HomeMy WebLinkAboutE-Packet 05-29-07_Bozeman Community Plan Update - Joint Meeting of t_11
Report compiled on May 22, 2007
Commission Memorandum
REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Chris Saunders, Assistant Planning Director
Jody Sanford, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Bozeman Community Plan Update – Joint Meeting of the City Commission and
Bozeman Planning Board with Clarion Associates of Fort Collins, CO
MEETING DATE: Tuesday, May 29, 2007
RECOMMENDATION: Provide the representatives from Clarion Associates with feedback on the
following: 1.Your ideas about the 2020 Plan - what is working or not? 2. How well does recent
development reflect community goals in the Plan? 3. Ideas or questions about this project? 4. Who else
should be involved?
BACKGROUND: The City of Bozeman has initiated the process of updating the City’s growth policy,
the Bozeman 2020 Community Plan. Clarion Associates of Fort Collins, CO has been retained to
provide an audit of the current plan, and provide recommendations and guidance for preparation of the
update. Other plan update tasks completed to date include: 1. Update of the GIS land use layer. 2.
Planning Board appointment of a community plan update committee. 3. Completion and adoption of
the Water and Wastewater Facilities Plans. 4. Completion of the public comment draft of the Parks,
Recreation, Open Space and Trails (PROST) Plan. 5. Commission endorsement of a new planning
boundary (same boundary being used for water, wastewater, stormwater and parks facility plans).
Next steps in the plan update process will include: 1. Preparation and implementation of a public
outreach and participation plan (June 2007). 2. Preparation of a plan update timeline as a Gantt chart
(June 2007). 3. Staff analysis of the current plan and recommendations for updates (June 2007). 4.
Compilation and preparation of demographic and socio-economic information and trends (June – July,
2007). 5. Final adoption of the PROST Plan (Summer 2007).
UNRESOLVED ISSUES: Should the Planning Department continue to accept growth policy
amendment applications during the Community Plan Update process?
FISCAL EFFECTS: Fiscal impacts are undetermined at this time.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested by the City Commission.
CONTACT: Please feel free to email Chris Saunders at csaunders@bozeman.net or Jody Sanford at
jsanford@bozeman.net if you have any questions prior to the public hearing.
APPROVED BY: Andrew Epple, Planning Director
Chris Kukulski, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit of the Community Plan Update planning boundary
Clarion Associates professional biographies, qualifications and representative project experience
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!! Bozeman 2020 Community Plan boundary
Bozeman Community Plan Update boundary
City of Bozeman
VALLEY CENTER
SYPES CANYON
GOOCH HILLBAXTER
DURSTON
HUFFINE
STUCKY
BLACKWOOD
PATTERSON
JOHNSON COTTONWOODFOWLERNASH SOURDOUGHMOUNT ELLISBOZEMAN TRAIL
BRIDGER CANYONSTORY MILL248
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Report compiled on May 23, 2007
Commission Memorandum
REPORT TO: Honorable Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Chris Saunders, Assistant Planning Director
Jody Sanford, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Recently Passed Bills Amending State Planning Statutes
MEETING DATE: Tuesday, May 29, 2007
RECOMMENDATION: The City Commission should consider whether they wish to pursue the
new option provided by Senate Bill 201. If so, the planning process will be revised to accommodate
the requirements of provision.
BACKGROUND: The Montana State Legislature recently passed two bills amending the planning
statutes.
Senate Bill 201 revises the contents list for a growth policy in Section 76-1-601. It provides an
option for a community to prepare detailed plans and zoning based regulations which then provide a
foundation to simplify the subdivision review process. In return a community may charge a fee to
development specifically for funding of long range planning.
Senate Bill 51 requires that a growth policy consider the hazards from wildland fire and the urban
interface. It also requires subdivision review to consider hazards from fire while at the same time
placing certain limits on what types of mitigation requirements may be imposed through subdivision.
Certain duties are imposed upon state agencies to prepare rules to implement the new law.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES: Should the City pursue the new option provided by Senate Bill 201.
FISCAL EFFECTS: Fiscal impacts are undetermined at this time.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested by the City Commission.
CONTACT: Please feel free to email Chris Saunders at csaunders@bozeman.net or Jody Sanford
at jsanford@bozeman.net if you have any questions prior to the public hearing.
APPROVED BY: Andrew Epple, Planning Director
Chris Kukulski, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
Text of Senate Bill 201
Text of Senate Bill 51
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SENATE BILL NO. 2011
INTRODUCED BY LAIBLE, GILLAN, HAWKS, NOONEY, HANDS, GRINDE, MURPHY, O'HARA, EBINGER,2
WISEMAN, DUTTON, JACOBSON, ARNTZEN, MACLAREN3
4
A BILL FOR AN ACT ENTITLED: "AN ACT GENERALLY REVISING LAND USE LAWS; ALLOWING LOCAL5
GOVERNMENTS TO ADOPT GROWTH POLICIES THAT ADDRESS INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING;6
REQUIRING CERTAIN TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS TO COMPLY WITH GROWTH POLICIES; ALLOWING7
CERTAIN GOVERNING BODIES TO ASSESS PLANNING FEES; EXEMPTING CERTAIN LAND DIVISIONS8
FROM REVIEW; REQUIRING THAT CERTAIN WATER AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS RECEIVE A9
PRIORITY FOR FUNDING; PROVIDING FOR A TRANSITION PERIOD; AND AMENDING SECTIONS 60-2-110,10
76-1-103, 76-1-601, 76-2-101, 76-2-205, 76-3-207, 76-3-301, 76-3-605, 76-3-608, 85-1-612, AND 90-6-710, AND11
76-3-609, MCA; AND PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE."12
13
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:14
15
Section 1. Section 60-2-110, MCA, is amended to read:16
"60-2-110. Setting priorities and selecting projects. (1) Except as provided in 60-2-133, the17
commission shall establish priorities and select and designate segments for construction and reconstruction on18
the national highway system, the primary highway system, the secondary highway system, the urban highway19
system, and state highways.20
(2) The commission shall consult with the board of county commissioners of the county in which a21
highway is located when establishing priorities and when selecting and designating segments on the secondary22
highway system for construction and reconstruction.23
(3) The commission shall consult with the appropriate local government authorities when establishing24
priorities and selecting and designating segments on the urban highway system for construction and25
reconstruction.26
(4) The commission shall use information gathered or discovered by and documents prepared by the27
department, and department officials and employees shall provide assistance and advice.28
(5) The commission shall establish and determine priorities and projects for rail and transit programs29
and, to the extent possible, coordinate intermodal transportation within the state.30
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(6) The commission shall ensure that projects comply with growth policies when the projects are located1
within an area that has adopted a growth policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c).2
(7) In carrying out the requirements of this section, the department shall:3
(a) make recommendations to the commission;4
(b) establish the requirements and procedures for administering this section; and5
(c) take all reasonable steps to ensure the integrity and viability of agricultural and rural transportation6
and related needs."7
8
Section 1. Section 76-1-103, MCA, is amended to read:9
"76-1-103. Definitions. As used in this chapter, the following definitions apply:10
(1) "City" includes incorporated cities and towns.11
(2) "City council" means the chief legislative body of a city or incorporated town.12
(3) "Governing body" or "governing bodies" means the governing body of any governmental unit13
represented on a planning board.14
(4) "Growth policy" means a comprehensive development plan, master plan, or comprehensive plan that15
was adopted pursuant to this chapter before October 1, 1999, or a policy that was adopted pursuant to this16
chapter on or after October 1, 1999.17
(5) "Land use management techniques and incentives" include but are not limited to zoning regulations,18
subdivision regulations, and market incentives.19
(6) "Mayor" means mayor of a city.20
(7) "Market incentives" MAY include but are not limited to an expedited subdivision review process21
authorized by 76-3-609, reductions in parking requirements, reductions in utility hookup fees, and a sliding scale22
of development review fees.23
(6)(8) "Neighborhood plan" means a plan for a geographic area within the boundaries of the jurisdictional24
area that addresses one or more of the elements of the growth policy in more detail.25
(7)(9) "Person" means any individual, firm, or corporation.26
