HomeMy WebLinkAbout014.01 - Appendix F.1 Design Guidelines
ARCHITECTURAL
DESIGN GUIDELINES
November 2025
1
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Purpose
Chapter 2: Properties and Projects Subject to Architectural Design Guidelines
Chapter 3: Relationship to other Documents
3.1 Local Land Use Regulations & Building Codes
3.2 The Declaration of Protective Covenants & Bylaws for The
Laurel Meadows
Chapter 4: Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel
4.1 Function
4.2 Membership
4.3 Enforcement Powers
4.4 Limitation of Responsibilities
Chapter 5: Design Review Process
5.1 General
5.2 Informal Advice
5.3 Form A: Sketch Design Review
5.4 Form B: Construction Design Review
5.5 Form C: Changes & Modifications
5.6 Building Permits & Site Plan Review
5.7 Timing of Construction
5.8 Inspections
5.9 Liability
Chapter 6: Neighborhood Design Patterns
6.1 Site
Intent, Uses, Lot Coverage, Lot Area, Lot Width, Setbacks,
Height, Garages, Parking and Minimum Density
Fences & Screens
Sidewalks
6.2 Residential Buildings
Recommended Energy Star Program
Base Element & Foundation
Walls & Façades
Porches
Outdoor Rooms
Decks & Patios
Windows & Solar Gain
Doors
Roofs
Skylights
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
2
Dormers
Eaves
Chimneys/Roof Vents
Lighting
Signage
6.3 Landscape
Boulevard Plantings
Yard Plantings
Vegetation & Solar Gain
Hardscapes
Soil Preparation & Drainage
Irrigation & Water Use
Fertilizing
Weed Control
Vegetation Removal
6.4 Variations from Neighborhood Patterns
Chapter 7: Definitions
Exhibit 1: Phases 1 & 2 Legal Description
Exhibit 2: Laurel Meadows Preliminary Plat
Exhibit 3: Forms (A, B, C)
3
Pursuant to the Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Laurel Meadows
Subdivision (“Declaration”), on file with the Gallatin County Clerk and Recorder’s Office, the Declarant
(“Declarant”) herein adopts the following the Architectural Design Guidelines (“Design Guidelines”) for Laurel
Meadows Subdivision. Unless otherwise noted, the definitions set forth in the Declaration shall apply to the
Design Guidelines.
Chapter 1: Purpose
The Design Guidelines are intended to promote sustainable patterns of development that will
encourage people to connect and interact as part of the Laurel Meadows neighborhood and
adjacent neighborhoods. The standards within this document provide a framework for design
and construction that will allow each project to contribute to the neighborhood and to the
long-term goal of complimenting and enhancing the overall Bozeman community. The
architectural and landscape elements of site design are integral to the overall desired
neighborhood patterns.
Rather than dictate specific design styles, the standards are provided to ensure well designed
and detailed, compatible buildings and other structures with clear order and comprehensive
composition. Photographs are included for education, inspiration and reference only and do
not imply specific solutions or guarantee approval.
The goal is to strike a balance between neighborhood harmony and creativity. This document
encourages design diversity and contemporary design while providing certain guidance to
ensure quality design and longevity in property values. Each project should not simply be an
exact copy of another building. The fact that a given style or feature of building already exists
does not guarantee that it will be approved for construction again.
Variances to the Design Guidelines are subject to Section 8.10 in the Declaration and Section
6.5 of the Design Guidelines. Neither the Declarant, the Board, nor the DRP are authorized
to grant any variances or exceptions to local land use regulations unless explicitly authorized
by the appropriate review agency or agencies. A variance or exemption from the appropriate
review agency or agencies also does guarantee that that a variance will be granted to the
Design Guidelines.
Chapter 2: Properties and Projects Subject to Architectural Design Guidelines
Unless specifically excluded in the Declaration, the Design Guidelines shall inure to and pass
with each parcel, tract, lot, or division in Laurel Meadows Subdivision and shall apply to the
entire Laurel Meadows Subdivision and any property subsequently annexed into the Laurel
Meadows Subdivision, and to all Construction Activity and all Improvements. “Construction
Activity” and “Improvement” are defined in the Declaration and shall be construed broadly.
Chapter 3: Relationship to other Documents
3.1 Local Land Use Regulations & Building Codes
4
It is the responsibility of the Owner to ensure that all Improvements and Construction Activity
strictly shall comply with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations in effect at the time such
Improvement and Construction Activity is commenced, including, but not limited to local land
use regulations, the International Building Code, other applicable plumbing, electrical, or
building codes in effect for the City of Bozeman, and all other laws, rules and regulations of
any government or agency under whose jurisdiction the land lies. Local land use regulations
can be found online at www.bozeman.net.
Some provision of the Declaration or Design Guidelines may be more restrictive or less
restrictive than local land use regulations as a part of the overall Laurel Meadows
Subdivision. The more restrictive provisions of the Declaration and Design Guidelines and
any permitted deviations from the local land use regulations shall control. Where the Design
Guidelines are silent on a particular or specific development standard, the standards of the
Bozeman Municipal Code currently in effect shall apply.
3.2 The Declaration of Protective Covenants and Bylaws for Laurel Meadows
It is the responsibility of the Owner to ensure that all Improvements and Construction Activity
strictly comply with the Governing Documents for Laurel Meadows Subdivision, including
without limitation the Declaration, the Bylaws, the Design Guidelines, and Rules and
Regulations, and any amendments to the foregoing documents. These documents are
available upon written request.
Chapter 4: Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel
A panel is hereby established known as the Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel (“DRP”).
