the
building, then the landscaped area in option 2 above may be reduced to four feet wide (except where greater
setbacks are specified for the applicable zoning district in division 38.320).
Other transition design measures that adequately protect the privacy and comfort of the residential unit and
the attractiveness and usefulness of the pathway at least as effectively as options 1 through 3 above.
See figure 38.510.030.J below for examples of the above treatments.
Figure 38.510.030.J.
Acceptable public/private transitional space design between sidewalk or pathways and ground level residential
units.
Reserved.
Community Design Framework Master Plan. Recently annexed or rezoned commercial or mixed-use properties, as well
as strategic large undeveloped sites, necessitate a different approach to applying block frontage standards. The
provisions below identify the intent, applicable sites, block frontage designation options, and special standards for
developing community design framework master plans.
Intent.
To provide a thoughtful and fair process to plan for the development of large and new commercial and mixed-
use sites consistent with Bozeman's growth policy.
To promote an arrangement of streets, buildings, open space, parking and service areas that create a strong
sense of community and enhance the character of Bozeman.
To avoid uncoordinated patterns of development that waste valuable land, compromise vehicular and pedestrian
access, and degrade the character of Bozeman.
Applicable sites.
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a.
b.
3.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
b.
c.
4.
Recently annexed sites zoned as one of the commercial or mixed-use zoning districts.
Sites recently rezoned as one of the commercial or mixed-use zoning districts that are not addressed in the
community design framework maps.
Block frontage designation options.
Prior to development of applicable sites, a community design framework master plan must be developed,
approved and recorded for the property per the procedures set forth in section 38.230.130. The master plans
must include:
New streets and internal roadways along with block frontage designations (types included in this section).
Any designated high visibility street corners.
Any planned open spaces, trails, and shared use paths.
Any special phasing conditions.
Other special design conditions unique to the site and plan that must be implemented with future site plan
development.
Community design framework master plans may utilize any existing block frontage designations that border the
site, or include an alternative block frontage designation type or types, subject to master plan approval.
Alternatively, site plan development may occur on applicable sites without an approved and recorded community
design framework master plan, provided all block frontages comply with the standards for mixed block frontages
as set forth in subsection D of this section.
Master plan design standards. Community design framework master plans must meet the intent as set forth above
plus the following parameters for specific sites:
Table 38.510.030.L
Community design framework master plan design standards
The provisions below are intended to guide the design of individual community design framework master plans.
They are referred to as standards, since all proposed plans must successfully demonstrate how they comply with
the provisions herein.
All Sites • Con gure site to create a pedestrian-oriented focal point. Such a focal point could be a
main street (storefront), a central square surrounded by storefronts or other similar
elements.
• Larger sites have greater expectations in the amount of storefront designated frontages.
• Goals, policies and concepts from adopted plans must be used to help determine
compliance with these standards.
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5.
[M.
1.
a.
b.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
b.
Figure 38.510.030.L.
Development examples.
Community design framework master plans are subject to the application requirements and procedures set forth in
section 38.230.130.
Structured parking facility development standards.]
All above ground structured parking facilities must conform to the design standards herein and the designated block
frontage in section 38.510.030. In the event of a conflict between block frontage standards and the standards of this
section, the standards of this section will govern. Exceptions:
Single-household dwellings and individual townhouse and multi-household units with physically separated
individual drive aisles. Physical separation is provided when at least one of these options are provided: Individual
garage doors for each interior parking space; a vegetated planter not less than four feet in width between the
parking spaces in the driveway area; or a wall not less than four feet in height and length, is provided between
the parking area in the driveway and dividing the garage entrance; and
For development in the R-5 and B-2M districts, the applicable structured parking provisions in division 38.500
(Block Frontage Standards) take precedence over any conflicting provisions of division 38.340 or related
standards in this section.
Building standards.
Intent: To promote an active and diverse streetscape, parking structures should be located behind buildings in
the interior of blocks or below grade. Parking garages that front streets must line the parking garage at the street
level with an active use.
Street designs accommodate on street parking and pedestrian mobility. Parking lots and garages rarely front
the streets, and are typically relegated to the rear of the lot and the center of blocks.
Parking garages should be located in the interior of blocks. Parking garages that front onto streets must
provide a lining of retail, office, or residential use at the street level along the entire street frontage.
In all districts, all commercial floor space wrapping must provide a minimum 20 foot depth of habitable and
conditioned space as defined by the most currently adopted IBC.
[4]
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c.
d.
e.
f.
(1)
(2)
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
A.
B.
In all districts, commercial space depth will be considered where the applicant can successfully demonstrate the pro
alternative design and configuration of the space is viable for a variety of permitted commercial uses.
In all districts, residential active use areas must be 12 feet in depth, except for riser room, trash areas and other
functional uses that must face the street.
In all districts, all commercial floor space wrapping a parking structure on the ground floor must have a minimum
floor-to-ceiling height of 13 feet.
Structured parking facilities must provide transparency along at least 50 percent of the linear length of the
building's façade. This may be achieved with windows, displays, building lobbies, building entrances, display
windows, or windows affording views into the building. This requirement applies to both frontages of a building
located on a corner lot.
The bottom edge of any window or product display window used to satisfy the transparency standard of this
subsection B.3 may not be more than four feet above the adjacent sidewalk.
Product display windows used to satisfy these requirements must have a minimum height of four feet and be
internally lighted.
Street-level openings on parking structures must be limited to those necessary for retail store entrances, vehicle
entrance and exit lanes, and pedestrian entrances to stairs and elevator lobbies. Parking structures adjacent to
streets must have architectural detailing such as, but not limited to, standard size masonry units such as brick,
divided openings to give the appearance of windows, and other techniques to provide an interesting and human-
scaled appearance on the story adjacent to the sidewalk.
Buildings must be articulated with modules, architectural detailing, individual floors visually expressed in the
façade, and rhythm and pattern of openings and surfaces must be human-scale.
Buildings must be oriented to the adjacent public or private street.
If an alley is adjacent to site, access must be taken from that alley. Access to a street may be considered by the
review authority.
A pedestrian safety plan is required for all parking facilities with more than 100 parking spaces and must be
reviewed and approved by the city engineer. The city engineer may request a pedestrian safety plan for parking
facilities with less than 100 parking spaces.
Parking entrance(s) may not account for more than 25 percent of entire building façade.
Parking entrance(s) must not be located central to the building façade.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 15, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2014 , § 12, 6-3-2019)
Footnotes:
--- (4) ---
Editor's note— See the editor's note to § 38.540.030.
DIVISION 38.520. - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN ELEMENTS
Sec. 38.520.010. - Purpose.
Preserve and protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Bozeman.
To promote thoughtful layout of buildings, parking areas, and circulation, service, landscaping, and amenity elements
that enhances Bozeman's visual character, promotes compatibility between developments and uses, and enhances the
function of developments.
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A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
B.
C.
Also see the individual "intent" statements for each section in this division.
Sec. 38.520.020. - Applicability and compliance.
The provisions of this division apply to all development within Bozeman, except single to four-household dwellings on individual
lots. The excepted dwellings are subject to the form and intensity standards in section 38.360.220. Townhouses and rowhouses are
subject to the form and intensity standards in section 38.360.250. Also:
For clarification on the relationship between the provisions in this division and other documents and codes, see
section 38.500.020.A.
For the application to building additions, remodels see section 38.500.020.B.
For clarification on how the provisions of this division are applied to site improvements, see sections 38.230.150,
38.230.160, and 38.230.170.
The review authority may waive or relax these provisions in the industrial zones depending on the type of use,
number of anticipated employees and customers, and the site's physical context. A greater number of employees
and/or customers and higher visibility levels warrant a greater application of building design standards.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.520.030. - Relationship to adjacent properties.
Intent.
To promote functional and visual compatibility between developments.
To protect the privacy of residents on adjacent properties.
Balconies alongside and rear property lines adjacent to residentially zoned properties. Balconies or rooftop decks within
15 horizontal feet of a side property line abutting a residentially zoned property must feature a railing system that is at
least 50 percent opaque. Specifically, 50 percent of the area below the railing must be a sight-obscuring structure.
Figure 38.520.030.B.
Privacy Standards for Balconies Within 15 Feet of Side or Rear property lines.
Departures from this standard will be allowed if the balcony will not cause visual or privacy impacts due to its location,
orientation, design or other consideration.
Light and air access and privacy alongside and rear property lines. Buildings or portions thereof containing multi-
household dwelling units whose only solar access (windows) is from the applicable side of the building (facing towards
the side property line) must be set back from the applicable side or rear property lines at least 15 feet. See figures
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A.
1.
2.
B.
38.520.030.B and C. Departures will be allowed where it's determined that, based on the unique site context, the
proposed design won't create a compatibility problem in the near or long term.
Figure 38.520.030.C.
Light and air access and privacy standards for multi-household residential buildings alongside/rear property
lines.
( Order No. 2020-01 , §§ 1, 2, 11-6-2020; Ord. No. 2070 , § 3, 6-8-2021)
Sec. 38.520.040. - Non-motorized circulation and design.
Intent.
To improve the pedestrian and bicycling environment by making it easier, safer, and more comfortable to walk or
ride among residences, to businesses, to the street sidewalk, to transit stops, through parking lots, to adjacent
properties, and connections throughout the city.
To enhance access to on- and off-site areas and pedestrian/bicycle paths.
Access to sidewalk. All buildings must feature pedestrian connections to a sidewalk per applicable block frontage
standards in division 38.510. See subsection D below for access design requirements.
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C.
1.
2.
a.
Figure 38.520.040.B.
Examples of direct pedestrian access to buildings from the street.
Internal circulation.
For sites with multiple buildings, pedestrian paths or walkways connecting businesses and residential entries on the
same development site must be provided. Routes that minimize walking distances must be utilized to the extent
practical. Departures will be allowed where steep slopes prevent a direct connection or where an indirect route
would enhance the design and/or use of a common usable open space. See subsection D below for walkway design
standards.
Figure 38.520.040.C.1.
Internal and external pedestrian connections are important.
Sites with residential units. Provide direct pedestrian access between all ground related unit entries and a public
street or to a clearly marked pathway network or open space that has direct access to a public street. Residential
developments must provide a pedestrian circulation network that connects all main entrances on the site to other
areas of the site, such as:
Parking areas;
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b.
c.
d.
3.
4.
Recreational areas;
Common outdoor areas; and
Any pedestrian amenities;
For townhouses or other residential units fronting the street, the sidewalk may be used to meet this standard.
Figure 38.520.040.C.2.a.
Direct pathways between the street and dwelling units are required.
Figure 38.520.040.C.2.b.
Examples of attractive pathway connection through a residential development.
Crosswalks are required when a walkway crosses an on-site paved area accessible to vehicles. Crosswalks must
contain contrasting material (such as concrete) and/or patterns (such as stamped asphalt), excluding painted
surfaces.
Pedestrian paths through parking lots. Developments must provide specially marked or paved sidewalks through
parking areas. At least one walkway must be provided every four rows of parking or at a maximum spacing of 200
feet. The pathways must provide a safe connection to the building entrance and meet the pathway design standards
set forth in subsection D below. See examples below.
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5.
a.
b.
6.
7.
D.
1.
2.
3.
Figure 38.520.040.C.4.
Parking area pathway standards and examples.
Connections to adjacent properties (including parks and trails). Provide pathways that connect to adjacent
properties, except in one of the following circumstances:
When adjacent properties are residential developments of fewer than five dwelling units.
Departures are permitted where it is determined that internal connections aren't necessary due to shallow lot
depths, steep slopes, or other contextual challenges.
Barriers that limit future pedestrian access are prohibited. Gates that limit access to employees are permitted. See
subsection D below for walkway design standards.
Provide easements for non-motorized access to facilitate the future extension of paths when adjoining properties
are improved.
Pathway design.
All internal pathways must have a minimum five-foot-wide unobstructed surface, except where wider pathways are
prescribed in this division or where the applicable uses and context dictate wider pathways.
Where a pathway is adjacent to perpendicular or angled parking, an extra two feet of walkway width must be
provided to mitigate for parked vehicles overhanging the walkway.
Pathways must be separated from structures by at least three feet of landscaping except where the adjacent building
façade meets the Storefront block frontage standards per section 38.510.030.B. Departures are permitted for other
landscaping and/or façade design treatments to provide attractive pathways will be considered. Examples include
sculptural, mosaic, bas-relief artwork, or other decorative treatments that meet the intent. Figure 38.520.040.D.3
below provides one example.
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4.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
E.
Figure 38.520.040.D.3.
Standards for internal walkways adjacent to buildings.
Pathway design where multi-tenant commercial or mixed-use buildings 100 feet or more in length abut parking lots.
Such pathways must feature a 12-foot wide sidewalk with:
Eight feet minimum unobstructed width:
Trees, as approved by the review authority, placed at an average of 50 feet on-center and placed in grates or in
planting strips as set forth in subsection C below. Departure: Breaks in the tree coverage will be allowed near
major building entries to enhance visibility.
Planting strips may be used between any vehicle access or parking area and the pathway, provided that the trees
required above are included and the pathway meets the applicable width standards herein, and the combined
pathway and planting strip is at least 12 feet wide;
Figure 38.520.040.D.4.
Example of a successful pedestrian sidewalk between parking lot and storefront.
Light pathways in accordance with division 38.570;
See also section 38.520.050.D, internal roadway design;
Hard surface.
Bicycle facilities. Provide bicycle racks, lockers, or other means of safely and conveniently parking bicycles at the rate
specified in section 38.540.050.
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Sec. 38.520.050. - Vehicular circulation and parking.
The standards herein supplement the provisions of divisions 38.400 and 540. Where there is a conflict, these provisions apply.
Intent.
To create a safe, convenient, and efficient network for vehicle circulation and parking.
To enhance the visual character of interior access roads.
To minimize conflicts with pedestrian circulation and activity.
Driveway provisions. Drive aisles must meet the standards set forth in section 38.400.090. Supplemental provisions:
Minimize parking lot entrances, drive aisles, and other vehicle access routes onto private property from a public
right-of-way through the following means:
Driveway lanes crossing a public sidewalk must be no wider than the minimum required per entry or exit lane.
The city may impose additional restrictions to parking lot and vehicle access points to reduce impacts to public
safety, pedestrian movement, on-street vehicle circulation, and visual qualities.
Minimize the number of driveway entrances. Comply with the provisions of section 38.400.090.
The review authority may require joint drive aisles serving adjacent developments when joint access is physically
and legally available.
Minimize conflicts between entries and vehicle parking and maneuvering areas.
At street corner sites, drive aisles must be located on the lowest classified roadway and as close as practical to
the property line most distant from the intersection, unless the review authority finds there is a compelling
reason to the contrary.
Inter-site connectivity. The provision of through vehicle access connections between commercially or non-
residentially zoned properties is required except where the review authority determines it is unfeasible or
undesirable (e.g., where it is determined that such a vehicle connection would impact safe pedestrian movement).
See section 38.410.040 for specific block standards. Vehicle access may be in the form of a dedicated or private alley,
connected or shared parking lots, shared drive aisles, or similar features.
Internal roadway design.
To increase the function and appearance of internal roadways on large sites (greater than two acres), street trees
and sidewalks must be provided on all internal access roadways, except access roads designed solely for the
purpose of service (e.g. waste pick-up) and loading.
In some instances where traffic speed and volume are low, the review authority may approve a street where
vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian movement are mixed such as in a "woonerf" or "shared street." Woonerf streets
must feature traffic calming and safety measures as well as landscape and amenity features as determined by
the review authority.
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Figure 38.520.050.D.
Good internal roadway examples.
Drive-through facilities. Where allowed, drive through facilities (e.g., drive-up windows) must comply with the
following.
Drive-through lanes, including waiting and holding lanes, must be separated from public view and internal
sidewalks by a planting strip (at least five feet wide with continuous plantings of evergreen shrubs and/or
trees that will provide continuous evergreen screen at least four feet tall at maturity) and/or a masonry wall
at least three feet high. Alternative landscaping schemes may be approved provided they include the
masonry wall and a substantial vegetative screen. The landscaping must comply with division 38.560.
Drive-through lanes must not restrict pedestrian access between a public sidewalk and on-site buildings.
Walkways must not be located within required stacking space as set forth in section 38.540.020.N.
Also see sections 38.360.110 and 38.540.020.N for related standards.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021)
Sec. 38.520.060. - On-site residential and commercial open space.
Intent.
To create useable space that is suitable for leisure or recreational activities for residents.
To create open space that contributes to the residential setting.
To provide plazas that attract shoppers to commercial areas.
To provide plazas and other pedestrian oriented spaces in commercial areas that enhance the employees' and
public's opportunity for active and passive activities, such as dining, resting, people watching, and recreational
activities.
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To enhance the character and attractiveness of commercial development.
Usable residential open space.
All multi-household development, including multi-household portions of mixed-use development, must provide
minimum usable open space equal to 100 square feet per dwelling unit for studio and one bedroom dwellings and
150 square feet per dwelling unit for dwellings with two or more bedrooms. All group living developments must
provide minimum usable open space equal to 37 square feet per person. The required open space may be provided
in a combination of ways:
Shared open space. One hundred percent of the required open space may be in the form of shared open space
available to all residents and meeting the requirements of subsection B.2 below. Shared open space may be in
the form of courtyards, front porches, patios, play areas, gardens or similar spaces.
Ground level private outdoor space. One hundred percent of the required open space may be provided by
ground level outdoor space that is adjacent and directly accessible to the subject unit. Such open spaces must be
enclosed by a fence and/or hedge at least 32 inches in height to qualify. Departures to this standards are
permitted.
Balconies. Up to 50 percent of the required open space may be provided by private balconies provided they meet
the requirements of subsection B.3 below.*
Common indoor recreation areas. Up to 50 percent of the required open space may be provided by common
indoor recreation areas meeting the requirements of subsection B.4 below.
Shared roof decks. For mixed-use buildings, up to 100 percent of the required open space may be provided by
shared roof decks located on the top of buildings which are available to all residents and meet the requirements
of subsection B.5 below.
Shared open space. Shared open space can include landscaped courtyards or decks; entrance plazas; gardens with
pathways; children's play areas; pools; and water features provided they are accessible to all residents of the
development. Accessible areas used for stormwater retention or other multipurpose recreational and/or green
spaces that meet the design criteria herein may qualify as shared open space.
Special requirements for common usable open spaces include the following:
Shared open space must be located in centralized areas that are visible from units within the development.
Required setback areas does not count as shared open space unless the design of the space meets the standards
herein.
Shared open space must feature no dimension less than 15 feet in order to provide functional leisure or
recreational activity (unless otherwise noted herein).
Shared open space must feature paths or walkable lawns, landscaping, seating, lighting, and play structures,
sports courts, or other pedestrian amenities to make the area more functional and enjoyable for a range of
users.
Shared open space must be separated from ground level windows, streets, service areas and parking lots via
landscaping, fencing, and/or other acceptable treatments that enhance safety and privacy for both the shared
open space and dwelling units.
When possible the space should be oriented to receive sunlight, facing east, west or preferably south.
Stairways and service elements located within or on the edge of shared open space must not be included in the
open space calculations.
Shared porches may qualify as shared open space provided they are at least eight feet in depth and 96 square
feet in total area.
[5]
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The space must be accessible to all residents of the development.
Figure 38.520.060.B.2.
Shared open space examples.
Private balconies and decks. Such spaces must be at least 36 square feet, with no dimension less than six feet, to
provide a space usable for human activity.
Indoor recreational areas. Such spaces must meet the following conditions:
The space must be located in a visible area, such as near an entrance, lobby, or high traffic corridors;
The space must be designed specifically to serve interior recreational functions and not merely be leftover
unrentable area used to meet the open space requirement. Such space must include amenities and design
elements that will encourage use by residents.
Shared rooftop decks. Such spaces must meet the following requirements:
Space must feature hard surfacing, providing and amenities such as seating areas, landscaping, and/or other
features that encourage use;
Space must integrate landscaping elements that enhance the character of the space and encourage its use;
Space must incorporate features that provide for the safety of residents, such as enclosures, railings, and
appropriate lighting levels.
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2.
Figure 38.520.060.B.5.
Rooftop deck examples.
Usable commercial open space. New developments with non-residential uses (except for development within the
industrial zones) on sites with a total site area greater than one acre must provide open space.
Commercial only sites. An area equal to at least two percent of the site area. For this specific standard, "site area"
includes all land needed for the non-residential portion of the project including parking, service areas, access and
required landscaping. The open space may be in the form of pedestrian-oriented open space per subsection D
below, garden, play area or other open space feature that serves both as a visual amenity and a place for human
activity. Portions of sidewalks that are wider than 12 feet and which meet the standards of pedestrian-oriented open
space may be counted toward this requirement.
Mixed use sites. When determining the "site area" for mixed-use buildings, areas solely used for residential use may
be omitted. To be omitted, areas must be specifically restricted to residents (e.g. parking spaces signed for
residential parking only, open space areas gated off or only accessible from internal residential areas, internal
lobbies without access to commercial spaces). When the omission of solely residential areas results in the site area
being less than one acre, no commercial open space is required.
Reduced open space area will be considered by the review authority for projects that include exceptional design
features and elements that meet the intent of the standards. This includes open spaces that feature a combination of
design (site materials, amenities, and configuration) and location/context that clearly exceed typical plaza designs found in
the region. All departures must feature usable open space no less than one percent of the development envelope.
Figure 38.520.060.C.
Example of site development integrating usable commercial open space.
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Figure 38.520.060.C.2
Illustration of mixed-use building open space calculation
Pedestrian-oriented open space design criteria. This subsection describes the requirements and desired characteristics
of pedestrian oriented open space (which may be used to meet the requirements of subsection C above).
Required pedestrian-oriented open space features.
Visual and pedestrian access into the site from a street, private access road, or non-vehicular courtyard;
Paved walking surfaces of either concrete or approved unit paving;
Lighting must conform to division 38.570;
The spaces must be located in or adjacent to areas with significant pedestrian traffic to provide interest and
security, such as adjacent to or visible from a building entry;
At least two feet of seating area (a bench or ledge at least 16 inches deep and appropriate seating height) or one
individual seat per 60 square feet of plaza area or open space;
Landscaping components that add visual interest and do not act as a visual barrier. This could include planting
beds, raised planters, and/or potted plants.
Desirable pedestrian-oriented open space features:
Pedestrian amenities, such as site furniture, artwork, drinking fountains, shade structures or other similar
features;
Adjacent buildings with transparent windows and doors covering at least 50 percent of the façade between 30
inches and ten feet above the ground level;
Pedestrian weather protection, alcoves, seating, or other features along building edges to allow for outdoor
gathering.
Features prohibited within a pedestrian-oriented open space:
Asphalt pavement;
Adjacent service areas (e.g., trash areas) that are not separated with landscaping, as required in section
38.520.070.
Adjacent chain-link fences;
Adjacent "blank walls" without "blank wall treatment" (see 38.530.070.C);
Outdoor storage.
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Figure 38.520.060.D.1.
Example of a small pedestrian-oriented open space.
Figure 38.520.060.D.2.
Desirable examples of pedestrian-oriented open space.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 10, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2019 , § 8, 6-3-2019)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2014 , § 10, adopted June 3, 2019, amended the title of § 38.520.060 to read as herein set out. The former
§ 38.520.060 title pertained to on-site residential open space.
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Footnotes:
--- (5) ---
Note— Individual private open space (as defined in subsections B.1.b and c in excess of minimum requirements must not be used in the calculations for
determining the minimum usable open space requirements for other units in the development.
Sec. 38.520.070. - Location and design of service areas and mechanical equipment.
Intent.
To minimize adverse visual, odor, and noise impacts of mechanical equipment, utility cabinets and service areas at
ground and roof levels.
To provide adequate, durable, well-maintained, and accessible service and equipment areas.
To protect residential uses and adjacent properties from impacts due to location and utilization of service areas.
Location of ground related service areas and mechanical equipment.
Service areas (loading docks, trash dumpsters, compactors, recycling areas, electrical panels, and mechanical
equipment areas) must be located for convenient service access while avoiding negative visual, auditory, olfactory, or
physical impacts on the streetscape environment and adjacent residentially zoned properties. Service areas must be
sited for alley access if available.
The review authority may require evidence that such elements will not significantly impact neighboring properties or
public areas. (For example, the review authority may require noise damping specifications for fans near residential
zones.)
Exterior loading areas. Exterior loading areas for commercial uses must not be located within 20 feet of a
residentially zoned property unless the review authority finds such a restriction does not allow feasible development,
and alternative design measures can successfully mitigate potential negative impacts. For example, areas and drives
may be required by the review authority to be separated from the residential lot by a masonry wall at least eight feet
high.
Service areas must not be visible from the sidewalk and adjacent properties. Where the review authority finds that
the only option for locating a service area is an area visible from a public right-of-way, internal pathway or pedestrian
area, or from an adjacent property, the area must be screened with structural and landscaping screening measures
provided in subsection C below and division 38.550. Service elements accessible from an alley are exempt from
screening requirements.
Design for safety. Other provisions of this section notwithstanding, service areas used by residents must be located
to avoid entrapment areas and other conditions where personal security is potentially a problem. The review
authority may require pedestrian-scaled lighting or other measures to enhance security.
Locate and shield noise producing mechanical equipment such as fans, heat pumps, etc., to minimize sounds and
reduce impacts to adjacent residentially zoned properties.
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Figure 38.520.070.B.
Service element location.
Screening of ground related service areas and mechanical equipment.
Where screening of ground level service areas is required (see subsection B above), the following applies:
A structural enclosure must be constructed of masonry, heavy-gauge metal, or decay-resistant material that is
also used with the architecture of the main building. The review authority may allow materials other than those
used for the main building if the finishes are similar in color and texture or if the proposed enclosure materials
are more durable than those for the main structure. The walls must be sufficient to provide full screening from
the affected roadway, pedestrian areas or adjacent use. The enclosure may use overlapping walls to screen
dumpsters and other materials (see figure 38.520.070.C below);
Gates must be made of heavy-gauge, site-obscuring material. Chain link or chain link with slats is not an
acceptable material for enclosures or gates;
Where the inside of service enclosures is visible from surrounding streets, pathways, and buildings, an opaque or
semi-opaque horizontal cover or screen must be used to mitigate unsightly views. The horizontal screen/cover
should be integrated into the enclosure design and compatible with adjacent development;
Collection points must be located and configured so the enclosure gate swing does not obstruct pedestrian or
vehicular traffic, or does not require that a hauling truck project into any public right-of-way. Ensure that
screening elements allow for efficient service delivery and removal operations.
The service area must be paved.
The sides and rear of service enclosures must be screened with landscaping at least five feet wide in locations visible
from the street, parking lots, and pathways to soften views of the screening element and add visual interest.
Departures to the provisions of subsections B.1, 2, and 3 above will be considered per section 38.250.060 provided the
enclosure and landscaping treatment meet the intent of the standards and add visual interest to site users.
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D.
1.
Figure 38.520.070.C.
Acceptable screening enclosures.
Utility meters, electrical conduit, and other service utility apparatus.
These elements must be located and/or designed to minimize their visibility to the public. Project designers are
strongly encouraged to coordinate with applicable service providers early in the design process to determine the
best approach in meeting these standards. If such elements are mounted in a location visible from the street,
pedestrian pathway, shared open space, or shared auto courtyards, they must be screened with vegetation and/or
integrated into the building's architecture.
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4.
Figure 38.520.070.D.
Utility meter location and screening—Good and bad examples.
Location and screening of roof mounted mechanical equipment.
All rooftop mechanical equipment, including air conditioners, heaters, vents, and similar equipment must be fully
screened from public view both at grade and from higher buildings with the exception of solar panels and roof-
mounted wind turbines. Screening must be located so as not to interfere with operation of the equipment.
For rooftop equipment, all screening devices must be well integrated into the architectural design through such
elements as parapet walls, false roofs, roof wells, clerestories, or equipment rooms. Screening walls or unit-mounted
screening is allowed but less desirable. Wood must not be used for screens or enclosures. Louvered designs are
acceptable if consistent with building design style. Perforated metal is not permitted.
The screening materials must be of material requiring minimal maintenance, and must be as high as the equipment
being screened.
Locate and shield noise producing mechanical equipment such as fans, heat pumps, etc. to minimize sounds and
reduce impacts to adjacent properties.
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A.
B.
C.
D.
Figure 38.520.070.E.
Examples of how to screen roof-mounted mechanical equipment.
DIVISION 38.530. - BUILDING DESIGN
Sec. 38.530.010. - Purpose.
See the individual "intent" statements for each section in this division.
Sec. 38.530.020. - Applicability and compliance.
The provisions of this division apply to all development within Bozeman, except single, two, three, and four-household dwellings
on individual lots unless otherwise noted. Specifically:
For clarification on the relationship between the provisions in this division and other documents and codes, see
section 38.500.020.A.
For the application of building additions and remodels and site improvements, see section 38.500.020.B.
For clarification on how the provisions of this division are applied, see section 38.500.030.
The review authority may waive or relax these provisions in the industrial zones depending on the type of use,
number of anticipated employees and customers, and the site's physical context. The greater number of employees
and/or customers and higher visibility levels warrant a greater application of building design standards.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 16, 4-18-2018)
Sec. 38.530.030. - Building character.
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Intent.
To promote regionally appropriate architecture that is based on human scaled design details, durable high quality
materials, sustainable design measures, and that responds uniquely to the site's context.
To emphasize high quality design in Bozeman's built environment.
To avoid generic, corporate architectural designs that are not readily reusable or convert to another use that lessens
the character and identity of Bozeman. For example, some franchise convenience uses have very specific
architectural features (such as a distinctive roofline design that functions as a sign) that reinforce their identity.
Building character standards and guidelines.
Developments within the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) are subject to section 38.340.050.
Sec. 38.530.040. - Building massing and articulation.
Intent.
To articulate building elements in order to achieve an appropriate perceived scale and add visual interest.
To create clear and welcoming building entries.
Façade articulation--Storefronts and other buildings with non-residential uses on the ground level must include a
minimum of three of the following articulation features every 60 feet (maximum) to create a human scaled façade
pattern:
Windows.
Entries.
Use of weather protection features.
Use of structural expression.
Change in roofline per subsection F below.
Change in building material or siding style.
Articulation of a single building material through varying colors, textures, or incorporating joints or an integrated
trim pattern.
Other design techniques that effectively reinforce a human-scaled pattern compatible with the building's
surrounding context.
Providing vertical elements such as a trellis with plants, green wall, art element.
Providing vertical building modulation of at least 12 inches in depth if tied to a change in roofline per subsection F
below or a change in building material, siding style, or color.
Exceptions:
Only two articulation features are required on building façades in the BP district;
Only one articulation feature is required on building façade s in the M-1 district;
Buildings in the M-2 district are exempt from these standards.
Building walls facing alleys, rear or side yards are not subject to the standards herein, except for zone edge
properties, when adjacent to a lower-intensity zoning district.
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6.
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9.
10.
Figure 38.530.040.B.
Façade articulation examples.
Façade articulation--Residential buildings must include articulation features at appropriate intervals relative to the scale
of the façade in order to reduce the perceived massing of the building and add visual interest. At least three of the
following features must be employed at intervals relative to the individual dwelling units or at a maximum of every 30
feet. The scale of the façade articulation should be compatible with the surrounding context.
Use of windows.
Entries.
Use of weather protection features.
Use of vertical piers/columns.
Change in roofline per subsection F below.
Change in building material and/or siding style.
Articulation of a single building material through varying colors, textures, or incorporating joints or an integrated
trim pattern.
Providing vertical building modulation if tied to a change in roofline modulation per subsection F below or a change
in building material, siding style, or color.
Other design techniques that effectively break up the massing at no more than 30-foot intervals.
Providing vertical elements such as a trellis with plants, green wall, and/or art element.
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2.
3.
4.
Figure 38.530.040.C.
Residential façade articulation examples.
Departure criteria associated with articulation standards. Proposals must meet the intent of the standards. The following
criteria will be considered in determining whether the proposed articulation treatment meets the "intent."
The type and width of the proposed articulation treatment and how effective it is in meeting the intent given the
building's current and desired context (per Bozeman's growth policy or applicable adopted subarea plan).
The applicable block frontage designation. Undesignated block frontages warrant more flexibility than block
frontages designated as mixed or landscaped.
The size and width of the building. Smaller buildings warrant greater flexibility than larger buildings.
The quality of façade materials in concert with doors, windows, and other façade features and their ability to add
visual interest to the street from a pedestrian scale and more distant observable scales.
Figure 38.530.040.D.
Façade articulation departure examples.
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2.
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b.
3.
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b.
Maximum façade width. Building façades wider than 150 feet must include at least one of the following features to break
up the massing of the building and add visual interest. Building walls facing alleys, rear or side yards are not subject to
the standards herein, except for zone edge properties, when adjacent to a lower intensity zoning district. Existing
buildings are exempt from subsection E.
Provide vertical building modulation at least six feet deep and ten feet wide. For multi-story buildings, the
modulation must extend through more than one-half of the building floors.
Use a contrasting vertical modulated design component that:
Utilizes a change in building materials that effectively contrast from the rest of the façade;
Is modulated vertically from the rest of the façade by an average of six inches.
Façade employs building walls with contrasting articulation that make it appear like multiple distinct buildings. To
qualify for this option, these contrasting façades must employ all of the following:
Different building materials and/or configuration of building materials;
Contrasting window design (sizes or configurations).
Departures will be considered provided the design meets the intent of the standards. Supplemental consideration for
approving alternative designs:
• Width of the façade. The larger the façade, the more substantial articulation/ modulation features need to be.
• Block frontage designation. Storefront designated block frontages warrant the most scrutiny, while undesignated
streets warrant more flexibility.
• The type of articulation treatment and how effective it is in meeting the intent given the building's context.
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F.
1.
2.
3.
Figure 38.530.040.E.
Illustrating maximum façade width standards and good and bad examples.
Roofline modulation. In order to qualify as a façade articulation feature in subsections B, C, and E above, rooflines must
employ one or more of the following:
For flat roofs an extension of the parapet or a break in the parapet of at least one foot measured from the adjacent
roof or adjacent parapet. If no parapet is present a horizontal roof edge/eave extension of at least two feet.
A pitched roofline segment(s) scaled appropriately to the façade.
A combination of the above.
Departures will be considered provided the roofline modulation design effectively reduces the perceived scale of the
building and adds visual interest.
Figure 38.530.040.1.
Acceptable examples of roo ine modulation.
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2.
B.
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2.
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C.
Figure 38.530.040.1.
Acceptable examples of roo ine modulation.
Sec. 38.530.050. - Building details.
Intent.
To encourage building façades with attractive design details at an appropriate pedestrian scale relative to the overall
composition of the building.
To integrate window design that adds depth, richness, and visual interest to the façade.
Window design standards.
All windows (except storefront windows and curtain walls) must include trim or other design treatment, or
alternately be recessed at least two inches from the façade. Understated or trim-less windows without additional
design treatment are permitted provided the placement and design is integrated into the overall composition of the
building.
Prohibited windows:
Mirrored glass is prohibited.
Figure 38.530.050.C.
Acceptable and unacceptable window design examples.
High visibility street corner and gateway sites. All development proposals located at designated high visibility street
corners and gateway sites must locate a building or structure within 20 feet of the street corner and include design
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D.
E.
features that accentuate the street corner. Alternatively, the building could be configured with a corner plaza. Corner
design features could include a cropped building corner with an entry feature, decorative use of building materials at the
corner, distinctive façade articulation, a sculptural architectural element, or other elements that meet the intent of the
standards. Figure 38.530.050.D below illustrates acceptable examples.
Figure 38.530.050.D.
Acceptable high visibility street corner/gateway site examples.