(8)(10) "Planning board" means a city planning board, a county planning board, or a joint city-county27
planning board.28
(9)(11) "Plat" means a subdivision of land into lots, streets, and areas, marked on a map or plan, and29
includes replats or amended plats.30
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(10)(12) "Public place" means any tract owned by the state or its subdivisions.1
(11)(13) "Streets" includes streets, avenues, boulevards, roads, lanes, alleys, and all public ways.2
(12)(14) "Utility" means any facility used in rendering service that the public has a right to demand."3
4
Section 2. Section 76-1-601, MCA, is amended to read:5
"76-1-601. Growth policy -- contents. (1) A growth policy may cover all or part of the jurisdictional area.6
(2) A growth policy must include the elements listed in subsection (3) by October 1, 2006. The extent7
to which a growth policy addresses the elements of a growth policy that are listed in subsection (3) is at the full8
discretion of the governing body.9
(3) A growth policy must include:10
(a) community goals and objectives;11
(b) maps and text describing an inventory of the existing characteristics and features of the jurisdictional12
area, including:13
(i) land uses;14
(ii) population;15
(iii) housing needs;16
(iv) economic conditions;17
(v) local services, including the capacity of emergency, fire, and law enforcement services;18
(vi) public facilities;19
(vii) threats to public safety, including but not limited to flooding, fire, and unsafe public facilities.20
(viii) natural resources; and21
(viii)(ix)(VIII) other characteristics and features proposed by the planning board and adopted by the22
governing bodies;23
(c) projected trends, in maps and text, for the life of the growth policy for each of the following elements:24
(i) land use;25
(ii) population;26
(iii) housing needs;27
(iv) economic conditions;28
(v) local services, including the capacity of emergency, fire, and law enforcement services;29
(vi) public facilities;30
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(vii) threats to public safety, including but not limited to flooding, fire, and unsafe public facilities.1
(viii) natural resources; and2
(vii)(ix)(VII) other elements proposed by the planning board and adopted by the governing bodies;3
(d) a description of policies, regulations, land use management techniques, market incentives, and other4
measures to be implemented in order to achieve the goals and objectives established pursuant to subsection5
(3)(a) and to achieve the purposes of this chapter;6
(e) a strategy, in maps and text, for development, maintenance, and replacement of public infrastructure,7
including drinking water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, sewer systems, solid waste facilities, fire8
protection facilities, roads, and bridges;9
(f) an implementation strategy that includes:10
(i) a timetable for implementing the growth policy;11
(ii) a list of conditions that will lead to a revision of the growth policy; and12
(iii) a timetable for reviewing the growth policy at least once every 5 years and revising the policy if13
necessary;14
(g) a statement of how the governing bodies will coordinate and cooperate with other jurisdictions that15
explains:16
(i) if a governing body is a city or town, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with the17
county in which the city or town is located on matters related to the growth policy;18
(ii) if a governing body is a county, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with cities and19
towns located within the county's boundaries and with neighboring counties on matters related to the growth20
policy;21
(h) a statement explaining how the governing bodies will:22
(i) define the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a); and23
(ii) evaluate and make decisions regarding proposed subdivisions with respect to the criteria in24
76-3-608(3)(a); and25
(i) a statement explaining how public hearings regarding proposed subdivisions will be conducted.26
(4) A growth policy may:27
(a) include one or more neighborhood plans. A neighborhood plan must be consistent with the growth28
policy.29
(b) establish minimum criteria defining the jurisdictional area for a neighborhood plan;30
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(C) FOR A COUNTY, INCLUDE A STATEMENT OF HOW THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE COUNTY INTENDS TO1
COORDINATE AND COOPERATE WITH NEIGHBORING COUNTIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A GROWTH POLICY;2
(c) address the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a);3
(d) evaluate the effect of subdivision on the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a);4
(e) describe zoning regulations that will be implemented to address the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a); and5
(f) identify geographic areas where the governing body intends to authorize an exemption from review6
of the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a) for proposed subdivisions pursuant to 76-3-608.7
(c)(D)(C) establish an infrastructure plan that, at a minimum, includes:8
(i) projections, in maps and text, of the jurisdiction's growth in population and number of residential,9
commercial, and industrial units over the next 20 years;10
(ii) for a city, a determination regarding if and how much of the city's growth is likely to take place outside11
of the city's existing jurisdictional area over the next 20 years and a plan of how the city will coordinate12
infrastructure planning with the county or counties where growth is likely to take place;13
(iii) for a county, a plan of how the county will coordinate infrastructure planning with each of the cities14
that project growth outside of city boundaries and into the county's jurisdictional area over the next 20 years;15
(iv) for cities, a land use map showing where projected growth will be guided and at what densities within16
city boundaries;17
(v) for cities and counties, a land use map that designates infrastructure planning areas adjacent to cities18
showing where projected growth will be guided and at what densities;19
(vi) using maps and text, a description of existing and future public facilities necessary to efficiently serve20
projected development and densities within infrastructure planning areas, including, whenever feasible, extending21
interconnected municipal street networks, sidewalks, trail systems, public transit facilities, and other municipal22
public facilities throughout the infrastructure planning area. For the purposes of this subsection (4)(c)(vi), public23
facilities include but are not limited to drinking water treatment and distribution facilities, sewer systems,24
wastewater treatment facilities, solid waste disposal facilities, parks and open space, schools, PUBLIC ACCESS25
AREAS, roads, highways, bridges, and facilities for fire protection, law enforcement, and emergency services;26
(vii) a description of proposed land use management techniques and incentives that will be adopted to27
promote development within cities and in an infrastructure planning area, including land use management28
techniques and incentives that address issues of housing affordability;29
(viii) a description of how and where projected development inside municipal boundaries for cities and30
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inside designated joint infrastructure planning areas for cities and counties could adversely impact:1
(A) threatened or endangered wildlife and critical wildlife habitat and corridors;2
(B) water available to agricultural water users and facilities;3
(C) the ability of public facilities, INCLUDING SCHOOLS, to safely and efficiently service current residents4
and future growth;5
(D) a local government's ability to provide adequate local services, including but not limited to6
emergency, fire, and police protection, schooling, and school busing;7
(E) the safety of people and property due to threats to public health and safety, including but not limited8
to wildfire, flooding, erosion, water pollution, hazardous wildlife interactions, and traffic hazards; and9
(F) natural resources, including but not limited to forest lands, mineral resources, streams, rivers, lakes,10
wetlands, and ground water; and11
(G) AGRICULTURAL LANDS AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION; AND12
(ix) a description of measures, including land use management techniques and incentives, that will be13
adopted to avoid, significantly reduce, or mitigate the adverse impacts identified under subsection (4)(c)(viii).14
(5) The planning board may propose and the governing bodies may adopt additional elements of a15
growth policy in order to fulfill the purpose of this chapter."16
17
NEW SECTION. Section 3. Planning fees -- limit. (1) Governing bodies that are represented on a18
planning board created pursuant to 76-1-112 or that have committed in a resolution to adopting OR THAT HAVE19
ADOPTED a growth policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c) may assess PLANNING fees to pay for20
services that fulfill the purposes of Title 76, chapter 1. The PLANNING fees are in addition to any other fees21
authorized by law AND MAY BE COLLECTED AS PART OF EITHER SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS OR ZONING PERMITS.22