4.1 Function
The function and purpose of the DRP is to review applications, plans, specifications,
materials, samples, and location to determine if the proposed Improvement or Construction
Activity conforms to the Governing Documents.
4.2 Membership
4.2.1 Before the Transfer Date, the Declarant may appoint up to three persons to be
on the DRP. The persons are not required to be Owners or Members of the Association.
The persons may serve on the DRP until he or she resigns or is replaced by the
Declarant, whichever occurs first. If no persons are on the DRP, then the Board of
Directors shall act as the DRP.
4.2.2 After the Transfer Date, the Board of Directors may appoint up the three
persons to be on the DRP. The persons are not required to be Owners or Members of
the Association. The persons may serve on the DRP until he or she resigns or is
replaced by the Board of Directors, whichever occurs first. If no persons are on the
DRP, then the Board of Directors shall act as the DRP.
5
4.2.3 The Board of Directors may also engage engineers or other advisors or
consultants in the design review process, as necessary.
4.3 Enforcement Powers
Should any Owner violate or threaten to violate any part of the Design Guidelines, the DRP
may attempt to work with the Owner to have the Owner cure the violation in a timely manner,
and/or refer the violation or threatened violation to the Board of Directors. The Board of
Directors may also, and without referral from the DRP, enforce the Design Guidelines. In
addition to any other remedy the Association may have, the Board of Directors may, in its
discretion and at its option, take any or all of the following actions: (i) complete the exterior of
the Improvement in accord with the approved plans; (ii) screen or cover the Improvement; (iii)
remove the non-complying or incomplete Improvement; (iv) retain any or all of the deposit
charged by the DRP; (v) levy a fine (one time, per diem, weekly, or monthly) in an amount
determined by the Board until the construction is in compliance and/or completed; (vi) charge
the costs incurred to enforce the Governing Documents as a Default Assessment; (vii) file
and foreclose a lien for the amounts owed to the Association until all amounts owed are fully
paid; (viii) file a legal action to compel compliance with the Governing Documents (by
injunction or otherwise) and for damages; and (ix) exercise any other remedy permitted under
the Declaration or at law or equity.
4.4 Limitation of Responsibilities
The primary goal of the DRP is to review the Review Applications and the plans,
specifications, materials, samples, and location to determine if the proposed Improvement
and Construction Activity conforms to the Governing Documents. The DRP does not assume
responsibility for the following:
The structural adequacy, capacity, or safety features of the proposed Improvement
or Construction Activity.
Soil erosion, ground water levels, non-compatible or unstable soil conditions.
Compliance with any or all building codes, safety requirements, and governmental
laws, regulation, or ordinances.
Chapter 5: Design Review Process
5.1 General
5.1.1 Approval Required to Commence Construction. No Improvements shall be
made, erected, or altered upon any Lot or Unit until (1) the proper Form(s) is/are
submitted, (2) any other information required or requested by the DRP is submitted,
(3) all fees and deposits are fully paid, (4) all required Forms are approved in writing
by the DRP, and (5) any applicable City of Bozeman review or permitting and/or fee
payment(s) has been completed. All plans submitted to the City of Bozeman must
have the Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel Form B stamp of approval.
5.1.2 DRP Discretion. The DRP has complete discretion to approve, conditionally
approve, or deny a Form. At the least, the Improvement and Construction Activity shall
6
comply with the Governing Documents; be in harmony with the external design,
location, and topography of the surrounding Lots and Units and Laurel Meadows
Subdivision; and not be placed on or under any part of said Lot within the Common
Areas or Easements applicable to the Property, except as approved by the Board of
Directors.
5.1.3 Information Required. No Form will be deemed submitted until all information
required by the Design Guidelines and requested by the DRP is provided and all fees
and deposits are paid. Incomplete applications may be returned and are subject to a
re-submittal fee.
5.1.4 Submitting Forms. To submit for design review, please email, share a Dropbox
link, or WeTransfer your application form and associated documents, and mail the fee
and deposit (if required) to the following:
Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel
c/o Intrinsik Architecture, Inc.
106 East Babcock, Suite 1A
Bozeman, Montana 59715
Email: _______________
Submittals must be labeled with “Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel” and specific
project title and address. Submittals must be under 15 MBs or separated into
individual files less than 15 MB.
Forms A, B, and C, as may be amended from time to time, may be requested from the
DRP by emailing _______________.
5.1.5 After the Review. Following DRP review, the Owner will be notified as to whether
the application has been approved, conditionally approved, or denied.
5.1.6 Withdrawing Application. An Owner may withdraw an application without
prejudice before construction has commenced, provided the request for withdrawal is
made in writing to the DRP. Owner shall not be entitled to reimbursement of any fees
paid with the application.
5.1.7 Variances. Any request for a variance must be made in writing to the DRP.
Variance requests are subject to the Declaration and 8.10, and Section 6.5 of the
Design Guidelines. Any variance granted shall be considered unique and will not set
any precedent for future decisions.
5.1.8 Request for Hearing. If an application is conditionally approved or denied, the
Owner may request a hearing before the DRP to justify the Owner’s position. The DRP
will consider the arguments and facts presented by the Owner and notify the Owner
of its decision. Any appeal of the DRP’s decision shall be made pursuant to Section
8.12 of the Declaration.
7
5.1.9 Event of Inaction. If the DRP does not act on or respond to a Form within forty-
five (45) days after receiving the Form, the Form shall be deemed denied. The Owner
may resubmit the application, and in this instance no resubmittal fee shall be required.
5.2 Informal Advice
Prior to beginning the design process, it is recommended that Owners and their designated
representatives (such as architects, contractors, etc.) contact the DRP to verify their
interpretation of the Design Guidelines. Owners or their designated representatives may, at
their option, request a meeting with the DRP to discuss the preliminary plans prior to a full
Form A (Sketch Design Review) submittal.