Figure 38.530.050.D.
Acceptable high visibility street corner/gateway site examples.
Active Solar Collection Units (electronic and hydronic) are permitted.
Articulated building entries. Primary building entrance(s) must be clearly defined and scaled proportionally to the
building. See Figure 38.530.050.F below for examples.
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F.
A.
1.
B.
C.
1.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Figure 38.530.050.F.
Acceptable building entry examples.
Departures to building detail standards will be considered if they are determined to meet the intent of the standards in
section 38.530.050, Building Details.
Sec. 38.530.060. - Building materials.
Intent.
To encourage the use of durable materials to provide visual interest from vehicular and pedestrian vantage points
with the highest priority at locations susceptible to damage from maintenance and weathering.
Durable building materials. Applicants must use durable materials. Where façades are located directly adjacent to a city
sidewalk, impact resistant materials must be used (excluding window and door areas) for a minimum of the first 18
inches above the walking surface.
Special conditions and limitations for the use of certain cladding materials.
Concrete block (a.k.a. CMU) when used as a primary cladding material, must be treated or articulated to provide
visual interest above and beyond natural (uncolored, untreated) block with (matching) natural colored grout.
Examples of such treatments include:
using ground, polished or split face units;
creating patterns/texture with different block sizes, face treatments, or colors; creating patterns/textures
by modulating the finish plane of units;
utilizing contrasting grout color;
or utilizing sealers or painted treatments that enhance the finish of natural concrete block. Industrial
zoning districts are exempt from subsection C.
Figure 38.530.060.C.1.
Acceptable concrete block use/design.
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2.
a.
b.
c.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Metal siding.
Metal siding must be a minimum 24 gauge thickness. Re-purposed metal siding is exempt from minimum
thickness requirements provided its material integrity is intact.
Metal siding must feature appropriate molding, trim, or hemming at all exposed edges and corners.
Metal siding must be factory finished, or alternately purposefully designed to naturally patina. Highly reflective
galvanized finished are prohibited. Re-purposed or re-claimed metal siding is permitted.
Figure 38.530.060.C.2.
Acceptable metal siding examples.
Standards for the use of exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS). Such material/finishes may be used as a
decorative accent cladding material if it is incorporated with other permitted materials and it complies with the
following:
On buildings of three or more stories or 5,000 square feet in footprint or greater EIFS is limited to no more than
25 percent of the total façade area and is not the primary cladding material. On buildings of two stories or less or
less than 5,000 square feet in footprint, EIFS is limited to 60 percent of the total façade area;
Highly textured EIFS finishes are prohibited;
EIFS must include an integrated joint or trim pattern;
EIFS must not be used on the ground floor when directly adjacent to a sidewalk, pedestrian or vehicular pathway.
Departures will be considered provided the material's integration and overall façade composition meets the intent of
the standards.
Figure 38.530.060.C.3.
Acceptable and unacceptable EIFS examples.
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4.
a.
b.
D.
A.
1.
2.
B.
C.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Cementitious wall board paneling/siding may be used provided it meets the following provisions:
Cement board paneling/siding may not be used on the ground floor of non-residential or mixed-use buildings
where adjacent to a sidewalk or other pedestrian path;
Where cement board paneling/siding is the dominant siding material, the design must integrate a mix of colors
and/or textures that are articulated consistent with windows, balconies, and modulated building surfaces and
are balanced with façade details that add visual interest from the ground level and adjacent buildings.
Departures will be considered provided the material's integration and overall façade composition meets the
intent of the standards.
Departures to building materials standards will be considered if they are determined to meet the intent of 38.530.060,
Building Materials.
Sec. 38.530.070. - Blank wall treatments.
Intent.
To avoid untreated blank walls.
To retain and enhance the character of Bozeman's streetscapes.
Blank wall definition. A wall (including building façades and retaining walls) is considered a blank wall if it is over ten feet
in height, has a horizontal length greater than 15 feet, and does not include a transparent window or door.
Figure 38.530.070.B.
Blank wall de nition.
Untreated blank walls visible from a public street, pedestrian-oriented space, common usable open space, or pedestrian
pathway are prohibited. Methods to treat blank walls may include:
Display windows with at least 16 inches of depth to allow for changeable displays. Tack on display cases do not
qualify as a blank wall treatment.
Landscape planting bed at least five feet wide or a raised planter bed at least two feet high and three feet wide in
front of the wall with planting materials that are sufficient to obscure or screen at least 60 percent of the wall's
surface within three years.
Installing a vertical trellis in front of the wall with climbing vines or plant materials.
Installing a mural as approved by the review authority.
Special building detailing that adds visual interest at a pedestrian scale. Such detailing must use a variety of surfaces;
monotonous designs will not meet the purpose of the standards.
For large visible blank walls, a variety of treatments may be required to meet the intent of the standards.
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A.
1.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Departures to the provisions in this section will be considered, provided the design whole façade and applicable blank wall
treatment methods meet the intent of the standards.
Figure 38.530.070.C.
Acceptable and unacceptable blank wall treatments. Note in the far right example, the display cases don't meet
the 16" depth requirement, nor does the design meet the intent of the standards.
DIVISION 38.540. - PARKING
Sec. 38.540.010. - General provisions.
Parking is one part of the overall multimodal transportation system. Individual choice of travel mode and development
characteristics influence the need for parking. The purpose of this division 38.540 in requiring parking spaces is to
ensure provision of off-street motor vehicle parking, bicycle parking, and other transportation access facilities in rough
proportion to the generalized parking and transportation demands of different land uses which locate at a site. Some
sites, such as those that are located in close proximity to transit, have good access to pedestrian facilities or have off-set
peak uses may require less on-site parking. The purpose of these standards is to provide functional parking areas
adequate to the needs of users, create shaded areas within parking lots, reduce glare and heat build-up, reduce
stormwater surges, provide visual relief within paved parking areas, emphasize circulation patterns, avoid the negative
impacts associated with spillover parking into adjacent neighborhoods (while at the same time avoiding the negative
environmental and urban design impacts that can result from excessive parking lots and other vehicular use areas) and
enhance the visual environment. The provisions of this division are also intended to help protect the public health,
safety, and general welfare by: helping avoid and mitigate traffic congestion; encouraging multimodal transportation
options and enhanced pedestrian safety; providing methods to reduce the amount of impervious surfaces in parking
areas and adequate drainage structures in order to reduce the environmental impacts of stormwater runoff;
encouraging paving or alternate means of surfacing of parking areas in order to address dust abatement and improve
air quality; and providing flexible methods of responding to the transportation and access demands of various land uses
in different areas of the city. In achieving these purposes this division interacts with the requirements of division 38.550
of this chapter. The design of off-street parking is the responsibility of the developer and must consider traffic
circulation, intended landscaping, pedestrian access and circulation, and other purposes of this chapter.
Floor area.
The term "floor area," for the purpose of calculating the number of off-street parking spaces required, means 85
percent of the gross floor area, as defined in section 38.700.070 of this chapter. However, at the election of the
property owner, floor area means the gross floor area, as defined in section 38.700.080 of this chapter, minus
the following:
Window display areas;
Storage areas;
Areas used for incidental repair of equipment used or sold on the premises;
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(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
b.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A.
Areas occupied by toilets and restrooms, kitchens or break rooms;
Areas occupied by public utility facilities;
Areas occupied by dressing rooms, fitting or alteration rooms incidental to the sale of clothing;
Areas occupied by stairways and elevators;
Corridors connecting rooms or suites of rooms; and
Enclosed areas used for parking vehicles.
Such election must be made in writing to the community development director, must be signed and acknowledged
by the owner, and must be filed with the community development director prior to the issuance of a building permit
for such building. The owner is also responsible for certifying other information upon which parking requirements
may be based, such as seats, and the number of employees on maximum working shift.
Where applicable, the number of spaces required in section 38.540.050 will be the total of the spaces required
for the component activities of certain uses, each calculated separately.
Change of use or occupancy of buildings. With any change of use or occupancy of any building or buildings an
occupancy permit is required. When the change in use or occupancy requires more than a ten percent cumulative
increase in parking over that required with the initial building construction, an occupancy permit may not be issued
until such additional parking spaces, in the amount required by this chapter, are provided for.
Improvement schedule. All parking area improvements to include surfacing, drainage, walkways, lighting,
landscaping, screening, traffic control, etc., must be installed according to the provisions of division 38.270 of this
chapter.
Stacking of off-street parking spaces. Required parking spaces must be located so as to preclude stacking of off-
street parking spaces, with the exception of single-household dwellings and individual townhouse, rowhouse, and
multi-household units, and two unit structures with physically separated individual drive aisles. Physical separation is
provided when at least one of these options are employed: individual garage doors for each interior parking space; a
vegetated planter not less than four feet in width between the parking spaces in the driveway area, or a wall not less
than four feet in height and length, is provided between the parking area in the driveway and divides the garage
entrance. Generally, not more than two cars may be stacked. When stacking is allowed, not more than two vehicles
may be stacked within an enclosed parking area.
No parking permitted in required front or side setbacks. Required parking spaces may not be located in any required
front or side setback, except that detached single-household dwellings and townhouses, and two unit structures with
physically separated individual drive aisles, may have one space located within a driveway area in the required front
setback for each parking space located directly in front of the driveway area and outside of the required front
setback.
Parking is permitted within required rear setbacks.
Sec. 38.540.020. - Stall, aisle and driveway design.
Parking dimensions. The following are minimum parking space dimensions:
Table 38.540.020
Dimensions of Parking Spaces and Modules
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Parking Angle Stall Length
(A)
Stall Width
(B)
Projection (C)Parking Aisle
One-
Way/Two-
Way (D)
Module One-
Way/Two-
Way (E)
Interlock
Reduction (F)
Standard Parking Space—Surface and structured parking facilities
30°18'9'16.79'13'/21'44.58'/51.58'2'
45°18'9'19.09'13'/21'51.18'/58.18'2'
60°18'9'20.09'16'/21'56.18'/61.18'1'-6"
75°18'9'19.72'16'/21'55.44'/60.44'1'
90°18'9'18.0'—/24'—/60.0'—
Compact Parking Space—Surface and structured parking facilities
30°16'8'15.79'13'/21'42.58'/49.58'2'
45°16'8'17.69'13'/21'48.38'/55.38'2'
60°16'8'18.36'16'/21'52.72'/52.72'1'-6"
75°16'8'17.78'16'/21'51.56'/56.56'1'
90°16'8'18.0'—/24'—/56.0'—
Individual Residential Garage Dimensional Standards—Subject to 38.540.010.A.4
Number of
Stalls
Stall Length
(A)
Stall Width
(B)
Special Conditions
1 20'9'Additional one foot on all exterior sides of the stall
2 or more 20'9'Additional one foot on all exterior sides of the stalls
Notes:
Unless otherwise approved, all parking spaces must be of standard width and length. In any parking facility containing 20
or more parking spaces, a maximum of 25 percent of the provided parking spaces may be reduced in size for small cars,
provided these spaces must be clearly identified with a sign permanently affixed immediately in front of each space
1
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B.
C.
D.
containing the notation, "Compacts Only." Where feasible, all small car spaces must be located in one or more contiguous
areas and/or adjacent to ingress and egress points within parking facilities. Location of compact car parking spaces must
not create traffic congestion or impede traffic flows.
Figure 38.540.020 A.
Parking stall dimensions.
Figure 38.540.020 B.
Parking aisles from Table 38.540.020.
Within structures. The off-street parking requirements may be furnished by providing spaces so designated within the
principal building or accessory parking structure. However, no building permit may be used to convert the parking
structures into a dwelling unit or living area or other activity until other adequate provisions are made to comply with
the required off-street parking provisions of this chapter.
Circulation between bays. Except in the case of one to four-household dwellings and individual townhouse/rowhouse
units, parking areas must be designed so that circulation between parking bays occurs within the designated parking lot
and does not depend upon a public street or alley. Turning radii between bays and additional back-up length for dead
end aisles must conform to requirements of the International Fire Code.
Backing requirements. All required parking must have adequate back-up maneuverability as specified in Table
38.540.020. The aisle width calculation may incorporate the width of the public right-of-way. Except in the case of one- to
four-household dwellings and individual townhouse/rowhouse-style units with individual garages, parking area design
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E.
F.
1.
a.
b.
c.
G.
H.
I.
J.
1.
2.
which requires backing into the public street is prohibited. With the exception of residential development, parking area
design which requires backing into the public alley is prohibited. An exception to the prohibition to backing into the alley
by non-residential development may be granted by the review authority when function of the alley will not be impeded
and when necessary due to local site conditions.
Parallel parking spaces. Parallel parking spaces must be a minimum of 24 feet in length and seven feet in width
measured from the inside edge of a curb or the inside edge of the asphalt if curbing is not present.
Figure 38.540.020 C.
Parallel parking layout.
Surfacing. Except for one-household development on individual lots, all areas intended to be utilized for permanent
parking space and drive aisles must control dust and drainage. All proposed parking areas and driveway improvements
must require a grading and drainage plan approved by the review authority. Areas must be paved with concrete or
asphaltic concrete or approved pavers; an alternative surfacing method such as pervious pavement may be used,
subject to review and approval by the review authority. Surfacing methods which minimize stormwater runoff and
provide for functional parking and circulation are encouraged.
However, paving is not required for permitted and conditional uses in the R-S zoning districts when all of the
following circumstances exist:
The use is required to provide fewer than 15 parking spaces and no loading spaces under the provisions of this
section;
The lot or tract on which the use is located is not adjacent to a paved street or road; and
The applicant must enter into an improvements agreement with the city agreeing that the lot must be paved
within nine months of the time an adjacent roadway is paved.
Striping. All parking stalls must be marked with white or yellow painted lines not less than four inches wide, except for
one- to four-household dwellings and individual townhouse/rowhouse units. An exception to this requirement may be
approved by the city when the striping would otherwise be applied to an area that does not have a permanent and
durable wearing surface.
Lighting. Any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area must comply with the lighting standards of division
38.570.
Signs. No sign may be so located that it restricts the sight lines and orderly operation and traffic movement within any
parking area. All signs must conform to the requirements of division 38.560 of this chapter.
Parking lot curbing.
All open off-street parking areas and drive aisles must have perimeter concrete curb around the entire parking lot,
including driving access ways, except for individual townhouse/rowhouse units and one- to four-household
dwellings. Continuous concrete curbing must be built according to standards provided by the review authority.
Unless otherwise approved, the perimeter curb must be six-inch by six-inch concrete.
Concrete pindown wheel stops may be permitted as an alternative to continuous concrete curbing in front of parking
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3.
4.
K.
L.
M.
N.
O.
P.
Q.
spaces which front on the perimeter of the parking lot. However, continuous concrete curbing as described above
must be provided in all situations where deemed necessary by the review authority to control drainage and soil
erosion.
Alternative perimeter treatment may be permitted subject to the approval of the city engineer.
Requirements for perimeter curbing do not preclude shared access between adjacent parking lots.
Protruding vehicles. All on-site parking stalls which abut property lines must be designed and constructed such that
parked vehicles do not protrude over property lines.
Pedestrian facilities in parking lots. Concrete sidewalks a minimum of five feet in width must be provided between any
existing or proposed building and adjacent parking lot. Where sidewalk curbs serve as wheel stops, an additional two
feet of sidewalk width is required.
Figure 38.540.020 D.
Curb stops.
Snow removal storage areas. Snow removal storage areas must be provided sufficient to store snow accumulation on
site. Such areas may not cause unsafe ingress/egress to the parking areas, may not cause snow to be deposited on
public rights-of-way, may not include areas provided for required parking access and spaces, and may not be placed in
such a manner as to damage landscaping. All snow removal storage areas must be located and designed such that the
resultant stormwater runoff is directed into landscaped retention/detention and water quality improvement facilities as
required by the engineering department, or in compliance with the storm drainage provisions of chapter 40 article 4,
and/or best practices manual.
Parking and stacking for drive-in/drive-through facilities. Required parking and stacking spaces for waiting automobiles
must provide a minimum of two stalls and six spaces for stacking per lane unless a traffic summary shows that fewer
spaces may be required. These spaces may not in any manner inhibit on-site or off-site vehicular circulation.
Ownership/leasehold. Required parking lots must be owned or leased by the owner or lessee of the building or use
being served by such parking. Such parking lots must be maintained as a parking lot so long as the building and/or use
served is in operation or until another approved parking area is established for such building or use.
Stormwater drainage. Stormwater drainage from parking lots must be directed into landscaped detention/retention
facilities and water quality improvement facilities as required by the engineering department, or in compliance with the
storm drainage provisions of chapter 40 article 4, and/or best practices manual adopted by the city.
Mechanical automobile lifts. Mechanical automobile lifts may be used to meet required parking when the mechanical
automobile lift design allows for access to a specific car on demand. Parking spaces within the lift may be counted
towards the required parking requirement. The mechanical automobile lift must be fully enclosed in a structure.
(Ord. No. 2014 , § 11, 6-3-2019)
Sec. 38.540.030. - Reserved.
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2014 , § 12, adopted June 3, 2019, renumbered the former section 38.540.030 as subsection 38.510.030.M.
The former section 38.540.030 pertained to structured parking facility development standards.
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A.
1.
2.
A.
1.
a.
(1)
Sec. 38.540.040. - Maintenance of parking areas.
It is the joint and separate responsibility of the lessee and owner of the principal use, uses or building to maintain in a
neat and adequate manner the parking space, accessways, striping, landscaping and required fences or screening.
Use of required parking areas for parking only. Required off-street parking spaces in any district may not be utilized
for open storage, sale or rental of goods, or storage of inoperable vehicles, except when permitted as a temporary
use.
Parking spaces identified and maintained. All residential occupancies must provide required off-street parking
spaces. When enclosing a carport or garage for storage or living purposes, an affidavit must be submitted to the
community development director identifying the required parking spaces necessary to comply with section
38.540.050.
Sec. 38.540.050. - Number of parking spaces required.
The following minimum number of off-street, paved parking spaces for motor vehicles and bicycles must be provided
and maintained by ownership, easement and/or lease for and during the life of the respective uses hereinafter set forth.
When calculation of the required parking results in a fraction of a parking space being required, the fractional space is
not required to be provided.
Residential uses.
Minimum requirements. The number of spaces shown in Table 38.540.050-1 must be provided subject to the
adjustments allowed in this subsection 1. Parking stalls required pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act
or other similar federal or state law may be provided from the minimum number of required parking stalls. All
site plans submitted for permit purposes must identify parking space allocations. Fees may be charged by the
landowner for the use of required parking spaces.
One parking space for each 24 uninterrupted linear feet of available street frontage usable for on-street
parking directly adjacent to a lot may be deducted from the total parking spaces required for a development.
The number of on-street spaces calculated may not exceed the number of dwellings on the lot. The width of
drive accesses, designated non-parking areas, vision triangles, and similar circumstances may not be
considered to be available for the purpose of on-street parking space.
Table 38.540.050-1
Dwelling Types Parking Spaces Required per Dwelling
Accessory dwelling unit 1
Lodginghouse 0.75 spaces per person of approved capacity
E ciency unit 1.25 (1.0 in R-5)
One-bedroom 1.5 (1.25 in R-5)
Two-bedroom 2 (1.75 in R-5)
Three-bedroom 3 (2.5 in R-5)
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b.
(1)
(2)
Dwellings with more than three bedrooms 4 (3 in R-5)
Group homes and community residential facilities 0.75 spaces per person of approved capacity
Bed and breakfast 1 space/rental unit
Manufactured home 2
All types of dwellings within the B-3 district 1
Group living /cooperative household/fraternity/sorority 1 space per resident
Transitional and emergency housing 0.25 spaces per person of approved capacity
A facility may request to provide fewer parking spaces if the applicant provides evidence that some or all residents
are prohibited from operating motor vehicles. Under no condition may less than two parking spaces be provided. If
the use of the facility is altered to serve a different population who may operate motor vehicles, then the additional
required parking must be provided before the change in use may occur.
Additional services and facilities to serve non-residents must provide parking in accordance with this Table
38.540.050-3.
Adjustments to minimum requirements.
Affordable housing. When calculating the amount of required parking for affordable housing, as defined in
section 38.700.020 of this chapter, if the project is guaranteed for use as affordable housing for a minimum
period of 20 years and the use as affordable housing is subject to long term monitoring to ensure compliance
and continued use as affordable housing, required parking spaces must be calculated based on number of
bedrooms outlined in Table 38.540.050-1, but may not exceed two spaces per unit.
Residential uses in mixed-use projects. In order to utilize this section, the long term availability of the non-
residential parking spaces upon which the use of this section was based must be ensured to the residents of
the project. For the purpose of this section a building is considered mixed-use if the non-residential portion
of the building is at least one-quarter of the gross square feet not used for parking. Residences in mixed-use
buildings may count on-street parking per subsection 1.a.(1) of this section even if the area is subject to
occupancy time limits. The use of this section does not preclude the use of other sections of this chapter
which may have the effect of reducing the required amount of parking. When calculating the amount of
required parking for residential uses within a mixed-use project the amount of parking may be reduced
subject to Table 38.540.050-2.
Table 38.540.050-2
Reduction
Allowed
Ratio of Required Non-residential to Required Residential Parking
Spaces
50%Greater than 1:1 but less than 3:1
1
1
1, 2
1
2
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(3)
(4)
2.
a.
b.
100%Equal to or greater than 3:1
A car-sharing agreement meeting the criteria established by the community development director may be
used to meet the required number of parking spaces. To use this option the development must have more
than five dwelling units. Each vehicle provided through a car sharing agreement counts as required parking at
a ratio of one dedicated car-share space to five standard spaces, up to a maximum of 50 percent of the total
required residential parking.
Transit availability. A residential development subject to site plan review may take a ten percent reduction in
required parking spaces where the development is within 800 feet of a developed and serviced transit stop.
For the purpose of this subsection a transit stop is eligible when it has a shelter installed which meets the
standards of and is approved by the transit provider, and service is provided on not less than an hourly
schedule a minimum of five days per week.
Non-residential uses.
Minimum requirements. The number of spaces shown in Table 38.540.050-3 must be provided subject to the
adjustments allowed by this division 38.540. Spaces are not required to be provided free to the user. The
required number of disabled parking stalls required by the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility
Guidelines (ADAAG) may be provided from the minimum number of required parking stalls. Accessible spaces
count towards satisfying minimum parking requirements. All site plans submitted for permit purposes must
identify parking space allocations. When a use is not included in Table 38.540.050-2, the review authority will
determine the appropriate classification for the purpose of required parking.
Maximum parking. Provision of parking spaces in excess of 125 percent of the minimum number of spaces
required for the net floor area in this subsection 2 is not permitted.
Table 38.540.050-3
Use Type O -Street or O -Road Parking Spaces Required
Automobile sales 1 space per 200 square feet of indoor oor area; plus 1 space per 20 outdoor vehicle
display spaces
Automobile service
and/or repair station
2 spaces per service stall, but no less than 4 spaces
Automobile washing
establishment
Automatic
drive-through
3 spaces or 1 for each employee on maximum shift; plus stacking space
Self-service 2 spaces per stall not including washing or drying spaces
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Bank, nancial
institutions
1 space per 300 square feet of oor area
Bowling alley 2 spaces per lane; plus 2 spaces per billiard table; plus
Church 1 space per six persons of maximum occupancy load (as identi ed in the International
Building Code) for main assembly hall, public assembly areas and classrooms
Community or
recreation center
1 space per 200 square feet of oor area
Community residential
facility with more than
9 residents or age
restricted housing
1 space per unit
Health and exercise
establishment
1 space per 200 square feet of oor area; plus 3 spaces per court
Day care centers 1 space per sta member plus 1 space per 15 children permitted
Furniture stores over
20,000 square feet
3 spaces per 1,000 square feet of oor area
Golf courses 1 space per 200 square feet of main building oor area; plus 1 space for every 2 practice
tees in driving range; plus 4 spaces per each green in the playing area
Hospitals 1 space per bed.
Medical and dental
o ces
4 spaces for each full-time equivalent doctor or dentist; plus 1 space for each full-time
equivalent employee
Manufacturing and
industrial uses
1 space per 1,000 square feet of oor area, plus 1 space per 2 employees on maximum
working shift
Motels, Hotels 1.1 spaces per each guest room; plus 1 space per employee on maximum shift; plus
spaces for accessory uses as follows:
Restaurants, bars,
dining rooms
1 space per 60 square feet of indoor public serving area; plus 1 space per 120 square
feet of outdoor (patio) area
Commercial area 1 space per each 400 square feet of oor area
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Public assembly
areas
1 space for each 5 seats based upon design capacity, except that total o -street parking
for public assembly may be reduced by 1 space for every 4 guest rooms
Nursing homes, rest
homes or similar uses
4 spaces; plus 1 space for each 3 beds; plus 1 space for each employee on maximum
shift
O ces (except medical
and dental)
1 space per 250 square feet of oor area
Outdoor sales (plant
nurseries, building
materials, equipment
rental and similar)
1 space per 500 square feet of sales and/or display area. The size of the sales and/or
display area will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Restaurants, cafes,
bars and similar uses
1 space per 50 square feet of indoor public serving area; plus 1 space per 100 square
feet of outdoor (patio) area
Retail store and service
establishments
1 space per 300 square feet of oor area
Sales sites; model
homes
1 space per 250 square feet of model oor areas; plus 1 space per employee
Schools
Elementary and/or
junior high
1.5 spaces for each classroom, library, lecture hall and cafeteria; plus 1 space for each 3
xed seats in the area of public assembly, or 1 space for each 25 square feet of area
available for public assembly if xed seats are not provided
Senior high 1.5 spaces for each classroom or lecture hall; plus 1 space per each 5 students; plus 1
space for each nonteaching employee; plus 1 space per each 3 xed seats in the area of
public assembly, or 1 space per 25 square feet of area available for public assembly if
xed seats are not provided
Business or similar
school
1 space for each 1.5 students
Theater, auditorium or
similar
1 space per 4 seats based upon place of assembly design capacity
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c.
(1)
(2)
Warehousing, storage
or handling of bulk
goods
1 space per 1,000 square feet of oor area devoted to storage of goods; plus
appropriate spaces to support accessory o ce or retail sales facilities at 1 space per 350
square feet of oor area
Adjustments to minimum requirements. To implement the city's adopted growth policy, adjustment of parking
requirements within certain areas of the city is desired. Use of this section may not be considered as joint use of
parking or off-site parking regulated by sections 38.540.060 and 38.540.070, nor does the use of this section
preclude the use of other sections of this chapter which may have the effect of reducing the required amount of
on-site parking. More than one adjustment may apply. Multiple adjustments are added together to modify the
minimum required parking from Table 38.540.050-3 in a single operation. Multiple adjustments are not applied
sequentially.
Neighborhood commercial. Within the B-1 and R-O zoning districts implementing a small scale Community
Commercial Mixed Use growth policy designation or the B-3 zoning district, the parking requirements for
non-residential uses may be reduced.
Table 38.540.050-4
Use Allowable Reduction
Retail 40 percent
Restaurant 50 percent
O ce 20 percent
All others 30 percent
Community commercial and residential emphasis mixed use. Within zoning districts lying within a
commercial node, as defined in section 38.700.040 of this chapter, and the REMU district the parking
requirements for non-residential uses may be reduced.
Table 38.540.050-5
Use Allowable Reduction
Retail 20 percent
Restaurant 30 percent
O ce 10 percent
All others 10 percent
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(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
a.
b.
3.
a.
b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Transit availability. Required parking may be reduced by ten percent in circumstances where the
development is within 800 feet of a developed and serviced transit stop. For the purpose of this subsection a
transit stop is eligible when it has publicly available cover from weather approved by the transit provider to
be equivalent to a transit shelter, and service is provided on not less than an hourly schedule a minimum of
five days per week.
Structured parking. An additional 15 percent reduction may be taken when the site is within 800 feet of a
parking structure of at least 200 spaces, which is available to the general public, and for which a fee for
parking is charged.
The first 3,000 gross square feet of a non-residential building within the B-3 district or adjacent to designated
storefront block frontage per section 38.500.010 is not included in the calculation of required parking.
Property owners' have the option of requesting the reduction of up to ten percent of the required parking
spaces for non-residential uses if:
In addition to the minimum otherwise required by this chapter, two covered bicycle parking spaces are
provided for each automobile space not provided; and
For each ten or fraction of ten automobile parking stalls reduced, a non-residential shower, changing
area, and five clothing lockers are provided on-site.
Exceptions to these parking requirements. Because some situations (i.e., existing lots which have no landscaping,
irregular lots, lots with topographic difficulties, etc.) would benefit from an alternative to the required maximum
parking areas; because the community's appearance could benefit from additional landscaping, streetscaping and
sculptural elements; and because parking exceptions and/or landscaping would encourage development within
existing city boundaries; the following alternatives may be permitted. These alternatives may be proposed by the
developer for review by the ADR staff. Such proposals may be approved based on a determination that such
alternatives meet the following requirements and will not create a congested on-street parking situation in the
vicinity of the proposal:
Landscaping in lieu of parking. Except in the B-3 district, property owners' have the option of requesting the
deletion of up to five required spaces or ten percent of the required parking spaces, whichever is less, if 350
square feet of landscaping, trees or streetscaping is installed on the property for each space so deleted. This
does not decrease the amount of landscaping that would have been required with full parking, but is in addition
to such landscaping. This option must be approved by the ADR staff. These improvements must be placed in the
public right-of-way or setbacks directly facing the right-of-way.
Cash-in-lieu modifications to parking requirements in B-3 district. Where all or part of the required parking
spaces cannot be provided for a proposed use in the B-3 District, either through ownership or lease of the
necessary land, the petitioner may satisfy the parking requirements by providing an equivalent cash-in-lieu
payment according to the following provisions:
No building permit must be issued, nor must any use of property be initiated, unless a satisfactory cash-in-
lieu payment is received by the department of administrative services;
The parking commission must review and consider all requests for cash-in-lieu payments and furnish a
written and dated certificate, signed by the parking commission chair, authorizing cash-in-lieu payments. A
copy of this certificate must be presented to the chief building official and community development director
before a building permit is issued or the use instituted;
For each required parking space not provided, payment must be made to the city administrative services
department as specified by standard payment requirements established by the parking commission;
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(4)
(a)
4.
a.
b.
c.
d.
5.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
b.
c.
(1)
(2)
All real property assessed by special improvement district (SID) No. 565, or other similarly adopted improvemen
to provide additional parking spaces within the B-3 district, will not be required to provide additional parking sp
required at the time of the SID adoption, provided the use of the real property and improvements remains unch
initial assessments of SID No. 565, or other similarly adopted improvement districts;
In the event that a new use or an expansion is initiated on any portion of real property or improvements
are made subsequent to the assessments for SID No. 565 or other similarly adopted improvement
districts, then parking space requirements must be satisfied prior to initiation of those new or expanded
uses.
Bicycle parking required. All site development, exclusive of those qualifying for sketch plan review per division 38.230
of this chapter, must provide bicycle parking facilities to accommodate bicycle-riding residents and/or employees
and customers of the proposed development. The number of bicycle parking spaces must be at least ten percent of
the number of automobile parking stalls required by Tables 38.540.050-1 and 38.540.050-3 before the use of any
special exception or modification, but must in no case be less than two.
Required bicycle parking must be provided in a safe, accessible and convenient location. Directional signage must
be installed when bicycle parking facilities are not readily visible from the street, sidewalk, or main building
entrance. Installation of bicycle parking must allow for adequate clearance for bicycles and their riders.
Bicycle parking may be provided in a common area to serve multiple buildings. The common area must be within
100 feet of each served building.
Covered bicycle parking is encouraged.
Bicycle parking is permitted in required front or rear setbacks. Covered parking may be integrated with required
weather protection features. Alternate designs will be considered by the review authority provided the alternate
design meets or exceeds the intent of this standard
Bicycle parking standards. The intent of this sub section is to ensure required bicycle racks are designed so bicycles
may be securely locked to them without undue inconvenience and will be reasonably safeguarded from accidental
damage.
Bicycle racks must hold bicycles securely, and meet the following criteria:
Support the frame of the bicycle and not just one wheel.
Allow the frame and one wheel to be locked to the rack when both wheels are left on the bike.
Allow the frame and both wheels to be locked to the rack if the front wheel is removed.
Allow the use of either a cable or U-shaped lock.
Be permanently anchored to an all season surface such as pavement, patio stones, or other similar surface,
and be located such that it will not become buried by snow removal operations.
Be usable by bikes with no kickstand.
Be usable by bikes with water bottle cages.
Be usable by a wide variety of sizes and types of bicycle.
Preferred bike rack styles are inverted U, coat hanger, or post and loop racks. Other styles which meet the
standards above are acceptable, including enclosed bicycle lockers. Comb and wave style racks do not meet the
required standard.
Bicycle parking location:
Bicycle parking must be located within 50 feet on an entrance to the building the bicycle parking is required
to serve.
Covered bicycle parking is recommended wherever possible.
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(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
6.
a.
b.
Bicycle parking may be provided within a building, but the location must be easily accessible.
Up to 50 percent or 12 spaces, whichever is less, of required bicycle parking may be located in a required
setback(s). Parking area may not interfere with any functional aspect of the site including stormwater
facilities, pedestrian circulation, landscaping requirements, etc.
Bicycle parking may be located in required front setbacks, but may not occupy more than one-quarter of the
total area of a required front setback on an individual street frontage. Departures will be considered (per
section 38.250.060) for covered bicycle parking or exceptional design.
Screening with landscaping or other means of bicycle parking is not required.
Bicycle parking is not permitted within a public street ROW unless prior written authorization is granted by
the city engineer for a perpetual encroachment easement.
Bicycle racks and the area required for parking and maneuvering must meet the following standards:
Bicycle parking spaces must be at least six feet long and two feet wide, and in;
Covered situations the overhead clearance must be at least seven feet.
An aisle for bicycle maneuvering must be provided and maintained beside or between each row of bicycle
parking. This aisle must be at least five feet wide.
Each required bicycle parking space must be accessible without moving another bicycle.
Areas set aside for bicycle parking must be clearly marked and reserved for bicycle parking only.
B-2M district.
Minimum requirements. The number of spaces shown in Table 38.540.050-6 shall be provided subject to the
adjustments and exceptions allowed in this subsection.
Maximum parking. Provision of parking spaces in excess of the minimum number of spaces required in Table
38.540.050-3 is not permitted.
Table 38.540.050-6
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required Minimum Bicycle Parking Spaces
Required
Residential 1 per unit 1 per unit
Commercial 2 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
1 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
Restaurant 5 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
2.5 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
Hotels, Motels 0.8 per guest room 2 per 5,000 square feet of gross
oor area
Arts and/or Entertainment Center 5 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
2.5 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
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c.
d.
e.
A.
1.
2.
B.
1.
2.
3.
Manufacturing 2 per 1,000 square feet of gross
oor area
2 per 5,000 square feet of gross
oor area
Adjustments to minimum requirements. No reductions in required parking spaces may be taken for any
development within the B-2M zoning district, except pursuant to 38.540.060, Joint use of parking facilities.
Requirements within the Midtown Urban Renewal District in the B-2M zoning district. The minimum parking
requirements of this section do not apply within the Midtown Urban Renewal District the boundary of which is
described in the Midtown Urban Renewal Plan adopted pursuant to Ordinance 1925 and incorporated herein. All
other requirements of this section, including bicycle parking, maximum parking and standards when parking is
provided, are applicable.
Off-site parking. Any off-site parking used to meet the requirements of this chapter for development in the B-2M
zoning district must comply with 38.540.060, except that off-site parking for multiple household dwellings may
not be located more than 1,000 feet from any commonly used entrance of the principle use served.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 4, 3-19-2018; Ord. No. 2014 , §§ 13, 14, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2029 , § 10, 12-18-2019; Order No. 2020-02 , § 1, 11-17-
2020)
Sec. 38.540.060. - Joint use of parking facilities.