(2) Planning fees may not exceed $50 for each residential lot or unit or $250 for each commercial,23
industrial, or other type of lot or unit.24
25
Section 5. Section 76-2-101, MCA, is amended to read:26
"76-2-101. Planning and zoning commission and district. (1) Subject to the provisions of subsection27
(5), whenever the public interest or convenience may require and upon petition of 60% of the affected freeholders28
real property owners or of more than 50% of the affected real property owners when the zoning district is to be29
established in accordance with a growth policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c), the board of county30
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commissioners may create a planning and zoning district and appoint a planning and zoning commission1
consisting of seven members.2
(2) A planning and zoning district may not be created in an area that has been zoned by an incorporated3
city pursuant to 76-2-310 and 76-2-311.4
(3) For the purposes of this part, the word "district" means any area that consists of not less than 405
acres.6
(4) Except as provided in subsection (5), an action challenging the creation of a planning and zoning7
district must begin within 5 years after the date of the order by the board of county commissioners creating the8
district.9
(5) If freeholders real property owners representing 50% of the titled property ownership in the district10
protest the establishment of the district within 30 days of its creation, the board of county commissioners may not11
create the district. An area included in a district protested under this subsection may not be included in a zoning12
district petition under this section for a period of 1 year."13
14
Section 6. Section 76-2-205, MCA, is amended to read:15
"76-2-205. Procedure for adoption of regulations and boundaries. The board of county16
commissioners shall observe the following procedures in the establishment or revision of boundaries for zoning17
districts and in the adoption or amendment of zoning regulations:18
(1) Notice of a public hearing on the proposed zoning district boundaries and of regulations for the zoning19
district must be published once a week for 2 weeks in a newspaper of general circulation within the county. The20
notice must state:21
(a) the boundaries of the proposed district;22
(b) the general character of the proposed zoning regulations;23
(c) the time and place of the public hearing;24
(d) that the proposed zoning regulations are on file for public inspection at the office of the county clerk25
and recorder.26
(2) At the public hearing, the board of county commissioners shall give the public an opportunity to be27
heard regarding the proposed zoning district and regulations.28
(3) After the public hearing, the board of county commissioners shall review the proposals of the planning29
board and shall make any revisions or amendments that it determines to be proper.30
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(4) The board of county commissioners may pass a resolution of intention to create a zoning district and1
to adopt zoning regulations for the district.2
(5) The board of county commissioners shall publish notice of passage of the resolution of intention once3
a week for 2 weeks in a newspaper of general circulation within the county. The notice must state:4
(a) the boundaries of the proposed district;5
(b) the general character of the proposed zoning regulations;6
(c) that the proposed zoning regulations are on file for public inspection at the office of the county clerk7
and recorder;8
(d) that for 30 days after first publication of this notice, the board of county commissioners will receive9
written protests to the creation of the zoning district or to the zoning regulations from persons owning real property10
within the district whose names appear on the last-completed assessment roll of the county.11
(6) Within 30 days after the expiration of the protest period, the board of county commissioners may in12
its discretion adopt the resolution creating the zoning district or establishing the zoning regulations for the district.13
However, if 40% of the freeholders within the district affected real property owners within the district or more than14
50% of the affected real property owners when the zoning district is to be established in accordance with a growth15
policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c) whose names appear on the last-completed assessment roll16
or if freeholders real property owners representing 50% of the titled property ownership whose property is taxed17
for agricultural purposes under 15-7-202 or whose property is taxed as forest land under Title 15, chapter 44, part18
1, have protested the establishment of the district or adoption of the regulations, the board of county19
commissioners may not adopt the resolution and a further zoning resolution may not be proposed for the district20
for a period of 1 year."21
22
Section 7. Section 76-3-207, MCA, is amended to read:23
"76-3-207. Divisions of land exempted from review but subject to survey requirements and zoning24
regulations -- exceptions -- fees for examination of division. (1) A subdivision is exempt from review under25
this chapter, but it is subject to Title 76, part 4, and applicable zoning regulations adopted under Title 76, chapter26
2, if it meets all of the following requirements:27
(a) the proposed subdivision is entirely within an area where the governing body has adopted a growth28
policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c);29
(b) the proposed subdivision is entirely within an area subject to zoning adopted pursuant to 76-2-20330
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or 76-2-304 that avoids, significantly reduces, or mitigates adverse impacts identified in a growth policy that1
includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c); and2
(c) the subdivision complies with requirements for easements and access as provided for in3
76-3-608(3)(c) and (3)(d).4
(2) Except as provided in subsection (2) (3), unless the method of disposition is adopted for the purpose5
of evading this chapter, the following divisions of land are not subdivisions under this chapter but are subject to6
the surveying requirements of 76-3-401 for divisions of land not amounting to subdivisions and are subject to7
applicable zoning regulations adopted under Title 76, chapter 2:8
(a) divisions made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of relocating common boundary lines9
between adjoining properties;10
(b) divisions made outside of platted subdivisions for the purpose of a single gift or sale in each county11
to each member of the landowner's immediate family;12
(c) divisions made outside of platted subdivisions by gift, sale, or agreement to buy and sell in which the13
parties to the transaction enter a covenant running with the land and revocable only by mutual consent of the14
governing body and the property owner that the divided land will be used exclusively for agricultural purposes;15
(d) for five or fewer lots within a platted subdivision, relocation of common boundaries and the16
aggregation of lots; and17
(e) divisions made for the purpose of relocating a common boundary line between a single lot within a18
platted subdivision and adjoining land outside a platted subdivision. A restriction or requirement on the original19
platted lot or original unplatted parcel continues to apply to those areas.20
(2)(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) (2):21
(a) within a platted subdivision filed with the county clerk and recorder, a division of lots that results in22
an increase in the number of lots or that redesigns or rearranges six or more lots must be reviewed and approved23
by the governing body and an amended plat must be filed with the county clerk and recorder;24
(b) a change in use of the land exempted under subsection (1)(c) (2)(c) for anything other than25
agricultural purposes subjects the division to the provisions of this chapter.26
(3)(4) (a) Subject to subsection (3)(b) (4)(b), a division of land may not be made under this section unless27
the county treasurer has certified that all real property taxes and special assessments assessed and levied on28
the land to be divided have been paid.29
(b) (i) If a division of land includes centrally assessed property and the property taxes applicable to the30
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division of land are not specifically identified in the tax assessment, the department of revenue shall prorate the1
taxes applicable to the land being divided on a reasonable basis. The owner of the centrally assessed property2
shall ensure that the prorated real property taxes and special assessments are paid on the land being sold before3
the division of land is made.4
(ii) The county treasurer may accept the amount of the tax prorated pursuant to this subsection (3)(b)5
(4)(b) as a partial payment of the total tax that is due.6
(4)(5) The governing body may examine a division of land to determine whether or not the requirements7
of this chapter apply to the division and may establish reasonable fees, not to exceed $200, for the examination."8
9
Section 8. Section 76-3-301, MCA, is amended to read:10
"76-3-301. General restriction on transfer of title to subdivided lands. (1) Except as provided in11