Fee* Required
Documents
Required Submittal Materials
(1 digital PDF copy) Schematic Drawing Checklist
None
(except as
noted
below)
None Conceptual plans appropriate for
informal discussion
N/A
*Note: Additional meetings and/or reviews requested by the Owner and as determined by the DRP to be above
and beyond the standard review process are subject to hourly fees in addition to the Design Review fee and must
be paid prior to issuance of approval.
5.3 FORM A (Required) Sketch Design Review
The Sketch Design Review checks designs for general interpretations of the overall
Declaration and Design Guidelines. Form A includes a statement of Acknowledgement. The
Owner and/or its designated representative shall take all necessary steps to ensure that they
and their employees, subcontractors, agents, suppliers, and others involved in the design
and/or construction of the Improvement and Construction Activity are familiar with and agree
to abide by the Governing Documents and approved plans.
Note that Form A review must be completed before Form B review can begin.
If a Form B application is not submitted within nine (9) months of Form A review (based on
the date of the letter from the DRP approving or conditionally approving the plans) or if there
is one or more substantial or material changes (as determined by the DRP in the DRP’s sole
discretion), a new full Form A submittal and fee will be required.
Fee*
Required
Documents
(1 digital
PDF copy)
Required Submittal
Materials (1 digital
PDF copy)
Schematic Drawing Checklist
8
$900 – Single
Family/Duplex
$1,100 3-8 Units
$1,250 - All Others
Form A
(must be
signed)
Site Plan
(1/16” or 1/8” scale)
North Arrow
Property/Setback Lines
Easements
Sidewalks; Building Footprints;
Porches, Stairs, etc; Overhangs (as
dashed lines)
Parking and recreation areas
(where applicable)
Landscape Plan
(1/16” or 1/8” scale)
Schematic Site &
Boulevard Landscaping
Floor Plans
(1/8” scale or larger)
Room Use
Windows & Doors
Overhangs
Dimensions
Gross SF
Elevations
(1/8” scale or larger)
Porches, balconies
Doors, windows
Materials specified
Overall Height (from average
grade)
Roof Pitches
*Notes:
1) Fee covers Form A & B; if project does not progress past Form A, a $250 refund will be provided upon request
of the Owner.
2) Additional meetings and/or reviews requested by the Owner and as determined by the DRP to be above and
beyond the standard review process are subject to hourly fees in addition to the Design Review fee and must be
paid prior to issuance of approval.
3) Incomplete applications may be returned and are subject to a $100 penalty.
5.4 Form B (Required) Construction Design Review:
The Construction Design Review checks the construction documents for general compliance
with the Governing Documents and verifies that the previous DRP recommendations (if any)
have been addressed. Conformity to applicable local regulations and building codes, as well
as obtaining appropriate permits is the responsibility of the Owner.
If a Form B application is not submitted within nine (9) months of Form A review (based on
the date of the letter from the DRP) or if there is a substantial or material change to the
approved plans(as determined by the DRP in its sole discretion), a new full Form A submittal
will be required.
Fee*
Required
Documents (1
digital PDF
copy)
Required Submittal
Materials (1 digital
PDF copy)
Drawing Checklist
9
Fee paid in
Form A
Form B (must be
signed)
&
Green Building
Checklist
Site Plan
(1/16” or 1/8” scale)
All dimensions must
be noted.
North Arrow; Property Lines;
Setback Lines; Easements;
Sidewalk & Street Location;
Location, Dimensions, Materials for
walks & drives;
Building Footprints;
Porches, Stairs, etc.;
Overhangs (as dashed lines);
Fence location & details;
Grading Plan;
Location and screening of equipment
and meters;
Limits of construction activity
Parking and recreation areas (where
applicable)
Landscape Plan
(1/16” or 1/8” scale)
Site landscaping
Boulevard Landscaping
Floor Plans
(1/8” scale or larger)
All dimensions must
be noted.
Room Use
Windows & Doors
Overhangs
Gross square footage for dwelling,
garage, Outbuilding
Elevations
(1/4” scale or larger)
All dimensions must
be noted.
Porches, balconies
Doors, windows
Materials specified
Overall Height (from average grade)
Roof Pitches
Color Rendering Color rendering of the front elevation
and color chips
Material Samples As requested by DRP
Foundation Letter from
Engineer
Each project is required to submit a
letter from a civil engineer identifying
existing ground water elevations, and
recommendations for foundation
design, footing and first floor elevations.
*Notes:
1) Fees paid with Form A cover both Form A & Form B.
2) Form A & Form B may be submitted concurrently.
3) Additional meetings and/or reviews requested by the Owner and as determined by the DRP to be above and
beyond the standard review process are subject to hourly fees in addition to the Design Review fee and must be
paid prior to issuance of approval.
4) Incomplete applications may be returned and are subject to a $100 penalty.
5.5 Form C Changes & Modifications:
Owners may wish to make improvements, changes, or modifications to their Improvements
or Construction Activity during the initial construction or at a future date. An improvement,
change, or modification may only be performed after DRP approval of Form C. In some
10
cases, improvements, changes, or modifications may also require City of Bozeman approval.
Owners are responsible for ensuring that all appropriate approvals are obtained prior to
construction starting. Note that any improvements, changes, or modifications that are
made before Form C is submitted, reviewed, and approved will be subject to an
increased fee in an amount to be decided by the Board of Directors.