Up to 80 percent of the non-residential parking spaces required by this division 38.540 may be provided through shared
parking, subject to the requirements in subsections A and B of this section.
Shared parking may be requested if parking can be provided to serve two or more individual land uses without
conflict or encroachment. The review authority may make a determination for shared parking arrangements based
on a traffic survey or traffic impact study for the site based on the following:
At a minimum, a traffic survey or traffic impact study must examine for all potential uses: trip generation, hours
of operation, quantity of required parking spaces, quantity of spaces that will be filled during peak hour periods,
and any unusual events that may occur during the year that will exceed the average parking requirement. The
study must indicate that adequate parking exists to meet the demand of potential uses served as well as meet
technical requirements as specified by the review authority.
The parties sharing parking spaces must enter into a long-term joint use agreement revocable with review
authority approval, running with the term of the designated uses.
Conditions required for joint use.
The building or use for which application is being made to utilize the off-street parking facilities provided by
another building or use must be located within 1,000 feet of such parking facilities as measured by the route of
travel from the nearest parking space to the commonly used entrance of the principal use served;
The applicant must show that there is no substantial overlap in the operating hours of the two buildings or uses
for which joint use of off-street parking facilities is proposed; and
A properly drawn legal instrument, executed by the parties concerned for joint use of off-street parking facilities,
duly approved as to form and manner of execution by the city attorney, must be filed with the city clerk and
recorded with the county clerk and recorder.
Sec. 38.540.070. - O -site parking.
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A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A.
1.
B.
1.
2.
Any off-site parking used to meet the requirements of this chapter must be reviewed by the community development direct
compliance with this chapter and will be subject to the following conditions:
Off-site parking must be developed and maintained in compliance with all requirements and standards of this
chapter;
Reasonable continuous pedestrian and vehicle access from off-site parking facilities to the use being served must be
provided;
Off-site parking for one-household and two-household dwellings is not permitted;
Off-site parking for multiple household dwellings may not be located more than 300 feet from any commonly used
entrance of the principal use served;
Off-site parking for non-residential uses may not be located more than 1,000 feet from the entrance of the principal
use. The distance is measured on a pedestrian route of travel such as a sidewalk or city standard trail from the
nearest parking space to the entrance of the principal use served; and
Any use which depends upon off-site parking to meet the requirements of this chapter must maintain ownership or
provide evidence of a long-term lease agreement, revocable with review authority approval, running with the term of
the designated use, for parking utilization of the off-site location.
(Ord. No. 1994 , § 8, 3-31-2018)
Sec. 38.540.080. - O -street loading berth requirements.
Affected uses. Every hotel/motel with restaurant, conference center, restaurant, department store, freight terminal or
railroad yard, hospital or sanitarium, industrial plant, manufacturing establishment, retail establishment, storage
warehouse or wholesale establishment, and all other structures devoted to similar mercantile or industrial pursuits,
which has an aggregate gross floor area of 15,000 square feet or more must provide off-street truck loading or
unloading berths in accordance with the following Table 38.540.080:
Any office building 100,000 square feet or larger must have at least one off-street loading berth.
Table 38.540.080
Square Feet of Aggregate Gross Floor Area Devoted to Such Use Number of Berths
15,000 square feet up to and including 40,000 square feet 1
40,001 square feet up to and including 100,000 square feet 2
For each additional 100,000 square feet 1 additional
Standards for off-street loading facilities. All off-street loading facilities must conform to the following standards:
The first loading berth must be at least 70 feet in length. Additional berths required must be at least 45 feet in length
unless certified by the property owner in writing that additional loading activity will take place exclusively with small
delivery vans, in which case the berth must be at least 25 feet in length. All loading berths must be at least 12 feet in
width and 14 feet in height, exclusive of aisle and maneuvering space.
Such space may occupy all or any part of any required setback space, except front and exterior side setbacks, and
may not be located closer than 50 feet to any lot in any residential zone unless separated from such zone, except at
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
the accesses, by screening not less than eight feet in height.
Sufficient room for turning and maneuvering vehicles must be provided on the site so that vehicles can cross a
property line only by driving forward.
Each loading berth must be accessible from a street or alley or from an aisle or drive connecting with a street or
alley, without traversing a residential district.
The loading area, aisles and access drives must be paved so as to provide a durable, dustless surface and must be so
graded and drained as to dispose of surface water without damage to private or public properties, streets or alleys.
Bumper rails must be provided at locations where needed for safety or to protect property.
No regular repair work or servicing of vehicles may be conducted in a loading area.
Off-street loading facilities must be located on the same site with the use for which the berths are required.
If more than one use is located on a site, the number of loading berths provided must be equal to the sum of the
requirements prescribed in this chapter for each use. If more than one use is located on a site, and the gross floor
area of each use is less than the minimum for which loading berths are required, but the aggregate gross floor area
is greater than the minimum for which loading berths are required, off-street loading berths must be provided as if
the aggregate gross floor area were used for the use requiring the greatest number of loading berths.
Off-street loading facilities for a single use will not be considered as providing required off-street loading facilities for
any other use.
At the time of initial occupancy, major alterations or enlargement of a site, or of completion of construction of a
structure or of a major alteration or enlargement of a structure, off-street loading berths subject to the provisions of
division 38.270 of this chapter must be provided. The number of loading berths provided for a major alteration or
enlargement of a site or structure must be in addition to the number existing prior to the alteration or enlargement.
Space allocated to any off-street loading berth may not be used to satisfy the space requirements for any off-street
parking facility.
DIVISION 38.550. - LANDSCAPING
Sec. 38.550.010. - Purpose and intent.
The process of development, with its alteration of the natural topography and vegetation, and creation of impervious
cover can have a negative effect on the ecological balance of an area by causing or accelerating the processes of runoff,
erosion and sedimentation. The economic base of the city can and should be protected through the preservation and
enhancement of the area's unique natural beauty and environment. Recognizing that the general objectives of this
division are to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, these landscaping regulations are
adopted as part of this chapter for the following specific purposes:
To aid in stabilizing the environment's ecological balance by contributing to the process of air purification, oxygen
regeneration, groundwater recharge, stormwater runoff retardation, and improvement of water quality, while at the
same time aiding in noise, glare and heat abatement;
To provide visual buffering between land uses of differing character by placing screening vegetation;
To enhance the beauty of the city by expanding and strengthening the urban forest and providing a diversity of
vegetation within the city;
To protect the character and stability of residential, business, institutional and industrial areas by establishing
minimum landscaping standards;
To preserve the value of land and buildings by protecting and enhancing the aesthetic character of the community;
1/3/22, 11:05 AM Bozeman, MT Code of Ordinances
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6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
A.
1.
2.
3.
B.
1.
2.
3.
A.
B.
A.
B.
A.
To conserve energy by providing windbreaks, shade and temperature moderation;
To retard the spread of noxious weeds by encouraging a vigorous desirable plant community within the city;
To enhance the appearance of the entryways into the city by providing high-quality landscaping which complements
architecture;
To encourage a pleasant and safe environment for pedestrians by placement of boulevard trees and other
interesting visual features; and
To encourage the conservation of water by rewarding the use of low water demand landscaping.
Sec. 38.550.020. - Interpretation and scope.
The provisions of this division apply to a lot or site when an application is being made for:
Site development approval pursuant to division 38.230 of this chapter;
Signs pursuant to division 38.560 of this chapter where landscaping is required; or
Restoration of a building that has been damaged or destroyed by fire, explosion, flood, tornado, riot, act of the
public enemy or accident of any kind. For purposes of this subsection A, "restoration" means the act of putting back
into a former or original state, only.
Notwithstanding the application of subsection A of this section, the provisions of this division 38.550 do not apply to the
following:
Lots containing residential uses subject to sketch plan review, except when such lots are subject to sections
38.550.050.A and E, 38.550.070 and 38.550.100;
Lots or sites within a planned unit development which has been approved with its own landscape plan. However,
these provisions must be used as the basis for determining the landscaping plans for future planned unit
developments and such planned unit development landscaping plans must meet or exceed the standards of these
landscape regulations; or
Lots or sites which are designed, reviewed and approved according to the deviation provisions specified in section
38.550.080.
Sec. 38.550.030. - General landscaping provisions.
Landscape plans must include the information required by section 38.220.100.
Vegetation may only be used to satisfy the requirements of this division 38.550 when it is located on the same zone lot
as the development depicted on the landscape plan.
Sec. 38.550.040. - Landscape plan review.
The review authority established in division 38.200 must review each landscape plan to determine whether or not it
complies with the requirements of this section.
All landscape plans must comply with the mandatory landscape provisions in section 38.550.050.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 3, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.550.050. - Mandatory landscaping provisions.
Setback landscaping required. For all uses in all districts, unless otherwise provided by specific approval through design
review procedures, all front, side and rear setbacks, and those areas subject to section 38.550.050.E, exclusive of
permitted access drives, parking areas and accessory structures, must be landscaped as defined in this chapter. All
landscaped areas must be perpetually maintained in a healthy condition.
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1.
B.
C.
1.
2.
a.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
For purposes of defining setback landscaping requirements, the terms "setback," "front setback," "side setback" and "re
mean the space between the actual building, parking lot, or other structure (not the building setback line) and the adjac
which is open and unoccupied from the ground upward or from the ground downward other than by steps, walks, terra
aisles, lamp posts and similar structures, and unobstructed by structures, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.
Figure 38.550.050.A.1.
Setbacks.
Drought tolerant species required. A landscape plan must provide 75 percent or greater of the proposed trees and
shrubs as drought tolerant species as defined in the latest edition of the Montana Nursery and Landscape Association's
Drought Tolerant Plants for the Montana Landscape or on a list adopted by the city of drought tolerant species for
purposes of this section.
Parking lot landscaping.
For purposes of defining parking lot landscaping requirements, the term "parking lot" means the area within the
perimeter of the paved portion of the parking lot, including drive aisles but not including drive accesses and parking
stalls in front of garages where the use of one or more spaces within the garage is assigned to a particular dwelling.
The provisions of this subsection do not apply to parking areas, provided within a building or parking structure, as
defined in section 38.700.150 of this chapter.
All surface parking lots on the building site must be landscaped in accordance with this subsection C.2.
Parking lot screening required
All parking lots located on a lot with a residential adjacency must be screened from that residential
adjacency;
All parking lots located between a principal structure and a public street, must be screened from the public
street;
The screening required under this subsection must be continuous and not less than four feet in width unless a
different width is specified in 38.510.030; and
Screening must be maintained at a height of four to six feet except as otherwise restricted by fence and hedge
height limits within required front setbacks and street vision triangles.
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b.
(1)
(2)
(3)
c.
d.
e.
(1)
(2)
Figure 38.550.050.C.2.a
Parking lot landscape screening.
Large canopy trees, large non-canopy trees or small trees must be provided in, or within 20 feet of, the parking
lot at a minimum average density of:
One large canopy tree; or
One large non-canopy tree and one small tree; or
Three small trees for each nine parking spaces required or provided.
No parking space shall be located more than 70 feet from the trunk of a tree.
No tree shall be planted closer than three feet to the back of the curb or edging equivalent.
Figure 38.550.050.C.2.d.
Additionally, any parking lot providing 15 or more parking spaces must have a minimum of 20 square feet of
landscape area within the parking lot for each off-street parking space in the lot provided as follows:
The interior parking lot landscaping must be designed to facilitate, control and denote proper vehicular
circulation patterns;
Internal parking lot landscaping provided must be proportionately dispersed so as to define aisles and limit
unbroken rows of parking to a maximum of 100 feet, with landscaped areas provided in an appropriate scale
to the size of the parking lot; and
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(3)
(4)
(5)
D.
1.
E.
1.
a.
2.
3.
4.
F.
G.
1.
2.
3.
a.
(1)
The minimum width and/or length of any parking lot landscaped area is eight feet. No landscape area may be le
wide.
All parking lots under this subsection must include at least one large canopy or non-canopy tree.
Individual internal parking lot landscaping areas with minimum dimensions of six feet by 16 feet must include
large canopy or non-canopy tree(s).
Screening of off-street loading spaces.
All off-street loading spaces are subject to sections 38.520.070 and 38.540.080.B.
Street frontage landscaping required.
Except in R-S districts, all street rights-of-way contiguous to or within the proposed development site not used for
street pavement, curbs, gutters, sidewalks or drive aisles must be landscaped, as defined in this chapter, and must
include one large canopy tree for each 50 feet of total street frontage rounded to the nearest whole number. When
this requirement conflicts with other requirements of this chapter or other portion of this Code the review authority
may relax this standard to reach an optimal balance in public interests.
Acceptable large canopy shade trees for use in public rights-of-way are those accepted by the forestry
department. Street trees must meet the arboricultural specifications and standards of chapter 16, article V,
division 3. The forestry department, in cooperation with the city tree advisory board, publishes a pamphlet listing
acceptable species and proper planting methods. Prior to planting street trees, a permit from the forestry
department is required.
Where it may be impractical or difficult to plant large canopy trees within the public right-of-way (due to the
presence of overhead power lines, for instance) the requirement for one large canopy tree for each 50 feet of street
frontage may be substituted with two small ornamental trees per 50 feet of total street frontage. Acceptable small
ornamental trees for use in public rights-of-way are those accepted by the forestry department.
The minimum quantity of trees and other landscaping required and provided in the public right-of-way as described
herein must be designed to complement on-site landscaping and to enhance the proposed development project and
the streetscape.
Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) review and approval of street frontage landscaping for areas of a
project included within or adjacent to rights-of-way subject to MDT jurisdiction must be demonstrated at time of
landscape plan submittal to the city. When MDT, in writing, denies street frontage landscaping required by this
section the applicant must propose and the director may approve an alternative street frontage landscaping through
a departure.
Street median island landscaping. All street median islands approved through a plan review process must be landscaped
according to requirements determined through the plan review process.
Acceptable landscape materials.
Acceptable plant materials are those identified as hardy in Zones 1 through 4. The characteristics of the zones are
described in The Western Garden Book, Sunset Publishing Corporation as amended. Alternatives may be considered
upon a case-by-case basis. However, in the case of street frontage landscaping as required in subsection E of this
section, acceptable tree species are limited to those approved by the city forestry division.
No artificial plant materials may be used to satisfy the requirements of this division 38.550.
Plant materials used to satisfy the requirements of this division 38.550 must comply with the following minimum size
requirements at the time of installation (depending on the standard measuring technique for the species):
Large canopy and non-canopy trees must have either:
For deciduous trees a minimum caliper of one and one-half inches to two inches; or
1/3/22, 11:05 AM Bozeman, MT Code of Ordinances
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(2)
b.
(1)
(2)
c.
4.
H.
1.
2.
I.
1.
2.
J.
K.
L.
1.
For evergreen trees a minimum height of eight feet.
Small canopy and non-canopy trees must have either:
For deciduous trees a minimum caliper of one inch; or
For evergreen trees a minimum height of six feet.
All other non-turf plantings must meet American Nursery and Landscape Association standards.
For purposes of subsection G.3 of this section, height is measured from the top of the root ball or, if the plant is in a
container, from the top soil level in the container.
Figure 38.550.050.
Dimensions of acceptable landscape materials.
Protection of landscape areas.
Perimeter parking lot treatment as required in section 38.540.020.J must be installed to protect landscape areas
adjacent to parking lots.
Landscaped areas within parking lots (i.e., landscape islands or peninsulas) must be protected from vehicular traffic
through the use of continuous concrete curbs, or other permanent barriers approved by the review authority.
Railroad ties, rolled asphalt, pin down wheel stops or similar methods of curbing are not acceptable methods of
landscape protection within parking lots.
Irrigation standards.
Permanent irrigation systems must be provided to all landscaped areas. The use of hose bibs on the exterior of
existing or proposed structures is not an acceptable method of landscape irrigation unless the landscaped area is
adjacent to the existing or proposed structure.
All irrigation systems and landscaped areas must be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to
promote water conservation and prevent water overflow or seepage into the street, sidewalk or parking areas.
Required use of trees with residential adjacency. All landscape plans must include, for each setback with a residential
adjacency, at least one canopy or non-canopy tree for each 50 lineal feet of the adjacent area.
Coordination with utilities. In order to prevent damage to both vegetation and public utility lines, all trees and other
large vegetation may planted no closer than the minimum distance specified in the city design standards and
specifications policy. When the City verifies it is not possible to meet minimum separation distance from utilities and no
other arrangement can be approved, such tree or large vegetation is not required.
Maximum allowable slope or grade.
The finish grade of all landscaped areas, including, but not limited to, required setbacks, parking lot landscape
islands, open space areas, plaza areas, watercourse corridors, landscaped areas adjacent to sidewalks, public trails
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2.
3.
4.
M.
A.
1.
or pathways, and any stormwater facilities proposed in required setbacks, dedicated parkland, or open space areas
may not exceed a slope of 25 percent grade (four run to one rise).
The slope percent is computed by dividing the vertical distance by the horizontal distance multiplied by 100. The
degree of slope is equal to the tangent of vertical distance over horizontal distance (refer to figure 38.550.050).
The review authority may vary the maximum allowable slope of 25 percent grade to protect existing topographical or
natural features (i.e., watercourse, wetlands, mature vegetation) associated with a site. Alternatives to enable
exceeding the maximum allowable slope of 25 percent may include terracing, retaining walls, architectural
appurtenances, landscape features, or a combination thereof that will achieve a greater design quality and enhanced
landscape features.
All landscaped areas to be finished in grass that exceed a maximum allowable slope of 25 percent grade must be
installed as turf sod, or hydro-seed. If hydro-seed is utilized, additional erosion control fabric (i.e., matting or blanket
or equivalent thereof) must be provided to ensure a stable slope for a minimum of one calendar year while the
vegetation becomes established.
Planned unit development open spaces. Planned unit development non-site-specific open space plans must meet or
exceed the standards of these landscaping regulations. For each 5,000 square feet of total landscape open space area
between 5,000 and 25,000 square feet and for each 10,000 square feet of total landscape areas in excess of 25,000
square feet a landscape plan must include three of the elements in table 38.550.050-1 from each column A and B unless
the review authority grants a relaxation. When the preceding calculation results in a fraction the amount of landscaping
required is rounded up to the next whole number.
Table 38.550.050-1
Column A Column B
1 large canopy tree 3 evergreen shrubs and 3 deciduous shrubs
1 large non-canopy tree 2 small ornamental trees
2 small ornamental trees 2 large evergreen trees
6 evergreen shrubs
6 deciduous shrubs
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 4, 12-18-2019)
Sec. 38.550.060. - Reserved.
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2029 , § 6, adopted Dec. 18, 2019, repealed § 38.550.060, which pertained to landscape performance
standards and derived from Ord. No. 1978 , § 2(Exh. A), adopted Jan. 4, 2018.
Sec. 38.550.070. - Landscaping of public lands.
City rights-of-way and parks.
General.
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a.
b.
2.
a.
b.
3.
B.
1.
2.
3.
C.
A.
B.
Tree planting permits must be obtained from the forestry department prior to installation of trees in city rights-
of-way or parks.
Drought tolerant grass seed must be planted in these areas.
External streets, open space, and parks. The developer must at the time of initial development for installing
vegetative ground cover, boulevard trees and an irrigation system in the public right-of-way boulevard strips along all
external perimeter development streets and adjacent to public parks or other open space areas.
Prior to installing landscaping in city rights-of-way or parks, the developer must submit a landscaping plan to the
facilities manager for review and approval. The landscaping plan must be prepared by a qualified landscaping
professional meeting the requirements of this division 38.550. Tree planting permits must be obtained before
any tree is placed on public land.
Wells must be used to irrigate landscaping in these areas.
Adjacent to individual lots. When individual parcels are developed, the individual property owners' must install
landscaping and street trees within the public right-of-way boulevard strips adjacent to their property, and providing
for irrigation, in compliance with section 38.550.050.E.1.
Maintenance.
Maintenance of landscaping installed within the boulevard portion of the public right-of-way, with the exception of
tree trimming and tree removal, is the responsibility of adjacent property owners'.
A developer must irrigate and maintain landscaping along external streets and landscaping adjacent to parks or
other open space areas until 50 percent of the lots are sold. Thereafter, the property owners' association is
responsible for maintaining and irrigating these landscaped areas. The property owners' association may, with the
city's approval, establish an improvement district to collect assessments to pay for the irrigation and maintenance.
The city is responsible for the maintenance of all other required landscaping installed in accordance with approved
site plans within the public right-of-way or on other public lands.
State rights-of-way. Landscaping must be installed along state rights-of-way, in the same manner described in this
section, provided that the state department of transportation has reviewed and approved the proposed landscaping
plan. Maintenance of landscaping installed within the boulevard portion of the public right-of-way is the responsibility of
adjacent property owners' unless a different responsibility is established by the encroachment permit.
Sec. 38.550.080. - Departure from landscaping requirements.
To achieve the optimal landscape design on individual sites, or to coordinate the landscape design in an area, it may be
necessary to depart from the strict application of landscaping requirements. An application for such departure must be
processed per section 38.250.060.
The application for departure must be accompanied by written and graphic material sufficient to illustrate the conditions
that the modified standards will produce, so as to enable the review authority to determine that the departure will
produce an environment, landscape quality and character superior to that produced by the existing standards, and will
be consistent with the intent and purpose of this division 38.550. Upon such a finding, the review authority may
authorize departures of up to 20 percent from landscape design standards contained herein.
Sec. 38.550.090. - Landscaping completion.
All Landscaping must be completed or secured in accordance with the provisions of division 38.270 of this chapter. The
applicant must demonstrate satisfactory establishment of all seeded areas or guarantee establishment for a minimum two year
period following occupancy.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 5, 12-18-2019)
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A.
B.
A.
1.
2.
3.
Sec. 38.550.100. - General maintenance.
Required landscaping must be maintained in a healthy, growing condition at all times. The property owner is responsible
for regular weeding, mowing of grass, irrigating, fertilizing, pruning and other maintenance of all plantings as needed.
However, the city forestry department is responsible for pruning or removing any tree in a city right-of-way or park. Any
plant that dies must be replaced with another living plant that complies with the approved landscape plan. Failure to
maintain required landscaping in a healthy growing condition at all times may result in revocation of an occupancy
permit. When enforcing this provision of this chapter, external factors such as seasonality and availability of landscape
stock must be considered before any action to revoke an occupancy permit is taken.
Any damage to utility lines, resulting from the negligence of the property owner or the owner's agents or employees in
the installation and maintenance of required landscaping in a utility easement, is the responsibility of the property
owner. If a public utility disturbs a landscaped area in a utility easement, it must make every reasonable effort to
preserve the landscaping materials and return them to their prior locations after the utility work. If, nonetheless, some
plant materials die, it is the obligation of the property owner to replace the plant materials.
DIVISION 38.560. - SIGNS
Figure 38.560. Signs.
Footnotes:
--- (6) ---
State Law reference— Information signs, MCA 60-5-501 et seq.
Sec. 38.560.010. - Findings and purpose.
Findings.
Signs obstruct views, distract pedestrians and motorists, displace alternative uses for land, and may create hazards
that threaten the public health and safety. Such a safety threat is particularly significant for signs that are structurally
inadequate, confuse drivers or pedestrians, or interfere with official directional or warning signs.
Signs may also threaten the public welfare by harming property values and creating aesthetic concerns, especially
where the accumulation of signs creates visual clutter or obstruct scenic vistas.
The ability to erect signs serving certain functions, such as address signs and directional signs, are important
because they enable residents and visitors to efficiently and safely reach their intended destinations.
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5.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
C.
D.
A.
1.
2.
The regulation of the physical characteristics of signs in the city has a positive impact on the safety and appearance of t
community.
The purposes described in this section are compelling interests and the regulations in this division 38.560 are
narrowly tailored to serve those interests while allowing adequate alternative avenues for speech.
Purpose. It is the purpose of this division 38.560 to promote the health, safety and welfare of the residents and visitors
of the city by regulating and controlling the size, location, type, quality of materials, height, maintenance and
construction of all signs and sign structures not located within a building, or within a building and visible from the
exterior for the following reasons:
To ensure that pedestrians and motorists are protected from damage or injury caused by or partly attributable to
the distractions and obstructions which are caused by improperly situated or dangerously distracting signs;
To preserve the Bozeman area's natural scenic beauty and character as expressed in adopted city plans and policies;
To contribute to inviting entrances into the city by eliminating clutter associated, in part, with the unrestricted
proliferation of signs, lights and stringed devices;
To encourage area beautification through creative, interrelated design of signage, landscaping, buildings, access and
parking that enhances the community's built and natural environment;
To give all persons, organizations and businesses an equal opportunity to have a sign that will help people find the
goods and services they need; and
To encourage economic development.
The provisions of this division 38.560 provide a reasonable balance between a person's right to identify their
organization or business, or to freely express thoughts and ideas, and the interest of the public to be protected from the
visual discord and distraction that results from the unrestricted proliferation of signs. Section 34.340.070 establishes
certain exemptions, and alternative procedures utilizing design review. The deliberations and decisions of the design
review must be directed to accomplish the purposes of this section.
This division 38.560 must be interpreted in a manner consistent with the Federal and State Constitution's guarantee of
free speech.
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 17, 4-18-2018; Ord. No. 2020 , § 1, 6-24-2019)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2020 , § 1, adopted June 24, 2019, amended the title of § 38.560.010 to read as herein set out. The former
§ 38.560.010 title pertained to intent and purpose.
Sec. 38.560.020. - Sign permit requirements.
If a sign requiring a permit under the provisions of this division 38.560 is to be placed, constructed, erected or modified on a
zone lot, the owner of the lot must obtain a sign and building permit prior to the construction, placement, erection or modification
of such a sign. Furthermore, the property owner must maintain in force, at all times, a permit for such sign. No permit of any kind
may be issued for an existing sign or proposed sign unless such sign is consistent with the requirements of this division 38.560.
Murals as defined in section 38.700.120 of this chapter are not subject to this division 38.560 but may be subject to the provisions
of division 38.340 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.560.030. - Prohibited signs.
All signs not expressly permitted under this division 38.560, or exempt from the provisions of this division 38.560, are
prohibited in the city. Such signs include, but are not limited to:
Portable signs (except as allowed under chapter 34, article 5);
Roof signs;
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4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A.
1.
a.
Revolving signs, except as permitted in section 38.560.060;
Beacons, spotlights;
Flashing, blinking, or animated signs;
LED or other electronic messaging signs except for incidental signs as defined in section 38.700.100 of this chapter;
Pennants, streamers, wind socks, pinwheels, or similar items;
Stringed flags;
Inflatable signs and tethered balloons (except as permitted per section 38.560.040);
Signs located in public rights-of-way (except for those specifically permitted in this division 38.560); and
Signs that (a) contain structural components such as size, location, movement, coloring, or manner of illumination
that are similar to or which may be confused with or construed as a traffic control or hazard warning device or (b)
interfere with the travelling public's view of a traffic or hazard warning sign or signal.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 2, 6-24-2019)
Sec. 38.560.040. - Temporary signs; permit required.
Excluding those signs subject to section 38.560.050, temporary signs as defined in 38.700.180 may be permitted only as
follows:
Temporary signs may be-permitted only with an approved temporary sign permit.
All temporary signs must comply with size, height, and location requirements of this division 38.560.
A property may have temporary sign(s) on display for no more than 30 cumulative days per calendar year (January 1
to December 31). A new business or nonprofit organization, during its initial calendar year in business or in
existence, may display temporary sign(s) for a maximum of 60 consecutive days.
Itinerant vendors as defined in section 12.01.010.A will receive information about allowable temporary signs at the
time the vendor applies for a business license, but a temporary sign permit is not required if the itinerant vendor is
operating for seven days or less.
A person who conducts seasonal operations, such as garden greenhouses, boat showrooms, or ski rental facilities,
may apply for a longer term temporary sign permit which may be approved for a period not to exceed 180 days.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 3, 6-24-2019)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2020 , § 3, adopted June 24, 2019, repealed the former § 38.560.040, and enacted a new § 38.560.040 as
set out herein. The former § 38.560.040 pertained to permitted temporary and special event signs and derived from Ord. No. 1978 ,
§ 2(Exh. A), adopted Jan. 4, 2018.
Sec. 38.560.050. - Signs exempt from permit requirements.
The following signs are exempt from the permitting requirements of this division 38.560 but must comply with the
criteria for signs allowed by this division 38.560, except section 38.560.060. In order to be exempt from sign permit
requirements, such signs must not be internally illumined, cause glare, cast light onto adjacent property, be placed in
sight vision triangles, or otherwise impede or obstruct the view of the traveling public:
All zones.
Government and public utility signs. Directional, warning, street, traffic control, informational or temporary signs
that are erected, installed or placed by or on behalf of or required by any transportation agency of a federal,
state, county or city government. Public utility signs showing locations of underground facilities or public
telephones, and safety signs on construction sites are included within this exemption.
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c.
d.
2.
a.
b.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
A.
Incidental signs as defined in section 38.700.100.
Ghost signs. A ghost sign as defined in division 38.700 may be, but is not required to be, stabilized, rehabilitated
or preserved to its original condition, design and size. A ghost sign may not be altered in any way that changes its
original design, wording, or size.
Sign on property that is for sale, rent, or lease. One temporary sign in addition to that otherwise allowed by this
section 38.560.050 may be located on property when the owner consents and the property is being offered for
sale, rent, or lease for a period not exceeding 15 days following the closing date. The sign may not exceed nine
square feet in total area and may be no more than five feet high.
Residential zones (R-S, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, RMH, REMU [single-household, two- to four-household, townhouse, and
apartments]).
Non-commercial temporary signs that do not exceed nine square feet per individual sign in total area at any
particular time and, if freestanding, five feet in height. A total sign area of not more than 32 square feet may be
displayed at the same time.
Businesses working at a residentially zoned lot, such as landscapers or window treatment installers, may post a
temporary commercial sign only during the period the business is actively working on the site and up to three
days after the business' work on the site is completed. Each such sign on a single lot at any particular time may
not exceed nine square feet per individual sign in total area and, if freestanding, may not exceed five feet in
height. A total sign area of not more than 32 square feet may be displayed at the same time. Such signs are not
considered off-premises advertising so long as the identified business is actively engaged on the site.
Commercial and manufacturing zones (R-O, B-1, B-2, B-2M, B-3, UMU, M-1, M-2, BP, PLI, NEHMU, REMU [mixed-use,
non-residential]).
Window signs, provided that such signs do not occupy more than 25 percent of the area of the window in which
it is displayed. If the window sign(s) exceeds 25 percent of the area of the window, it will be classified as a wall
sign. For the purposes of this section, a window is a transparent glass opening in a wall separated from other
glass openings by mullions or other dividers of four inches or less in width.
Signs within a structure or building or other enclosed area of property when such signs are not legible when
viewed from outside the structure or property.
Non-commercial temporary signs; such signs must not exceed 32 square feet in total area, must be no more than
five feet high and must be at least five feet from the property line when the required setback is in excess of five
feet.
Businesses working at a construction site may post temporary commercial signs on the site with the property
owner's permission. Each such sign on the site may not exceed 32 square feet in total area, may be no more than
five feet high and must be at least five feet from the property line. Such signs are not considered off-premises
advertising so long as the business is actively engaged on the site.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 4, 6-24-2019)
Sec. 38.560.060. - Signs permitted upon the issuance of a sign permit.
The following on-premises signs may be permitted in the indicated zones with an approved sign permit:
Table 38.560.060
Non-Residential Sign Standards
Zoning District B-1 B-2, B-2M B-3 UMU M-1 M-2
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Maximum sq. ft. area 80 per
building
400 per
lot
250 per
lot
250 per
lot
250 per
lot
250 per
lot
Allowed sq. ft. sign area per linear
foot of building frontage rst 25 feet
1.5 or 2 2 or 3 2 2 or 3 2 or 3 2 or 3
Allowed sq. ft. sign area per linear
foot of building frontage > 25 feet
1 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5
Allowed sq. ft. of wall sign
authorized adjacent to an alley in
addition to the otherwise authorized
maximum sign area
9 9 9 9 9 9
Monument max. size sq. ft.32 32 32 32 32 32
Monument max. height 5'5'5'5'5'5'
Monument setback 5'5'5'5'5'5'
Pole style max. height Prohibited 13'13'13'13'13'
Pole style setback Prohibited 15'15'15'15'15'
Pole style clearance Prohibited 8'8'8'8'8'
Pole sign max. sq. ft.Prohibited 32 32 32 32 32
Projecting sign max. area 8'8'12'8'8'8'
Projecting sign max. distance 4'4'6'4'4'4'
Rotating sign max area 2.5 sq. ft.2.5 sq. ft.2.5 sq. ft.2.5 sq. ft.Prohibited Prohibited
Non-Residential Uses
Zoning District BP PLI HMU REMU RO
Maximum sq. ft. area 250 per lot 250 per lot 250 per lot 250 per lot 80 per
building
1 1 1 1 1
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2.
3.
a.
b.
Allowed sq. ft. sign area per linear foot of
building frontage rst 25 feet
2 or 3 2 or 3 2 or 3 2 or 3 1 or 1.25
Allowed sq. ft. sign area per linear foot of
building frontage > 25 feet
1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 0.5
Allowed sq. ft. of wall sign authorized
adjacent to an alley in addition to the
otherwise authorized maximum sign
area
9 9 9 9 9
Monument max. size sq. ft.32 32 32 32 12
Monument max. height 5'5'5'5'5'
Monument setback 5'5'5'5'5'
Pole style max. height 13'13'13'13'Prohibited
Pole style setback 15'15'15'15'Prohibited
Pole style clearance 8'8'8'8'Prohibited
Projecting sign max. area 8'8'8'8'8'
Projecting sign max. distance 4'4'4'4'4'
Rotating sign max. area Prohibited Prohibited 2.5 sq. ft.Prohibited Prohibited
The larger value of the two listed applies when a building is located on a lot such that there is no parking or other
vehicular use area between the building façade and the street right-of-way or between the building façade and a
public pedestrian right-of-way adjacent to a street.
A comprehensive sign plan pursuant to section 38.560.080 must be approved prior to installation of signage for all
commercial centers or buildings consisting of two or more tenant spaces on a lot and must comply with section
38.560.080.
Freestanding signs. One freestanding sign may be permitted per zoned lot as defined in section 38.700.070 of this
chapter. Signage area used for freestanding signs is counted towards the maximum allowed signage area.
Wall signs.
Regardless of the allowance for additional area, the maximum area may not exceed the amount allowed for the
district.
Lots fronting on two or more streets may be allowed signage area for each building frontage.
1 1 1 1 1
1
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4.
a.
5.
B.
1.
2.
3.
a.
b.
c.
d.
4.
C.
1.
2.
A.
Canopy, window and awning signs are considered wall signs. Wall signs may not project above the top of a wall or p
Projecting signs. One projecting sign per tenant may be permitted, unless otherwise approved through a
comprehensive sign plan. Projecting signs must provide a minimum sidewalk clearance of eight feet.
A rotating sign located within the building does not need to provide the minimum sidewalk clearance height. A
rotating sign exceeding a rotational speed of one full rotation in two seconds are prohibited.
Ghost signs as defined in division 38.700 do not apply toward the maximum square foot signage areas of Table
38.560.060.
Residential zones (R-S, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, RMH, R-O, REMU). The following on-premises signs may be permitted in the
indicated zones with an approved sign permit:
Subdivision and residential complex signs. For residential subdivisions consisting of more than four residential lots
and for residential complexes with more than four dwellings and more than one building, one low profile,
freestanding, sign per development entrance may be permitted. No sign may exceed 16 square feet in area or five
feet in height from the finished grade. The sign must be set back at least five feet from the property line.