76-3-303, every final subdivision plat must be filed for record with the county clerk and recorder before title to the12
subdivided land can be sold or transferred in any manner. The clerk and recorder of the county shall refuse to13
accept any plat for record that fails to have the approval of 76-3-611(1) in proper form unless the plat is located14
in an area over which the state does not have jurisdiction.15
(2) The clerk and recorder shall notify the governing body or its designated agent of any land division16
described in 76-3-207(1) 76-3-207(2).17
(3) If transfers not in accordance with this chapter are made, the county attorney shall commence action18
to enjoin further sales or transfers and compel compliance with all provisions of this chapter. The cost of the19
action must be imposed against the party not prevailing."20
21
NEW SECTION. SECTION 4. EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN SUBDIVISIONS. (1) A SUBDIVISION THAT MEETS THE22
CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (2) IS EXEMPT FROM THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:23
(A) PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AS REQUIRED BY 76-3-603;24
(B) A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SUBDIVISION APPLICATION PURSUANT TO 76-3-605; AND25
(C) REVIEW OF THE SUBDIVISION FOR THE CRITERIA LISTED IN 76-3-608(3)(A).26
(2) TO QUALIFY FOR THE EXEMPTIONS IN SUBSECTION (1), A SUBDIVISION MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:27
(A) THE PROPOSED SUBDIVISION IS ENTIRELY WITHIN AN AREA INSIDE OR ADJACENT TO AN INCORPORATED CITY28
OR TOWN WHERE THE GOVERNING BODY HAS ADOPTED A GROWTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES THE PROVISIONS OF29
76-1-601(4)(C);30
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(B) THE PROPOSED SUBDIVISION IS ENTIRELY WITHIN AN AREA SUBJECT TO ZONING ADOPTED PURSUANT TO1
76-2-203 OR 76-2-304 THAT AVOIDS, SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES, OR MITIGATES ADVERSE IMPACTS IDENTIFIED IN A GROWTH2
POLICY THAT INCLUDES THE PROVISIONS OF 76-1-601(4)(C); AND3
(C) THE SUBDIVISION PROPOSAL INCLUDES A DESCRIPTION OF FUTURE PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES, USING4
MAPS AND TEXT, THAT ARE NECESSARY TO EFFICIENTLY SERVE THE PROJECTED DEVELOPMENT.5
6
SECTION 5. SECTION 76-3-605, MCA, IS AMENDED TO READ:7
"76-3-605. Hearing on subdivision application. (1) Except as provided in 76-3-609 [and section 4] and8
subject to the regulations adopted pursuant to 76-3-504(1)(o) and 76-3-615, at least one public hearing on the9
subdivision application must be held by the governing body, its authorized agent or agency, or both and the10
governing body, its authorized agent or agency, or both shall consider all relevant evidence relating to the public11
health, safety, and welfare, including the environmental assessment if required, to determine whether the12
subdivision application should be approved, conditionally approved, or denied by the governing body.13
(2) When a proposed subdivision is also proposed to be annexed to a municipality, the governing body14
of the municipality shall hold joint hearings on the subdivision application and annexation whenever possible.15
(3) Notice of the hearing must be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county16
not less than 15 days prior to the date of the hearing. The subdivider, each property owner of record whose17
property is immediately adjoining the land included in the preliminary plat, and each purchaser under contract18
for deed of property immediately adjoining the land included in the preliminary plat must also be notified of the19
hearing by registered or certified mail not less than 15 days prior to the date of the hearing.20
(4) When a hearing is held by an agent or agency designated by the governing body, the agent or21
agency shall act in an advisory capacity and recommend to the governing body the approval, conditional22
approval, or denial of the proposed subdivision. This recommendation must be submitted to the governing body23
in writing not later than 10 working days after the public hearing."24
25
Section 6. Section 76-3-608, MCA, is amended to read:26
"76-3-608. Criteria for local government review. (1) The basis for the governing body's decision to27
approve, conditionally approve, or deny a proposed subdivision is whether the subdivision application, preliminary28
plat, applicable environmental assessment, public hearing, planning board recommendations, or additional29
information demonstrates that development of the proposed subdivision meets the requirements of this chapter.30
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A governing body may not deny approval of a proposed subdivision based solely on the subdivision's impacts1
on educational services.2
(2) The governing body shall issue written findings of fact that weigh the criteria in subsection (3), as3
applicable.4
(3) A subdivision proposal must undergo review for the following primary criteria:5
(a) except when the governing body has established an exemption pursuant to subsection (6) of this6
section or EXCEPT WHEN THE GOVERNING BODY HAS ESTABLISHED AN EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO SUBSECTION (6) OF THIS7
SECTION OR except as provided in 76-3-509 or in, [SECTION 4], OR 76-3-609(2) or (4), the impact adverse impacts8
THE IMPACT on agriculture, agricultural water user facilities, local services, the natural environment, wildlife and9
wildlife habitat, and public health and safety;10
(b) compliance with:11
(i) the survey requirements provided for in part 4 of this chapter;12
(ii) the local subdivision regulations provided for in part 5 of this chapter; and13
(iii) the local subdivision review procedure provided for in this part;14
(c) the provision of easements for the location and installation of any planned utilities; and15
(d) the provision of legal and physical access to each parcel within the proposed subdivision and the16
required notation of that access on the applicable plat and any instrument of transfer concerning the parcel.17
(4) The governing body may require the subdivider to design the proposed subdivision to reasonably18
minimize potentially significant SIGNIFICANT adverse impacts identified through the review required under19
subsection (3). The governing body shall issue written findings to justify the reasonable mitigation required under20
this subsection (4).21
(5) (a) In reviewing a proposed subdivision under subsection (3) and when requiring mitigation under22
subsection (4), a governing body may not unreasonably restrict a landowner's ability to develop land, but it is23
recognized that in some instances the unmitigated impacts of a proposed development may be unacceptable and24
will preclude approval of the subdivision.25
(b) When requiring mitigation under subsection (4), a governing body shall consult with the subdivider26
and shall give due weight and consideration to the expressed preference of the subdivider.27
(6) The governing body may exempt proposed subdivisions that are entirely within the boundaries of28
designated geographic areas from the review criteria in subsection (3)(a) if all of the following requirements have29
been met:30
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(a) the governing body has adopted a growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 that:1
(i) addresses the criteria in subsection (3)(a);2
(ii) evaluates the impact of development on the criteria in subsection (3)(a);3
(iii) describes zoning regulations that will be implemented to address the criteria in subsection (3)(a); and4
(iv) identifies one or more geographic areas where the governing body intends to authorize an exemption5
from review of the criteria in subsection (3)(a); and6
(b) the governing body has adopted zoning regulations pursuant to chapter 2, part 2 or 3, that:7
(i) apply to the entire area subject to the exemption; and8
(ii) address the criteria in subsection (3)(a), as described in the growth policy.9
(6) THE GOVERNING BODY MAY EXEMPT PROPOSED SUBDIVISIONS THAT ARE ENTIRELY WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES10
OF DESIGNATED GEOGRAPHIC AREAS FROM THE REVIEW CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (3)(A) IF ALL OF THE FOLLOWING11
REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN MET:12
(A) THE GOVERNING BODY HAS ADOPTED A GROWTH POLICY PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 1 THAT:13
(I) ADDRESSES THE CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (3)(A);14
(II) EVALUATES THE IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT ON THE CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (3)(A);15
(III) DESCRIBES ZONING REGULATIONS THAT WILL BE IMPLEMENTED TO ADDRESS THE CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION16
(3)(A); AND17
(IV) IDENTIFIES ONE OR MORE GEOGRAPHIC AREAS WHERE THE GOVERNING BODY INTENDS TO AUTHORIZE AN18
EXEMPTION FROM REVIEW OF THE CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (3)(A); AND19
(B) THE GOVERNING BODY HAS ADOPTED ZONING REGULATIONS PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 2, PART 2 OR 3, THAT:20
(I) APPLY TO THE ENTIRE AREA SUBJECT TO THE EXEMPTION; AND21
(II) ADDRESS THE CRITERIA IN SUBSECTION (3)(A), AS DESCRIBED IN THE GROWTH POLICY.22
(7)(6)(7) A governing body may conditionally approve or deny a proposed subdivision as a result of the23