Fee*
Required
Documents (1
digital PDF copy)
Required Submittal
Materials (1 digital PDF
copy)
Drawing
Checklist
$200
(for proposed
modifications)
$500
(for “after the fact”
modifications, per
infraction as
determined by the
Board or DRP)
Form C
Any relevant drawings related
to proposed change(s)
Any details related
to the proposed
changes.
*Notes:
1) Additional meetings and/or reviews requested by the Owner and as determined by the DRP to be above and
beyond the standard review process are subject to hourly fees in addition to the Design Review fee and must be
paid prior to issuance of approval.
2) Incomplete applications may be returned and are subject to a $100 penalty.
5.6 Site Plan Review & Building Permits
All Improvements or Construction Activity require a building permit and some projects may
require additional review from the City of Bozeman. Any plans submitted to the City of
Bozeman must include the Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel stamp and/or letter of
approval. This is a requirement of the Association and not the City of Bozeman.
Approval by the DRP does not ensure approval by the City of Bozeman; approval by the City
of Bozeman does not ensure approval by the DRP.
Construction may not commence without obtaining necessary approvals/permits from the
City of Bozeman and the DRP. The Board may assess significant fines for beginning
construction prior to obtaining all required approvals.
5.7 Timing of Construction
Construction must be commenced and completed within the times set forth in the
Declaration, Section 8.7.
5.8 Inspections
The Board and/or DRP reserve the right to inspect the Lot or Unit at any time to determine if
the construction strictly complies with the Governing Documents and/or approved plans. If it
is determined that the construction is not in strict compliance with the Governing Documents,
the Board or DRP will notify the Owner or successive Owner. The Owner or successive
11
Owner shall remedy the non-compliance within the time set forth in the notice; provided,
however, if the Owner or successive Owner acting with due diligence cannot remedy the
non-compliance within the time specified, the Owner or successive Owner shall submit a
work plan within such ten (10) day period delineating its reasonable diligence and the time
frame when the noncompliance will be remedied and the Board or DRP may grant the Owner
or successive Owner additional time.
If the noncompliance is not timely remedied, in addition to any other remedy the Association
may have, the Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, remedy the noncompliance. The
amount of any expenditure incurred in so doing shall be the Owner’s or successive Owner’s
obligation, without prejudice to the rights of a successive Owner to recover the costs from
the prior Owner. In addition to any other remedy the Association may have under the
Governing Documents or Montana law, the Board may assess a Default Assessments
against the Owner or successive Owner and the Lot or Unit for expenses incurred by the
Association to bring the Lot or Unit into compliance with the Governing Documents and/or
approved plans and may file and foreclose a lien regarding such Default Assessments.
The Owner or successive Owner shall reimburse the DRP for any time spent on an inspection
that is above and beyond the average inspection. The payment shall be based on the hourly
fee (approximately $100/hour).
5.9 Liability
Neither the Association, the Declarant, the Board of Directors, the DRP, nor the individual
member's thereof, may be held liable to any person for any damages for any action taken
pursuant to the Design Guidelines, including but not limited to, damages which may result
from review, correction, amendment, changes or rejection of plans and specifications,
observations or inspections, the issuance of approvals, or any delays associated with such
action on the part of the DRP or Board of Directors.
5.10 Successive Owners
A successive Owner shall be a jointly and severally obligated to the Association for any
violation of the Governing Documents or the approved plans, for bringing the Construction
Activity or Improvement into compliance, and for any Default Assessments which had or may
accrue as a result of such violations, without prejudice to such successive Owner’s right to
recover from the prior Owner any such amounts paid by the successive Owner.
Chapter 6: Neighborhood Design Patterns
All development must adhere to the neighborhood patterns described in the following
sections (Site, Building, and Landscape). Photos are included for reference only. Note that
some provisions of the Design Guidelines may be more restrictive than local land use
regulations.
6.1 Site
12
The Site requirements apply to all mixed uses and residential projects. The following site
design guidelines are intended to provide a framework for site layouts within Laurel Meadows
Subdivision.
Lots and Setbacks
Buildings shall be located on Lots relative to the setback specified in the current
Bozeman Unified Development Code (UDC), including any easements indicated
on the final Plat(s) that have been filed.
All residential zone Lots shall primarily front the street in the direction of interior
Lots on the same side of the block. Building on corner Lots must address both
street frontages. Design considerations should include, but not be limited to:
wrapping front porches, variation in wall planes and massing, additional
fenestrations, enhanced landscaping, secondary roof forms and integrated
backyard screening.
Fences & Screens
No fencing is allowed in street-facing front yards or in required street vision
triangles. In specific situations, as determined by the DRP, fences may be
permitted in front yard setback. The maximum height for fences in front yard is 42”.
Materials: fences and gates must be made of wood and have a sealer, pigmented
stain or paint applied in order to protect the wood from moisture and UV rays. A
fence must have a cap board unless otherwise approved based on design merit.
Other material may be considered, however chain-link, and split rail fences are
prohibited.
Height: maximum height for fences in corner side yards shall be four (4) feet.
Maximum fence height is six (6) feet in rear and interior side yards.
Fences that border Open Space or City Parks are allowed to be a maximum of four
(4) feet and shall include semi-transparent sections.
All fences shall be stained or sealed to protect them from weather and elements
and to maintain appearance.
Screen walls, used for patios or hot tubs, are required to meet all setback
requirements, and must be aesthetically connected to and appear as an extension
of a primary residence wall. Outdoor rooms may be designed to include, but shall
not be substantially obscured by, screen walls.
All fence assemblies are required to be maintained for appearance and kept in
working order.
13
Dog kennels or runs must be attached to a primary residential dwelling, ADU, or
Outbuilding, be screened from public streets and adjacent Lots, and receive DRP
approval for materials and configuration. Chain-link is not permitted. Underground
electric fences are encouraged for dogs.