Residential building signs. For properties used for multi-household residential, one wall sign per street frontage may
be permitted. No sign may exceed eight square feet in area.
Signs appurtenant to residential principal, special and conditional uses, and home occupations.
Signs not to exceed four square feet in total area may be permitted for principal residential uses and permitted
home occupations; however, such signs may not be located in any required setback area. In addition, home
occupations may be permitted a single one-square foot sign on a mailbox or lamppost or one and one-half
square feet of freestanding signage located a minimum of five feet from the property line.
Principal residential uses may be permitted non-commercial signs if such signs do not exceed 32 square feet in
total area nor five feet in height. Such signs must be set back at least five feet from the property line.
Permitted non-residential type uses, such as churches, community centers, veterinary uses, golf courses, day
care centers and schools may be permitted signage as if the underlying zoning were B-1.
Permitted conditional and special residential type uses such as homes used as bed and breakfasts and fraternity
and sorority houses may be permitted signage as if the underlying zoning were R-O. Such signs may be
illuminated only during the hours of operation.
Planned unit developments. Commercial establishments within planned unit developments where the underlying
zoning is residential may be permitted signage as if the lot were in a B-1 zone.
Special districts and zones. The provisions of this division 38.560 apply to all zoning districts unless otherwise addressed
below:
Neighborhood conservation overlay district. Within this district, prior to the installation of a sign, the city must
approve a certificate of appropriateness for all non-temporary signage after review for compliance with the design
guidelines for the neighborhood conservation overlay district.
Downtown business district. Permits for signs in the downtown business district as defined in section 34.05.020.A
that encroach into the public right-of-way must be obtained in accordance with chapter 34, article 5 of the Municipal
Code.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 5, 6-24-2019; Ord. No. 2042 , § 1, 9-17-2020)
Sec. 38.560.070. - Way nding signage.
Purpose. Wayfinding signs serve to assist travelers in navigating the larger community and identifying defined districts.
Wayfinding signs or kiosks are not intended to serve as off-premises advertising for individual entities.
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B.
C.
D.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
E.
1.
2.
a.
3.
4.
a.
b.
Defined districts. To qualify as a district an area must have a significant commonality of purpose and identity, and shared
functions serving the larger community. Designation as a district is at the discretion of the city and will only be granted whe
found to be consistent with the intent of this division 38.560 and the city's other adopted regulations, policies and plans. Ap
of district designation is the duty of the review authority, who must make written findings of the decision.
Wayfinding signage is intended to add to the district's "sense of place" and may include district identification signs,
directory signs to designate shared or common spaces such as parking facilities, parks, trails and open space. It may also
include pedestrian-scale informational kiosks to announce district events and/or to list a directory that corresponds with
a map presented in the kiosk. Wayfinding signs may not advertise specific businesses or otherwise constitute off-
premises signs. Wayfinding signage is permitted within districts only after approval of a comprehensive wayfinding
signage plan.
Submittal of a comprehensive signage plan for wayfinding must be made by a single individual or entity legally
authorized to represent the area within the plan and with the consent of the relevant governing authority. In addition to
the requirements of section 38.560.180, a comprehensive signage plan for wayfinding must:
Include a description of the installation and maintenance program for the signs including, but not limited to: who is
responsible for installation and maintenance; identified reliable funding for installation and maintenance; contact
plan for the responsible individual; and a description of how the sign program will be kept updated or removed. If
the signs are to be illuminated, a description of how the power source may be removed and made safe must be
included.
Demonstrate how it will enhance the streetscape by promoting a unified and enhanced visual aesthetic consistent
with the streetscape design elements in the district; coordinate information for pedestrians and drivers in a clear,
consistent, and understandable format, and reduce visual clutter.
Include information on how the district stakeholders were given opportunity to collaboratively participate in the
selection of the sign types and designs.
Clearly describe the hierarchy of signs and include the criteria for determining sign placement and size. Any signs
intended to be read from the right-of-way must comply with the lettering standards of the Manual for Uniform Traffic
Control Devices for the road type and speed.
Include signage elevations and plans with corresponding map, designating sign types and locations.
Design standards. The wayfinding signs must include and meet the following standards and provisions:
Color schemes, fonts and materials. Coordinated color schemes, fonts and materials, including base supports,
cabinet details and mounting methods, must serve to distinguish wayfinding signage within the district from other
districts.
Lighting. Lighting is not required. If any lighting is proposed, the wayfinding signage plan must include cut-sheets and
lighting details in accordance with the standards established in division 38.570.
Photovoltaic panels to provide power, where appropriate, are encouraged.
Size and location. Signage may be located within required setbacks and may be located within the right-of-way, with
approval from the applicable review agencies including the city and/or the state department of transportation.
Restrictions for signs within the public right-of-way may be more strict than those on private property in order to
avoid conflict or confusion with official regulatory and warning signs or interference with travel.
Wayfinding signs must comply with the following standards:
Wayfinding signs that are affixed to a light post, traffic post or sign within the right-of-way may not exceed four
square feet in area and are limited to one sign per block face (or equivalent).
Any signs intended to be located within the right-of-way must comply with the construction standards of the
Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
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Freestanding wayfinding kiosks or signs are limited to one sign per two blocks (or equivalent), may not exceed 30 sq
area per face and may not exceed seven feet in height.
Wayfinding signage may be located within the street-vision triangle at intersections controlled by a traffic light.
Decorative features including but not limited to post caps may extend an additional two feet for a total of nine
feet in height.
Photovoltaic panels are exempt from the height requirement.
Business names, logos, or other marks identifying specific parties may be on a directory list or map in a kiosk but
may not exceed one inch in height.
Wayfinding signage may not interfere with the clear passage of pedestrians or vehicles, or otherwise cause safety
hazards.
Wayfinding signs may not obscure or obstruct any existing regulatory, warning, or parking control signs.
Wayfinding signs are allowed for parks, or for districts containing more than 30 acres of platted lots.
A performance bond or other surety acceptable to the city may be required for the maintenance, replacement,
updating, and/or removal of signs in an amount acceptable to the city.
Sec. 38.560.080. - Comprehensive sign plan.
A comprehensive sign plan must be submitted for all commercial, office, industrial and civic uses consisting of two or
more tenant or occupant spaces on a lot, or two or more lots subject to a common development permit or plan. A
comprehensive sign plan will not be approved unless it is consistent with this division 38.560, the underlying zoning
regulations applicable to the property and any discretionary development permit or plan for the property. The plan
should include the size and location of buildings and the size and location of existing and proposed signs. The purpose
of the plan is to coordinate graphics and signs with building design. The coordination must be achieved by:
Using the same type of cabinet supports or method of mounting for signs of the same type; using the same type of
construction for components, such as sign copy, cabinet and supports; or using other integrating techniques, such as
common color elements, determined appropriate by the review authority.
Using the same form of illumination for all signs, or using varied forms of illuminations determined compatible by
the review authority.
Sec. 38.560.090. - Multi-tenant complexes with less than 100,000 square feet of ground oor area.
The guidelines for the underlying zoning districts apply unless otherwise addressed in this section:
The maximum permitted wall sign area allowed for each tenant space is the percentage of the total floor area on the
zoned lot that the tenant occupies multiplied by the wall area allowed by section 38.560.060.A.2 or section
38.560.060.B.2, unless otherwise allocated in an approved comprehensive sign plan per section 38.28.070. If the lot
has more than one building frontage, the individual tenant space may derive sign area only from the frontage(s)
which the space faces. Lots under this section are allowed a low profile sign that identifies the complex, which
conforms to this division 38.560, in addition to the sign area already permitted under section 38.560.060.A.2 or
section 38.560.060.B.2.
Sec. 38.560.100. - Multi-tenant complexes with more than 100,000 square feet of ground oor area.
The guidelines for the underlying zoning districts apply unless otherwise addressed in this section:
Freestanding signs.
Pole-style signs. One pole-style sign per street frontage not to exceed 48 square feet in area or 16 feet in height is
permitted. The signage area computed for a pole-style sign may not be subtracted from the maximum allowable
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wall signage permitted for the entire complex.
Low profile signs. One low profile sign is permitted at each secondary entrance of the complex, provided each
sign may not exceed 32 square feet in area, nor five feet in height, and is set back a minimum of five feet from
the property lines. All low profile signs may only identify the complex and must display the street number
address in figures which are at least six inches high. Low profile signs complying with these regulations will not
be factored when calculating the maximum permitted wall sign area.
Wall signs. Each tenant is permitted wall signage square footage calculated from 1.5 times the linear store frontage.
For the maximum allowable total signage, please see section 38.560.060.1 or 2.
Sec. 38.560.110. - Indoor shopping mall complexes with more than 100,000 square feet of ground oor area.
The guidelines for the underlying zoning districts apply unless otherwise addressed in this section:
Freestanding signs.
Pole-style signs. One pole-style sign per street frontage not to exceed 48 square feet in area or 16 feet in height is
permitted. The signage area computed for a pole-style sign may not be subtracted from the maximum allowable
wall signage permitted for the entire complex.
Low profile signs. One low profile sign is permitted at each secondary entrance of the complex, provided each
sign may not exceed 32 square feet in area, nor five feet in height, and is set back a minimum of five feet from
the property lines. All low profile signs may only identify the complex and must display the street number
address in figures which are at least six inches high. Low profile signs complying with these regulations will not
be factored when calculating the maximum permitted wall sign area.
Wall signs. Each anchor tenant occupying 20,000 square feet or more is permitted 300 square feet of wall signage.
Each tenant with an exclusive outdoor customer entrance is permitted wall signage square footage calculated from
five percent of the ground floor area.
Sec. 38.560.120. - Illumination.
Illumination, if any, must be provided by artificial light which is constant in intensity and color. Internally illuminated "can
signs" are acceptable provided background and copy are coordinated to avoid excessive light output. Neon and other
gas type transformers are limited to 60 milliamperes and fluorescent transformers are limited to 800 milliamperes to
soften light output. The output of lumens from lighting provided by other types of light emitters may not exceed that
emanating from gas type transformers as regulated in this subsection A. Additionally, neon and other gas type signs with
exposed tubing must be equipped with dimmers.
Externally illuminated, wall-mounted, and pole signs must be lighted by fixtures mounted at the top of the sign and
aimed downward; ground-mounted sign lighting must only be used for monument style signs. Fixtures used to
illuminate signs must be aimed so as not to project their output beyond the sign.
Sec. 38.560.130. - Street vision triangles.
Signs may not be placed in sight vision triangles as they are established in section 38.400.100, unless specifically authorized in
this division 38.560.
Sec. 38.560.140. - Required address signs.
Street numbers are required for all residential, commercial, industrial, and civic uses in all zones. All building numbering must
comply with article 7 of chapter 10.
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Sec. 38.560.150. - Billboards and other o -premises advertising.
Off-premises commercial advertising signs are not permitted within the city limits except as permitted by state or federal
law.
Exception:
Transit shelters: Off-premises signs may be placed on the interior of transit shelters reviewed and approved by
the city and served by an active fixed route transit service. Signage within a transit shelter may not distract
drivers of vehicles nor be legible from the driving lanes.
Ghost signs: Ghost signs are not considered to be off-premises signage.
Sec. 38.560.160. - Signs erected in conjunction with nonpro t activities on public property.
Signs erected on public property by or on behalf of nonprofit organizations are allowed only with the prior consent of
the director of the department of the city or other government agency responsible for the property only as follows:
The sign may be permitted only on structures in public parks or other publicly owned lands.
The sign may be erected two weeks prior to the commencement of the activity and must be removed within two
weeks after the cessation of the activity for which the sign was erected.
Each individual sign may be no larger than 32 square feet. Freestanding signs must be setback a minimum of 15 feet
from the property line and have a maximum height of five feet. Signs attached to walls or scoreboards are not
subject to the five foot height limitation. However, signs attached to walls or scoreboards may not exceed the height
of the wall or scoreboard to which they are attached. All signs must be oriented towards spectators attending the
activity.
The sign may not:
Be individually illuminated; nor
Be placed in sight vision triangles or otherwise impede or obstruct the view of the traveling public.
Applicants for such signs must apply for, and have approved, a temporary sign permit detailing the physical
characteristics of the sign to be erected and the duration of the activity or date of the event. Applications and review
procedures must be made per section 38.560.180.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 6, 6-24-2019)
Sec. 38.560.170. - Historic or culturally signi cant signs.
Signs which have historical or cultural significance to the city but do not conform to the provisions of this division 38.560 may be
permitted, provided that the city commission adopts findings supporting the historical or cultural significance of the sign and issues
a sign permit. Such findings must be adopted by resolution.
Sec. 38.560.180. - Application.
An application for a sign must be made on forms provided by the community development department. The application
must contain sufficient information and plans to permit review pursuant to this division 38.560 including, but not limited
to, building elevations; photographs; proposed locations of signs on building elevations; sign design layout showing
number, types and dimensions of all signs; and a site plan showing proposed location of all signs.
Acceptability and adequacy of application.
The community development department must review the application for acceptability within five working days to
determine that the application does not omit any of the submittal elements required by this chapter. If the
application does not contain all of the required elements, the application and a written explanation of what the
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application is missing must be returned to the property owner or their representative. The five-working-day review
period will be considered met if the letter is dated, signed and placed in the outgoing mail within the five-day review
period.
After the application is deemed to contain the required elements and to be acceptable, it will be reviewed for
adequacy. A determination of adequacy means the application contains all of the required elements in sufficient
detail and accuracy to enable the city to make a determination that the application either does or does not conform
to the requirements of this chapter and any other applicable regulations under the jurisdiction of the city.
Determination of adequacy will be made by the community development department. The adequacy review period
begins on the next working day after the date that the community development department determines the
application contains all the required elements and must be completed within not more than 15-working-days. The
15-working-day review period will be considered met if the letter is dated, signed and placed in the outgoing mail
within the 15 working day review period. If the application is inadequate, a written explanation of why the application
is inadequate will be returned to the property owner or their representative. Upon a determination of adequacy the
review of the development will be scheduled.
In the event the missing information is not received by the city within 15 working days of notification to the
property owner of inadequacy, all application materials will be returned to the property owner or their
representative. Subsequent resubmittal will require payment of a review fee as if it were a new application.
A determination that an application is adequate does not restrict the city from requesting additional information
during the review process.
Should the property owner choose not to provide the required information after an application has been found
unacceptable, nor to accept return of the application, the application may be processed by the city with the
recognition by the property owner that unacceptability is an adequate basis for denial of the application regardless
of other merits of the application.
Action.
After an application is deemed adequate, the review authority must act to approve or deny the application within
ten working days; or
After the application is determined to be adequate for review, if the application includes a request for a deviation
or variance the city will schedule the application to be considered by the review authority at the next available
opportunity that allows for required public notice to be given; or
If the sign application is submitted in conjunction with a site plan or other similar review, then the review process
and final review authority must be coordinated.
An applicant may appeal the denial of a permit request pursuant to the provisions of division 38.250 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.560.190. - Maintenance of permitted signs.
All signs must be continuously maintained in a state of security, safety and repair. Abandoned signs and sign support
structures must be removed. If any sign is found not to be so maintained, or is in need of repair or has been abandoned,
the owner and the occupant of the premises must repair or remove the sign within 14 calendar days after receiving
written notice to do so from the city. If the sign is not so repaired or removed within such time, the city may cause the
sign to be removed at the expense of the owner of the premises.
Exceptions: Ghost signs are not required to be maintained or preserved, nor are they required to be removed, unless
the City determines such action is necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare.
Sec. 38.560.200. - Nonconforming signs.
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The intent of this section is to eliminate existing signs that are not in conformity with the provisions of this division 38.560.
Except as otherwise provided within this section, the owner of any zone lot or other premises on which a sign exists that
does not conform with the requirements of this division 38.560 and for which there is no prior, valid sign permit must
remove such sign.
All signs which were legally permitted prior to June 22, 1997 are considered legal, permitted signs under this division
38.560. Except as provided for in subsection D of this section, such signs, if nonconforming with this division 38.560,
must not be:
Replaced, except with a conforming sign;
Changed in copy (except for signs specifically designed to be changed in copy, such as reader boards with
changeable letters);
Structurally altered to extend its useful life; or
Expanded, moved or relocated except as allowed below.
No legal, nonconforming sign may be altered or enlarged in any way which increases its nonconformity, but any existing
signage, or portions thereof, may be altered by decreasing its nonconformity.
Any lot with a nonconforming sign may not add, relocate, or replace signage, except as provided below, until all signs on
the lot are brought into conformance with this division 38.560. The exceptions listed below do not apply to off-premises
signs.
Any site modification reviewed only as a permit type described in section 38.230.060, 38.230.070, 38.230.080,
38.230.150, or 38.230.160.
A sign legally permitted prior to June 22, 1997 which must be relocated due to a physical alteration to or expansion
of a public right-of-way.
Sec. 38.560.210. - Substitution.
Any sign allowed under this division 38.560 may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful non-commercial
message, so long as the sign complies with the size, height, area and other requirements of this division 38.560.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 7, 6-24-2019)
Sec. 38.560.220. - Severability.
Where any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section or other part of this division 38.560 is held invalid by a court of
competent jurisdiction by express inclusion in the decision to be invalid, such judgment will affect only that part held invalid and
such decision will not affect, impair or nullify this chapter as a whole or any other part thereof.
DIVISION 38.570. - LIGHTING
Sec. 38.570.010. - Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to:
Provide lighting in outdoor public places where public health, safety and welfare are potential concerns;
Protect drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians from the glare of non-vehicular light sources that shine into their eyes and
thereby impair safe travel;
Protect neighbors and the night sky from nuisance glare and stray light from poorly aimed, placed, applied,
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maintained or shielded light sources;
Protect and maintain the character of the city;
Prevent excessive lighting and conserve energy; and
Provide adequate lighting for safe pedestrian and bicycle travel.
Sec. 38.570.020. - General.
With the exception of street lighting, lighting is not required. If installed, all lighting must comply with the requirements
of this section.
Unless otherwise approved through a planned unit development, this section applies to all lighting for subdivisions, land
uses, developments and buildings. In addition, any site modification that requires a certificate of appropriateness, site
plan review or reuse application will necessitate compliance for all existing and proposed lighting on the site.
The provisions of this section are not intended to prevent the use of any design, material or method of installation or
operation not specifically prescribed herein, provided any such alternate has been approved by the review authority.
Prior to approval the review authority must make findings that:
The lighting provides at least approximate equivalence to the applicable specific requirements of this section; and
The lighting is otherwise satisfactory and complies with the intent of this section.
Sec. 38.570.030. - Street lighting.
Street lighting consists of street lighting and pathway intersection lighting, and must comply with the City of Bozeman Design
Standards and Specifications Policy.
Sec. 38.570.040. - Site lighting.
Parking lot lighting.
Table 38.570.040-1
Basic Security
Minimum horizontal illuminance in maintained footcandles 0.2 0.5
Minimum vertical illuminance in maintained footcandles 0.1 0.25
Uniformity ratio, maximum: minimum 20:01 15:00
Source: Parking Lot Lighting, Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, 1998.
Basic lighting provides for the safety of customers and employees during business hours, and for the security of on-site,
outside storage of goods and/or materials.
Security lighting provides for the safety of employees during nonbusiness hours, and for the security of on-site, outside
storage of goods and/or materials.
Building entrances. Illuminance for building entrances (including commercial, industrial, institutional and municipal)
must average 5.0 maintained footcandles.
1 2
1
2
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Car dealership lighting.
Table 38.570.040-2
Area Maximum Illuminance on Pavement (in Maintained
Footcandles)
Uniformity Ratio
Maximum: minimum
Main business districts
Adjacent to
roadway
10—20 5:01
Other rows 5—10 10:01
Entrances 5—10 5:01
Drive aisles 2—3 10:01
Secondary business districts
Adjacent to
roadway
5—10 5:01
Other rows 2.5—5 10:01
Entrances 2.5—5 5:01
Drive aisles 1—2 10:01
Source: Lighting for Exterior Environments, Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, 1998.
Service station or gas pump area lighting.
Table 38.570.040-3
Area Description Average Illuminance on Described Area (in
Maintained Footcandles)
Approach with dark surroundings 1.5
Driveway with dark surroundings 1.5
Pump island area with dark surroundings 5
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Building façades with dark surroundings 2
Service areas with dark surroundings 2
Landscape highlights with dark surroundings 1
Approach with light surroundings 2
Driveway with light surroundings 2
Pump island area with light surroundings 10
Building façades with light surroundings 3
Service areas with light surroundings 3
Landscape highlights with light surroundings 2
Source: Lighting for Exterior Environments, Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, 1998.
Site lighting support structures. The ballasts; pole type, strength and anchor bolts; and pole foundation must be
appropriate for the proposed lighting and must be installed per the manufacturer's recommendations. Height must be
measured from grade. Except as allowed in sections 38.570.050 and 38.570.070 of this division, light poles for parking lot
lighting may not exceed 25 feet.
Site lighting installation and maintenance.
For new installations, electrical feeds for fixtures mounted on poles must be run underground, not overhead.
Poles supporting lighting fixtures for the illumination of parking areas and located directly behind parking spaces
must be placed a minimum of five feet outside the paved area or on concrete pedestals at least 30 inches high above
the pavement, or suitably protected by other approved means.
Lighting fixtures and ancillary equipment must be maintained so as always to meet the requirements of this section.
Miscellaneous site lighting specifications. Except as otherwise allowed in subsections E and G of this section, all lighting
must comply with the following requirements:
All outdoor lighting, whether or not required by this section, must be aimed, located, designed, fitted and maintained
so as not to present a hazard to drivers or pedestrians by impairing their ability to safely traverse and so as not to
create a nuisance by projecting or reflecting objectionable light onto a neighboring use or property.
All outdoor lighting fixtures must be shielded in such a manner that no light is emitted above a horizontal plane
passing through the lowest point of the light emitting element, so that direct light emitted above the horizontal plane
is eliminated.
Except for residential lighting, street lighting, pathway intersection lighting and security lighting, all lighting must be
turned off between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Exceptions will be granted to those businesses which operate during
these hours; such lighting may remain illuminated only while the establishment is actually open for business.
Vegetation screens may not serve as the primary means for controlling glare. Rather, glare control must be achieved
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primarily through the use of such means as cutoff fixtures, shields and baffles, and appropriate application of fixture
mounting height, wattage, aiming angle and fixture placement.
All outdoor lighting must be designed and located such that the maximum illumination measured in footcandles at
the property line may not exceed 0.3 onto adjacent residential properties and 1.0 onto adjacent commercial
properties and public rights-of-way.
Externally illuminated wall-mounted and pole signs must be lighted by fixtures mounted at the top of the sign and
aimed downward; ground-mounted sign lighting may be used only for monument style signs. Fixtures used to
illuminate signs must be aimed so as not to project their output beyond the sign.
Floodlights, spotlights or any other similar lighting may not be used to illuminate buildings or other site features
unless approved as an integral architectural element on the development plan. On-site lighting may be used to
accent architectural elements but not to illuminate entire portions of buildings. Where accent lighting is used, the
maximum illumination on any vertical surface or angular roof surface may not exceed 5.0 average maintained
footcandles. Building façade and accent lighting will not be approved unless the light fixtures are carefully selected,
located, aimed and shielded so that light is directed only onto the building façade and spillover light is eliminated.
Directional fixtures used to illuminate flagpoles (state, United States and/or foreign nations) may project their
output beyond the flagpole.
Lights that flash, move, revolve, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker, vary in intensity or color, or use intermittent electrical
pulsation are prohibited.
Translucent awnings and canopies used for building accents over doors, windows, etc., may not be internally lit (i.e.,
from underneath or behind).
Searchlights, laser source lights or any similar high-intensity light are not permitted, except in emergencies by police
and fire personnel or at their direction, for meteorological data gathering purposes, or for special events if a permit
is obtained from the review authority.
Sec. 38.570.050. - Sports and athletic eld lighting.
Lighting for sports and athletic fields may need to exceed illumination standards for general recreational needs in order to meet
higher standards required for play. The city commission may approve relaxations of these lighting standards provided that the
following minimum standards are met:
Fixtures must be at least 70 feet in mounted height measured from grade;
If floodlights are used, they must not be aimed above 62 degrees and should use internal louvers and external
shields to help minimize light pollution;
Fixtures must be designed and aimed so that their beams fall within the primary playing area and the immediate
surroundings, so that off-site direct illumination is significantly restricted (spillover levels at the property line must
not exceed 0.3 footcandles); and
Lighting must be extinguished no later than one hour after the event ends.
Sec. 38.570.060. - Lighting speci cations for all lighting.
Light fixtures and standards must be compatible with the surrounding area, the subdivision or site design, and the
development's character and/or architecture.
Luminaires (light fixtures). Except as otherwise allowed in 38.570.050 and 38.570.070, all luminaires must comply
with the following requirements:
In all light fixtures, the light source and associated lenses may not protrude below the edge of the light fixture,
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3.
4.
and may not be visible from adjacent streets or properties.
Fixtures must be of a type and design appropriate to the lighting application.
For lighting horizontal areas such as roadways, sidewalks, entrances and parking areas, fixtures must meet IESNA
"full-cutoff" criteria (no light output emitted above 90 degrees at any lateral angle around the fixture).
As needed, fixtures must be equipped with or be modified to incorporate light directing and/or shielding devices
such as shields, visors, skirts, internal louvers or hoods to redirect offending light distribution and/or reduce
direct or indirect glare.
Sec. 38.570.070. - Historic lighting.
The city may relax lighting standards and requirements, with the exception of illumination levels, for the provision of historic
lighting in the neighborhood conservation overlay district. Historic lights must be proposed as an integrated part of an overall
development plan. The historic preservation planner will review and approve the proposed lighting for historic appropriateness.
Sec. 38.570.080. - Post installation inspection.
The city reserves the right to conduct post-installation nighttime inspections to verify compliance with the requirements of this
section, and if appropriate, to require remedial action at no expense to the city.
Sec. 38.570.090. - Compliance monitoring.
If the city finds that a lighting installation creates a safety or personal security hazard, the person responsible for the lighting will
be notified in writing and required to take remedial action within 30 days.
Sec. 38.570.100. - Nuisance glare and inadequate illumination levels.
When the city finds that a lighting installation produces unacceptable levels of nuisance glare, skyward light, excessive or
insufficient illumination levels, or otherwise varies from this section, the city may notify the person responsible for the lighting and
require appropriate remedial action within 30 days.
Sec. 38.570.110. - Nonconforming lighting.
Nonconforming lights can only be replaced with conforming lights. Site plans, conditional use permits, and special use permits
require lighting to become compliant. The city may require nonconforming lights to be replaced with modifications/reuse
applications.
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A.
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
Figure 38.570.010.
Lighting.
ARTICLE 6. - NATURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION
DIVISION 38.600. - FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS
Footnotes:
--- (7) ---
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, adopted March 9, 2021, repealed the former Div. 38.600, §§ 38.600.010—38.600.410, and enacted a new Div.
38.600 as set out herein. The former Div. 38.600 pertained to similar subject matter and derived from Ord. No. 1978, § 2(Exh. A), adopted Jan. 4, 2018.
State Law reference— Floodplain and floodway management, MCA 76-5-101 et seq.
Sec. 38.600.010. - Citation.
This division 38.600 is known and may be cited as the city floodplain regulations, except when cited herein, where it is
referred to as "this division".
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.020. - Authority.
A. This division is adopted by authority of MCA 76-5-101 et seq.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.030. - Findings.
Flooding may cause loss of life, damage to property, disruption of commerce and essential governmental services, and
unsanitary conditions all of which are detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of city occupants.
The public interest necessitates management and regulation of flood hazards in a manner consistent with sound land
and water use management practices intended to prevent and alleviate threats to life and health and reduce private and
public economic losses.
Control, mitigation, and avoidance of flood hazards interacts with other provisions of public policy that promote public
purposes, such as providing water quality and storm water control; therefore, regulations addressing flood hazards must
be correlated with other water related regulations.
As stated in Bozeman Municipal Code (BMC) sections 38.100.050 and 38.100.070, these regulations are minimum
requirements and upon review, the review authority may determine that the public interest will be best served when
such minimum standards are exceeded. The review authority may impose conditions of approval when such are found
necessary.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.040. - Purpose.
This division establishes regulations for development within regulated flood hazard areas in order to protect public
health and safety, safeguard water quality, provide for wildlife habitat and accomplish other public purposes. There are
circumstances where development within the floodplain either currently exists or may be permitted from time to time to
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advance a public purpose. This division provides standards which shall be met in order to promote the public health,
safety and general welfare, to minimize flood losses in areas subject to flood hazards, and to promote wise use of the
floodplain. This division has been established with the following purposes:
Generally, it is the purpose of this division to guide development of regulated flood hazards areas within city limits
consistent with the enumerated findings of this division by:
Establishing zoning and subdivision regulations coincident with and applicable to regulated flood hazard areas
with special requirements and regulations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare;
Recognizing the right and need of watercourses or drainways to periodically carry more than the normal flow of
water;
Participating in coordinated efforts of federal, state and local management activities for 100-year floodplains;
Striving to ensure the regulations and minimum standards reasonably balance the greatest public good with the
least private injury;
Carrying out the provisions of this division in a fashion consistent with the remainder of this chapter and the
public policies set forth in the city's growth policy;
Minimizing the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding undertaken at the expense of the
general public;
Complying with minimum standards necessary for continued participation in the National Flood Insurance
Program as a community in good standing; and
Coordinating regulations addressing flood hazards with other regulations adopted by the city and regulatory
requirements imposed on the city by state and federal agencies.
Specifically, it is the purpose of this division to:
Restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health, safety and property in times of flood, or that cause
increased flood heights and velocities;
Require that developments and uses vulnerable to flood hazards, including public utilities and facilities, satisfy
minimum standards of this division at the time of initial construction or substantial improvement to minimize
flood damage;
Identify lands unsuitable for certain development or uses because of flood hazards;
Distinguish between regulations applied to the regulatory floodway and those applied to that portion of the
regulated flood hazard area not contained within the regulatory floodway;
Apply more restrictive regulations within the regulatory floodway;
Ensure that those who develop or use land within a regulated flood hazard area do not increase flood hazards to
others and to the surrounding area;
Regulate the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers that are needed
to accommodate floodwaters; and
Regulate filling, grading, dredging and other development that may increase flood hazards.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.050. - Land use restrictions.
Land subject to being flooded by a flood of 100-year frequency as defined by MCA 76-5-101 et seq., or land deemed to
be subject to flooding by the floodplain administrator, may not be subdivided or developed for new buildings or any new
uses that may increase or aggravate flood hazards to public health, safety, and welfare or damage property. Lands
within a floodplain area are also subject to the restrictions of BMC section 38.410.100, Watercourse setback.
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( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.060. - Disclosure provision.
All owners of property containing a regulated flood hazard area set forth in BMC section 38.600.110 shall notify potential
buyers or their agents that such property is subject to the provisions of this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.070. - Abrogation and greater responsibility.
It is not intended by this division to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, deed restrictions, or
underlying zoning. However, where this division imposes greater restrictions, the provisions of this division shall prevail.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.080. - Regulation interpretation.
The interpretation and application of the provisions of this division are intended to be minimum requirements and not
deemed a limitation or repeal of any other powers granted by state statute or self-government status.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.090. - Compliance with regulations.
Compliance with this division shall be demonstrated in full prior to approval by the review authority of any development
occurring under this chapter or chapter 10. Compliance with this division shall also be provided in full prior to
establishing, expanding, or altering an artificial obstruction within a regulated flood hazard area.
Compliance with this division occurs by issuance of a floodplain permit by the floodplain administrator unless the use,
activity, or artificial obstruction is exempt from the requirement to obtain a floodplain permit.
The issuance of a floodplain permit is independent of, and is in addition to, any other type of approval required by any
other statute or ordinance of the state or any political subdivision or the United States.
Existing uses, activities and artificial obstructions that were lawful prior to the initial creation of city floodplain
regulations on March 19, 1975, or any repeal and replacement or amendment thereto, that do not conform to this
division are allowed to remain in the state and location at which they existed at the time they first became subjected to
floodplain regulations without need for a floodplain permit.
Except as provided in subsection D of this section, an artificial obstruction within a regulated flood hazard area that has
not been issued a floodplain permit when one is required is a public nuisance and subject to chapter 16, article 2.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.100. - Floodplain administrator.
The floodplain administrator has been designated by the city commission to be the city engineer, who may delegate
floodplain administrator duties to a member of the city engineering division staff, and has the responsibility and
authority of such position as contained in this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.110. - Regulated ood hazard areas.
This division applies to all lands within the boundaries of the city that are:
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Located within designated special flood hazard areas established by the official "FEMA Flood Insurance Study of Gallatin
Montana, and Incorporated Areas (Flood Insurance Study Number 30031CV001B)" and FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map
April 21, 2021; and, subject to BMC section 38.600.120.A, any alterations made thereto by letters of map change issued
expressly listed in the administrative procedures authorized by BMC section 38.600.160.G.
Otherwise established by DNRC pursuant to MCA 76-5-101 et seq. to be located within designated floodplains and
floodways by a DNRC flood study that is expressly listed in the administrative procedures authorized by BMC section
38.600.160.G.
Identified as containing flood hazards determined by a flood hazard evaluation performed in accordance with BMC
section 38.600.150.
Independently determined by the floodplain administrator through engineering analysis, or other objective and
factual basis, as being subject to flood hazards.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.120. - Alterations to regulated ood hazard areas.
Any alterations to a regulatory floodway shall be designed and delineated to carry the waters of the base flood without
increasing the base flood elevation more than 0.50 feet at any point.
Substantial natural physical alterations to a flooding source, or new technical or scientific flood data showing that the
base flood elevation or regulatory floodway has been altered or was erroneously established, must be brought to the
attention of FEMA and DNRC by the floodplain administrator when such alteration or error is identified for a regulated
flood hazard area set forth in BMC section 38.600.110.A.1.
The official alteration of the base flood elevation or regulatory floodway for a regulated flood hazard area set forth in
BMC section 38.600.110.A.1 occurs by a letter of map revision issued by FEMA. An application for a letter of map revision
must be supported by DNRC and the Floodplain Administrator prior to its submittal to FEMA.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.130. - Interpretation of regulated ood hazard area boundaries.
Georeferenced boundaries. Except where not available, the regulated flood hazard area boundaries in BMC section
38.600.110 shall be determined by using the official geographic information system georeferenced boundary data
provided by FEMA, DNRC, or the floodplain administrator.
Delineated boundaries. The exact location of the regulated flood hazard area boundary shall be delineated where the
base flood elevation intersects natural ground. Except as provided in subsection B.1 of this section, the boundaries of
the regulatory floodway shall be determined from the official flood insurance rate maps and floodway data tables in the
flood insurance study.
The regulatory floodways for the East Gallatin River, Bridger Creek between the confluence with the East Gallatin
River and Story Mill Road, and Bozeman Creek and its tributaries shall be the georeferenced boundary in subsection
A of this section.
Surveyed boundaries. The floodplain administrator may at its discretion require an on-site survey and staking of the
regulated flood hazard area boundary:
Prior to issuance of any floodplain permit;
For any use, activity, or artificial obstruction under an approved floodplain permit that is not completed; or
For any use, activity, or artificial obstruction that appears upon reasonable suspicion and inquiry to be located within
the regulated flood hazard area without a floodplain permit.
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A property owner who believes their property has been inadvertently included in a regulated flood hazard area set forth in
section 38.600.110.A.1 may submit scientific and/or technical information to FEMA in the form of an application for a letter
change, which if approved by FEMA may modify the flood insurance rating of a property. A letter of map change approved b
does not impair or abrogate the authority of the floodplain administrator from independently determining if a property is s
to flood hazards pursuant to BMC section 38.600.110.A.4 and the provisions of this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.140. - Warning and disclaimer of liability.