water and sanitation information provided pursuant to 76-3-622 or public comment received pursuant to 76-3-60424
on the information provided pursuant to 76-3-622 only if the conditional approval or denial is based on existing25
subdivision, zoning, or other regulations that the governing body has the authority to enforce."26
27
Section 10. Section 85-1-612, MCA, is amended to read:28
"85-1-612. Rulemaking authority -- priorities. (1) The department shall adopt rules:29
(1)(a) prescribing a reasonable application fee and the form and content of applications for grants and30
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loans;1
(2)(b) governing the application of the criteria for awarding loans and grants to private persons;2
(3)(c) providing for the servicing of loans including arrangements for obtaining security interests and the3
establishment of reasonable fees or charges to be made;4
(4)(d) describing the terms and conditions for making grants and loans, the security instruments, and5
the agreements necessary;6
(5)(e) subject to subsection (2), describing the ranking criteria used to evaluate and prioritize grants to7
governmental entities; and8
(6)(f) specifying any other procedures necessary to accomplish the objectives of the renewable resource9
grant and loan program.10
(2) For grants that would benefit drinking water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, or sewer11
systems, a higher priority must be given to applications for new facilities that are within an area that has adopted12
a growth policy that includes the provisions of 76-1-601(4)(c)."13
14
Section 11. Section 90-6-710, MCA, is amended to read:15
"90-6-710. Priorities for projects -- procedure -- rulemaking. (1) The department of commerce must16
receive proposals for infrastructure projects from local governments. The department shall work with a local17
government in preparing cost estimates for a project. In reviewing project proposals, the department may consult18
with other state agencies with expertise pertinent to the proposal. For the projects under 90-6-703(1)(a), the19
department shall prepare and submit a list containing the recommended projects and the recommended form and20
amount of financial assistance for each project to the governor, prioritized pursuant to subsection (2). The21
governor shall review the projects recommended by the department and shall submit a list of recommended22
projects and the recommended financial assistance to the legislature.23
(2) In preparing recommendations under subsection (1), preference must be given to infrastructure24
projects based on the following order of priority:25
(a) projects that solve urgent and serious public health or safety problems or that enable local26
governments to meet state or federal health or safety standards;27
(b) projects that reflect greater need for financial assistance than other projects;28
(c) projects that incorporate appropriate, cost-effective technical design and that provide thorough,29
long-term solutions to community public facility needs;30
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(d) projects that reflect substantial past efforts to ensure sound, effective, long-term planning and1
management of public facilities and that attempt to resolve the infrastructure problem with local resources;2
(e) projects that enable local governments to obtain funds from sources other than the funds provided3
under this part;4
(f) projects that provide long-term, full-time job opportunities for Montanans, that provide public facilities5
necessary for the expansion of a business that has a high potential for financial success, or that maintain the tax6
base or that encourage expansion of the tax base; and7
(g) projects from local governments that have adopted a growth policy that includes the provisions of8
76-1-601(4)(c); and9
(h) projects that are high local priorities and have strong community support.10
(3) After the review required by subsection (1), the projects must be approved by the legislature.11
(4) The department shall adopt rules necessary to implement the treasure state endowment program.12
(5) The department shall report to each regular session of the legislature the status of all projects that13
have not been completed in order for the legislature to review each project's status and determine whether the14
authorized grant should be withdrawn."15
16
NEW SECTION. Section 12. Transition. A governing body that has adopted a growth policy prior to17
[the effective date of this act] shall implement the provisions of 76-1-601(3) by October 1, 2009.18
19
SECTION 7. SECTION 76-3-609, MCA, IS AMENDED TO READ:20
"76-3-609. Review procedure for minor subdivisions -- determination of sufficiency of application21
-- governing body to adopt regulations. (1) Minor subdivisions must be reviewed as provided in this section22
and subject to the applicable local regulations adopted pursuant to 76-3-504.23
(2) If the tract of record proposed to be subdivided has not been subdivided or created by a subdivision24
under this chapter or has not resulted from a tract of record that has had more than five parcels created from that25
tract of record under 76-3-201 or 76-3-207 since July 1, 1973, then the proposed subdivision is a first minor26
subdivision from a tract of record and, when legal and physical access to all lots is provided, must be reviewed27
as follows:28
(a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b), the governing body shall approve, conditionally approve, or29
deny the first minor subdivision from a tract of record within 35 working days of a determination by the reviewing30
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agent or agency that the application contains required elements and sufficient information for review. The1
determination and notification to the subdivider must be made in the same manner as is provided in 76-3-604(1)2
through (3).3
(b) The subdivider and the reviewing agent or agency may agree to an extension or suspension of the4
review period, not to exceed 1 year.5
(c) Except as provided in subsection (2)(d)(iii), an application must include a summary of the probable6
impacts of the proposed subdivision based on the criteria described in 76-3-608(3).7
(d) The following requirements do not apply to the first minor subdivision from a tract of record as8
provided in subsection (2):9
(i) the requirement to prepare an environmental assessment;10
(ii) the requirement to hold a hearing on the subdivision application pursuant to 76-3-605; and11
(iii) the requirement to review the subdivision for the criteria contained in 76-3-608(3)(a) if the minor12
subdivision is proposed in the portion of a jurisdictional area that has adopted zoning regulations that address13
the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a).14
(e) The governing body may adopt regulations that establish requirements for the expedited review of15
the first minor subdivision from a tract of record. The following apply to a proposed subdivision reviewed under16
the regulations:17
(i) 76-3-608(3); and18
(ii) the provisions of Title 76, chapter 4, part 1, whenever approval is required by those provisions.19
(3) Except as provided in [section 4] and subsection (4) of this section, any minor subdivision that is not20
a first minor subdivision from a tract of record, as provided in subsection (2), is a subsequent minor subdivision21
and must be reviewed as provided in 76-3-601 through 76-3-605, 76-3-608, 76-3-610 through 76-3-614, and22
76-3-620.23
(4) The governing body may adopt subdivision regulations that establish requirements for review of24
subsequent minor subdivisions that meet or exceed the requirements that apply to the first minor subdivision, as25
provided in subsection (2) and this chapter.26
(5) (a) Review and approval, conditional approval, or denial of a subdivision under this chapter may27
occur only under those regulations in effect at the time that a subdivision application is determined to contain28
sufficient information for review as provided in subsection (2).29
(b) If regulations change during the period that the application is reviewed for required elements and30
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sufficient information, the determination of whether the application contains the required elements and sufficient1
information must be based on the new regulations."2
3
NEW SECTION. Section 8. Codification instruction. (1) [Section 4 3] is intended to be codified as4
an integral part of Title 76, chapter 1, part 4, and the provisions of Title 76, chapter 1, part 4, apply to [section 45
3].6
(2) [SECTION 4] IS INTENDED TO BE CODIFIED AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF TITLE 76, CHAPTER 3, PART 6, AND THE7
PROVISIONS OF TITLE 76, CHAPTER 3, PART 6, APPLY TO [SECTION 4].8
9
NEW SECTION. SECTION 9. EFFECTIVE DATE. [THIS ACT] IS EFFECTIVE ON PASSAGE AND APPROVAL.10
- END -11
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SENATE BILL NO. 511
INTRODUCED BY B. HAWKS2
BY REQUEST OF THE EDUCATION AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT INTERIM COMMITTEE3
4
A BILL FOR AN ACT ENTITLED: "AN ACT REVISING GROWTH POLICY AND SUBDIVISION LAWS;5
REQUIRING GROWTH POLICIES TO CONSIDER EVALUATE THE POTENTIAL FOR FIRE AND WILDLAND6