Utility panel or wire fences must be constructed so that the wire or utility panel is
attached and held in place by the fence structure. Staples, alone, are not
acceptable to attach the wire to the fencing frame.
Fences may not be installed within City of Bozeman watercourse setbacks, but
may be used to delineate such setbacks.
Sidewalks
Any existing sidewalks in the right-of-way or Open Spaces that are damaged
during construction must be repaired or replaced at the Lot Owner’s expense.
Sidewalks on Lots facing local streets are required to cross the boulevard in line
with the sidewalk leading to the front porch.
Owners shall be responsible for installing sidewalks within the Owner’s Lot on the
earlier of the following: (i) before occupying any residential dwelling on the Lot; or
(ii) within one (1) year from the date the Plat creating the Lot was recorded in the
Public Record. Failure to comply may result in the Association constructing
sidewalks and assessing full coordinating and installation costs, plus twenty-five
percent (25%), and assessing fines.
6.2 Residential Building Elements
The following building design guidelines apply to all residential construction and are intended
to promote both building diversity and neighborhood compatibility within a developing
neighborhood framework.
Base Element & Foundation
A base element is required and must be detailed in such a way to visually and
structurally connect the building with the ground. It may appear as a platform or
terrace upon which the building stands or as a built extension of the ground
integrated with the building above. This element may be masonry, concrete, wood
or materials matching trim package. Buildings without a base element may be
considered based on design merit.
Foundation walls shall be exposed a maximum of twelves (12) inches above the
ground. Exposed foundation walls shall be built of brick, cast concrete, trimmed
with horizontal members, or as otherwise approved by DRP. Concrete foundations
exposed more than eighteen (18) inches above grade must have an architectural
finish (texture, pattern and/or color).
Due to the potential of high ground water tables in the areas of the Laurel Meadows
Subdivision, it is not recommended that residential dwellings or other structures
14
with full or partial basements be constructed without first consulting a professional
engineer licensed in the State of Montana and qualified in the certification of
residential and commercial construction.
Walls & Facades
All facades of the main building, ADU, and Outbuildings shall be made of similar
materials and be similarly detailed.
Primary materials on a façade may change only at a horizontal band or an inside
corner. Consideration will be given to changing materials at a visual block such as
a fence.
Varied building massing is encouraged. No exterior wall plane, unless approved
otherwise for design merit, shall exceed thirty-five (35) feet in length without
incorporating a minimum twenty-four (24) inch offset or recess in a significant
proportion to the overall plane.
Building walls shall be clad in smooth cut wood shingles, wood clapboard, barn or
reclaimed wood, wood drop siding, traditional wood board and batten, fiber cement
siding, architectural metal cladding, stucco, brick, or stone. Siding shall be painted
or stained; pre-finished siding will be considered based on design merit. Alternative
materials will be considered based on design merit.
All metal siding should be standing seam or as approved for design merit.
Stucco finish walls shall have a minimum texture not heavier than 16/20 sand
finish. Accent and trim stucco may have a smooth finish or at minimum 30/30 sand
float finish.
Brick surfaces shall be set predominantly in a horizontal running bond pattern.
Stonework shall be natural or approved synthetic stone materials. Dry stack, un-
coursed settings with minimal exposed mortar are preferred. Stonework shall not
be applied to individual wall surfaces to avoid a veneer-like appearance. It shall
continue around corners to an inside corner.
The color palette of the body of the building shall be as approved by the DRP
based on merit. Color schemes must be varied from the two adjacent Lots, in each
direction and from the Lots across the street. Attached dwelling units are exempted
from each other. Garish colors are not allowed.
Exposed exterior wood shall be painted or stained (wood front doors excluded).
Lap siding shall run horizontally. Maximum lap siding exposure is five (5) inches.
Combinations of lap exposure will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Trim materials should be of high quality and of appropriate visual size. Exterior trim
of at least four (4) inches is required around windows and doors. Corner caps are
15
acceptable. Variations on trim width and/or exclusion of trim will be considered
based on design merit and overall design composition.
Porches
For yards facing a public street, the front porch of a residential structure must be
built within five (5) feet of the setback line (“build-to” line). The width of the porch
on the build-to line must occupy a minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the width of
the front façade measured along the build-to line. As an alternative to the typical
front porch and to provide additional design diversity, narrower but deeper porches
that have the same square footage may also be considered. A minimum six (6)
feet of depth is required.
Buildings on corner Lots must address both streets with fronting characteristics as
part of the comprehensive composition. Design considerations should include but
not be limited to: wrapping front porches, outdoor rooms, variation in wall planes
and massing, additional openings and enhanced landscaping.
Front porches generally must be elevated between two (2) and four (4) feet above
fronting top of curb. Other heights may be considered based on-site conditions and
foundation design.
Porch railings may be opened or closed. If closed, they must be constructed of the
same material as the adjacent wall planes.
Front stoops shall be made of concrete, wood, stone, or brick and must be detailed
and integrated into the porch/railing design. Required stair railings must be
compatible with the overall stair and porch design.
Porch supports shall be built of stone, masonry, concrete, or wood. Column base
piers shall be no less than 16 x 16-inch square and wood columns shall be no less
than eight (8) inches square. Column groupings must have an outer minimum
dimension of ten (10) inches. Tapered columns may not be smaller than 7 x 7-
inches at the top. Columns shall match or be similar in design on all elevations of
a structure. Variations on dimension may be considered based on design merit
and overall design composition.
The balustrade and the space below porches shall be closed and integrated into a
closed band and/or landscaped, interrupted as necessary for drainage.