This division does not imply that areas located outside of regulated flood hazard areas, or permitted land uses, will
always be totally free from flood hazards or flood damages. This division does not create a liability or cause of action
against the City of Bozeman or any officer or employee thereof for flood damages that may result from reliance upon
this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.150. - Flood hazard evaluation.
Except as provided in subsection A.2 of this section, if any portion of a proposed development contains a watercourse or
drainway draining an area of 25 square miles or more, and regulated flood hazard areas under BMC section 38.600.110
have not been designated or identified, then the development applicant shall complete a detailed flood study to
delineate the 100-year floodplain and floodway of the watercourse or drainway in accordance with applicable
regulations, standards, and technical guidance provided by DNRC under its state program for delineation of floodplains
and floodways authorized by MCA 76-5-201.
The detailed flood study shall be prepared and certified by a professional engineer.
The requirement to conduct a detailed flood study may be waived by the floodplain administrator if the development
applicant provides written communication from DNRC stating that DNRC is unwilling or unable to provide technical
assistance in the production of a detailed flood study meeting the applicable regulations and standards DNRC may
have for this purpose.
If the detailed flood study is waived by the floodplain administrator, the development applicant shall prepare a
flood hazard evaluation report in conformance with subsection C of this section, which shall be provided with a
preliminary plat or site plan application.
If any portion of a proposed development contains a watercourse or drainway draining an area less than 25 square
miles, and regulated flood hazard areas under BMC section 38.600.110 have not been designated or identified, then,
except as provided in subsection B.1 of this section, the development applicant shall prepare a flood hazard evaluation
report in conformance with subsection C of this section, which shall be provided with a preliminary plat or site plan
application.
The requirement to provide a flood hazard evaluation report may be waived by the floodplain administrator if the
development applicant demonstrates to the satisfaction of the floodplain administrator that the base flood discharge
of the watercourse will not adversely affect the land proposed for development at the time of concept site plan or
subdivision pre-application plan.
Contents of the flood hazard evaluation report shall include the following information at a minimum:
Certification by a professional engineer that the flood hazard evaluation report is prepared in accordance with this
section;
Description of any mitigation required to protect the proposed development and adjacent lands from 100-year flood
hazards;
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Scaled plan view exhibit(s) showing the following: watercourses and drainways, property boundaries, existing topograph
contours, proposed grading and drainage contours, existing (pre-project) 100-year floodplain boundary, proposed (post
100-year floodplain boundary, and proposed project improvements. Exhibit(s) shall be neat and orderly and contain a li
legend, north arrow, and drawing scale;
Hydrologic analysis performed in accordance with standard engineering practices containing at a minimum:
exhibit(s) depicting delineation of overall contributing drainage basin and individual sub-basins, determination of
base flood discharge, narrative describing the basin delineation approach and hydrologic method(s) used in
discharge determination, and any supporting digital files and outputs produced for the hydrologic analysis;
Hydraulic analysis performed in accordance with standard engineering practices containing at a minimum: hydraulic
modeling of the base flood discharge for existing conditions (pre-project) and proposed conditions (post-project),
scaled plan view exhibit(s) depicting modeled cross sections, narrative describing hydraulic model development and
data sources used for critical inputs, description of existing and proposed hydraulic structures, model outputs of
water surface elevation in both profile and cross section view, and digital model files; and
The report shall be formatted as a PDF document and include all digital supporting files.
The floodplain administrator must review and approve all studies and reports required under this section and may
require additional information from the applicant prior to approval.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.160. - Administration of regulations.
BMC sections 38.410.100 and 38.600.050 establish a public policy to avoid new development within floodplains, along
with certain exceptions. The administration of this division must be done in a fashion consistent with the letter and spirit
of both these sections.
The floodplain administrator has the authority to review floodplain permit applications for proposed activities, uses, or
artificial obstructions within regulated flood hazard areas to determine compliance with this division.
The floodplain administrator may obtain, review and reasonably use any base flood elevation and floodway data
available from federal, state, or other sources.
At any time after a floodplain permit application has been filed, or a floodplain permit has been issued and permitted
work has not been completed, the floodplain administrator may perform an onsite inspection of the subject property
during regular work hours without advance notice given to the applicant pursuant to BMC section 38.200.050.
Unless specifically exempt from requirements to obtain a permit, a floodplain permit must be obtained from the
floodplain administrator prior to establishing, altering or performing substantial improvements to a use, activity, or
artificial obstruction within the regulated flood hazard area.
Prior to the issuance of a floodplain permit, the floodplain administrator must ensure all necessary permits have been
received from those governmental agencies from which approval is required by federal and state law and local codes,
including but not limited to: section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, 33 USC 1334; Endangered
Species Act, 16 USC 1531 et seq.; and the Montana Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act, MCA 75-7-101 et seq.
The floodplain administrator may adopt administrative procedures necessary to administer the provisions of this
division.
The floodplain administrator is responsible for ensuring National Flood Insurance Program prerequisites for the sale of
flood insurance pursuant to 44 CFR 59.22(a) are maintained.
In the event of a disaster declaration affecting properties in the FEMA special flood hazard area, and as part of the
disaster recovery effort, the floodplain administrator upon completion of a cursory street level structure condition
survey must notify property owners that a floodplain permit is required prior to commencement of any alteration or
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substantial improvements to buildings and structures damaged, or substantially damaged, by the declared disaster.
The Floodplain Administrator may, at its discretion, represent the city for any applications, approvals, or endorsements
to FEMA affecting a special flood hazard area.
The floodplain administrator may require an applicant to provide additional information necessary to make an informed
determination as to whether a proposed or existing use, activity, or artificial obstruction within the regulated flood
hazard area meets the requirements of this division. Additional information may include but is not limited to hydraulic
modeling; boundary delineations of the regulated flood hazard area in accordance with BMC section 38.600.130; and
certification by a registered land surveyor or professional engineer or licensed architect within their areas of
professional expertise that the requirements of this division are satisfied.
The floodplain administrator may initiate enforcement actions authorized by this division if additional information
required is not provided.
The floodplain administrator must maintain public records pertaining to the administration of this division, including
items such as floodplain permit applications, issued floodplain permits, FEMA elevation and floodproofing certificates,
compliance certifications, fee receipts, and other relevant documentation.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.170. - Subdivision and plan review and approval.
Any proposed development occurring under division 38.230 or division 38.240 of lands containing a regulated flood
hazard area set forth in BMC section 38.600.110.A.1 shall satisfy the requirements of this section and BMC section
38.410.100. Proposed developments shall ensure that:
Flood damage potential is minimized;
Public utilities and facilities are constructed so as to minimize flood damage; and
Water supply and sanitary sewer infrastructure is designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration.
Except as provided in subsection B.1 of this section, lots within a platted subdivision shall not contain a regulated flood
hazard area set forth in BMC section 38.600.110.A.1 if such lots are proposed for future residential, commercial,
industrial, or other building construction; or such lots are proposed for the placement of structures or storage of
materials.
Dedicated parkland and common open space within a platted subdivision may contain regulated flood hazard areas.
An exhibit depicting the location of the georeferenced boundaries and the delineated boundaries of regulated flood
hazard areas set forth in BMC section 38.600.110.A.1 in relation to the proposed development shall be provided with all
development applications. These boundaries shall be shown in accordance with BMC section 38.600.130.
If any portion of a proposed lot, building, structure, or permanent materials storage location is within the
georeferenced boundary and is completely outside the delineated boundary, then a conditional letter of map
amendment shall be obtained from FEMA by the development applicant.
The conditional letter of map amendment application is subject to subsection E of this section.
The conditional letter of map amendment issued by FEMA shall be provided with the preliminary plat application
or site plan application.
A letter of map amendment issued by FEMA subject to subsection F of this section shall be provided by the
development applicant prior to final plat approval or receiving a certificate of occupancy.
If placement of fill is proposed within the delineated boundary of the flood fringe to artificially elevate land to be
above the base flood elevation, then a conditional letter of map revision based on fill shall be obtained from FEMA by
the development applicant.
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The conditional letter of map revision based on fill application is subject to subsection E of this section.
The conditional letter of map revision based on fill issued by FEMA shall be provided with the preliminary plat
application or site plan application.
A letter of map revision based on fill issued by FEMA subject to subsection F of this section shall be provided
by the development applicant prior to final plat approval or receiving a certificate of occupancy.
If any use, activity, or artificial obstruction is proposed within the delineated boundary of the regulatory floodway,
then the development applicant shall demonstrate that the carrying capacity of the regulatory floodway is not
reduced in accordance with BMC section 38.600.260.C.
A regulatory floodway encroachment analysis shall be prepared by the development applicant and initially
submitted with a subdivision pre-application or concept site plan application. The analysis shall be updated with
the preliminary plat application or site plan application to reflect any changes to the proposed regulatory
floodway encroachments.
If the regulatory floodway encroachment analysis indicates that the proposed use, activity, or artificial
obstruction in the regulatory floodway causes an increase to the existing base flood elevation of more than
0.00 feet, then a conditional letter of map revision shall be obtained from FEMA by the development
applicant in accordance with BMC section 38.600.260.C.2 and be provided with the preliminary plat
application or site plan application.
A letter of map revision subject to subsection F of this section shall be provided by the development
applicant prior to final plat approval or receiving a certificate of occupancy.
A floodplain permit application meeting the requirements of this division shall be prepared by the development
applicant and provided to the floodplain administrator for any use, activity, or artificial obstruction located within the
delineated boundary of the regulated flood hazard area. If a conditional letter of map revision based on fill or a
conditional letter of map revision are required under this section, then they shall be obtained from FEMA by the
applicant prior to floodplain permit approval. The floodplain permit must be issued by the floodplain administrator
prior to:
Beginning construction of subdivision improvements, including the placement of fill, that are located within the
regulated flood hazard area for development occurring under division 38.240; or
Obtaining final site plan approval for development occurring under division 38.230.
A subdivision final plat shall depict on the conditions of approval sheet the location of the regulated flood hazard area,
including and pursuant to any letter of map revision or letter of map revision based on fill approved by FEMA, and base
flood elevation data shall be provided for each lot.
The floodplain administrator must review the conditional letter of map change application and authorize its submittal to
FEMA. FEMA conditional letter of map change application types include:
Conditional letter of map amendment (CLOMA). A letter from FEMA stating a proposed use, activity, or artificial
obstruction located on natural ground and not including the placement of fill would not be inundated by the base
flood if completed as proposed.
Conditional letter of map revision based on fill (CLOMR-F). A letter from FEMA stating a parcel of land or portion
thereof that is proposed to be elevated by fill would not be inundated by the base flood if fill is placed on the parcel
as proposed.
Conditional letter of map revision (CLOMR). A letter from FEMA stating a proposed use, activity or artificial
obstruction in the regulatory floodway that would, upon completion, affect the existing hydrologic or hydraulic
characteristics of the flooding source and result in an alteration of the regulatory floodway or the base flood
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elevation, is allowable if the project is completed as proposed. Submittal of a CLOMR application to FEMA is subject
to BMC section 38.600.260.C.2.
The floodplain administrator must review the letter of map change application and authorize its submittal to FEMA.
FEMA letter of map change application types include:
Letter of map amendment (LOMA). Officially amends the effective special flood hazard area of a flood insurance rate
map by confirming that natural ground is not inundated by the base flood.
Letter of map revision based on fill (LOMR-F). Officially revises the effective special flood hazard area of a flood
insurance rate map by confirming that the parcel of land or portion thereof has been elevated by fill to be above the
base flood.
Letter of map revision (LOMR). Officially revises the effective special flood hazard area of a flood insurance rate map
and the base flood elevation or regulatory floodway in the effective flood insurance study. A LOMR usually results in
republishing a portion of the flood insurance rate map.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.180. - Floodplain permit application requirements.
A floodplain permit application shall be filed with the floodplain administrator and at a minimum include the following
information:
A completed and signed Joint Application for Proposed Work in Montana's Streams, Wetlands, Floodplains, and
Other Water Bodies;
A copy of all other applicable permits or pending applications required by local, federal or state law for the proposed
project, which may include but are not limited to a 310 permit, SPA 124 permit, 318 authorization, section 404
permit, 401 certification, and endangered species act section 10 permit;
A copy of the effective flood insurance rate map with the project site identified;
A scaled plan view exhibit(s) showing:
Linetype legend, drawing scale, and north arrow;
Proposed project site and property lines;
Georeferenced boundary of the regulated flood hazard area per BMC section 38.600.130.A;
Existing and proposed structures;
Existing and proposed utilities;
Proposed excavation and/or fill locations; and
Location of stored or stockpiled materials;
Additional information related to the proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction that documents compliance with
applicable development requirements of this division;
A written response explaining how each of the factors considered in the decision to issue a floodplain permit set
forth in BMC section 38.600.210.G are satisfied by the design of the proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction;
Application review fee in the amount established by city commission resolution;
Mailing labels for all adjoining property owners, including those across roads and across watercourses or drainways;
and
The number and format of copies of the floodplain permit application as established by the floodplain administrator
shall be submitted. Applications must include the signature of the applicant and land owner(s), which for properties
in common ownership shall include evidence of proper authority for the owner signatory.
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If the floodplain permit application was prepared by a person other than the identified property owner or applicant
person that prepared the application shall sign as contractor.
The floodplain administrator may require additional information for the floodplain permit application depending on the
nature of the proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction, including but not limited to:
Scaled topographic plan view exhibit(s) of the project area with one-foot contours and elevation values displayed in
NAVD88 vertical datum depicting:
Linetype legend, drawing scale, and north arrow;
Existing ground contours certified by a professional engineer or registered land surveyor;
Location of watercourse or drainway channel and banks;
Delineated boundary of the regulated flood hazard area pursuant to BMC section 38.600.130.B;
Proposed ground contours and delineation of proposed regulated flood hazard boundaries pursuant to a
conditional letter of map change issued by FEMA; and
Location of all proposed improvements and artificial obstructions;
Cross sections of the proposed project that clearly differentiate between existing site conditions and proposed site
conditions;
Proposed building elevations showing the elevation of the lowest floor, including any basement or crawlspace,
proposed finished ground elevation, and the base flood elevation;
Specifications for floodproofing, filling, excavating, grading, bank stabilization, storage of materials and location of
utilities;
Construction plans and specifications for road and utility crossings;
Flood scour analyses for utility crossings and bridge abutment designs;
Construction plans and specifications for stream restoration projects;
A hydraulic model prepared and certified by a professional engineer demonstrating the impact of the proposed
project on the base flood elevations at and proximate to the project site;
A floodway encroachment analysis and no-rise certification prepared in accordance with BMC section 38.600.260.C.1
and signed by a professional engineer together with any hydraulic modeling utilized for the no-rise analysis;
For projects in the regulatory floodway that cause a rise in the existing base flood elevation, a conditional letter of
map revision issued by FEMA;
For a new building, or alteration or substantial improvement to an existing building, a completed FEMA elevation
certificate based on construction drawings;
For projects involving the placement of fill in the flood fringe, a conditional letter of map revision based on fill issued
by FEMA;
A professional engineer's or registered architect's certification within their respective areas of expertise that the
proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction has been designed to be in compliance with this division; and
Any other relevant information deemed necessary by the floodplain administrator to demonstrate that the proposed
activity, use, or artificial obstruction is in compliance with this division, the Montana Floodplain and Floodway
Management Act, or the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.190. - Floodplain permit application review.
Within ten working days of receipt of a floodplain permit application and required application review fee, the floodplain
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administrator must review the application for acceptability to determine if the application omits any of the minimum
information required and whether any additional information in sufficient detail and accuracy is required to enable the
floodplain administrator to determined compliance with this division. If the application is determined to not include the
minimum information required or needs additional information, the floodplain administrator must notify the applicant
in writing of the information required to deem the application acceptable. The applicant shall have 60 working days to
provide the required information or a new floodplain permit application shall be submitted.
The process in subsection A of this section will be repeated until the floodplain administrator determines the application
is acceptable. If the application is not deemed acceptable by the floodplain administrator after the third notice, or if the
applicant does not respond to a notice within the timeframe specified, the floodplain administrator may deny the
application.
Once the floodplain administrator is satisfied that the application is acceptable, the floodplain administrator must review
the application for compliance with this division. A determination that the application is acceptable does not guarantee
that the floodplain permit application will be approved or conditionally approved and does not limit the ability of the
floodplain administrator to request additional information during the compliance review process to ensure conformance
with this division.
The floodplain administrator must approve, approve with conditions, or deny a floodplain permit application within 60
working days of receipt of an acceptable application, except if the applicant in writing agrees to accept an extended
timeframe.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.200. - Floodplain permit application notice requirements.
Upon receipt of a floodplain permit application deemed acceptable, the floodplain administrator must prepare a notice
according to the requirements of division 38.220 of this chapter. Notice by first-class mail must be provided by the
floodplain administrator to adjoining property owners listed in the application.
The floodplain administrator must serve notice of the floodplain permit application to the state National Flood Insurance
Program coordinator.
The floodplain administrator must provide notice to adjacent communities, the state National Flood Insurance Program
coordinator, and FEMA for any project involving the alteration or relocation of a watercourse containing a special flood
hazard area set forth in BMC section 38.600.110.A.1.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.210. - Floodplain permit issuance.
The floodplain administrator may only approve a floodplain permit application and issue a floodplain permit when the
activities, uses or artificial obstructions described in the floodplain permit application are in full compliance with this
division and applicable provisions of this chapter.
The floodplain administrator must issue a written decision to approve, conditionally approve, or deny a floodplain permit
within the timeframe provided by this division.
The applicant must demonstrate to the satisfaction of the floodplain administrator that the floodplain permit application
is not in conflict with any other applicable permits obtained for the proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction prior to
floodplain permit issuance.
A floodplain permit for a use, activity or artificial obstruction in the regulatory floodway that causes an increase of more
than 0.00 feet to the existing base flood elevation must not be issued until a conditional letter of map revision, subject to
BMC section 38.600.260.C.2.a, is approved by FEMA.
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A letter of map revision may be required by the floodplain administrator when a proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruct
the regulatory floodway is:
Certified by a professional engineer to not cause an increase of more than 0.00 feet in the existing base flood
elevation; and
The existing base flood elevation or existing regulatory floodway is determined to be substantially different than the
effective base flood elevation or effective regulatory floodway due to:
Natural physical alterations to the flooding source affecting its plan form and grade; or
Proposed conditions modeling conducted to evaluate project-related impacts.
A floodplain permit must not be issued until any FEMA conditional letters of map change required by BMC section
38.600.170 are provided by the applicant.
The floodplain administrator must consider the following factors in the floodplain permit issuance decision:
The danger to life and property due to increased flood heights, increased flood water velocities or alterations in the
pattern of flood flow caused by the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction;
The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands or downstream to the injury of others;
The construction or alteration of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction is conducted in such manner as
to lessen the flooding danger;
Impacts to water supply and sanitation systems and the ability of these systems to prevent disease, contamination
and unsanitary conditions, and whether sanitation systems will be located to avoid surcharge during flooding;
The susceptibility of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction to flood damage and the effects of such
damage on the individual owner;
The importance of the services provided by the use, activity or artificial obstruction to the community;
The proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction will be reasonably safe from flooding;
The drainage at the site is adequate to reduce exposure to flood hazards;
The requirement of the facility for a water-front location;
The availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding for the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction;
The compatibility of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction with existing development and anticipated
development in the foreseeable future;
The permanence of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction;
The relationship of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction to any adopted growth policy or other plans
covering the project area;
The safety of access to property in times of flooding for ordinary and emergency services; and
Such other factors as are consistent with the purposes of this division, this chapter, the Montana Floodplain and
Floodway Management Act and the National Flood Insurance Program.
The floodplain permit must be issued in the name of the landowner on the floodplain permit application form. When a
floodplain permit is issued the landowner becomes the permittee and responsible party for all floodplain permit
requirements.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.220. - Floodplain permit conditions and requirements.
The floodplain administrator may attach conditions of approval to a floodplain permit to ensure compliance with this
division and may require reasonable mitigation of adverse impacts.
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The floodplain administrator may require the permittee to record a notice of decision of the floodplain permit in the office
Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder to notify successors in interest of the permit requirements and that such property is loc
a regulated flood hazard area.
Completion of the use, activity, or artificial obstruction authorized under the floodplain permit shall be limited to the
scope contained in the floodplain permit application and any conditions of floodplain permit approval.
The permittee shall submit a compliance report to the floodplain administrator within 30 days of project completion, or
other timeframe as may be specified by the floodplain administrator, that certifies that the permitted use, activity, or
artificial obstruction was completed in accordance with the approved permit. The compliance report shall include any
letters of map change approved by FEMA applicable to the project as well as applicable FEMA floodproofing certificates
and FEMA elevation certificates.
The permittee shall maintain the permitted use, activity, or artificial obstruction in compliance with the floodplain
permit.
The permitted use, activity, or artificial obstruction must be completed within one year from the date of floodplain
permit issuance, or a completion timeline identified in the floodplain permit application that is determined reasonable
by the floodplain administrator, whichever is later.
The floodplain administrator may require the permittee to provide periodic oversight by a professional engineer or
licensed architect and provide interim reports during the construction period.
The floodplain administrator may require the permittee to submit annual performance and maintenance reports for a
period of up to five years, or a time specified in the floodplain permit, for bank stabilization or stream restoration
projects utilizing vegetative components.
For uses, activities, and artificial obstructions in which a conditional letter of map revision has been approved by FEMA,
or for those projects in the regulatory floodway that floodplain administrator has determined under BMC section
38.600.210.E that a letter of map revision is required, the permittee shall prepare and submit a letter of map revision
application to FEMA, and applicable application fees, within six months of project completion and shall pursue the
application until FEMA issues approval. Failure to do so constitutes a violation of this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.230. - Extensions to oodplain permit approval period.
The permittee may request an extension of the duration of the floodplain permit approval. The extension request must
be made in writing not less than 30 days before the permit expiration date and present the reasons for which the
request is being made along with a description of work completed and work remaining. The floodplain administrator
may approve, conditionally approve, or deny the extension request. If a permittee requests an extension within 30 days
before the permit expiration date, the permittee must pay an additional floodplain permit application fee.
If the permittee makes an extension request after the permit has expired, the floodplain administrator may require the
permittee to file a new floodplain permit application for review and approval. The new floodplain permit application
must present the reasons for which the new application is being made along with a description of the work completed
and work remaining. The floodplain administrator may approve, conditionally approve, or deny the new floodplain
permit application.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.240. - Uses, activities, and arti cial obstructions within regulated ood hazard areas exempt from oodplain permitting, but
subject to BMC section 38.410.100.
Any use, activity, or artificial obstruction within the regulated flood hazard area established by BMC section
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38.600.110.A.3 is exempt from obtaining a floodplain permit, unless upon the discretion of the floodplain administrator
a floodplain permit is determined to be required.
The following open space uses, activities, and artificial obstructions shall be allowed in regulated flood hazard areas
without obtaining a floodplain permit, provided they are not prohibited by this chapter or state statute, do not require
buildings or structures, and do not require fill, grading, excavation, or storage of materials or equipment:
Agricultural uses such as tilling, farming, irrigation, ranching, harvesting, and grazing, but not including structures
related to agricultural uses;
Forestry uses, including processing of forest products with portable equipment;
Recreational vehicle use or storage, provided that the vehicle is on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days or
the vehicle is fully licensed and ready for highway use. A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its
wheels or jacking system with wheels intact, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security
devices, and has no permanently attached additions;
Residential uses such as lawns, gardens, and play areas;
Maintenance of existing open space uses that do not increase the flood hazard potential;
Preventive maintenance activities for transportation infrastructure such as bridge deck rehabilitation and roadway
pavement preservation activities that are not considered alterations;
Public or private recreational uses that do not include structures such as picnic grounds, swimming areas, parks, golf
courses, driving ranges, archery ranges, wildlife management and natural areas, alternative livestock ranches (game
farms), fish hatcheries, shooting preserves, target ranges, trap and skeet ranges, hunting and fishing areas, and
hiking and horseback riding trails;
Fences that have a low impact to the flow of water such as barbed wire fences and wood rail fences, except
permanent fences crossing channels. Fences that have the potential to stop or impede water flow or debris require a
floodplain permit;
Addition of roadway guardrail, signing and utility poles that have a low impact to the flow of water along an existing
roadway; and
Irrigation and livestock supply wells, provided that they are located at least 500 feet from domestic water supply
wells and the top of the well casing is 18 inches above the base flood elevation.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.250. - Uses, activities, and arti cial obstructions prohibited within regulated ood hazard areas.
The following uses, activities, and artificial obstructions are prohibited in the regulatory floodway:
New buildings and structures, including appurtenant or accessory buildings and structures, used for any purpose;
Uses, activities, or artificial obstructions, that cause water to be diverted from the regulatory floodway, cause
erosion, obstruct the natural flow of water, or reduce the carrying capacity of the floodway;
Construction or storage of artificial obstructions subject to flotation or movement during flood level periods;
Solid or hazardous waste disposal systems;
Onsite wastewater treatment systems;
Public and private campgrounds, and buried and sealed vaults for sewage disposal in campgrounds and recreational
areas;
Domestic water supply wells;
Storage of toxic, flammable, hazardous or explosive materials; and
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Mining or excavation of material from pits or pools not in connection with a channelization, streambank restoration, or
stabilization project.
The following uses, activities, and artificial obstructions are prohibited in the flood fringe:
Construction or storage of an artificial obstruction subject to flotation or movement during flood levels, if the
floodplain administrator determines the flotation or movement of the artificial obstruction would pose a risk to
public health, welfare, or safety;
Solid or hazardous waste disposal systems;
Onsite wastewater treatment systems;
Public and private campgrounds, and buried and sealed vaults for sewage disposal in campgrounds and recreational
areas;
Domestic water supply wells;
Storage of toxic, flammable, hazardous or explosive materials; and
Placement of fill to elevate land not otherwise performed in connection with a proposed development occurring
under chapter 38 or chapter 10.
The following uses, activities, and artificial obstructions are prohibited in regulated flood hazard areas without a
regulatory floodway and flood fringe:
Uses, activities and artificial obstructions prohibited by subsection B of this section; and
Any use, activity, or artificial obstruction that causes an increase of more than 0.50 feet to the base flood elevation.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.260. - Development requirements for uses, activities, and arti cial obstructions permitted in the regulatory oodway subject
to issuance of a oodplain permit and BMC section 38.410.100.
When a site specific exemption or relaxation of the standards of BMC section 38.410.100 allow utilization of a portion of
the regulated flood hazard area, the uses, activities and artificial obstructions contained in this section, including
alterations and substantial improvements to existing artificial obstructions, may be permitted in the regulatory floodway
subject to the issuance of a floodplain permit by the floodplain administrator.
All uses, activities and artificial obstructions permitted in the regulatory floodway shall be designed and constructed to
minimize flood damage and ensure they do not adversely affect the flood hazards of other properties or be swept
downstream to the injury of others.
The applicant must assure that all uses, activities and artificial obstructions do not reduce the carrying capacity of the
regulatory floodway by:
Providing a regulatory floodway encroachment analysis, prepared and certified by a professional engineer,
demonstrating that the use, activity, or artificial obstruction does not cause an increase to the existing base flood
elevation of more than 0.00 feet ("no-rise") and does not significantly increase the velocity of flow. Except as provided
in subsection C.1.a of this section, the no-rise analysis shall be prepared in accordance with FEMA guidance for no-
rise certifications for developments in regulatory floodways.
At the discretion of the floodplain administrator, a different approach to demonstrate and certify no-rise may be
allowed given the scope and nature of the proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction. The approach used
shall be acceptable to the floodplain administrator and be performed in accordance with standard engineering
practice.
Providing a conditional letter of map revision approved by FEMA, the application for which must first be supported
by the floodplain administrator and the DNRC subject to subsection C.2.a of this section, for any use, activity, or
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artificial obstruction that causes an increase to the existing base flood elevation of more than 0.00 feet, or
significantly increases the velocity or flow of the watercourse or drainway, or substantially alters the location of the
regulatory floodway.
A conditional letter of map revision is a prospective alteration of the regulated flood hazard area and is subject to
MCA 76-5-203. Alterations to the regulatory floodway must be designed and delineated so as to carry the waters
of the base flood without increasing the base flood elevation more than 0.50 feet at any point. Written support to
file a conditional letter of map revision application with FEMA shall be obtained from DNRC and the floodplain
administrator by the applicant providing the following information to DNRC and the floodplain administrator:
Certification that no buildings are located in areas impacted by increased base flood elevations;
Information demonstrating that alternative designs or approaches that do not cause an increase to the base
flood elevation are not feasible;
Any other information required by DNRC or the floodplain administrator to gain support for the filing of a
conditional letter of map revision application with FEMA.
Substantial improvement to existing buildings and alteration of existing structures may be permitted, provided that:
All applicable requirements in BMC section 38.600.270 are met;
The existing building or structure shall not be elevated by means of new or additional fill; and
An alteration to expand the horizontal dimensions of an existing building is not occurring.
Watercourse crossings for pedestrian and transportation facilities may be permitted, provided that:
Crossings shall be generally oriented as perpendicular to the direction of flow as practicable;
Footings for bridge piers and abutments shall be buried below the maximum calculated depth of scour during the
base flood discharge as calculated and certified by a professional engineer;
Where failure or interruption of public transportation facilities would result in danger to public health or safety, and
wherever practicable:
Bridge low chord elevations shall have at least two feet of freeboard above the base flood elevation;
Culverts shall be designed to pass the base flood discharge and provide at least two feet of freeboard to the
crossing surface; and
Except for those public bridges maintained by the Montana Department of Transportation, bridges for public
transportation facilities shall meet applicable design and construction standards established by Gallatin County by
authority of MCA 7-14-2204.
Limited filling for transportation facility embankments not in connection with watercourse crossings may be permitted,
provided that:
Fill placed is a suitable material for the transportation facilities;
Reasonable alternate transportation routes outside the regulatory floodway are not available; and
The floodway encroachment is located as far from the stream channel as possible.
Buried or suspended utility transmission and service lines may be permitted, provided that:
Suspended utility lines are designed such that the lowest point of the suspension is at least six feet higher than the
base flood elevation;
Towers, poles, and other appurtenant structures are designed and placed to withstand and offer minimal
obstruction to flood flows;
Alternatives routes, directional drilling, and aerial routes are considered when practicable; and
Utility transmission and service lines carrying toxic or flammable materials are buried to a depth of at least twice the
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maximum scour depth for the base flood discharge as calculated and certified by professional engineer.
Storage of materials and equipment not otherwise prohibited may be permitted, provided that:
The material or equipment is not subject to damage by flooding and is properly anchored to prevent flotation or
downstream movement; or
The material or equipment is readily removable within the limited time available after flood warning.
Construction or alteration of surface water diversion structures may be permitted, provided that:
Potential erosion from a base flood shall be minimized; and
A professional engineer shall design and certify that any permanent diversion structure in the watercourse or
drainway can withstand hydrodynamic, hydrostatic, buoyancy, and scour forces associated with the base flood
discharge as well as ice damage and debris impacts.
Construction or alteration of levees and floodwalls may be permitted, provided that:
A professional engineer shall design and certify that the levee or floodwall can withstand hydrodynamic, hydrostatic,
buoyancy, and scour forces associated with the base flood discharge as well as ice damage and debris impacts;
Materials used for construction are suitable materials designed to withstand the base flood discharge;
Constructed height shall be at least three feet higher than the base flood elevation;
All state and federal levee and floodwall engineering and construction standards are met; and
If the levee or floodwall protects structures of more than one landowner, it shall be publicly owned and maintained.
Streambank, pier and abutment stabilization or protection projects may be permitted, provided that:
A professional engineer shall design and certify that the project can withstand hydrodynamic, hydrostatic, buoyancy,
and scour forces associated with the base flood discharge;
Materials used and construction methods employed are the least environmentally damaging practicable for the
proposed application;
Vegetative components, if any, must be established and mature within five years of installation, or other timeframe
as may be required by the floodplain administrator, and once established and mature do not require substantial
yearly maintenance;
If materials for the project are designed to biodegrade or erode over time they shall not fail catastrophically to the
impact of others and the design amount and rate of erosion shall be similar to what existing stable natural
streambanks experience during the base flood discharge; and
Potential erosion upstream, downstream, across from or adjacent to the project site during the base flood discharge
shall not be increased beyond the erosion rate of existing stable natural streambanks.
Channelization projects may be permitted, provided that:
The requirements of subsection K of this section shall be met; and
The excavation and construction of the stream channel is for the purpose of altering or relocating a watercourse or
drainway and diverting the entire flow of the stream, or a portion thereof, from its presently established course and
shall accommodate and not increase the magnitude or velocity of the base flood discharge;
A conditional letter of map revision must be approved by FEMA pursuant to subsection C.2 of this section.
Stream and bank restoration projects may be permitted, provided that:
The intent of the project is to reestablish the terrestrial and aquatic attributes of a natural stream and is not for the
protection of a structure or a streambank stabilization project; and
The requirements of subsections K and L of this section are satisfied, except for the requirement to obtain a
conditional letter of map revision, which may not be required in all instances depending upon the extent and nature
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of the stream or bank restoration project.
Dams may be permitted, provided that:
Design and construction shall be in accordance with the Montana Dam Safety Act, MCA 85-15-101 et seq.;
The project shall not increase the flood hazards downstream either through operational procedures or improper
hydrologic or hydraulic design; and
A conditional letter of map revision must be approved by FEMA pursuant to subsection C.2 of this section.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.270. - Development requirements for uses, activities and arti cial obstructions permitted in the ood fringe subject to
issuance of a oodplain permit and BMC section 38.410.100.
When a site specific exemption or relaxation of the standards of BMC section 38.41.100 allow utilization of a portion of
the regulated flood hazard area, the uses, activities and artificial obstructions contained in this section, including
alterations and substantial improvements to artificial obstructions, may be permitted in the flood fringe subject to
issuance of floodplain permit.
All uses, activities, and artificial obstructions permitted in the regulatory floodway pursuant to BMC section 38.600.260
may also be permitted in the flood fringe subject to issuance of a floodplain permit by the floodplain administrator.
The requirements of this section shall also apply to uses, activities and artificial obstructions located in a regulated flood
hazard area without a regulatory floodway and flood fringe, subject to:
An encroachment analysis shall be prepared and certified by a professional engineer demonstrating that the use,
activity, or artificial obstruction in the regulated flood hazard area does not increase the identified base flood
elevation more than 0.5 feet and does not significantly increase flood velocities or alter flood hazards to the
detriment of upstream, downstream, or adjacent properties.
The new construction, alteration, and substantial improvement of residential and non-residential buildings and
structures may be permitted, provided that:
Such buildings and structures shall conform to the requirements of this chapter and chapter 10 and are not
prohibited by any other statute, regulation, ordinance or resolution;
Such buildings and structures are compatible with local growth policies;
Such buildings and structures are constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage, and are
reasonably safe from flooding and anchored to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement;
Grading around such buildings and structures is provided with adequate surface drainage;
All materials used for construction are resistant to flooding to an elevation at least two feet above the base flood
elevation;
New construction, alteration, and substantial improvement of residential buildings and structures, including
manufactured homes, shall be elevated so that the lowest floor is at least two feet above the base flood elevation by
any of the following means:
On suitable structural fill, foundation wall enclosure, stem walls, pilings, posts, piers, columns or other
acceptable means.