FIRE; INCLUDING FIRE AND WILDLAND FIRE AMONG THE NATURAL HAZARDS THAT LOCAL7
SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO REASONABLY ADDRESS; REQUIRING SUBDIVISION8
REGULATIONS TO IDENTIFY AREAS UNSUITABLE FOR DEVELOPMENT UNLESS CERTAIN MITIGATION9
MEASURES ARE TAKEN, INCLUDING USE OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES PROVIDED IN10
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY ADMINISTRATIVE RULES; PROHIBITING A GOVERNING BODY11
FROM INCLUDING CERTAIN BUILDING REGULATIONS IN SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS; REQUIRING12
SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS TO IDENTIFY AREAS UNSUITABLE FOR DEVELOPMENT UNLESS CERTAIN13
MITIGATION MEASURES ARE TAKEN, INCLUDING USE OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES PROVIDED IN14
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY ADMINISTRATIVE RULES; PROHIBITING A GOVERNING BODY15
FROM INCLUDING CERTAIN BUILDING REGULATIONS IN SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS; REQUIRING THE16
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY TO ADOPT RULES THAT IDENTIFY CONSTRUCTION17
TECHNIQUES TO MITIGATE FIRE HAZARDS; REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES18
AND CONSERVATION TO ADOPT RULES TO ADDRESS DEVELOPMENT IN THE WILDLAND-URBAN19
INTERFACE; REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY TO ADOPT RULES THAT20
IDENTIFY CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES TO MITIGATE FIRE HAZARDS; AND AMENDING SECTIONS21
76-1-601, 76-3-501, AND 76-3-504, 76-3-504, AND 76-13-109, MCA; AND PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE22
EFFECTIVE DATE AND AN APPLICABILITY DATE."23
24
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:25
(Refer to Introduced Bill)26
Strike everything after the enacting clause and insert:27
28
Section 1. Section 76-1-601, MCA, is amended to read:29
"76-1-601. Growth policy -- contents. (1) A growth policy may cover all or part of the jurisdictional area.30
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(2) A growth policy must include the elements listed in subsection (3) by October 1, 2006. The extent1
to which a growth policy addresses the elements of a growth policy that are listed in subsection (3) is at the full2
discretion of the governing body.3
(3) A growth policy must include:4
(a) community goals and objectives;5
(b) maps and text describing an inventory of the existing characteristics and features of the jurisdictional6
area, including:7
(i) land uses;8
(ii) population;9
(iii) housing needs;10
(iv) economic conditions;11
(v) local services;12
(vi) public facilities;13
(vii) natural resources; and14
(viii) other characteristics and features proposed by the planning board and adopted by the governing15
bodies;16
(c) projected trends for the life of the growth policy for each of the following elements:17
(i) land use;18
(ii) population;19
(iii) housing needs;20
(iv) economic conditions;21
(v) local services;22
(vi) natural resources; and23
(vii) other elements proposed by the planning board and adopted by the governing bodies;24
(d) a description of policies, regulations, and other measures to be implemented in order to achieve the25
goals and objectives established pursuant to subsection (3)(a);26
(e) a strategy for development, maintenance, and replacement of public infrastructure, including drinking27
water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, sewer systems, solid waste facilities, fire protection facilities,28
roads, and bridges;29
(f) an implementation strategy that includes:30
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(i) a timetable for implementing the growth policy;1
(ii) a list of conditions that will lead to a revision of the growth policy; and2
(iii) a timetable for reviewing the growth policy at least once every 5 years and revising the policy if3
necessary;4
(g) a statement of how the governing bodies will coordinate and cooperate with other jurisdictions that5
explains:6
(i) if a governing body is a city or town, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with the7
county in which the city or town is located on matters related to the growth policy;8
(ii) if a governing body is a county, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with cities and9
towns located within the county's boundaries on matters related to the growth policy;10
(h) a statement explaining how the governing bodies will:11
(i) define the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a); and12
(ii) evaluate and make decisions regarding proposed subdivisions with respect to the criteria in13
76-3-608(3)(a); and14
(i) a statement explaining how public hearings regarding proposed subdivisions will be conducted; and15
(j) an evaluation of the potential for fire and wildland fire in the jurisdictional area, including whether or16
not there is a need to:17
(i) delineate the wildland-urban interface; and18
(ii) adopt regulations requiring:19
(A) defensible space around structures;20
(B) adequate ingress and egress to and from structures and developments to facilitate fire suppression21
activities; and22
(C) adequate water supply for fire protection.23
(4) A growth policy may:24
(a) include one or more neighborhood plans. A neighborhood plan must be consistent with the growth25
policy.26
(b) establish minimum criteria defining the jurisdictional area for a neighborhood plan;27
(c) address the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a);28
(d) evaluate the effect of subdivision on the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a);29
(e) describe zoning regulations that will be implemented to address the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a); and30
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(f) identify geographic areas where the governing body intends to authorize an exemption from review1
of the criteria in 76-3-608(3)(a) for proposed subdivisions pursuant to 76-3-608.2
(5) The planning board may propose and the governing bodies may adopt additional elements of a3
growth policy in order to fulfill the purpose of this chapter."4
5
Section 2. Section 76-3-501, MCA, is amended to read:6
"76-3-501. Local subdivision regulations. The governing body of every county, city, and town shall7
adopt and provide for the enforcement and administration of subdivision regulations reasonably providing for:8
(1) the orderly development of their jurisdictional areas;9
(2) the coordination of roads within subdivided land with other roads, both existing and planned;10
(3) the dedication of land for roadways and for public utility easements;11
(4) the improvement of roads;12
(5) the provision of adequate open spaces for travel, light, air, and recreation;13
(6) the provision of adequate transportation, water, and drainage;14
(7) subject to the provisions of 76-3-511, the regulation of sanitary facilities;15
(8) the avoidance or minimization of congestion; and16
(9) the avoidance of subdivisions that would involve unnecessary environmental degradation and danger17
of injury to health, safety, or welfare by reason of natural hazard, including but not limited to fire and wildland fire,18
or the lack of water, drainage, access, transportation, or other public services or that would necessitate an19
excessive expenditure of public funds for the supply of the services."20
21
Section 3. Section 76-3-504, MCA, is amended to read:22
"76-3-504. Subdivision regulations -- contents. (1) The subdivision regulations adopted under this23
chapter must, at a minimum:24
(a) list the materials that must be included in a subdivision application in order for the application to be25
determined to contain the required elements for the purposes of the review required in 76-3-604(1);26
(b) except as provided in 76-3-210, 76-3-509, or 76-3-609, require the subdivider to submit to the27
governing body an environmental assessment as prescribed in 76-3-603;28
(c) establish procedures consistent with this chapter for the submission and review of subdivision29
applications and amended applications;30
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(d) prescribe the form and contents of preliminary plats and the documents to accompany final plats;1
(e) provide for the identification of areas that, because of natural or human-caused hazards, are2
unsuitable for subdivision development. and The regulations must prohibit subdivisions in these areas unless the3
hazards can be eliminated or overcome by approved construction techniques; or other mitigation measures.4
Approved construction techniques or other mitigation measures may not include building regulations as defined5
in 50-60-101 other than those identified by the department of labor and industry as provided in [section 5].6
(f) prohibit subdivisions for building purposes in areas located within the floodway of a flood of 100-year7
frequency, as defined by Title 76, chapter 5, or determined to be subject to flooding by the governing body;8
(g) prescribe standards for:9
(i) the design and arrangement of lots, streets, and roads;10
(ii) grading and drainage;11
(iii) subject to the provisions of 76-3-511, water supply and sewage and solid waste disposal that meet12
the:13
(A) regulations adopted by the department of environmental quality under 76-4-104 for subdivisions that14
will create one or more parcels containing less than 20 acres; and15