No exposed stair or deck framing is allowed.
Decks, Patios & Balconies
Decks and patios must face only side yards and/or Open Spaces. Decks and
patios may not extend more than forty percent (40%) into any required side
setback.
Arcanum Architecture
16
The space below first floor elevated decks visible from nearby streets or public
spaces shall be architecturally detailed and/or landscaped to provide screening.
Decks, balconies, and terraces shall be designed to enhance the overall
architecture of the building by creating variety, layering, and detail on exterior
elevations. Covered decks, balconies, and bay windows shall be integrated and
composed with the overall building form, rather than placed randomly throughout
the building. Terraces shall be used to integrate the building and landscape by
creating a transition between the built and natural character of the site.
Windows & Solar Gain
Windows are encouraged meet or exceed Energy Star standards.
Openings (including windows and doors) shall not be less than fifteen percent
(15%) of the wall area, measured on each elevation. Elevation calculations shall
include exterior window or door trim.
Windows shall be wood, wood-clad, fiberglass or vinyl.
Round, hexagonal and octagonal windows are not permitted.
Mirrored glass shall not be used.
Buildings shall have all openings trimmed in wood bands of minimum four (4)
inches nominal width unless approved based on design merit.
Bay window projections shall be proportionate to the overall composition and are
encouraged to extend to the ground or be trimmed appropriately. Cantilevered
bays must be visually carried by structural brackets or a water table trim band.
Only cantilevered bays may encroach into a setback.
False shutters are not permitted.
Canvas awnings are permitted and shall be square cut without side panels.
Doors
Exterior doors are encouraged to meet or exceed Energy Star standards.
Traditional sliding glass doors may only be used in yards facing open spaces, rear
and side yards.
Garage doors shall be built of wood, steel, or fiberglass.
Garage doors shall be de-emphasized in the elevation of the building. If possible,
they should be oriented away from the street. If a lot does not have access to an
alley and garage doors must face a street, the doors shall be made of a
17
complementary and quality material and have significant detailing contributing to
the elevation composition.
Garages that face the street should be set back behind the front face of the building
a minimum of four (4) feet.
Garages and garage doors fronting a street or alley shall be composed with overall
site plan and have sufficient detailing contributing to the building elevation.
Garages that face an alley should be set back either three (3) feet to five (5) feet if
no full driveway is proposed or a minimum of eighteen (18) feet to accommodate
a full driveway. In no case should the front of the detached garage be more than
thirty (30) feet setback from the alley.
Three car garages are permitted but must be either be side-facing or have one
door offset at least 2 feet.
Other more contemporary and creative approaches to garage doors will be
considered based on design merit.
Roof
The principal roof shall be symmetrical hip or gable from with a pitch between 4:12
to 12:12. Flat roofs are permitted on all buildings if integrated with the design. Flat
roofs used as balconies on street facades may be enclosed with solid railings.
Roof plane continuous length dimensions shall not exceed 40’ for single family and
duplex structures and 100’ for multifamily structures without a significant break.
Minimum break shall be no less than twenty percent (20%) of the length roof plane
and extend up the roof plane no less than thirty percent (30%) of the height of the
roof.
Asphalt composition shingles are permitted, but must be at least thirty (30) year
architectural grade.
Treated wood shingles are permitted.
Metal roof materials are a permitted but must be designed to protect people and
property from significant sliding of snow and ice (not applicable to dormers or
similar roof forms that do not drip directly to grade). Metal roofs may be corrugated
or standing seam only. Unpainted, galvanized, rusted, brown, grey or rust-red-
baked-on finish are all appropriate finishes. Garish colors or shiny materials are
not appropriate.
Natural or synthetic slate roof materials are permitted.
Green roofs are encouraged.
Skylights
18
Skylights shall be flat in profile (no bubbles or domes).
Roof Mounted Solar Panels
Solar panels are encouraged for all projects. Solar panels shall be installed only
on roofs.
Dormers
Dormer width shall be proportionate to the overall composition.
Shed dormers shall have a pitch of at least 3:12. Hip and gable dormers shall have
the same pitch as the main roof volume.
Eaves
Overhanging roof eave and gable end depth shall be no less than twenty-four (24)
inches unless approved otherwise based on design merit for a more contemporary
style or flat roof. Roof overhang depth on accessory structures must match the
main building structure.
Fascia detail must have a minimum dimension of eight (8) inches nominal unless
otherwise approved for design merit. Two-piece fascia detailing is required. Wood
(including Miratec and similar products as determined by the Design Review
Committee) is the only acceptable material. Vinyl or metal fascia material is not
permitted. As an alternative, exposed rafter tails and entry accents are encouraged
if appropriate for the architectural style.
Soffits shall be wood or fiberboard cement products (including Hardiboard
products). Metal or vinyl soffits are not permitted.
Boxed soffits are allowed when integrated into a suitable architectural style and
overall detailing.
Enclosed soffits are acceptable on more contemporary styles.
Gutters shall be metal, and of a color and finish that blends with the finish color
scheme. Gutters shall be half-round or rectangular and downspouts shall be
circular or rectangular.
Chimneys / Roof Vents
Chimneys shall be clad in stone, masonry, siding, steel or some other compatible
or complementary material.
Chimneys shall be at least 30 x 30-inches.
19
Prefabricated metal flues shall be concealed within a chimney unless approved
otherwise. Chimney caps may extend above the chimney top per building code
requirements.
Roof protrusions, other than chimneys, shall be arranged to minimize street
exposure.
All roof-mounted equipment shall be integrated into overall design and screened.
Lighting
All exterior residential lighting shall be dark—sky compliant, free of glare, fully
shielded, and emit light downward.