If elevated on suitable structural fill, the fill must be extended at an elevation no lower than the base flood
elevation for a minimum distance of 15 feet in all directions beyond the foundation walls, unless physical
constraints exist that make strict compliance impracticable and the floodplain administrator approves a lesser
distance, and be certified by a professional engineer to meet the following:
Fill material must be suitable for its intended purpose and be clean, well graded, pervious, not adversely
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affected by water and frost, devoid of trash or similar foreign matter, and free of tree stumps or other
organic material;
Fill material must be compacted to 95 percent of its maximum density as determined by standard proctor
testing in accordance with ASTM D698 standards;
Fill must not be placed within the regulatory floodway; and
Fill slope must be less than 1.5:1 unless physical constraints exist, in which case a retaining wall is allowed if
the wall is adequately protected from erosion;
For new placement, substantial improvement, or replacement of manufactured homes, including those used for non-
residential purposes, the building chassis shall be secure and resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement by
anchoring with components capable of carrying a force of 4,800 pounds in addition to the following:
For manufactured homes less than 50 feet long, over-the-top ties to ground anchors shall be provided at each of
the four corners of the building, with two additional ties provided per side at intermediate locations; or
For manufactured homes more than 50 feet long, frame ties to ground anchors shall be provided at each corner
of the building, with five additional ties per side provided at intermediate points;
Non-residential buildings and structures shall be elevated so that the lowest floor is at least two feet above the base
flood elevation in accordance with requirements of subsection D.6 of this section or shall be certified by a
professional engineer or registered architect to be adequately floodproofed in accordance with the following:
The lowest floor of the building or structure must be adequately wet or dry floodproofed to an elevation at least
two feet above the base flood elevation;
The building or structure shall be designed to withstand hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyancy forces of the
base flood;
Wet floodproofing is only permitted when the lowest floor of a building or structure is used for parking, loading,
or storage of equipment or materials not appreciably affected by floodwater;
Wet floodproofing must provide adequate openings to equalize hydrostatic forces; and
Dry floodproofing must not allow floodwaters to cause internal flooding of the building or structure by using
impermeable membranes and materials for construction of floors and walls, and must ensure that all windows,
doors and other openings are watertight and do not allow the passage of floodwaters;
Except as provided in subsection D.9.a of this section, appurtenant or accessory buildings and structures for
residential, non-residential, and agricultural purposes shall be elevated or floodproofed to an elevation at or above
the base flood elevation and be adequately anchored to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement. Means of
elevating or floodproofing shall be in accordance with subsections D.6 and D.8 of this section;
Attached and detached garage structures used exclusively for parking or storage of equipment and materials not
appreciably affected by floodwater shall be elevated in accordance with subsection D.6 of this section;
The floor elevation of any crawlspace foundation enclosures, including subgrade crawlspaces with a floor elevation
no more than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade of the building on all sides, shall be at or above the base
flood elevation and contain flood openings designed and certified by a professional engineer to meet or exceed the
following:
Equalize hydrostatic forces on foundation walls by allowing the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters through
screens, louvers, valves, or other covers or devices;
Have two or more openings with a total net area of not less than one square inch for every one square foot of
enclosed area below the lowest floor;
Openings shall be located on a minimum of two walls, except for subgrade crawlspace enclosures where a
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minimum of two openings may be provided on a single wall; and
The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above the higher of the exterior adjacent grade
elevation or the crawlspace floor elevation;
Basements are considered the lowest floor of a building and shall be elevated two feet or more above the base flood
elevation. A basement includes any floor that is more than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade of the building
on all sides;
All electrical systems shall be certified by a professional engineer to satisfy all applicable flood hazard area provisions
of the current adopted building codes set forth in chapter 10 along with the following requirements. If conflicts exist
between this division and chapter 10, then chapter 10 requirements shall govern;
All incoming power service equipment including all metering equipment, control centers, transformers,
distribution and lighting panels, and all other stationary equipment shall be located at least two feet above the
base flood elevation;
Portable and movable electrical equipment may be placed below the base flood elevation, provided that the
equipment can be disconnected by a single plug and socket assembly of the submersible type;
The main power service lines must have automatically operated electrical disconnect equipment or manually
operated electrical disconnect equipment located at an accessible remote location outside the regulated flood
hazard area or shall be two feet above the base flood elevation; and
All electrical wiring systems installed below the base flood elevation shall be suitable for continuous
submergence and may not contain fibrous components;
All mechanical systems shall be certified by a professional engineer to satisfy all applicable flood hazard area
provisions of the current adopted building codes set forth in chapter 10 along with the following requirements. If
conflicts exist between this division and chapter 10, then chapter 10 requirements shall govern;
Float operated automatic control valves shall be installed so that fuel supply is automatically shut off when flood
waters reach the floor level where mechanical systems are located;
Manually operated gate valves shall be installed on gas supply lines. The gate valves shall be operable from a
location above the base flood elevation;
Electrical components of the HVAC systems shall meet the requirements of subsection D.12 of this section; and
Furnaces, cooling units, and all associated ductwork shall be installed at least two feet above the base flood
elevation;
All plumbing systems shall be certified by a professional engineer to satisfy all applicable flood hazard area
provisions of the current building codes set forth in chapter 10 along with the following requirements. If conflicts
exist between this division and chapter 10, then chapter 10 requirements shall govern:
The building sewer line shall have a backwater valve installed to prevent sewage backup into the building; and
All toilets, stools, sinks, urinals, vaults, and drains shall be located so the lowest point of possible flood water
entry is at least two feet above the base flood elevation.
Recreational vehicles may be permitted, provided that:
Recreational vehicles that are on site for more than 180 days out of the year, or are not ready for highway use, shall
meet the manufactured home requirements in subsections D.6 and D.7 of this section.
Mining or excavation of material from pits or pools provided that:
A buffer strip of undisturbed land of sufficient width to prevent the base flood from channeling into the mine or
excavation is left between the edge of the channel and the edge of the mine or excavation;
The mine or excavation meets all applicable laws and regulation of other local and state agencies; and
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Mined or excavated material is stockpiled outside of the regulatory floodway.
All other uses, activities and artificial obstructions not otherwise prohibited by BMC section 38.600.250.B or any other
provision of chapter 38 may be permitted in the flood fringe subject to issuance of a floodplain permit.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.280. - Waiver of oodplain permit requirements prior to undertaking emergency repair or replacement or temporary
protective measures.
This division is not intended to prevent a person or entity from taking temporary protective measures necessary to
safeguard life, buildings, or structures during periods of flooding emergency. A person or entity shall make a reasonable
effort to notify the floodplain administrator prior to initiating such temporary protective measures within the regulated
flood hazard area. If prior notice is not practical, a person or entity shall provide notice to the floodplain administrator in
all cases no later than five days after the temporary protective measure was undertaken. Temporary protective
measures shall not be located in the channel of the regulatory floodway or increase the flood hazard to others, and shall
be entirely removed upon cessation of the flooding emergency.
Emergency repair and replacement of severely damaged public transportation facilities, public water and sewer facilities,
public utility electricity and natural gas distribution facilities, and flood control works may be authorized and floodplain
permit requirements waived prior to undertaking such emergency work if:
Upon notification and prior to emergency repair and/or replacement, the floodplain administrator determines that
an emergency condition exists warranting immediate action; and
The floodplain administrator agrees upon the nature and type of proposed emergency repair and/or replacement.
Authorization to undertake such emergency repair and replacement work may be given orally if the floodplain
administrator believes that a written authorization would unduly delay the emergency works. Such oral authorization
must be followed by a written authorization describing the emergency condition, the type of emergency work agreed
upon, and a statement that oral authorization had been previously given.
Nothing in this section impairs or abrogates the authority of the floodplain administrator from requiring a floodplain
permit be obtained retroactively by a person or entity undertaking emergency repair, replacement, or temporary
protective measures upon cessation of the emergency conditions that gave rise to the emergency repair, replacement,
or temporary protective measures. The floodplain administrator may require the permittee to complete remedial work
or activities necessary to achieve compliance with this division.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.290. - Variances.
A variance from the minimum requirements of this division may be authorized as set forth in this section and division
38.250 of this chapter. The granting of a variance by the review authority authorizes the floodplain administrator to issue
a floodplain permit that otherwise would conflict with the minimum requirements of this division. In no case may the
review authority authorize a variance from a use, activity, or artificial obstruction prohibited by state or federal law.
In addition to submittal materials for variances set forth in BMC section 38.220.160, a variance from the minimum
requirements of this division shall be accompanied by a floodplain permit application deemed acceptable by the
floodplain administrator pursuant to BMC section 38.600.190, and be noticed publicly pursuant to Table 38.220.420.
Variances may be issued for the repair, rehabilitation or substantial improvement of a structure designated as historic by
the U.S. Secretary of Interior or an approved state or local government historic preservation program upon a
determination that the proposed repair, rehabilitation or substantial improvement will not preclude the continued
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designation of the structure as a historic structure and the variance is the minimum necessary to preserve the historic
character and design of the structure.
Variances from this division shall conform to 44 CFR 60.6(a) and ARM 36.15.218.
The floodplain administrator must maintain records of variance notifications and actions, including justifications for
variance issuance, and forward all variance actions to the DNRC and FEMA upon disposition.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.300. - Appeals.
Appeals from administrative project decisions or administrative interpretations made under this division may be taken
as set forth in division 38.250 of this chapter. Appeal submittal materials applicable under division 38.220 shall be
provided.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.600.310. - Enforcement.
It is the intent to provide for the efficient, reasonable, and impartial enforcement of this division through the floodplain
administrator and to set forth the basic procedures for compliance with, and remedies for, violations of this division.
Any person may file a complaint with the floodplain administrator whenever a violation of this division is alleged to have
occurred.
The complaint must be provided to the floodplain administrator in writing, state fully the facts supporting it, and
signed by the complainant. If the complaint is filed by three titleholders of land which may be affected by the alleged
violation, the floodplain administrator must perform an investigation to determine whether a violation of this
division has occurred. The names and addresses of the complainants are a matter of public record.
The floodplain administrator may make reasonable entry upon any lands and waters for the purpose of making an
investigation, inspection or survey to verify compliance with this division and may do so upon the floodplain
administrator's own initiative if the floodplain administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe a violation under this
division has occurred.
The floodplain administrator must give notice of entry by mail, electronic mail, phone call, or personal delivery to the
owner, owner's agent, lessee, or lessee's agent on whose lands entry is requested.
If none of these persons can be found, the floodplain administrator must affix notice to one or more conspicuous
places on the property.
After an investigation, the floodplain administrator must provide notice to any person or entity believed to be
responsible for a violation of this division of such violation and must bring any violation to the attention of the local
governing body, its legal counsel, and the DNRC.
The notice of violation may be in the name of the city and may order the cessation of the violation and require that a
corrective action plan be provided within a period of time deemed reasonable by the floodplain administrator.
Such notice of violation must be sent by mail or other means and is subject to appeal pursuant to BMC section
38.600.300.
Failure to comply with a cessation order or requirement for corrective action is cause for the city to initiate any legal
remedy it may have including but not limited to those remedies established in BMC sections 38.200.160 and
1.01.210.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
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Sec. 38.600.320. - Penalty.
Violation of the provisions of this division or failure to comply with the requirements of a floodplain permit are subject to
the provisions of BMC sections 38.200.160 and 1.01.210.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 1, 3-9-2021)
DIVISION 38.610. - WETLAND REGULATIONS
Sec. 38.610.010. - Title and applicability.
These regulations are known as the city wetland regulations and may be cited as the wetlands regulations. These wetland
regulations govern areas in compliance with the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual of the U.S. (1987
Corps Manual), or the most current wetland delineation manual sanctioned by the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE)-Omaha District.
This manual provides specific guidelines and methods to identify whether an area is a wetland and to determine the boundary
between wetlands and uplands. The city's wetland regulations will pertain to wetlands with a direct hydrologic connection to
"waters of the U.S." (those wetlands that connect to a federally-regulated stream or river directly or via a series or watercourse,
wetlands or ditches), and also to isolated wetlands with no direct connection to a water of the U.S. and exhibit positive wetland
indicators for all three wetland parameters. The provisions contained in these regulations do not apply to wetlands created by a
wholly manmade water source used for irrigation purposes or stormwater control.
Sec. 38.610.020. - Intent and purpose.
Wetlands perform many important ecological functions. It is the intent and purpose of this division 38.610 to protect,
preserve and enhance wetlands to provide:
Aquifer recharge;
Water storage;
Regional stream hydrology (discharge and recharge);
Flood control and storage;
Sediment control (filter for waste);
Nutrient removal from urban runoff; and
Erosion control.
Wetlands provide important values that enhance the quality of life of community residents. It is the intent of this division
38.610 to protect, preserve and enhance wetlands to provide:
Habitat for fish, wildlife and plants (including endangered and threatened);
Recreation;
Open space;
Visual and aesthetic;
Education and research; and
Historical, cultural and archaeological resources.
Wetlands can present significant constraints to development. Wetlands typically form in areas characterized by poor
drainage conditions which are ill-suited for most types of development. Development in these areas often involves extra
expense resulting from considerations for site drainage, flood protection and facility maintenance. In addition, wetlands
are characterized by hydric soils that are unstable for most types of development. Hydric soils tend to compress under
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the weight of structures and decompose when drained. Therefore, costs of development may be greater due to complex
engineering design requirements, or the need to excavate and replace the soils. It is the intent of these regulations to
protect public and private facilities and structures from damage, and to minimize public and private development and
maintenance costs.
It is not the intent of this division 38.610 to prohibit all activities within regulated areas and associated buffers, but
rather to encourage the avoidance of regulated activities within the regulated areas and to require best management
practices in regulated areas.
Nothing in this division 38.610 will be construed to prevent irrigation companies from diverting and carrying water under
historic water rights or owners of such rights from exercising those historic rights.
Nothing in this division 38.610 will be construed to prevent compliance with applicable state or federal statutes and
regulations.
Sec. 38.610.030. - Application of wetland regulations.
These regulations apply to any regulated activity which may impact wetlands as defined in section 38.700 known prior to
or discovered through the development review process, and verified through a site-specific wetlands boundary
determination. When any regulated activity is proposed a wetlands boundary determination must be conducted. If the
determination finds that there are no wetlands present on the subject tract, these regulations do not apply. If, however,
wetlands are found on the subject tract the proposal is subject to these regulations. The provisions of this division
38.610 will be applied in addition to any other applicable regulations of this chapter.
The wetlands boundary determination must be prepared in accordance with the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Wetland Delineation Manual of the U.S. (1987 Corps Manual), or the most current wetland delineation manual
sanctioned by the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE)-Omaha District by a qualified wetland professional.
A qualified wetland professional is an individual with a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a water resource related
field, five years' experience, and/or a professional wetland scientist certification.
Isolated wetlands with a size of less than 400 square feet, regardless of property boundaries, are exempt from this
division 38.610 unless the wetland provides habitat for the following species:
Plant, animal or other wildlife species listed as threatened or endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service; and/or
Plant, animal or other wildlife species listed as a species of concern, species of potential concern, or species on
review by the state department of fish, wildlife and parks and the state natural heritage program.
Any development for which the watercourse setback requirements of section 38.410.100 are provided is considered to
have addressed the concerns of this division 38.610 and is exempt from this article.
This division 38.610 is not intended to repeal, abrogate, supersede or impair any existing federal, state, or local law,
easement, covenant or deed restriction. However, if this division imposes greater or more stringent restrictions, the
provisions of this division must prevail. Specifically, if a regulated activity pursuant to this division also requires
authorization under section 404 of the Clean Water Act from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the applicant must meet
any greater or more stringent restrictions set forth in this division in addition to and independent of the restrictions of
such permit.
Sec. 38.610.040. - Wetlands review board powers and duties.
If established, the WRB has the powers and duties established in 2.05.2900.
Sec. 38.610.050. - Wetlands determinations.
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Wetland boundary determinations must be performed in accordance with the procedures specified in the Federal Manual f
Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands (January 1987).
An electronic and printed document containing the wetland boundary determination and raw survey data (if applicable)
must be provided per part 1 of division 38.220. The data must be reported in UTM Zone 12 coordinates and NAD83
datum.
Sec. 38.610.060. - Regulated activities.
No person may conduct any of the following regulated activities within a wetland, as described in section 38.610.030,
without first having the proposed activity approved by the review authority. Any activity which reduces the size of a
wetland or reduces the degree to which a wetland performs any function is subject to the requirements of this division
38.610. Such activities include but are not limited to:
Placement of any material, including without limitation any soil, sand, gravel, mineral, aggregate, organic material or
water;
Construction, installation or placement of any obstruction or the erection of a building, trail, boardwalk or other
structure;
Removal, excavation or dredging of solid material of any kind, including without limitation any soil, sand, gravel,
mineral, aggregate or organic material;
Removal of any existing vegetation or any activity which will cause any loss of vegetation in a wetland;
Alteration of the water level or water table by any means, including without limitation draining, ditching, trenching,
impounding or pumping; and
Disturbance of existing surface drainage characteristics, sedimentation patterns, flow patterns, or flood retention
characteristics by any means, including without limitation grading and alteration of existing topography.
The following activities are permissible in a wetland, without prior approval by the review authority, if such activity does
not reduce the size of a wetland or significantly reduce the degree to which a wetland performs any function. Such
activity must be in compliance with any other applicable state or federal law. Activities permissible without prior
approval include:
Maintenance of an existing and lawful public or private road, structure or facility, including but not limited to
drainage facilities, water conveyance structures, dams, fences or trails, or any facility used to provide transportation,
electric, gas, water, telephone, telecommunications or other services provided that these activities do not materially
change or enlarge any road, structure or facility;
Maintenance of an existing farm or stock pond, water conveyance structure, agricultural fence or drainage system;
Weed control consistent with a Noxious Weed Management and Revegetation Plan approved by the county weed
control district;
Continuation of existing agricultural practices such as the cultivation and harvesting of hay or pasturing of livestock,
or change of agricultural practices which has no greater impact on wetland function;
Conservation or preservation of soil, water, vegetation, fish and other wildlife;
Outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing, bird watching, hiking, rafting and swimming which do not harm or
disturb the wetland;
The harvesting of wild crops;
Education and scientific research;
Minor improvements and landscape maintenance outside a wetland but within a previously established wetland
buffer, including but not limited to the pruning of trees, mowing of grass, and removal of dead vegetation and
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debris; and
Activities in a wetland previously approved pursuant a wetland permit, including but not limited to removal of debris
and maintenance of vegetation and wildlife habitat.
Sec. 38.610.070. - Application requirements and procedures for activities in wetland areas.
Review. All proposals for regulated activities in wetlands areas must be reviewed by the review authority. The applicant
must prepare a functional assessment for all wetlands. Based on the functional assessment and other submittal
materials, the review authority may request the WRB, if established, forward a recommendation of approval, conditional
approval or denial to the review authority.
Decision. All proposals for regulated activities in regulated wetland areas must be reviewed and approved, conditionally
approved, or denied by the review authority in accordance with articles 240, 230 and 430 of this chapter prior to
commencement of the regulated activity.
If a regulated activity is proposed for a regulated wetland area, but the regulated activity is not proposed in
conjunction with a land development proposal, the applicant must submit a sketch plan application for decision by
the review authority.
Submittal materials. The information required in section 38.220.130 must be submitted for all regulated activities
proposed for regulated wetland areas.
Noticing. The review of regulated activities proposed for regulated wetland areas must comply with the noticing
requirements of division 38.220 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.610.080. - Review standards.
The review authority may approve, conditionally approve or deny a regulated activity in a regulated wetland if:
The applicant has demonstrated that all adverse impacts on a wetland have been avoided; or
The applicant has demonstrated that any adverse impact on a wetland has been minimized; the activity will result in
minimal impact or impairment to any wetland function and the activity will not result in an adverse modification of
habitats for, or jeopardize the continued existence of, the following:
Plant, animal or other wildlife species listed as threatened or endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service; and/or
Plant, animal or other wildlife species listed as a species of concern, species of potential concern, or species on
review by the state department of fish, wildlife and parks and the state natural heritage program; or
The applicant has demonstrated that the project is in the public interest, having considered and documented:
The extent of the public need for the proposed regulated activity;
The functions and values as determined by a state accepted method of functional assessment of the wetland
that may be affected by the proposed regulated activity;
The extent and permanence of the adverse effects of the regulated activity on the wetland and any associated
watercourse;
The cumulative adverse effects of past activities on the wetland; and
The uniqueness or scarcity of the wetland that may be affected.
Sec. 38.610.090. - Wetland permit conditions.
The review authority may recommend conditions of approval for proposed regulated activities, and the city may
conditionally approve proposed regulated activities, subject to the following conditions:
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Requiring the provision of a wetland buffer of a size appropriate for the particular proposed activity and the particular r
wetland area;
Requiring that structures be appropriately supported and elevated and otherwise protected against natural hazards;
Modifying waste disposal and water supply facilities;
Requiring deed restrictions or covenants regarding the future use and subdivision of lands, including but not limited
to the preservation of undeveloped areas as open space and restrictions on vegetation removal;
Restricting the use of an area, which may be greater than the regulated wetland area;
Requiring erosion control and stormwater management measures;
Clustering structures or development;
Restricting fill, deposit of soil and other activities which may be detrimental to a wetland;
Modifying the project design to ensure continued water supply to the regulated wetland;
Requiring or restricting maintenance of a regulated wetland area for the purpose of maintaining wetland functions;
Requiring a yearly mitigation monitoring report to be submitted to the review authority on a yearly basis, with the
due date to be determined on a case-by-case basis;
Requiring a deed restriction to be filed with the county clerk stating the measures that will be taken to protect all
water resources, mitigation, and buffer areas in perpetuity;
Requiring that all reasonable effort has been made to limit indirect impacts to vegetation, faunal interspersion and
connectivity, and hydrological connectivity in the site design (e.g., any structures, boardwalks, viewing platforms, or
bridges, which are constructed within wetlands will have at least a two-foot space between the bottom chord of the
structure and the wetland surface elevation to limit shading impacts and allow wetland vegetation to persist); and
Requiring conditions that mitigate locally-regulated (wetlands not connected to a water of the U.S.) infringement
upon watercourses, buffers, or negative indirect or direct effects on the functionality of wetlands, watercourses or
buffers.
Sec. 38.610.100. - Appeals.
Depending upon the application procedure involved, decisions related to the approval or denial of regulated activities proposed
for regulated wetland areas may be appealed in accordance with the provisions of division 38.250 of this chapter.
Sec. 38.610.110. - Enforcement.
This division 38.610 will be enforced in accordance with the provisions contained in division 38.200 of this chapter.
ARTICLE 7. - DEFINITIONS
DIVISION 38.700. - TERMS AND INTERPRETATION
Sec. 38.700.010. - De nition of terms and interpretation of language.
Terms specifically defined in regulations issued by the department of justice and the department of transportation to
implement the Americans with Disabilities Act or in referenced standards have those meanings. Otherwise, all words in
this chapter must be first defined as provided in this division 38.700 and, if not defined herein, must be defined as in the
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B.
C.
latest edition of "The Illustrated Book of Development Definitions" by Harvey S. Moskowitz and Carl G. Lindbloom, and if
not defined in "The Illustrated Book of Development Definitions," have their customary dictionary definitions as defined
in collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.
Words used in the present tense include the future tense; words used in the singular include the plural, and words used
in the plural include the singular; the word "must" is always mandatory, the word "person" includes a firm, association,
organization, partnership, trust, corporation or company, as well as an individual; the word "lot" includes the words
"plot" or "parcel"; the word "building" includes the word "structure"; the words "used" or "occupied," as applied to any
land or building, is construed to include the word "intended, arranged, or designed to be used or occupied"; the words
"map" or "zoning map" mean the zoning map of the city that delineate the area to be governed by these regulations.
For the purposes of this chapter certain words and terms used herein are defined as follows:
Sec. 38.700.020. - A de nitions.
Access or access way. The place, means or way by which pedestrians and vehicles have adequate and usable ingress and egress
to property or use as required by this chapter.
Accessory building or use. A subordinate building, or portion of the principal building, located on the same lot as the principal
building, or a subordinate use of land, either of which is customarily incidental to the principal building or to the principal use of
land. Individual public utility installations above ground are considered accessory buildings.
Activity. A thing that a person or group does or has done.
Adaptive reuse. The development of a new use for an older building or for a building originally designed for a special or specific
purpose.
Administrative design review (ADR) staff. Certain members of the planning staff charged with the design review, as defined in
this division 38.700, of certain plans and proposals as specified in this chapter. The organization, composition and procedures of
the administrative design review staff are subject to the requirements of division 38.200 of this chapter.
Adult business. An establishment which advertises, trades, exchanges, transfers, sells, presents, shows, offers or exhibits
materials, activities, reproductions, likenesses, services and/or objects defined as obscene by MCA 45-8-201(2). Adult business as
defined in this section include, but are not limited to, adult bookstores, adult motion picture theaters, rap studios, massage parlors,
exotic dance studios, nude art studios, nude photographic studios and nude body painting studios.
Affordable housing. Housing for persons earning less than 65 percent of the area's annual median income for rental housing
and 100 percent of the area's annual median income for purchased housing. Further, affordable housing does not require greater
than 33 percent of the household gross annual median income for housing. Annual median income is defined by the Department
of Housing and Urban Development.
Aggrieved person. A person, as defined in this division 38.700, who has a specific, personal and legal interest in the final decision
of an agency, board or commission, as distinguished from a general interest such as is the concern of all members of the
community, and which interest would be specifically and personally prejudiced by the decision or benefited by its reversal.
Agricultural. The cultivation or tilling of soil or use of other growing medium for the purpose of producing vegetative materials
for sale or for use in a commercial operation and/or the raising or tending of animals for commercial sale or use. Agriculture does
not include gardening for personal use, keeping of house pets or animals as authorized under chapter 8, service animals as defined
by the Americans with Disabilities Act, or landscaping for aesthetic purposes.
Agricultural water user facility. Those facilities, which include but are not limited to ditches, pipes, and other water-conveying
facilities, which provide water for irrigation and stock watering on agricultural lands, with said lands being defined in MCA 15-7-202.
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Alley. A permanent public thoroughfare providing a secondary means of access to abutting lands connecting two right-of-way
streets.
Aliquot part. An equal division of a government section in quarters as described by the Manual for the Survey of the Public
Lands of the United States.
Alteration. Any act or process, except repair and light construction as defined herein, that changes one or more of the
architectural features of a structure or site, including, but not limited to, the erection, construction, reconstruction, relocation of, or
addition to a structure. The term "alteration" may apply to any act or process that changes the interior architectural features of that
portion of a public or private property commonly frequented by the general public, provided said public or private property is
located within a designated historic district or listed individually on the National Register of Historic Places. However, changes upon
interior elements of private residences, regardless of their location or historic status, are not considered alterations as defined in
this section. The term "alteration" further means any change or addition to a building within a regulated flood hazard area that
either increases its exterior horizontal dimensions or increases its potential flood hazard; or means revisions or updates to a DNRC
designated floodplain or floodway established by MCA 76-5-101 et seq.
Animated sign. A sign depicting action, motion, light, or color change, or that change the sign displayed through electrical or
mechanical means. Excludes those signs defined as revolving signs.
Antenna. One or more rods, panels, discs or similar devices used for the transmission or reception of radio frequency signals,
which may include omnidirectional antenna (rod), directional antenna (panel) and parabolic antenna (disc).
Apartment. A habitable room or suite of two or more habitable rooms meeting the requirements of the city's adopted
International Building Code, located in an apartment building or used for residential purposes in non-residential buildings located
within non-residential districts, as specified in this chapter. An efficiency unit is as an apartment under this definition. Townhouses
and rowhouses are excluded from this definition.
Apartment building. A building other than a hotel, motel, townhouse, or rowhouse containing five or more dwelling units.
Appellant. An aggrieved person who has appealed the decision of an agency, board or commission to another body designated
herein by the filing of a notice of appeal.
Applicable non-discrimination laws. The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504
of the Rehabilitation Act, the Montana Human Rights Act, and the Montana Governmental Code of Fair Practices.
Applicant. The person who, or organization which, submitted the application to the agency, board or commission for approval,
or the person who, or organization which, submitted the application to the agency, board or commission whose decision has been
appealed.
Appurtenant structure. A structure in which the use is incidental or accessory to a principal use.
Architectural appearance. The architectural character and general composition of a structure, including, but not limited to, the
kind and texture of the building's materials and the type, design and character of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs and
appurtenant exterior elements; and, interior architectural detail including, but not limited to, floors, fixtures, hardware,
ornamentation and other elements that contribute to the building's architectural or historical significance.
Area of signs. The area of a sign that is computed by enclosing the entire area within any type of perimeter or border which may
enclose the outer limits of any writing, representation, emblem, figure or character together with any other material or color
forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate such sign from a building on which it is placed. The area of a sign
having no such perimeter is computed by enclosing the entire area within parallelograms, triangles, or circles in a size sufficient to
cover the entire area of the sign copy and computing the size of such area. In the case of a two-sided sign, the area is computed as
including only the maximum single display surface which is visible from any ground position at one time. If the angle between the
two sign faces is greater than 45 degrees, the sign area will be the sum of the areas of the two faces. The supports or uprights on
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which any sign is supported are not included in determining the sign area unless such supports or uprights are designed in such a
manner as to form an integral background of the sign. In the case of any spherical, conical, or cylindrical sign, one-half of the total
surface area is computed as the area of the sign.
Figure 38.700.020.
Area of signs.
Area of special flood hazard. The land in the floodplain within the community subject to inundation by a one percent or greater
chance of flooding in any given year, i.e., the 100-year floodplain.
Articulation. The giving of emphasis to architectural elements (like windows, balconies, entries, etc.) that create a
complementary pattern or rhythm, dividing large buildings into smaller identifiable pieces. See section 38.530.040 for articulation
standards.
Articulation interval. The measure of articulation; the distance before architectural elements repeat. See section 38.530.040 for
articulation standards.
Artificial obstruction/development. Any obstruction which is not natural and includes any dam, diversion, wall, bank stabilization
method, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment, projection, revetment, excavation, channel rectification, road, bridge, conduit,
culvert, building, refuse, automobile body, fill or other analogous structure or matter in, along, across or projecting into any
regulated flood hazard area that may impede, retard or alter the pattern of flow of water, either in itself or by catching or collecting
debris carried by the water, or that is placed where the natural flow of water would carry the same downstream to the damage or
detriment of either life or property.
Arts center and/or entertainment center. A structure or facility for the presentation of the performing arts, including indoor
motion picture theaters; theaters for live performances; indoor concert halls; and studios for arts education, such as dance or
painting. Also includes entertainment activities such as arcades; bowling alleys or pool halls. The term "arts and entertainment
center" does not include any business meeting the definition of adult business as defined by this chapter.
Automobile fuel sales or repair. The use of a site for the direct sale of fuel to the end user, or for the repair of automobiles, non-
commercial trucks, motorcycles, motor homes, recreational vehicles or boats. The term "automobile fuel sales or repair" includes
the sale and on-site installation of parts, wheel and brake shops, body and fender shops, and similar repair and service activities,
but excludes dismantling or salvage.
Automobile reduction yard. Any area of land where two or more motor vehicles not in running condition and/or two or more
unlicensed motor vehicles, or parts thereof, are stored in the open and are not being restored to operation; or any land, building or
structure used for the wrecking, dismantling, storage or abandonment of motor vehicles or parts thereof.
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Automobile washing establishment. A building which has its primary purpose as washing automobiles. Such facilities are
considered incidental to automobile service stations if not more than one auto may be washed at one time and if the service
station is clearly the principal use.
Awning. A roof-like structure, which is generally composed of a skeletal frame, covered in a fabric or other skin-type material,
and typically opens on the bottom side, which projects beyond a building or extending along and projecting beyond the wall of the
building. For the purposes of this chapter a sign on an awning is considered to be a wall sign.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.030. - B de nitions.
Banner. Any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is permanently mounted to a pole or a building by a permanent
frame at one or more edges. A single one of each national, state or municipal flags, or the official flag of any institution or business
are not considered banners.
Base flood. A flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. A base flood is the same as a
100-year flood.
Base flood discharge. The flowrate of a flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
Base flood elevation. The elevation above sea level of the base flood in relation to the vertical datum used in a FEMA flood
insurance study or a flood hazard evaluation.
Basement. A portion of a building located partly underground but having not less than half its floor-to-ceiling height below the
average grade of the adjoining ground. For purposes of division 38.600, a basement includes any floor elevation that is more than
two feet below the lowest adjacent grade of a building on all sides.
Figure 38.700.030-1.
Basement.
Beacon. Any light with one or more beams directed into the atmosphere or directed at one or more points not on the same
zone lot as the light source; also, any light with one or more beams that rotate or move.
Bed and breakfast. A single-household dwelling which remains owner-occupied at all times providing one or more guest rooms
for compensation, and where food service is limited to breakfast which may be served to overnight guests only.
Blank wall. A ground floor wall or portion of a ground floor wall over ten feet in height has a horizontal length greater than 20
feet and does not include a transparent window or door. See section 38.530.070.C for blank wall treatment standards.
Building. Any structure having enclosed space and a roof for the housing and/or enclosure of persons, animals or chattels.
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Building area. The maximum horizontal projected area of the principal and accessory building, excluding open steps, terraces,
and architectural appurtenances projecting not more than two feet. Building area, as that portion of a lot upon which construction
is permitted, is that area of a lot that lies within the boundaries of the front, side and rear setback requirements measured from
the actual lot line.
Building envelope. The three-dimensional volume on a lot lying between the front, side and rear setback lines and between
ground level and the maximum allowable building height, amounting to the area available for potential building construction.
Building frontage. The maximum dimension of the building front measured on a straight line parallel to the street, but excluding
façades facing alleys or drive aisles.
Building height. The vertical distance measured from grade as defined in this section to the highest point on the roof or parapet
wall. Where a building utilizes multiple roof styles or pitches, the highest point of each type of roof or parapet wall must comply
with applicable height regulations as established for the respective roof pitches in each zoning district. Where the vertical
difference between grade as defined in this section is greater than two feet between opposite elevations of the building, the height
of the building may be increased by one foot for every one foot in grade difference up to a maximum of six additional feet.
Figure 38.700.030-2.
Building height.
Building, principal. A building in which is conducted the main, or principal, use of the lot on which the building is situated.
Business. A commercial enterprise carried on for profit; a particular occupation or employment habitually engaged in for
livelihood or gain.
( Ord. No. 2032 , § 2, 12-18-2019; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.040. - C de nitions.
Canopy. Any open, permanent roof-like accessory structure which is not attached or part of a principal building.
Canopy tree. A species of tree which normally bears crown foliage no lower than six feet above ground level upon maturity.
Carport. A structure, open on at least two sides, consisting of a roof and either walls or columns for the purpose of housing
automotive vehicles and other chattels. The structure must be considered as an accessory building when detached from the
principal building and as a part of the principal building when attached to the principal building along one or more sides of the
carport or principal building.
Casino.
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An establishment whose primary use or activity is gambling, either in the form of gambling machines (video poker, keno
games or other licensed gambling activity. A casino may have beverage and restaurant facilities as accessory uses. An
establishment will be considered a casino for the purpose of these regulations if any of the following characteristics app
The establishment is referenced as a casino by signage, advertisement or by name;
More than one card table is on the premises; and/or
15 or more gambling machines are on the premises.
Cemetery. Land used for the burial of the dead and dedicated for cemetery purposes, including crematories, mausoleums and
mortuaries when operated in conjunction with and within the boundary of such cemetery.
Certificate of appropriateness. A permit issued by the pertinent review authority indicating its approval of plans to alter or
construct a structure or alter a site within the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District.