(B) standards provided in 76-3-604 and 76-3-622 for subdivisions that will create one or more parcels16
containing 20 acres or more and less than 160 acres; and17
(iv) the location and installation of public utilities;18
(h) provide procedures for the administration of the park and open-space requirements of this chapter;19
(i) provide for the review of subdivision applications by affected public utilities and those agencies of20
local, state, and federal government identified during the preapplication consultation conducted pursuant to21
subsection (1)(q) or those having a substantial interest in a proposed subdivision. A public utility or agency review22
may not delay the governing body's action on the application beyond the time limits specified in this chapter, and23
the failure of any agency to complete a review of an application may not be a basis for rejection of the application24
by the governing body.25
(j) when a subdivision creates parcels with lot sizes averaging less than 5 acres, require the subdivider26
to:27
(i) reserve all or a portion of the appropriation water rights owned by the owner of the land to be28
subdivided and transfer the water rights to a single entity for use by landowners within the subdivision who have29
a legal right to the water and reserve and sever any remaining surface water rights from the land;30
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(ii) if the land to be subdivided is subject to a contract or interest in a public or private entity formed to1
provide the use of a water right on the subdivision lots, establish a landowner's water use agreement2
administered through a single entity that specifies administration and the rights and responsibilities of landowners3
within the subdivision who have a legal right and access to the water; or4
(iii) reserve and sever all surface water rights from the land;5
(k) (i) except as provided in subsection (1)(k)(ii), require the subdivider to establish ditch easements in6
the subdivision that:7
(A) are in locations of appropriate topographic characteristics and sufficient width to allow the physical8
placement and unobstructed maintenance of open ditches or belowground pipelines for the delivery of water for9
irrigation to persons and lands legally entitled to the water under an appropriated water right or permit of an10
irrigation district or other private or public entity formed to provide for the use of the water right on the subdivision11
lots;12
(B) are a sufficient distance from the centerline of the ditch to allow for construction, repair, maintenance,13
and inspection of the ditch; and14
(C) prohibit the placement of structures or the planting of vegetation other than grass within the ditch15
easement without the written permission of the ditch owner.16
(ii) Establishment of easements pursuant to this subsection (1)(k) is not required if:17
(A) the average lot size is 1 acre or less and the subdivider provides for disclosure, in a manner18
acceptable to the governing body, that adequately notifies potential buyers of lots that are classified as irrigated19
land and may continue to be assessed for irrigation water delivery even though the water may not be deliverable;20
or21
(B) the water rights are removed or the process has been initiated to remove the water rights from the22
subdivided land through an appropriate legal or administrative process and if the removal or intended removal23
is denoted on the preliminary plat. If removal of water rights is not complete upon filing of the final plat, the24
subdivider shall provide written notification to prospective buyers of the intent to remove the water right and shall25
document that intent, when applicable, in agreements and legal documents for related sales transactions.26
(l) require the subdivider, unless otherwise provided for under separate written agreement or filed27
easement, to file and record ditch easements for unobstructed use and maintenance of existing water delivery28
ditches, pipelines, and facilities in the subdivision that are necessary to convey water through the subdivision to29
lands adjacent to or beyond the subdivision boundaries in quantities and in a manner that are consistent with30
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historic and legal rights;1
(m) require the subdivider to describe, dimension, and show public utility easements in the subdivision2
on the final plat in their true and correct location. The public utility easements must be of sufficient width to allow3
the physical placement and unobstructed maintenance of public utility facilities for the provision of public utility4
services within the subdivision.5
(n) establish whether the governing body, its authorized agent or agency, or both will hold public6
hearings;7
(o) establish procedures describing how the governing body or its agent or agency will address8
information presented at the hearing or hearings held pursuant to 76-3-605 and 76-3-615;9
(p) establish criteria that the governing body or reviewing authority will use to determine whether a10
proposed method of disposition using the exemptions provided in 76-3-201 or 76-3-207 is an attempt to evade11
the requirements of this chapter. The regulations must provide for an appeals process to the governing body if12
the reviewing authority is not the governing body.13
(q) establish a preapplication process that:14
(i) allows a subdivider to meet with the agent or agency, other than the governing body, that is15
designated by the governing body to review subdivision applications prior to the subdivider submitting the16
application;17
(ii) requires, for informational purposes only, identification of the state laws, local regulations, and growth18
policy provisions, if a growth policy has been adopted, that may apply to the subdivision review process;19
(iii) requires a list to be made available to the subdivider of the public utilities, those agencies of local,20
state, and federal government, and any other entities that may be contacted for comment on the subdivision21
application and the timeframes that the public utilities, agencies, and other entities are given to respond. If, during22
the review of the application, the agent or agency designated by the governing body contacts a public utility,23
agency, or other entity that was not included on the list originally made available to the subdivider, the agent or24
agency shall notify the subdivider of the contact and the timeframe for response.25
(iv) requires that a preapplication meeting take place no more than 30 days from the date that the agent26
or agency receives a written request for a preapplication meeting from the subdivider; and27
(v) establishes a time limit after a preapplication meeting by which an application must be submitted as28
provided in 76-3-604.29
(2) In order to accomplish the purposes described in 76-3-501, the subdivision regulations adopted under30
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76-3-509 and this section may include provisions that are consistent with this section that promote cluster1
development.2
(3) The governing body may establish deadlines for submittal of subdivision applications."3
4
SECTION 3. SECTION 76-3-504, MCA, IS AMENDED TO READ:5
"76-3-504. Subdivision regulations -- contents. (1) The subdivision regulations adopted under this6
chapter must, at a minimum:7
(a) list the materials that must be included in a subdivision application in order for the application to be8
determined to contain the required elements for the purposes of the review required in 76-3-604(1);9
(b) except as provided in 76-3-210, 76-3-509, or 76-3-609, require the subdivider to submit to the10
governing body an environmental assessment as prescribed in 76-3-603;11
(c) establish procedures consistent with this chapter for the submission and review of subdivision12
applications and amended applications;13
(d) prescribe the form and contents of preliminary plats and the documents to accompany final plats;14
(e) provide for the identification of areas that, because of natural or human-caused hazards, are15
unsuitable for subdivision development. and The regulations must prohibit subdivisions in these areas unless the16
hazards can be eliminated or overcome by approved construction techniques; or other mitigation measures17
authorized under 76-3-608(4) and (5). Approved construction techniques or other mitigation measures may not18
include building regulations as defined in 50-60-101 other than those identified by the department of labor and19
industry as provided in [section 5].20
(f) prohibit subdivisions for building purposes in areas located within the floodway of a flood of 100-year21
frequency, as defined by Title 76, chapter 5, or determined to be subject to flooding by the governing body;22
(g) prescribe standards for:23
(i) the design and arrangement of lots, streets, and roads;24
(ii) grading and drainage;25
(iii) subject to the provisions of 76-3-511, water supply and sewage and solid waste disposal that meet26
the:27
(A) regulations adopted by the department of environmental quality under 76-4-104 for subdivisions that28
will create one or more parcels containing less than 20 acres; and29
(B) standards provided in 76-3-604 and 76-3-622 for subdivisions that will create one or more parcels30
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containing 20 acres or more and less than 160 acres; and1