Recessed or can lighting is encouraged for porches and main entrances for softer
lighting conditions.
The following lighting is prohibited: obtrusive flood lighting, mercury vapor or high-
pressure sodium lights, metal halide lights, and clear glass or exposed bulb (non-
cutoff) fixtures.
Pathway lighting is permitted. These types of lights may be attached to the home,
along walkways near the ground level, or incorporated into fences. Solar powered
lighting is strongly encouraged.
Signage
Except as otherwise set forth in the Declaration, no signs shall be erected on a Lot
or Unit except to identify the owner and address of the Lot or Unit.
Typical "For Sale" signs shall be allowed during the sale of a Lot.
Signage integrated with landscaping may be placed at the main entrances of
Laurel Meadows Subdivision and City Parks or Open Spaced to identify the
neighborhood.
6.3 Landscape (all projects)
The landscape requirements apply to all Lots and Units. The proper use of plant materials
adds to a sense of permanence and consistency for a neighborhood while also connecting
the built and natural environments. Landscape plans submitted with Form B should outline
hardscape elements, fencing, and planting areas with species and quantities listed. Each
Owner will be required to meet minimum landscape specifications related to two general
categories: boulevard plantings and yard plantings.
Additionally, each Owner is required to comply with all City of Bozeman landscaping and
irrigation requirements.
20
Street Boulevard Plantings
Lot Owners shall be responsible for landscaping the boulevard area directly
adjacent to their Lot at the time of occupancy and for the maintenance of the
boulevard area thereafter.
To enhance a public street boulevard where present, one (1) tree (minimum two
(2) inch diameter caliper) shall be planted per fifty (50) feet in the boulevard area.
Sod (fescue blend sod is strongly encouraged) or an approved xeriscape plan must
also be installed in the boulevard area directly adjacent to the subject property. If
sod is installed, irrigation must also be installed.
Maximum height of landscaping in required vehicle vision triangles is thirty (30)
inches.
It is the responsibility of the Owner to contact the appropriate utility companies
before digging.
Yard Plantings
All Lot Owners are required to landscape yards and to maintain such landscaping.
Yards facing a street must be sod (fescue blend sod is strongly encouraged) if
grass is proposed. Yards facing Open Space or side yards may be seeded.
Native, drought tolerant grasses and regional plant materials are encouraged.
Lawns should be well maintained, so they thrive and therefore, use fewer
resources. Regular fertilizing, aeration, and weekly cutting with a sharp blade are
all critical to lawn success. Lawns should be maintained at about 4-inches as
keeping lawns slightly long ensures the soil remains shaded, thereby using less
water.
Mulching, composting, efficient irrigation, harvesting water from roofs, sidewalks,
driveways and other impervious surfaces are all encouraged.
“Xeriscaping” or water-conserving, drought-tolerant landscaping is encouraged. A
proposal for a Xeriscape landscape plan must be prepared by a landscape
professional. United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has
guidelines available at: http://www.epa.gov/.
Alternative water-conserving designs may be considered based on overall design
merit and composition.
Landscaping within watercourse setbacks on or adjacent to Lots within the Laurel
Meadows Subdivision may not be mowed or altered.
Yards facing a street:
At least one (1) tree (minimum 2-inch caliper) and two (2) appropriately sized
planting beds are required for yards facing a public street. Corner Lots are
21
considered to have two (2) separate yards and therefore require a total of two (2)
trees (minimum two (2) inch caliper) and two (2) appropriately sized planting beds.
For Lots wider than 40’ two (2) front yard trees (minimum 2-inch caliper) and two
(2) appropriately sized planting beds are required for yards facing a public street.
As a minimum requirement, all multi-family Lots are subject to city of Bozeman
landscape requirements (38.550).
Yards Facing Open Spaces:
At least one (1) tree (minimum two (2) inch diameter caliper) and two (2)
appropriately sized planting beds are required for any yard facing an Open Space.
For Lots wider than 40’ two (2) front yard trees (minimum 2-inch caliper) and two
(2) appropriately sized planting beds are required for yards facing a public street.
As a minimum requirement all multi-family Lots are subject to city of Bozeman
landscape requirements (38.550).
Planting beds must be composed with the site and the building elevations and shall
have a top layer of mulch or earth tone stone (non-white).
Maximum height of landscaping in required vehicle vision triangles is thirty (30)
inches.
It is the responsibility of the Owner to contact the appropriate utility companies
before digging.
Vegetation & Solar Gain
Special consideration should be given to areas of sun exposure and shade for the
planting of trees and large shrubs. Landscaping should allow southern exposures
necessary for a home’s solar gain in the winter, or that of the neighbors.
Hardscapes
Selection of hardscape materials should favor natural materials such as untreated
wood, stone, or stamped concrete, while balancing the desire for durability.
Pressure treated lumber and railroad ties, although re-used, should be avoided for
their toxicity.
Soil Preparation & Drainage
Investment at the soil level provides huge payoff in reduced water and fertilizer
use, and plant vigor. Soils should be of the best quality available and improved
with imported compost as feasible, especially in lawn areas. In areas where poor
soils are unavoidable, homeowners should focus plant selection on species that
thrive in such conditions. Runoff from roofs, and hardscapes, and melting snow,
22
should be considered, and should be harvested for landscape use whenever
possible.
Irrigation Systems & Water Use
Underground irrigation systems can use water efficiently, but they must be
designed, installed, and operated correctly. They shall also be regularly
maintained.
Plants with similar water usage, sun and shade requirements and zones with spray
heads, rotors or drip systems should be grouped together.