Certificate of survey. A drawing of a field survey prepared by a registered land surveyor for the purpose of disclosing facts
pertaining to boundary locations.
Certified by a professional engineer. Certification of work produced by a duly qualified and licensed professional engineer
through the placement of the professional engineer's signed stamp.
Channel. The geographical area within either the natural or artificial banks of a watercourse or drainway.
Church. A building, together with its accessory buildings and uses, where persons regularly assemble for religious worship, and
which building, together with its accessory buildings and uses, is maintained and controlled by a religious body organized to sustain
public worship.
City. The City of Bozeman.
City commission. The governing body of the City of Bozeman.
Civic use. Public buildings or uses, including, but not limited to, college/university facilities, congregate postal facilities, schools,
government offices, libraries, assembly uses, police stations, and fire stations.
Club, private (nonprofit). A nonprofit association of persons who are bona fide members, paying annual dues, which owns, hires
or leases a building, or a portion thereof, the use of such premises being restricted to members and their guests.
Collocation. The placement of an antenna by two or more wireless service providers on a common antenna-supporting
structure, or the addition or replacement of antennas on an existing structure. The term "collocation" does not include roof-
mounted or surface-mounted wireless facilities or the placement of other antenna on an amateur radio antenna.
Commercial message. Any sign, wording, logo or other representation that directly or indirectly names, advertises or calls
attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity.
Commercial node.
A commercial node is an area meeting all of the following conditions:
Designated as "community commercial" in the land use section of the city's adopted growth policy;
Designated as a B-2 zoning district; and
Located in one of the four following locations:
Northwest of the intersection of Stucky Road and South 19th Avenue to the limits as shown on the future
land use map contained in the adopted growth policy,
East of Highland Boulevard across from the Bozeman Deaconess Hospital to the limits as shown on the
future land use map contained in the adopted growth policy,
South of West Main Street across from the Gallatin Valley Mall to the limits as shown on the future land use
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map contained in the adopted growth policy,
Northwest of the intersection of Baxter Lane and Davis Lane to the limits as shown on the future land use
map contained in the adopted growth policy.
Common open space. Undeveloped land within a subdivision that has been designated, dedicated, reserved or restricted in
perpetuity from further development and is set aside for the use and enjoyment by residents of the development. Common open
space may not be part of individual residential lots. It must be substantially free of structures, but may contain historic structures
and archaeological sites, and/or recreational facilities for residents, including but not limited to benches, picnic tables and
interpretive signage as indicated on an approved development plan. Stormwater control facilities for the benefit of the subdivision
may also be located within common open space.
Common ownership. Ownership by the same person, corporation, firm, entity, partnership or unincorporated association; or
ownership by different corporations, firms, partnerships, or unincorporated association in which a stockbroker, partner, or
associate, or a member of the owner's family owns an interest in each corporation, firm, partnership, entity or unincorporated
association.
Community center. A building or portion of a building used for nonprofit cultural, educational, recreational, religious or social
activities which is open to the public or a designated part of the public, usually owned and operated by a public or nonprofit group
or agency. Examples of community centers are schools, churches, Boys and Girls Clubs, and similar uses. Community center does
not include fraternities, lodges or similar uses.
Community development director. The director of the Bozeman Department of Community Development and the person
charged with the administration of this chapter unless otherwise specifically noted in this chapter.
Community residential facility.
A facility licensed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human services including:
Those occupied by persons having developmental disabilities and living together for the purpose of residential
training, observation and/or common support, in which care is provided on a 24-hour per day basis;
A community group home for developmentally, mentally or severely disabled persons which does not provide
skilled or intermediate nursing care;
A youth foster home or other facility for care of minors as defined in MCA 52-2-601 et seq.;
A halfway house operated in accordance with regulations of the state department of public health and human
services for the rehabilitation of alcoholics or drug dependent persons;
A licensed adult foster care home;
An assisted living facility licensed under MCA 50-5-227;
A foster home, kinship foster home, youth shelter care facility, or youth group home operated under the
provisions of MCA 52-2-621 through 52-2-623.
Where a limitation of eight or fewer residents is imposed for the purpose of defining the necessary review process to
establish this use, the operator of a residential facility, members of the operator's household or persons employed as staff
are not counted as residents, except that the total number of all persons living at the facility may not exceed ten.
Compatible development. The use of land and the construction and use of structures which is in harmony with adjoining
development, existing neighborhoods, and the goals and objectives of the city's adopted growth policy. Elements of compatible
development include, but are not limited to, variety of architectural design; rhythm of architectural elements; scale; intensity;
materials; building siting; lot and building size; hours of operation; and integration with existing community systems including
water and sewer services, natural elements in the area, motorized and non-motorized transportation, and open spaces and parks.
Compatible development does not require uniformity or monotony of architectural or site design, density or use.
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Compatible land use. A land use which may by virtue of the characteristics of its discernible outward effects exist in harmony
with an adjoining land use of differing character. Effects often measured to determine compatibility include, but are not limited to,
noise, odor, light and the presence of physical hazards such as combustible or explosive materials.
Conditional use. A public or private use as listed in this chapter which, because of its unique characteristics, cannot be properly
classified as a principal use or accessory use in a particular district.
Conditional use permit. Legal authorization to construct, develop or operate a conditional use as defined by this chapter.
Conservation easement. The grant of a property right or interest from the property owner to the public or nonprofit
conservation organization stipulating that the described land must remain in perpetuity in its natural and open state, precluding
future or additional development (with the exception of any allowable structures or facilities).
Contiguous tract. A parcel of land next to, abutting, adjoining or touching another individual parcel of land, including tracts
which are separated by public right-of-way.
Construction. The act of adding to an existing structure or erecting a new principal or accessory structure; the act of building by
combining or arranging parts or elements; the thing so built.
Convenience use.
Retail commercial uses which have relatively high traffic-generation rates per 1,000 square feet compared to other
commercial uses. A use is designated as a convenience use if the method of operation includes one or more of the
following characteristics:
The primary business is the sale of food or drink for consumption, either on or off premises, over a counter, or from
an outdoor service window or automobile service window. Of the food or drink sold, at least 20 percent is in
disposable or carry-out containers; or
Use features drive-in and/or drive-through component.
Cooperative household.
A cooperative household is a single housekeeping unit with five or more persons which exhibits four or more of the
following characteristics:
A shared strong bond or common commitment to a single purpose, such as members of a religious order;
Are not legally dependent on others not living with them;
Can establish legal "domicile" as defined by state law;
Share a single household budget;
Share in the work of maintaining the premises;
Legally share in the ownership or possession of the premises, e.g., tenants in common on a deed or cosigners of
a single lease; or
A relationship of a permanent and distinct character with a demonstrable and recognizable bond characteristic
of a cohesive unit.
Cooperative housing does not mean any society, club, fraternity, sorority, association, lodge, organization or other
individuals with a common living arrangement or whose basis for the establishment of the housekeeping unit is for a
period of less than 12 months.
Cornice. A horizontal molding projecting along the top of a wall, building, etc. See section 38.530.050.E for related standards.
Covenant. An agreement that restricts the land and binds present owners and subsequent grantees with a view towards
protecting and enhancing the physical, natural and economic integrity of an area.
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Crawlspace. For purposes of division 38.600, a building enclosure that has its interior floor area no more than five feet below the
top of the next highest floor and no more than two feet below the lowest adjacent grade on all sides.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.050. - D de nitions.
Day care center. A place in which supplemental care is provided to 13 or more non-resident persons on a regular basis and
which is licensed by the state.
Day care home, family. A private residence in which supplemental care is provided to three to six non-resident persons from
separate families on a regular basis and which is registered by the state.
Day care home, group. A private residence in which supplemental care is provided to seven to 12 non-resident persons on a
regular basis and which is registered by the state.
Dedication. The deliberate appropriation of land by an owner for any general and public use, reserving no rights which are
incompatible with the full exercise and enjoyment of the public use to which the property has been devoted.
Demolition. Any act or process that destroys, in part or whole, a structure or archaeological site.
Departure. A provision allowing for applicants to propose alternative means of compliance with a specific standard on a
voluntary basis, provided they meet the intent of the standard. See section 38.250.060 for procedures.
Design review. The aesthetic evaluation of certain development proposals.
Design review board. That board created by chapter 2 article 5 of the Municipal Code with duties as described.
Development. Any manmade change to improve or alter real estate, including, but not limited to, subdivision of land, buildings
or other structures, artificial obstructions, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations, or storage of
equipment or materials.
Development envelopes. Areas on a lot within which grading, lawns, pavement and buildings will be located.
Development review committee. That committee created by division 38.200 of this chapter and charged with reviewing
designated plans and proposals.
Deviation. A modification of physical standards of this chapter as applied to a specific piece of property located within the
neighborhood conservation overlay district or anywhere within the city through a planned unit development.
Directional sign. An on-premises sign which is intended to convey information regarding the location of specific features of the
site or to convey on-premises regulations including traffic and circulation regulations.
Disabled person. A person who has a medical, physical or mental condition that limits a major life activity, anyone who is
regarded as having such a condition or anyone who has a record of having such a condition, and includes persons who have a
handicap or a physical or mental disability as defined in applicable non-discrimination laws.
Division of land. The segregation of one or more parcels of land from a larger tract held in single or undivided ownership by
transferring, or contracting to transfer, title to a portion of the tract, or properly filing a certificate of survey or subdivision plat
establishing the identity of the segregated parcels pursuant to this chapter and the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MCA 76-
3-101 et seq.). The conveyance of a tract of record or an entire parcel of land that was created by a previous division of land is not a
division of land.
DNRC. Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
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1.
Drainway. Any depression two feet or more below the surrounding land serving to give direction to a current of water less than
nine months of the year and having a bed and well-defined banks. Water flowing in a drainway may originate by natural or
manmade means.
Drive access. That area between the curb of a street, or edge of the traveled portion of a street when no curb exists, and the
right-of-way/property line over which the city will permit vehicular travel from the traveled portion of a street to an individual
property or off-street parking space.
Drive-in business. Any business in which people are provided a service or a product, where a sale is made without the customer
being required to leave the vehicle. Such businesses include, but are not limited to, drive-in theater, drive-in bank, freestanding
automated teller machine, drive-in laundry or dry cleaning pickup station, drive-in restaurant and any business offering take-home
food services.
Dwelling. A building, or portion thereof, meeting the requirements of the city's adopted International Building Code and used by
one household, as defined by this article, for residential purposes. Dwellings may exist in many configurations, including single-
household, two-household, multiple-household dwellings and group homes. Dwellings do not include hotels, motels, Type-3 short
term rentals as defined in section 38.360.260.
( Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.060. - E de nitions.
Easement. A grant by a property owner to the public, a specific person or persons, other than the owner, for a right to use land
for a specific purpose or purposes.
Effective base flood elevation. The base flood elevation contained in the effective FEMA flood insurance study and its effective
hydraulic model, including any effective FEMA revisions thereto.
Effective regulatory floodway. The regulatory floodway contained in the effective FEMA flood insurance study and its effective
hydraulic model, including any effective FEMA revisions thereto.
Efficiency unit. A dwelling unit containing only one habitable room as defined and regulated by the most recently adopted
International Building Code.
Elevated building. A building without a basement that has it lowest elevated floor raised above ground level by foundation walls,
shear walls, posts, piers, pilings or columns. A building on a crawlspace is considered an elevated building.
Enclosure. That portion below the lowest elevated floor of an elevated building that is either partially or fully shut in by rigid
walls, including a crawlspace, sub grade crawlspace, stairwell, elevator, or a garage below or attached.
Encroachment. For purposes of division 38.600 any use, activity, or artificial obstruction within the regulated flood hazard area.
Encroachment analysis. A hydrologic and hydraulic analysis performed by a qualified professional engineer to assess the effects
of a proposed use, activity, or artificial obstruction on the base flood elevation, flood flows and flood velocities.
Engineer (registered professional engineer). A person licensed in conformance with the Montana Professional Engineers
Registration Act (MCA 37-67-101 through 37-67-332) to practice engineering in the state.
Engineering division. Engineering Division of the City of Bozeman's Department of Public Works.
Essential services (Type I). Small-scale and below ground facilities, equipment and structures required for the provision of
immediate customer service of public and quasi-public services within the city. Additional items may be determined by the director
of community development to be appropriately included in this definition. These facilities, equipment and structures include:
Public water distribution lines.
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Public sanitary sewer collection lines.
Stormwater drainage collection lines, stormwater drainage retention/detention ponds, and drainageways.
Fire hydrants.
Electric service:
Below ground distribution and local transmission lines, cables and appurtenances.
Above ground distribution and local transmission lines, cables and appurtenances no greater in height than the
minimum required by the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) plus 15 percent.
Natural gas service:
Below ground distribution lines and appurtenances.
Below ground transmission lines and appurtenances.
Natural gas regulator/valve stations and appurtenances, with no above ground buildings.
Communications services:
Below ground telephone lines and cables.
Below ground cable television lines.
Below ground electronic data transmission lines and cables.
Above ground utility boxes, not to exceed 20 square feet in footprint.
Roof mounted distributed electrical generation solar panel.
Public and amateur radio antennae and towers.
Essential services (Type II). Facilities, equipment and structures required for the provision of neighborhood level public and
quasi-public services within the city. Additional items may be determined by the director of community development to be
appropriately included in this definition. Specific facilities, equipment and structures include:
Public water storage facilities; and pumping stations.
Public sanitary sewer or storm sewer lift stations.
Water fill stations for firefighting equipment.
Electric service:
Transmission lines, cables and appurtenances operable prior to September 3, 1991 including the repair and
replacement of the same as necessary to maintain their operation.
Transmission lines, cables, and appurtenances 161 kV or less and no greater in height than the minimum
required by the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) plus 25 percent, other than those included in Essential
Services (Type I).
Natural gas service:
Natural gas regulator/valve stations and appurtenances, with above ground buildings not to exceed 125 square
feet.
Communications services, except those included in essential services (Type F), including above ground buildings not
to exceed 125 square feet:
Telephone lines and cables.
Cable television lines.
Electronic data transmission lines and cables.
Above ground utility boxes, from 20—125 square feet, except those included in essential services (Type I).
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Essential services (Type III). Community-scale facilities, equipment and structures required for the provision of public services
not otherwise listed as an essential services (Type I or II).
Public water treatment.
Sanitary sewer treatment.
Storm sewer treatment.
Police and fire stations.
Electric substations and electrical transmission lines, cables and appurtenances, except those included in essential
services (Type I) or essential services (Type II).
Natural gas regulator/valve stations and appurtenances, with above ground buildings in excess of 125 square feet.
Communications including but not limited to telephone satellite community dial offices; telephone exchanges and
repeater stations, except those facilities which may be considered wireless facilities.
Gasoline, oil and coal pipelines.
Establish. To construct, place, insert or excavate.
Evergreen tree or shrub. A tree or shrub of a species which normally retains its leaves/needles throughout the year.
Existing artificial obstruction or nonconforming use. For purposes of division 38.600, an artificial obstruction or nonconforming
use that lawfully existed prior to the initial creation of city floodplain regulations on March 19, 1975, or any repeal and replacement
or amendment thereto.
Existing base flood elevation. The base flood elevation computed by hydraulic modeling of the base flood discharge within the
floodplain of the flooding source in its current existing condition.
Existing building or structure. For purposes of division 38.600, any buildings or structures for which the start of construction
commenced before the effective date of the applicable flood insurance rate map.
Existing manufactured home park or subdivision. A manufactured home park or subdivision where the construction of facilities
for servicing the manufactured home lots is completed before the effective date of the floodplain management regulations. This
includes, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of
concrete pads.
Existing regulatory floodway. The regulatory floodway computed by hydraulic modeling of the base flood discharge within the
floodplain of the flooding source in its current existing condition.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.070. - F de nitions.
Façade. The entire building front or street wall face of a building extending from the grade of the building to the top of the
parapet or eaves and the entire width of the building elevation.
FEMA. Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Final decision. The final action of an agency, board or commission when no further action is available before such agency, board
or commission.
Final plat. The final drawing of a subdivision and dedication required by this chapter and the Montana Subdivision and Platting
Act to be prepared for filing for record with the clerk and recorder, and containing all elements and requirements set forth in this
chapter and the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act.
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Final site plan. The final scale drawings of a preliminarily approved development and any other required information, the
approval of which by the review authority indicates that the required conditions for approval have been met.
Flood or flooding. A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry lands from the overflow
of a stream, or the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.
Flood fringe. The portion of the floodplain of the regulated flood hazard area that is outside the limits of the regulatory
floodway.
Flood insurance rate map. The official map used for flood insurance risk ratings and other regulatory purposes on which FEMA
has delineated special flood hazard areas of the base flood as well as other flood hazard areas.
Flood insurance study. The official report containing technical information used to produce official flood insurance rate maps in
which FEMA provides base flood discharges, base flood profiles, floodway data tables, hydraulic modeling, and other related flood
hazard information.
Flood of 100-year frequency. A flood magnitude that has a one percent chance of occurring in any given year. The base flood.
Floodplain. Areas generally adjoining a watercourse or drainway that would be covered by the base flood. The floodplain is a
regulated flood hazard area and may be partitioned into a regulatory floodway and flood fringe where specifically designated.
Floodplain Act. The Montana Floodplain and Floodway Management Act, MCA 76-5-101 et seq.
Floodplain administrator. Community official with authority to administer and implement the provisions of division 38.600. The
floodplain administrator has been designated by the city commission to be the city engineer, who may delegate floodplain
administrator duties to a member of the city engineering division staff.
Floodproofing. Any combination of structural and non-structural additions, changes, or adjustments to buildings or structures
which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, and building or
structure contents.
Floodway. The channel of a stream and the adjacent overbank areas that must be reserved in order to discharge a base flood
(100-year flood) without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one-half foot.
Footcandle. A unit of light intensity stated in lumens per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter.
Freestanding sign. Any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground and that are
independent from any building or other structure.
Front setback. A setback extending across the full width of all sides of a lot that abuts a street.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021; Ord. No. 2061 , § 2, 4-6-2021)
Sec. 38.700.080. - G de nitions.
Garage, private. A detached accessory building, or portion of a main building, designed or primarily used for the storage of self-
propelled vehicles for the household housed in the building to which such garage is accessory.
Garage, public. Any building or premises, except those defined herein as an individual garage, used for the storage or care of
motor vehicles; or where such vehicles are equipped for operation, repaired or kept for rental, hire or sale.
General service establishment. "General service establishment" refers to a category of uses whose primary activity is the
provision of assistance, as opposed to products, to individuals, businesses, industry, government, and other enterprises. Specific
uses in this category include but are not limited to financial establishments, postal and courier services, repair shops, laundries,
veterinary clinics, and other services where uses occur entirely within buildings, little or no outdoor storage, and no external
impacts are anticipated. This term also includes vehicular parking lots and garages.
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Ghost sign. A wall sign painted on the exterior wall of a building prior to June 22, 1997 and which advertises a business, product
or service no longer found at that location or an expired political campaign.
Glare. The sensation produced by lighting that causes an annoyance, discomfort or loss in visual performance and visibility to
the eye.
Governing body. The governing authority of a city or town organized pursuant to law. In the city, the city commission is the
governing authority.
Grade. The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground between the exterior wall of a building and a point five
feet distance from the wall, or the lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground between the exterior wall of the
building and the property line if it is less than five feet distance from the wall. If walls are parallel to and within five feet of a public
sidewalk, alley or other public way, the grade must be the elevation of the sidewalk, alley or public way. The term "finished surface
of the ground" does not include window wells, stairwells or other similar features, but does include features such as usable patio
areas.
Green. An open space available for unstructured recreation, with landscaping consisting of maintained grassy areas, trees and
other vegetation.
Greenhouse. A building or structure constructed chiefly of glass, glass-like translucent material, cloth, lath or similar materials
which is devoted to the protection or cultivation of flowers or other plants.
Gross acreage. The total area of a parcel including the area of perimeter street rights-of-way to the centerline of the street.
Gross density. The number of residential dwelling units per unit of land used for residential purposes, with the term "unit of
land" being the gross residential acreage.
Ground floor area. The square foot area of a building within its largest outside dimension computed on a horizontal plane at the
ground floor level, exclusive of open porches, breezeways, terraces, garages, exterior stairways and secondary stairways.
Groundcover. Natural mulch or plants of species which normally reach a height of less than two feet upon maturity, installed in
such a manner so as to form a continuous cover over the ground.
Group living. A building, portion of a building or a complex of buildings under unified control and management which contains
facilities for living, sleeping, sanitation, eating and cooking for occupancy for residential uses; and which does not otherwise meet
the definition of another residential use defined in this chapter. Eating and cooking areas may be shared in whole or part.
Growth policy. An official public document adopted and used by a local government as a general guide for development and
conservation decisions. It is not a regulation; rather, it is an official statement of public policy to guide growth and change. The
required and optional elements of a growth policy are listed in MCA 76-1-601.
Guest house. An attached or detached accessory building used to house guests of the occupants of the principal building, and
which is never rented or offered for rent. Any guest house providing cooking facilities (e.g., full-size dishwasher, more than a bar
sink, or a stove) is considered a dwelling unit.
Sec. 38.700.090. - H de nitions.
Health authorities. The state department of environmental quality, local environmental health specialist or other authorized
representative.
Health and exercise establishments. An establishment designed and equipped for the conduct of sports, exercise activities and
other customary and usual recreational activities, including tennis, racquetball, handball and squash courts, martial arts,
gymnastics, weight and aerobic exercise rooms, running facilities, swimming pools, yoga, sport dancing, and whirlpool and sauna
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facilities. Permitted accessory uses include child care, sun tanning booths, massage, health and nutrition counseling services, retail
sales of sporting goods and restaurant services.
Heavy retail and service establishment. Retail and/or service activities that may have exterior service or storage areas. This use
category includes, but is not limited to sales of agricultural supplies, building materials, manufactured homes, and heating fuels,
truck stops, transit terminals, outdoor display/sales, and warehousing.
Height of low profile sign. The vertical distance between the finished grade and the highest component of the sign.
Height of pole style sign. The vertical distance between the elevation of the adjacent street curb, or edge of pavement, if no curb
exists, to the highest attached component of the sign. In the event that the finished grade of the sign location is higher, or lower,
than the adjacent street curb or edge of pavement, the height is determined as the vertical distance from the median elevation
between the adjacent street curb or edge of pavement and the lowest finished grade at the base of the sign to the highest attached
component of the sign.
Figure 38.700.080.
Height of pole style sign.
High visibility street corners and gateway sites. All commercially zoned and REMU Districts intersecting Arterial or an Arterial and
Collector street are defined as a high visibility street corner and warrant special design standards set forth in section 38.530.050.D.
Historic site. The location of a significant event, a prehistoric or historic occupation or activity where the location itself possesses
significant historic, cultural or archaeological value. The value of a site must be based on the ability of the site to meet the eligibility
requirements for historical significance as described by the National Register of Historic Places and as approved by the city. The
most recent National Register Criteria for Evaluation as published by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service are
the basis for determining whether a property is eligible for historical significance when a new or updated evaluation is prepared.
Historic structure. Any building or structure that is:
listed in the State or National Register of Historic Places;
designated as a historic property under local or state designation law or survey;
certified as a contributing resource within a National Register listed or locally designated historic district; or
eligible, as determined by the City of Bozeman, to be listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places either
individually or as a contributing building to an existing or potential historic district.
The most recent National Register Criteria for Evaluation as published by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National
Park Service are the basis for determining whether a property is eligible for historical significance when a new or updated
evaluation is prepared.
Home-based business. Any business, occupation or activity undertaken for gain within a residential structure that is incidental
and secondary to the use of that structure as a dwelling. Home based businesses are subject to the requirements of this chapter.
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Home office. An accessory use in which work for compensation is undertaken, including, but not limited to, receiving or initiating
correspondence, such as phone calls, mail, faxes or email; preparing or maintaining business records; word and data processing;
and telephone, mail order and off-premises sales.
Hospital. An institution for the diagnosis, treatment or other cure of human ailments and which may include a sanitarium or
clinic, provided such institution is operated by, or treatment is given, under direct supervision of a physician licensed to practice by
the state.
Hotel or motel. A building or a group of buildings in which lodging is provided and offered to transient guests for compensation;
the term "hotel or motel" does not include a boardinghouse, lodginghouse or roominghouse.
Household.
A person living alone, or any of the following groups living together as a single nonprofit housekeeping unit and
sharing common living, sleeping, cooking and eating facilities:
Any number of people related by blood, marriage, adoption, guardianship or other duly-authorized custodial
relationship;
Not more than four unrelated people; or
Two unrelated people and any children related to either of them.
Persons or groups granted a request for a reasonable accommodation to reside as a single housekeeping unit
pursuant to section 38.35.090.
"Household" does not include:
Any society, club, fraternity, sorority, association, lodge, combine, federation, coterie, cooperative housing or
like organization;
Any group of individuals whose association is temporary or seasonal in nature;
Any group of individuals who are in a group living arrangement as a result of criminal offenses; or
Any group of individuals living in a structure permitted as transitional or emergency housing pursuant to this
chapter.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 5, 3-19-2018)
Sec. 38.700.100. - I de nitions.
Illuminance. The quantity of light measured in footcandles or lux. The density of the luminous flux incident on a surface; it is the
quotient of the luminous flux by the area of the surface when the latter is uniformly illuminated.
Immediate family. A spouse, children by blood or adoption, and parents.
Incidental. Any action or use of less importance, or secondary to, any other action or use.
Incidental sign. A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary to the use of the zone lot on which it is located,
such as "no parking," "entrance," "loading only," "telephone," and other similar directives. No sign with a commercial message,
which is designed with the intent to be legible from a position off the zone lot on which the sign is located, will be considered
incidental.
Interchange zone. Districts created for the purpose of allowing larger and/or additional signage for the areas adjacent to the
Interstate 90 interchanges at East Main Street, North 7th Avenue and North 19th Avenue which are located within the B-2 Zoning
District and within 1,300 feet of the Interstate 90 right-of-way.
Irregularly shaped tract of land. A parcel of land other than an aliquot part of the United States Government survey section or a
United States lot, the boundaries or areas of which cannot be determined without a survey or trigonometric calculation.
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(a)
(b)
(Order No. 2018-01 , § 18, 4-18-2018)
Sec. 38.700.110. - L de nitions.
Landmark. A site, structure or object designated as a "landmark" pursuant to the procedures prescribed in division 38.340 of
this chapter, that is worthy of preservation, restoration or rehabilitation because of its historic land planning or architectural
significance and officially recognized through listing in the National Register of Historic Places. A landmark is subject to all
neighborhood conservation overlay district procedures and requirements.
Landscape architect. A person licensed to practice landscape architecture in the state.
Landscaping. At least 75 percent coverage of an area with natural grass, vegetative groundcover or other natural living plant
materials, the remainder of which is covered with non-vegatative decorative landscape design elements such as washed rock, lava
rock, bark chips and ornamental features such as pools, fountains, benches, etc. For purposes of this chapter, the term landscaping
is considered to have the same meaning as the terms "landscape," "landscaped" and "landscaped area."
Large scale wireless facility. A wireless facility 25 feet or greater in height from the base to the highest point including
attachments. Examples of supporting structures are monopoles, self-supporting (lattice) towers, guy-wire supported towers and
other similar structures. When calculating the height of a facility, other structures designed for other uses such as buildings or
water towers may not be included in the calculation. Some illustrated examples of large scale wireless facilities are shown below.
Figure 38.700.110-1.
Large scale wireless facility.
Large shrub. A shrub which normally reaches a height of five feet or more upon maturity, and usually has five or more canes.
Large tree. A tree of a species which normally reaches a height of 25 feet or more upon maturity, and usually has a single stem.
Letter of map change. An official response from FEMA upon review of an application to amend or revise the FEMA special flood
hazard area or flood insurance study for purposes of flood insurance ratings or flood hazard determinations. FEMA letters of map
change include:
Letter of map amendment. A letter of determination from FEMA that amends the special flood hazard area where a
building or a portion of property is situated upon natural ground that is higher than the base flood elevation and is
thus not subject to mandatory flood insurance.
Letter of map revision based on fill. A letter of determination from FEMA that revises the special flood hazard area on
a property based on the placement of sufficient quantities of fill to elevate the property or portion thereof above the
base flood elevation. A building placed on fill must have its lowest floor, including the bottom of a crawlspace, above
the base flood elevation to avoid mandatory flood insurance.
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(c)
(d)
Letter of map revision—Floodway. A letter of determination from FEMA that revises the special flood hazard where a bu
portion of property is located on natural ground that is higher than the base flood elevation and has been inadvertently
within the regulatory floodway and is thus not subject to mandatory flood insurance.
Letter of map revision. An official FEMA revision to the effective flood insurance study and flood insurance rate map
incorporating physical changes to the floodplain that alter the base flood elevation and location of special flood
hazard areas.
Levee. A manmade embankment, usually earthen, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to
contain, control or divert the flow of water to provide protection from temporary flooding.
Levee system. A flood protection system that consists of a levee, or levees, and associated structures, such as drainage and
closure devices, which are constructed and operated in accordance with sound engineering practices.
Level I, II, and III Improvements. See section 38.500.020.B for descriptions.
Light construction. Any change not construed as an alteration or repair, including paving of established driving and parking
areas (subject to the requirements of division 38.540 of this chapter); construction of patios not greater than 120 square feet in
size; construction of sidewalks not wider than five feet; and landscaping (but not including major changes in grading or site surface
drainage).
Light goods repair. Establishments primarily engaged in the provision of repair services to individuals and households as well as
businesses, but excluding automotive, boat and similar intensive repair use types. Typical uses include, but are not limited to, the
repair of appliances, shoes or clothing, watches or jewelry, instruments, office equipment or electronics.
Light source. A single artificial point source of light that emits measurable radiant energy in or near the visible spectrum.
Light trespass. Light emitted by a lighting installation that extends beyond the boundaries of the property on which the
installation is sited.
Figure 38.700.110-2.
Light trespass.
Limited access. A way or means of allowing physical entrance to land at controlled locations or points. A "no access" strip or line
may be placed on a plat as a means of limiting access.
Limited access roadway. A street or road especially designed for through traffic, over which abutting landowners have no right
to direct access.
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Live-work unit. A single household dwelling unit designed to accommodate ground level commercial uses. The dwelling unit type
may be any type that is permitted in the applicable zoning district. Permitted non-residential uses may be those that are permitted
in the applicable zoning district.
Local services. All services provided by governmental bodies for the benefit of citizens. These services include, but are not
limited to, police, fire, water, recreation, streets, parks, libraries, schools, and wastewater and solid waste collection and disposal.
Lodginghouse. A building with not more than ten guest rooms where lodging with or without meals is provided for
compensation to persons not meeting the definitions of household, community residential facility, cooperative household,
fraternity or sorority. Also referred to as a boardinghouse.
Lot. A piece, parcel, plot, tract or area of land in common ownership created by subdivision or its legal equivalent for sale, lease
or rent. A lot has the characteristics of being able to be occupied or capable of being occupied by one or more principal buildings,
and the accessory buildings or uses customarily incidental to them, and including the open spaces required under this chapter, and
having its principal lot frontage on a street. When one or more lots are held in common ownership they must be treated as a single
lot for the purposes of development review and evaluation of compliance with the standards of this chapter.
Lot area. The total horizontal area within the boundary lines of a lot.
Lot coverage. The ratio of horizontal area, measured from the exterior surface of the exterior walls of the ground floor, of all
principal and accessory buildings on a lot to the total lot area. For the purposes of calculating lot coverage, those portions of a
structure which do not have exterior walls are not included, even if it is covered by a roof.
Lot line, front. In the case of an interior lot or a corner lot, a line separating street frontage of the lot from the street and in the
case of a double frontage or through lot, a line separating the lot from the street from which a drive access may be permitted by
the city.
Lot line, rear. A lot line which is opposite and most distant from the front lot line, in the case of a corner lot the lot line opposite
and most distant from the narrowest front lot line, and, in the case of an irregular or triangular shaped lot, a line ten feet in length
within the lot, parallel to and at the maximum distance from the narrowest front lot line. A lot with street frontage on all
boundaries does not have a rear lot line.
Lot line, side. Any lot boundary line that is not a front lot line or a rear lot line.
Lot line, zero. A concept utilized to permit a structure or wall of a building to be located on a property line.
Lot measurements.
Lot depth. The horizontal distance of a line measured at a right angle to the front lot line and running between the
front lot line and rear lot line of a lot.
Lot width. The distance as measured in a straight line, between side lot lines at the points of intersection with the
required front building line.
Lot frontage. All sides of a lot that abuts a street are frontage. On curvilinear streets, the arc between the side lot
lines is considered the lot frontage.
Lot area. The total horizontal area within the boundary lines of a lot.
Lot types.
Corner lot. A lot at a junction of, and fronting on, two or more intersecting streets.
Interior lot. A lot other than a corner or through lot.
Double frontage or through lot. A lot having frontage on two parallel, or approximately parallel, streets.
Reverse frontage lot. A double frontage or through lot that is not accessible from one of the parallel or non-
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intersecting streets on which it fronts.
Lot width. The distance as measured in a straight line, between property boundaries at the points of intersection with the front
setback line along the narrowest street frontage.
Lot with residential adjacency.
Any of the following:
A building site in a residential zoning district, if the site abuts or is directly across a street or alley from an R-1, R-
2, R-3, R-4, R-5 or R-O zoning district;
A building site in a non-residential zoning district, if the site abuts or is directly across a street or alley from an R-
S, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 or R-O zoning district;
An artificial lot in a residential district, if the lot is less than 200 feet from an R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 or R-O zoning
district; or
An artificial lot in a non-residential zoning district, if the lot is less than 200 feet from an R-S, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5
or R-O zoning district.
Low-profile sign. A freestanding sign composed of a solid structure between finished grade and the top of the sign. Also referred
to as a monument sign.
Lowest floor. Any floor of a building including a basement used for living purposes, storage, or recreation. This includes any floor
that could be converted to such a use.
Luminaire. A complete lighting unit consisting of a light source and all necessary mechanical, electrical and decorative parts; also
called the lighting fixture.
Luminance. The physical and measurable luminous intensity of a surface (e.g., a lamp, luminaire, reflecting material) in a specific
area and measurable with an illuminance meter. The quotient of the luminous flux at an element of the surface surrounding the
point, and propagated in directions defined by an elementary cone containing the given direction, by the product of the solid angle
of the cone and area of the orthogonal projection of the element of the surface on a plane perpendicular to the given direction. The
luminous flux may be leaving, passing through and/or arriving at the surface.
Lux. A unit of light intensity stated in lumens per square meter. There are approximately 10.7 lux per footcandle.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021; Ord. No. 2061 , § 3, 4-6-2021)
Sec. 38.700.120. - M de nitions.
Maintenance. For purposes of division 38.600, customary and historical cleaning and removal of accumulated silt, branches,
trees, sticks and other debris as well as minor repair or restoration activities of existing buildings, structures or artificial
obstructions to the size, shape, position and height existing immediately prior to deterioration that are not substantial
improvements.
Manufactured home. A factory-built, single-household structure that is manufactured under the authority of 42 USC § 5401, the
National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act, is built on a permanent chassis, and is used as a place for
human habitation, but which is not constructed or equipped with a permanent hitch or other device allowing transport of the unit
other than for the purpose of delivery to a permanent site, and which does not have wheels or axles permanently attached to its
body or frame. This definition does not include recreational vehicles. Any dwelling meeting the definition of modular home is not a
manufactured home.
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Manufactured home community. Any piece of real property under single ownership or control for which the primary purpose is
the placement of two or more manufactured homes for permanent residential dwellings and for the production of income. A
manufactured housing community does not include real property used for the display and sale of manufactured units, nor does it
include real property used for seasonal purposes only, as opposed to year-round occupancy. Home sites within the community are
leased to individual homeowners, who retain customary leasehold rights.