Plants should be sufficient in number and density to reduce weed growth. A weed
mat also inhibits weed growth. Mulch conserves water and shades soil.
Landscapes do not require as much water during shoulder seasons (May, June,
September and October) as in July and August. Watering should be reduced in
September and October to prepare vegetation for dormancy. Early morning is the
best time (4 am - 9am) to water because watering at night can encourage fungus
and disease to grow. Avoid watering between 9 am – 7 pm.
Water only when the turf requires it. If one leaves distinct footprints when stepping
on it or the grass does not spring back, it is time to water. Applying one inch of
water (including rainfall) once per week is enough to keep the lawn green
throughout the summer.
Turf grass should be watered using longer run times (15 - 20 minutes) but less
often. This allows the grass roots to grow deeper thereby needing less water and
becoming more drought and weed resistant. Frequent watering of turf grass
causes the root base to remain shallow, causing the grass to brown easily and be
more susceptible to drought and weeds.
When watering trees and shrubs, it is not necessary to water the leaves or the
trunk. Instead, place a sufficient number of emitters evenly around the tree or shrub
halfway between the trunk and the outer canopy.
Fertilizing / Pesticides
In careful consideration of streams and wetlands in the area, Owners that border
Open Spaces or City Parks with surface water (lakes, streams, wetlands) will only
be permitted to use non-chemical fertilizers / pesticides in required yard setbacks.
Organic fertilizers for lawns are readily available, as are corn-based weed
suppression substitutes. Non-lawn native and drought tolerant plantings typically
require no extra fertilizing at all.
Weed control
As further specified in the Declaration, noxious weeds pose a serious threat to the
environment, and Owners shall familiarize themselves with and control these
23
weeds on their Lot. Chemical solutions should be balanced with the threat level of
the individual species and the possibility for non-chemical alternative treatments.
Under no circumstance should noxious weeds be allowed to flourish or go past the
flowering stage and into the seed stage. Weed control is required on both
developed and vacant Lots and will be enforced in accordance with the
Declaration.
Vegetation Removal
No landscaping in the right-of-way, City Parks, Open Spaces and Common Areas
may be removed without prior permission from the DRP.
6.4 Variances from Neighborhood Patterns
The DRP encourages unique and creative design that respects the spirit and intent of the
Declaration and Design Guidelines. Any variance shall be requested by the Owner to the
DRP in writing. Except as otherwise set forth in Chapter 3, the DRP may, upon application,
recommend approval of a variance from the Design Guidelines, based on design merit and
those factors set forth in the Declaration.
However, the Board of Directors shall have the power to make the final decision on whether
to approve, conditionally approve, or deny a variance, without any liability being incurred or
damages being assessed due to any decision of the Board of Directors.
Chapter 7: Definitions
The words and terms used in this document shall have their customary dictionary definitions
unless otherwise specifically defined within the Declaration or the Design Guidelines.
24
Laurel Meadows Design Review
Indicate Form being submitted by checking appropriate box(s):
Form A: Sketch Design Review
Form B: Construction Design Review
Form C: Application for Change(s)
Property Information:
Street Address: ___________________________________________________
Lot/Unit __________ Block _________ Phase _________
All design review correspondence will go to primary contact. Indicate primary contact
by checking the appropriate box:
Owner Information:
Name: __________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: __________________________________________________
Telephone: ________________ Email: ________________________________
Architect Information:
Name: __________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: __________________________________________________
Telephone: ________________ Email: ________________________________
Builder Information:
Name: __________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: __________________________________________________
Telephone: ________________ Email: ________________________________
Landscape Designer Information:
Name: __________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: __________________________________________________
Telephone: ________________ Email: ________________________________
25
Variances:
1. Are any variances from the Declaration or Laurel Meadows Architectural Design
Guidelines being requested under this application?
Yes
No
If yes, please describe the variance:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. Items submitted (please check):
Review Fee(s) $_______ Colored Elevations
Site Plan Including grading Floor Plans
Roof Plan Building Sections
Landscape Plan Garage Door Cut Sheet (If Applicable)
Request for Changes (Form C):
1. Type of Modification
Proposed Modification (C1)
Modification already constructed (C2)
2. Change description and reason for Change
(Attach specific drawings of proposed changes.)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Project Timelines: Please List anticipated completions dates for each Phase.
Design Review Approval ____________ Foundation _______________
City Approval _____________________ Framing __________________
Break ground _____________________ Siding ___________________
Landscaping _____________
26
Acknowledgement Statement:
The Lot Owner acknowledges that he/she has received, read and will abide by the
Declaration, Architectural Design Guidelines, Rules and Regulations regarding construction.
As stated in the both the Declaration and Architectural Design Guidelines, the failure to strictly
comply with the Governing Documents in the construction of any Improvement or
Construction Activity may result in the Board taking action against the Owner, including
without limitation assessing substantial fines and requiring the Owner to pay all costs to bring
the Lot or Unit into compliance.
I (We) ______________________________________________ am/are the owner(s) of
record of Lot/Unit ____, Block _____, Phase __________ of Laurel Meadows Subdivision .
I/We have read these requirements and understand their implications. Furthermore, I (we)
have been given sufficient opportunity to discuss any questions we may have regarding these
requirements with a member of the Laurel Meadows Design Review Panel. My (Our)
signature(s) below is/are evidence of my/our intent to comply with these requirements.
Property Owner Signature: ___________________________ Date: _________
Printed Name:____________________________________________________
Applicant Signature: ________________________________ Date: _________
Printed Name: ___________________________________________________
*FOR OFFICE USE ONLY*
DATE RECEIVED ____________ CHECK NUMBER ____________ CHECK AMOUNT ____________
27