Manufactured home lot or space. A lot for rent or lease in a manufactured housing community designated for the
accommodation of one manufactured home and its accessory buildings or structures for the exclusive use of the occupants.
Manufactured home stand. That area of a lot for rent or lease which has been prepared for the placement of a manufactured
home in a manufactured home community.
Manufacturing. The creation of products either with machinery or by hand according to an organized plan and with the division
of labor.
Manufacturing, artisan. Production of goods by the use of hand tools or small-scale, light mechanical equipment occurring solely
within an enclosed building where such production requires no outdoor operations or storage, and where the production,
operations, and storage of materials related to production occupy no more than 3,500 square feet of gross floor area. Typical uses
have negligible negative impact on surrounding properties and include woodworking and cabinet shops, ceramic studios, jewelry
manufacturing and similar types of arts and crafts, production of alcohol, or food processing.
Manufacturing, heavy. The creation of products either with machinery or by hand according to an organized plan and with the
division of labor. These uses contain land use intensity impacts typically associated with large industrial uses, their accessory
outdoor storage uses, and large building areas. This use category includes, but is not limited to wrecking yards, building material
manufacturing, chemical plants, concrete and asphalt plants, and freight facilities.
Manufacturing, light. Small scale fabrication of and/or assembly of goods from previously prepared materials that occurs
entirely indoors and features low levels of trucking access typical of standard retail or general service establishments.
Manufacturing, moderate. Refers to a category of uses that accommodate moderate intensity levels of manufacturing and
assembly activities, storage, warehousing, services, associated offices and similar uses. This use category includes, but is not
limited to contractors, call centers, textiles, wood products, printing, pharmaceuticals, machinery manufacturing, research and
development, regional distribution, and crematories. These uses may feature some outdoor activities and/or storage and/or
moderate levels of associated trucking access.
Mean sea level. The city's adopted vertical datum or other datum to which base flood elevations are referenced.
Medical offices, clinics and centers. An establishment where patients are admitted for special study and treatment by licensed
health care professionals, including acupuncturists and chiropractors.
Micro-scale wireless facility. A wireless facility less than ten feet in height from the base to the highest point, including
attachments. When calculating the height of a facility, other structures designed for other uses, such as buildings or water towers,
may not be included in the calculation.
Mining. The extraction of sand, gravel or other material from the land in the amount of 400 cubic yards or more and the removal
thereof from the site without processing.
Mini-warehouse (warehouse, residential storage). A building or group of buildings in a controlled access and fenced or screened
compound that contains relatively small storage spaces of varying sizes and/or spaces for recreational vehicles or boats, having
individual, compartmentalized and controlled access for the dead storage of excess personal property of an individual or
household generally stored in residential accessory structures, when such building or group of buildings are not located on the lot
of the residence.
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Minor subdivision. A subdivision that creates five or fewer lots from a tract of record.
Mobile home. A transportable, manufactured structure, suitable for year-round single-household occupancy and having water,
electrical and sewage connections similar to those of conventional dwellings. This definition applies only to units constructed prior
to the Federal Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, which became effective June 15, 1976.
Compare with the definition of manufactured home.
Modular or sectional home. A dwelling unit meeting the standards of the International Building Code which was mass produced
in a factory, designed and constructed for transportation to a site for occupancy when connected to the required utilities and when
permanently anchored to a permanent foundation, whether intended for use as an independent, individual unit or in combination
with other units to form a larger building, and which does not have integral wheel, axles or hitch. For the purposes of locating a
dwelling according to the standards of this chapter there is no distinction made between a dwelling constructed wholly or partly
off-site and a dwelling constructed on-site so long as they meet the standards of the city's adopted International Building Code.
Monument (permanent monument). Any structure of masonry, metal or other permanent material placed in the ground which is
exclusively identifiable as a monument to a survey point, expressly placed for surveying reference.
Mural. A visual representation using texture, colors, forms, or symbols, which does not meet the definition of a sign, placed on a
solid, nontransparent vertical surface such as a wall of a building.
( Ord. No. 2032 , § 3, 12-18-2019; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.130. - N de nitions.
Natural environment. The physical conditions which exist within a given area, including land, water, mineral, flora, fauna, noise,
light, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance.
Natural ground. The elevation of the ground surface existing at the time an area becomes located within a FEMA special flood
hazard shown on the effective flood insurance rate that remains unaffected by construction techniques such as placement of fill,
landscaping, and berms.
Neighborhood commercial center. Commercial uses oriented at serving the needs of neighborhoods. These areas are typified by
smaller scale shops and services, and a high level of pedestrian, bicycle and transit opportunities. Neighborhood commercial
centers are intended to support and help give identity to individual neighborhoods by providing a visible and distinctive focal point.
A neighborhood commercial center may also contain uses that draw from more than the immediate vicinity, especially when
located adjacent to arterial streets. Activities commonly expected in this classification are daycares, smaller scale groceries,
bakeries, coffee shops, retail stores, small restaurants, offices and residences above other uses.
Neighborhood conservation overlay district. An area designated as the neighborhood conservation overlay district on the city
zoning map pursuant to the procedures set forth herein.
Net residential density. The number of residential dwelling units per buildable unit of land, excluding any land used or to be
used as street rights-of-way, parks, public buildings or private non-residential uses. For calculating net residential density, the
following formula applies:
D =du
A- (c+i+s+a+d)
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Where
D = Residential density
du = Total number of dwelling units in project
A = Total site area (acres)
c = Total commercial land area (acres)
i = Total industrial land area (acres)
s = Reserved but undedicated school or park sites (acres)
a = Street, public or private, rights-of-way and transportation easements (acres)
d = Dedicated parklands, conservation easements, or common open spaces (acres)
New construction. Development commenced on or after the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived.
No-rise. A technical analysis conducted in accordance with FEMA procedures and certified by a qualified professional engineer
that shows a proposed use, activity or artificial obstruction located in the regulatory floodway causes a rise of no more than 0.00
feet to the existing base flood elevation.
Non-residential buildings or structures. Buildings or structures that are not used for residential purposes including commercial,
industrial, institutional, agricultural and accessory buildings or structures, and manufactured homes used for non-residential
purposes.
Nonbroadcast telecommunication facility. A facility used for the transmission or enhancement of telecommunications which
does not include the presence of antennas, as defined in this chapter. A nonbroadcast telecommunication facility does not include
office use, materials storage or other similar uses.
Noncanopy tree. A large tree which in its native state has at maturity canopy vegetation less than six feet above the ground.
Non-commercial speech. Any sign wording, logo or other representation that does not directly or indirectly name, advertise or
call attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity.
Nonconforming sign. A sign that does not conform to the provisions of division 38.560 of this chapter.
Nonconforming structure. Any structure which was legal prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is
derived which fails to comply with the building location standards, and/or size requirements of the applicable zoning district in
which it is located.
Nonconforming use. An existing use of land or building which was legal prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which
this chapter is derived but which fails to comply with the requirements set forth in this chapter applicable to the zone in which such
use is located.
Noxious matter or material. Material capable of causing injury to living organisms by chemical reaction or capable of causing
detrimental effects on the physical or economic well-being of individuals.
Nursing home. An extended or intermediate care facility licensed or approved to provide full-time convalescent or chronic care
to individuals who, by reason of advanced age, chronic illness or infirmity, are unable to care for themselves.
Nursery, plant. Facilities for commercial development, growth and sale of plants and/or for the utilization of and storage of
equipment for landscaping operation and wholesale and/or retail or commercial gardening supplies.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
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Sec. 38.700.140. - O de nitions.
Off-premises sign. A sign which advertises or directs attention to products or activities that are not provided on the parcel upon
which the sign is located.
Offices. Buildings or portions of buildings in which commercial activities take place but where goods are not produced, sold or
repaired. These include but are not limited to general and professional offices; governmental offices; insurance offices; real estate
offices; taxicab offices (but not taxi stands); travel agency or transportation ticket offices; telephone exchange; utility offices; radio
broadcasting and similar uses.
Official floodplain maps. The flood insurance rate maps and flood insurance study provided by the FEMA for Gallatin County,
Montana, inclusive of the City of Bozeman, dated April 21, 2021 (FEMA Flood Insurance Study No. 30031CV001B), and incorporating
any approved letters of map change listed pursuant to section 38.600.110.A.1.
100-year flood. A flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. A 100-year flood is the
same as a base flood.
Open space. A land or water area devoid of buildings and other physical structures except where accessory to the provision of
recreation, including but not limited to benches, picnic tables and interpretive signage.
Open space, usable. That space which is capable of being used by the public for recreation, relaxation and social purposes.
Parking lots and perimeter landscaping are specifically excluded from this definition of usable open space, except as allowed by
section 38.430.090.
Ordinary high-water mark. The outermost line caused by water impressing on land and covering it for sufficient periods to cause
physical characteristics that distinguish the area below the line from the area above it. Characteristics of the area below the line
include, when appropriate, but are not limited to, deprivation of the soil of substantially all terrestrial vegetation and destruction of
its agricultural vegetative value. A floodplain adjacent to surface waters is not considered to lie within the surface water's high-
water marks.
Overlay zone. A zone superimposed upon an underlying zone which establishes special requirements in addition to, or in lieu of,
those of the underlying zone.
Owner. For purposes of division 38.600 an owner is any person or entity that has dominion over, control of, or title to an
artificial obstruction.
( Ord. No. 2029 , § 11, 12-18-2019; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.150. - P de nitions.
Parapet. That part of the wall which extends above the roof. For the purposes of this chapter relating to signage, the top of the
parapet is considered to be the roofline.
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Figure 38.700.140.
Parapet (for signage).
Park. For the purposes of this chapter only, park means an open space, as defined in this chapter, under the ownership or other
legal control of the city which provides area for active and passive recreational purposes.
Parking area. An area, other than a street or alley designated for use, or used, for temporary parking of vehicles.
Parking space, off-street. A space designated for the temporary parking of a motor vehicle not on the right-of-way or alley but
accessible from a street or alley.
Party wall. Any wall of a building or structure which is common to two or more buildings, and which has a minimum of one-hour
fire resistant construction as defined and regulated by the latest adopted International Building Code.
Pathway. A facility that accommodates the recreational and/or transportation needs of pedestrians and bicyclists, including
sidewalks, bike lanes, boulevard trails and trails.
Paved parking space or surface. An area covered by an impervious dustfree surface of asphalt or concrete designed to
specifications of the city.
Pedestrian-oriented open space. Publicly accessible spaces that enliven the pedestrian environment by providing opportunities
for outdoor dining, socializing, relaxing and provide visual amenities that can contribute to the character of the neighborhood. See
section 38.520.060.D for pedestrian-oriented open space design criteria.
Pennant. Any lightweight plastic, fabric or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a
rope, wire or string, usually in series, designed to move in the wind.
Permeable pavement. A paving material that permits water penetration to a soil depth of 18 inches or more. Permeable
pavement may consist of nonporous surface materials poured or laid in sections not exceeding one square foot in an area and
collectively comprising less than two-thirds of the total surface area.
Permitted use. A use which is lawfully established in a particular zoning district and which conforms to all requirements,
regulations and performance standards of such district. A permitted use may be a principal use, an accessory use or a conditional
use.
Personal and convenience services. Businesses offering services such as barbershops, beauty shops, tailors, shoe repair,
tattooing, massage, laundromats, laundry and dry cleaning pickup and delivery stations, and similar uses. Some production of
finished goods may occur as an activity accessory to the delivery of services.
Personal property. Any movable or intangible thing that is subject to ownership and not classified as real property.
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Persons. Includes any individual or group of individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations or any other organized group
of persons, including state and local governments and agencies thereof.
Planned unit development (PUD). A land development project consisting of residential clusters, industrial parks, shopping
centers, or office building parks or any combination thereof that compose a planned mixture of land uses built in a prearranged
relationship to each other and having open space and community facilities in a common ownership or use, and/or public parkland.
Planning board. The Bozeman Planning Board.
Plat. A graphical representation of a subdivision showing the division of land into lots, parcels, blocks, streets, alleys, and other
divisions and dedications.
Plaza. An area generally open to the public on a controlled basis and used principally for passive recreational activities and
relaxation. Plazas are paved areas typically providing amenities such as seating, drinking and ornamental fountains, art, trees and
landscaping for use by pedestrians.
Pole sign. A freestanding sign which is supported by a column or other structural member that is permanently attached to the
ground, or a ground-mounted structure and provides a minimum of eight feet of visible, vertical clearance between the bottom of
the sign and finished grade.
Portable sign. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designed to be
transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; signs converted to A- or T-frames;
balloons used as signs; umbrellas used for advertising; and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the
public right-of-way, unless said vehicle is used in the normal day-to-day operations of the business.
Preservation board. The Bozeman Historic Preservation Advisory Board.
Primary access. The major access to a subdivision. The major access generally carries the most traffic as determined by the
traffic engineering study.
Principal use. A use or structure which determines the predominant or major use of the lot on which it is located. The principal
use is that use which establishes the character of the property relative to surrounding or adjacent properties.
Private street. A right-of-way usable by the public but maintained by a property owners' association.
Projecting sign. Any sign affixed to a building or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends more than six inches
beyond the surface of such building or wall and is perpendicular to such building or wall.
Proper access. Either an improved public street or road, maintained by the city, county or state; or a street or road built to the
standards provided in these regulations.
Property owner. Any person, firm, corporation or other entity shown as being the legal owner of a tract, parcel or lot in the
records of the county clerk and recorder.
Property owners' association. An association incorporated or not incorporated, combining individual property ownership with
shared use or ownership of common property or facilities, or shared maintenance of subdivision or community facilities. This
definition includes condominium associations.
Public building. A building, supported by government funds, to be used in an official capacity on behalf of the entire community.
Public health and safety. A condition of optimal well-being, free from danger or injury, for a community at large, not merely for
an individual or small group of persons.
Public improvement. Any structure or facility constructed to serve the residents of a subdivision or the general public such as
parks, streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, street lighting, utilities and systems for water supply, sewage disposal and drainage.
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Public street or road. A street or road for which the right-of-way has been dedicated to the public.
Sec. 38.700.160. - R de nitions.
Real property. Land and anything growing on, attached to, or erected on it, excluding anything that may be severed without
injury to the land. Real property also includes easements.
Rear setback. A setback extending across the full width of the lot located adjacent to the rear lot line.
Reasonable accommodation. A process for providing flexibility in the application of city land use and zoning regulations and
procedures, or even waiving certain requirements, when necessary to eliminate barriers to equal housing opportunities
guaranteed under applicable non-discrimination laws. It may include flexible application of regulations such as: the definition of
household; authorized uses in zone districts; setback area modifications for ramps, handrails or other such accessibility
improvements; hardscape additions, such as widened drive aisles, parking area or walkways; building additions for accessibility; or
reduced off-street parking where the disability clearly limits the number of people operating vehicles. Reasonable accommodation
does not include an accommodation which would (1) impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the city or (2) require
a fundamental alteration in the nature of the city's land use and zoning program. Reasonable accommodations are subject to all
laws that require or regulate planning, zoning or subdivision and platting.
Recreational vehicle. A vehicular-type portable structure without permanent foundation, which is built on a single chassis; which
is 400 square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection; which is designed to be self-propelled or
permanently towable by a light-duty truck; which is primarily designed not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living
accommodations for recreational, camping and travel use and including, but not limited to, travel trailers, truck campers, camping
trailers and self-propelled motor homes.
Recreational vehicle park. A plot of ground upon which two or more sites are located, established or maintained for occupancy
by the general public as temporary living quarters for travel, recreation or vacation purposes.
Recreational vehicle space. A lot for rent or lease within a recreational vehicle park designed for the placement of a single
recreational vehicle and the exclusive use of its occupants.
Regulated flood hazard area. Land area which has been specifically identified in section 38.600.110 as subject to base flood
hazards, which may consist of the special flood hazard area, regulatory floodway, and flood fringe where specifically designated.
Regulatory floodway. That portion of the special flood hazard area designated by FEMA in the official flood insurance study and
flood insurance rate maps as being the regulatory floodway that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without
cumulatively increasing the base flood elevation more than one-half-foot.
Relocation. Any movement of a structure, on the same site or to another site.
Repair. Any change not otherwise construed as light construction or an alteration, as defined in this division 38.700, that
constitutes replacing broken, worn or damaged materials with like, not necessarily identical, materials and is insignificant to the
size and condition of the structure or property. Repainting and reroofing is included under this definition of repair.
Required side building line. The line nearest to the side and extending between the required front building line and required
rear building line establishing the minimum open space to be provided between the side line of a building and the side lot line. See
also the definition of "setback line."
Required setback. The minimum dimension of a front, side or rear setback as established by the use regulations for each
district.
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2.
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Figure 38.700.160.
Required setbacks.
Residential building. A building used as a permanent dwelling for human habitation.
Restaurant. Any restaurant (except a drive-in restaurant or a convenience food restaurant as defined in this division 38.700),
coffee shop, cafeteria, short-order cafe, luncheonette, sandwich stand, drugstore and soda fountain serving food.
Retail. The rental or sale of tangible personal property for any purpose other than for resale.
Retail, large scale. The sale of tangible personal property for any purpose other than for resale where the total area utilized by a
single tenant, exclusive of parking, occupies 40,000 square feet or more.
Revolving sign. Any sign which all, or a portion of, mechanically rotates either on an intermittent or constant basis around a
central axis.
Ridgeline. A relatively narrow elevation that is prominent because it rises at an angle of 25 percent or greater; an elongated
crest, or series of crests, with or without individual peaks, significantly higher than the adjoining ground and often acting as the
hydrologic dividing line between two or more drainage areas.
Ridgeline protection area.
A ridgeline protection area is the area within 150 feet horizontal feet of a ridgeline, measured perpendicular to the
ridgeline when the ridgeline is:
Located in an area above 4,900 feet in elevation above mean sea level; and
When the elevation of a line parallel to the ridgeline loses either:
At least ten feet in vertical elevation on both sides of the ridgeline within 100 feet; or
At least 30 feet in vertical elevation on both sides of the ridgeline within 300 feet;
A combination of the two standards where one side of the ridgeline meets one loss of elevation standard and
the opposite side meets the other.
Right-of-way. A linear public way established or dedicated for public purposes by duly recorded plat, deed, easement, grant,
prescription, condemnation, governmental authority or by operation of the law and intended to be occupied by a street, crosswalk,
railroad, electric transmission lines, water line, sanitary sewer line, storm sewer line or other similar uses.
Riprap. Stone, rocks, concrete blocks, or analogous materials that are placed along the bed or banks of a watercourse or
drainway for the purpose of preventing or alleviating erosion.
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3.
4.
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Roadway. That portion of the street or road right-of-way which is improved or is proposed to be improved to carry traffic and
provide for the on-street storage of automobiles; where curb is provided, the roadway is measured from back-of-curb to back-of-
curb.
Roof sign. Any sign erected and constructed on or over the roof of a building, supported by the roof structure, or extending
vertically above any portion of the roof. Roof signs do not include signs located on a mansard roof if the sign is mounted vertically
and integrated with the roof. For the purpose of this division 38.700, architecturally integrated mansard signs and other
architecturally integrated signs located below the principal roofline are classified as wall signs.
Rowhouse. A dwelling unit that shares one or more common or abutting walls with one or more dwelling units. A rowhouse
does not share common floors/ceilings with other dwelling units.
Rowhouse cluster. A building consisting of three or more rowhouses.
( Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021; Ord. No. 2061 , § 4, 4-6-2021)
Sec. 38.700.170. - S de nitions.
School. Any:
Pre-primary, primary or grammar, public, parochial or private school or high school;
Preparatory school or academy, public or founded, or owned or conducted by or under the sponsorship of a
religious or charitable organization;
Private preparatory school or academy furnishing courses of instruction substantially equivalent to the courses
offered by public high schools for preparation of admission to college or universities which award B.A. or B.S.
degrees;
Junior college or university, public or founded, or conducted by or under the sponsorship of a religious or charitable
organization; or
Private school when not conducted as a commercial enterprise for the profit of individual owners or stockholders.
Scour depth. The maximum depth of streambed scour caused by erosive forces of the base flood. Scour may be categorized as
localized or general depending upon its location and proximity to artificial obstructions.
Screening. A method of visually shielding or obscuring an abutting or nearby structure or use from another through the use of
solid or nearly solid barriers (e.g., wall, fence, plantings, berms).
Security lighting. All outdoor lighting used for, but not limited to, illumination for walkways, roadways, equipment yards, parking
lots and outdoor security where general illumination for safety or security of the grounds is the primary concern.
Setback. The distance from the property line to the nearest part of the applicable building, structure or sign, measured
perpendicularly to the property line. Setback also refers to a space on the same lot with a principal building, which is open and
unoccupied from the ground upward or from the ground downward other than by steps, walks, terraces, drive aisles, lamp posts
and similar structures, and unobstructed by structures, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.
Setback line. That line that is the required minimum distance from the street right-of-way or public access easement line or any
other lot line that establishes the area within which structures must be placed, as specified in this chapter.
Sewer, public. Any sanitary sewer line owned and maintained by the city, whether or not installed by the city.
Shared access. A fixed automotive and pedestrian access location from a street to two or more adjoining properties which
mutually have the right and ability to use the access, and which has been established by an easement or other legally binding
means.
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Shopping mall. A multitenant retail structure where tenants are located on both sides of a covered walkway with direct
pedestrian access to all establishments from the walkway.
Short Term Rental. A vacation home, tourist home as defined in MCA 50-51-102, a dwelling as defined in section 38.700.050,
accessory dwelling unit, or room within a vacation home or dwelling, which is rented by or on behalf of the owner to the general
public for compensation for transient occupancy as provided for in section 38.360.260.
Side setback. A setback extending between the front building line and the rear building line, the width of which is the least
distance between the side lot line and the nearest part of the principal building.
Sign. Any device, fixture, placard or structure that uses any color, form, graphic, illumination, symbol or writing to advertise,
announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a person or entity, or to communicate information of any kind to the public.
Site plan. A scale drawing showing the accurate location of all structures, streets, alleys and parking areas, existing and
proposed, on subject property or any other information as may be required by this chapter.
Small-scale wireless facility. A wireless facility less than 25 feet in height from the base to the highest point including
attachments. Examples of supporting structures are monopoles, self-supporting (lattice) towers, guy-wire supported towers and
other similar structures. When calculating the height of a facility, other structures designed for other uses such as buildings or
water towers may not be included in the calculation. This definition excludes those facilities meeting the definition of a micro-scale
wireless facility. Some illustrated examples of locations for possible small-scale wireless facilities are shown below.
Figure 38.700.170.
Small scale wireless facility.
Small tree. A tree of a species which normally reaches a height of less than 25 feet upon maturity.
Soil. A medium in which plants will grow.
Special flood hazard area. Land area which has been specifically identified by FEMA on a flood insurance rate map as being
subject to the base flood. The special flood hazard area contains the regulatory floodway. Any building with a federally backed loan
located in the special flood hazard is mandated by federal law to carry flood insurance.
Square. Open space that may encompass an entire block, is located at the intersection of important streets, and is set aside for
civic purposes, and consists of paved walks, lawns, trees and civic buildings.
Stable, commercial. Any building or complex of buildings and pastures which is designed, arranged, used or intended to be used
for equestrian purposes, where less than 75 percent of the capacity is for the use of the owner or resident of the property. A public
stable is an agricultural activity.
Stable, private. Any building located on a lot which is designed, arranged, used or intended to be used for not more than four
horses for the private use of the owner of the lot, but may not exceed 6,000 square feet in area.
Start of construction. The commencement of clearing, grading, filling or excavating to prepare a site for construction, and for
purposes of division 38.600 start of construction includes substantial improvement, and means the date the building permit was
issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition placement, or other improvement
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3.
was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual start means either the first placement of permanent construction of a structure
on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond the
stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land
preparation, such as clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include
excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation
on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure.
For a substantial improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other
structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
Stealth or camouflaged. Placement of a wireless facility in such a way that it may not be discerned as being separate from the
principal use of a site. This may be accomplished through visual screening, use of color or encasement of the facility within an
existing structure such as a steeple. A stealth installation may also include the placement of a new structure to contain the facility
so long as the new structure complies with the height, setback and other requirements of the zoning code or is otherwise exempt
from those requirements.
Street. A right-of-way, dedicated or otherwise legally established, for public use by motorized and non-motorized vehicles and
pedestrians, usually affording the principal means of access to abutting property.
Street frontage. Any property line separating a lot from a street other than an alley.
Street, public. Any street which has been dedicated to the public or is otherwise publicly owned. Any street not a public street is
deemed a private street.
Street types. For the purposes of these regulations, street types are defined as follows:
Alley. A street used primarily for vehicular access to the rear of properties which abut and are served by public or
private streets.
Arterial. A street or road having the primary function of moving traffic with emphasis on a high level of mobility for
through movement and the secondary function of providing limited access to adjacent land. Arterial streets are
generally designated in the city transportation plan, however, streets not depicted in the city transportation plan
may be designated as arterials by the review authority specified in section 38.200.010.
Principal arterial. Serves the major centers of activity, the highest traffic volume corridors, and the longest trip
distances in an urbanized area. This group of streets carries the highest proportion of the total traffic within the
urban area with typical loads of 10,000 to 35,000 vehicles per day. Most of the vehicles entering and leaving the
urban area, as well as most through traffic bypassing the central business district, utilize principal arterials.
Significant intra-area travel, such as between central business districts and outlying residential areas, and
between major suburban centers, are served by major arterials.
Minor arterial. Interconnects with and augments the urban principal arterial system. It accommodates trips of
moderate length and at a somewhat lower level of travel mobility than principal arterials, and it distributes travel
to smaller geographic areas. With an emphasis on traffic mobility, this street network includes all arterials not
classified as principal arterials while providing access to adjacent lands. Minor arterials typically carry 5,000 to
15,000 vehicles per day.
Collector. A street or road that provides equal priority to the movement of traffic, and to the access of residential,
business and industrial areas. This type of roadway differs from those of the arterial system in that the facilities on
the collector system may traverse residential neighborhoods. The system distributes trips from the arterials to
ultimate destinations. The collector streets also collect traffic from local streets in the residential neighborhoods,
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channeling it into the arterial system. Collectors typically carry 2,000 to 10,000 vehicles per day. Collector streets are
typically designated in the city transportation plan, however, additional streets may be designated as collectors by
the review authority specified in section 38.200.010.
Cul-de-sac. A street having only one outlet for vehicular traffic and terminating in a turnaround area.
Dead-end street. A street having only one outlet for vehicular traffic.
Half-street. A portion of the width of a street, usually along the outside perimeter of a subdivision, where the
remaining portion of the street must be located on adjacent property.
Local streets. A street having the primary purpose of permitting access to abutting lands and connections to higher
systems. Generally, service to higher speed traffic movements are intentionally discouraged. They typically carry
1,000 to 3,000 vehicles per day but can carry in excess of 6,000.
Loop. A local street which begins and ends on the same street, generally used for access to properties and to control
traffic access to arterials or collectors.
Structure. Anything constructed or erected which requires location on the ground; and for the purposes of floodplain review
anything which may impede, retard or alter the pattern of flow of water in a floodplain.
Structural alteration. Any change in the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls or partitions, columns, beams
or girders, or any change in the exterior walls or the roof.
Subdivider. Any person, firm, corporation or other entity who causes land to be subdivided or who proposes a subdivision of
land.
Subdivision. A division of land or land so divided that it creates one or more parcels containing less than 160 acres that cannot
be described as a one-quarter aliquot part of a United States government section, exclusive of public roadways, in order that the
title to the parcels may be sold, or otherwise transferred, and includes any resubdivision, or condominium. The term also means an
area, regardless of its size, that provides or will provide multiple spaces for rent or lease on which recreational camping vehicles or
mobile homes will be placed.
Subdivision or development construction yard. A temporary office and/or vehicular and material storage yard.
Substantial damage. For purposes of division 38.600, damage of any origin sustained by a building or structure whereby the cost
of restoring the building or structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the
building or structure before the damage occurred.
Substantial improvement.
Any repair, reconstruction or improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the
market value of the structure either:
Before the improvement or repair is started; or
If the structure has been damaged, and is being restored, before the damage occurred. For the purposes of this
definition, substantial improvement is considered to occur when the first construction to any wall, ceiling, floor
or other structural part of the building commences. The term "substantial improvement" does not include:
Any project for improvement of a structure to comply with existing state or local health, sanitary or safety
code specifications which are solely necessary to ensure safe living conditions; or
Any alteration of a structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places or state inventory of historic
places.
Suitable fill. Fill material which is stable, compacted, well graded, and pervious; not adversely affected by water and frost; devoid
of trash or similar foreign matter, tree stumps or other organic material; and is fitting for the purpose of supporting the intended
use, building, or structure.
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Surveyor (registered land surveyor). A person licensed in conformance with the Montana Professional Engineers, Registration
Act (MCA 37-67-101 through 37-67-332) to practice surveying in the state.
Swap meet. Any permanent or temporary sales or lot where the sale or trade of goods, materials and merchandise takes place
outside any permanent structure, from within temporary structures or from vehicles and where several sellers or traders may
congregate for the purpose of selling or trading.
(Ord. No. 2020 , § 8, 6-24-2019; Ord. No. 2059 , § 3, 1-26-2021; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021; Ord. No. 2061 , § 5, 4-6-2021)
Sec. 38.700.180. - T de nitions.
Temporary protective measures. A use, activity, or artificial obstruction that is readily implemented upon commencement of a
flooding emergency for the purpose of protecting existing buildings, structures, and life safety that is not located in the channel of
the regulatory floodway and is readily removed upon cessation of the flooding emergency.
Temporary sign. Any advertising display that appears to be intended or is determined by the code official to be displayed for a
limited period of time rather than permanently attached to the ground or a structure.
Temporary use. A use established for a fixed period of time with the intent to discontinue such use upon the expiration of the
time period.
Transit stop. Improvements and facilities at selected points along transit routes for passenger pickup, dropoff and waiting.
Facilities and improvements may include shelters, benches, signs, structures and other improvements to provide security,
protection from the weather and access to nearby services.
Townhouse. A dwelling unit, located on its own lot, which shares one or more common or abutting walls with each wall having
no doors, windows or other provisions for human passage or visibility with any other dwelling units, each located on its own lot. A
townhouse does not share common floors/ceilings with other dwelling units. Each of the attached dwelling units must have:
Independent water and sewer service lines and metering pursuant to the applicable plumbing code and all other city
regulations;
Individual services for all private utilities; and
A two hour fire separation separating the dwelling unit from any adjoining dwelling units.
Townhouse cluster. A building consisting of three or more dwelling units, each meeting the definition of a townhouse, placed
side-by-side and/or back-to-back.
Tract of record. An individual parcel of land, irrespective of ownership, that can be identified by legal description, independent
of any other parcel of land, using documents on file in the records of the county clerk and recorder's office.
Transitional and emergency housing. The use of a site by a government or non-profit agency for individuals and/or households
who are making the transition from homelessness to community living or who are in need of emergency housing. Other names for
this use include warming center, transitional shelters, transitional living programs and transitional housing programs. This type of
use may include on-site related services and facilities for residents and may also include services and facilities for non-residents if
permitted by the underlying zone.
Transom window. A window or series of windows placed above a beam separating a door and/or storefront windows. Transom
windows are often placed above a canopy or marquee to emit extra daylight into a commercial space.
Trellis. A frame supporting open latticework used as a screen or a support for growing vines or plants.
(Ord. No. 1997 , § 6, 3-19-2018; Ord. No. 2014 , § 15, 6-3-2019; Ord. No. 2020 , § 9, 6-24-2019; Ord. No. 2057 , § 6, 3-9-2021)
Sec. 38.700.190. - U de nitions.
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Uniformity ratio. In outdoor lighting, a measure indicating how evenly light is distributed across a surface as expressed in a ratio
of one value to another, such as average to minimum, or maximum to minimum. Using ratios, perfect uniformity would be 1:1.
Usable lot area. The portion of an area of a lot exclusive of setbacks or other building restrictions within which structures
subject to setbacks may be placed.
Use. The employment or occupation of a building, structure or land for a person's service, benefit or enjoyment.
Sec. 38.700.200. - V de nitions.
Variance. A modification or variation of the provisions of this chapter as applied to a specific piece of property.
Vertical building modulation. A stepping back or projecting forward of vertical walls of a building face, within specified intervals
of building width and depth, as a means of breaking up the apparent bulk of a structure's continuous exterior walls. Vertical
building modulation may be used to meet façade articulation standards set forth in section 38.530.040.
Violation. The failure of a structure, subdivision, use of land or other development to be fully compliant with this chapter.
Sec. 38.700.210. - W de nitions.
Wall sign. Any sign painted on, attached to or erected against the wall of a building, structure, canopy or awning with the
exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of said wall or structure. The sign must be attached in a manner so that it does not
extend six inches beyond the wall.
Warehouse. A use engaged in storage, wholesale, and distribution of manufactured products, supplies, equipment, excluding
bulk storage of materials that are inflammable or explosive or that present hazards or conditions commonly recognized as
offensive.
Watercourse. Any stream, river, creek, drainage, waterway, gully, ravine or wash in which some or all of the water is naturally
occurring, such as runoff or springs, and which flows either continuously or intermittently and has a definite channel, bed and
banks, and includes any area adjacent thereto subject to inundation by reason of overflow. In the event of a braided or other
multiple channel configuration of a watercourse, the area of the watercourse is that area lying between the two outermost high-
water marks, as defined in this chapter. The term "watercourse" does not mean any facility created exclusively for the conveyance
of irrigation water or stormwater. The city may consult with other agencies with expertise in this matter when there is a question of
whether a particular water body is a watercourse.
Way-finding signage. A set of coordinated signs which are intended to give directional guidance to and within a defined district
and to assist pedestrians or vehicles in finding areas of common interest or convenience.
Wetland.
Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soil conditions, and meet the established criteria briefly described below:
Vegetation. A prevalence of hydrophytic vegetation. Hydrophytic species, due to morphological, physiological, and/or
reproductive adaptation, have the ability to grow, effectively compete, reproduce, and/or persist in anaerobic soil
conditions.
Soils. A hydric soil is a soil that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the
growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part.
Hydrology. The area is inundated either permanently or periodically, or the soil is saturated to the surface at some
time during the growing season of the prevalent vegetation at a duration sufficient to induce anaerobic and reducing
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438/438
conditions.
Wholesale. The sale of goods and merchandise for resale instead of for direct consumption.
Wildlife. Animals that are neither human, domesticated, nor feral descendants of commonly domesticated animals.
Wildlife habitat. The place or type of habitat where wildlife naturally lives.
Window sign. Any sign painted, attached, glued or otherwise affixed to a window or suspended within 18 inches behind a
window for the purpose of being visible from the exterior of the building.
Wireless facility. An unstaffed facility for the transmission or reception of radio frequency (RF), microwave or other signals for
commercial communications purposes, typically consisting of an equipment enclosure, an antenna support structure and one or
more antennae. This definition excludes amateur radios, Essential Services (Type I), satellite earth stations and private receive-only
antennae, such as for the reception of television signals.
Wrecking yard. A place, lot or area where the primary function is that of dismantling, storage, abandonment or sale of goods
and materials as parts or scraps.
Sec. 38.700.220. - Y de nitions (Reserved).
Sec. 38.700.230. - Z de nitions.
Zoning commission. The Bozeman Zoning Commission.
Zoning map. A map with all notations, dimensions, references and symbols shown thereon depicting individual zoned districts in
accordance with this chapter.