(iv) the location and installation of public utilities;2
(h) provide procedures for the administration of the park and open-space requirements of this chapter;3
(i) provide for the review of subdivision applications by affected public utilities and those agencies of4
local, state, and federal government identified during the preapplication consultation conducted pursuant to5
subsection (1)(q) or those having a substantial interest in a proposed subdivision. A public utility or agency review6
may not delay the governing body's action on the application beyond the time limits specified in this chapter, and7
the failure of any agency to complete a review of an application may not be a basis for rejection of the application8
by the governing body.9
(j) when a subdivision creates parcels with lot sizes averaging less than 5 acres, require the subdivider10
to:11
(i) reserve all or a portion of the appropriation water rights owned by the owner of the land to be12
subdivided and transfer the water rights to a single entity for use by landowners within the subdivision who have13
a legal right to the water and reserve and sever any remaining surface water rights from the land;14
(ii) if the land to be subdivided is subject to a contract or interest in a public or private entity formed to15
provide the use of a water right on the subdivision lots, establish a landowner's water use agreement16
administered through a single entity that specifies administration and the rights and responsibilities of landowners17
within the subdivision who have a legal right and access to the water; or18
(iii) reserve and sever all surface water rights from the land;19
(k) (i) except as provided in subsection (1)(k)(ii), require the subdivider to establish ditch easements in20
the subdivision that:21
(A) are in locations of appropriate topographic characteristics and sufficient width to allow the physical22
placement and unobstructed maintenance of open ditches or belowground pipelines for the delivery of water for23
irrigation to persons and lands legally entitled to the water under an appropriated water right or permit of an24
irrigation district or other private or public entity formed to provide for the use of the water right on the subdivision25
lots;26
(B) are a sufficient distance from the centerline of the ditch to allow for construction, repair, maintenance,27
and inspection of the ditch; and28
(C) prohibit the placement of structures or the planting of vegetation other than grass within the ditch29
easement without the written permission of the ditch owner.30
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(ii) Establishment of easements pursuant to this subsection (1)(k) is not required if:1
(A) the average lot size is 1 acre or less and the subdivider provides for disclosure, in a manner2
acceptable to the governing body, that adequately notifies potential buyers of lots that are classified as irrigated3
land and may continue to be assessed for irrigation water delivery even though the water may not be deliverable;4
or5
(B) the water rights are removed or the process has been initiated to remove the water rights from the6
subdivided land through an appropriate legal or administrative process and if the removal or intended removal7
is denoted on the preliminary plat. If removal of water rights is not complete upon filing of the final plat, the8
subdivider shall provide written notification to prospective buyers of the intent to remove the water right and shall9
document that intent, when applicable, in agreements and legal documents for related sales transactions.10
(l) require the subdivider, unless otherwise provided for under separate written agreement or filed11
easement, to file and record ditch easements for unobstructed use and maintenance of existing water delivery12
ditches, pipelines, and facilities in the subdivision that are necessary to convey water through the subdivision to13
lands adjacent to or beyond the subdivision boundaries in quantities and in a manner that are consistent with14
historic and legal rights;15
(m) require the subdivider to describe, dimension, and show public utility easements in the subdivision16
on the final plat in their true and correct location. The public utility easements must be of sufficient width to allow17
the physical placement and unobstructed maintenance of public utility facilities for the provision of public utility18
services within the subdivision.19
(n) establish whether the governing body, its authorized agent or agency, or both will hold public20
hearings;21
(o) establish procedures describing how the governing body or its agent or agency will address22
information presented at the hearing or hearings held pursuant to 76-3-605 and 76-3-615;23
(p) establish criteria that the governing body or reviewing authority will use to determine whether a24
proposed method of disposition using the exemptions provided in 76-3-201 or 76-3-207 is an attempt to evade25
the requirements of this chapter. The regulations must provide for an appeals process to the governing body if26
the reviewing authority is not the governing body.27
(q) establish a preapplication process that:28
(i) allows a subdivider to meet with the agent or agency, other than the governing body, that is29
designated by the governing body to review subdivision applications prior to the subdivider submitting the30
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application;1
(ii) requires, for informational purposes only, identification of the state laws, local regulations, and growth2
policy provisions, if a growth policy has been adopted, that may apply to the subdivision review process;3
(iii) requires a list to be made available to the subdivider of the public utilities, those agencies of local,4
state, and federal government, and any other entities that may be contacted for comment on the subdivision5
application and the timeframes that the public utilities, agencies, and other entities are given to respond. If, during6
the review of the application, the agent or agency designated by the governing body contacts a public utility,7
agency, or other entity that was not included on the list originally made available to the subdivider, the agent or8
agency shall notify the subdivider of the contact and the timeframe for response.9
(iv) requires that a preapplication meeting take place no more than 30 days from the date that the agent10
or agency receives a written request for a preapplication meeting from the subdivider; and11
(v) establishes a time limit after a preapplication meeting by which an application must be submitted as12
provided in 76-3-604.13
(2) In order to accomplish the purposes described in 76-3-501, the subdivision regulations adopted under14
76-3-509 and this section may include provisions that are consistent with this section that promote cluster15
development.16
(3) The governing body may establish deadlines for submittal of subdivision applications."17
18
Section 4. Section 76-13-109, MCA, is amended to read:19
"76-13-109. Rules. (1) The department may adopt and enforce reasonable rules for the purpose of20
enforcing and accomplishing the provisions and purposes of this part and part 2.21
(2) By October 1, 2008 2009, the department shall adopt rules addressing development within the22
wildland-urban interface, including but not limited to:23
(a) best practices for development within the wildland-urban interface; and24
(b) criteria for providing grant and loan assistance to local government entities to encourage adoption25
of best practices for development within the wildland-urban interface; AND26
(C) IDENTIFICATION OF ENFORCEMENT MECHANISMS.27
(3) RULES PROMULGATED UNDER SUBSECTION (2) MAY BE ENFORCED ONLY BY A LOCAL GOVERNMENT BODY AS28
PROVIDED IN TITLE 76."29
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NEW SECTION. Section 5. Purpose -- rulemaking. (1) The purpose of [sections 5 and 6] is to provide1
specific rulemaking authority to the department of labor and industry for the purposes of 76-3-504(1)(e).2
(2) By October 1, 2008, the department shall adopt rules identifying appropriate construction techniques3
that may be used by a local government in mitigation of identified fire hazards pursuant to 76-3-504(1)(e). Rules4
adopted under this section may not be construed to be part of the state building code as provided in 50-60-203.5
The adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule under this section is of significant public interest for the purposes6
of 2-3-103.7
8
NEW SECTION. Section 6. Enforcement. Rules promulgated under [section 5] may be enforced only9
as provided in Title 76, chapter 3, part 5. The powers and duties for enforcement provided in 76-3-501 apply to10
rules adopted under [section 5] and do not apply to or include any rules adopted under Title 50, chapter 60, parts11
1 through 8. 12
13
NEW SECTION. Section 7. Codification instruction. [Sections 5 and 6] are intended to be codified14
as an integral part of Title 50, chapter 60, and the provisions of Title 50, chapter 60, apply to [sections 5 and 6].15
16
NEW SECTION. SECTION 5. PURPOSE -- RULEMAKING. (1) THE PURPOSE OF [SECTIONS 5 AND 6] IS TO17
PROVIDE SPECIFIC RULEMAKING AUTHORITY TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY FOR THE PURPOSES OF18
76-3-504(1)(E).19
(2) BY OCTOBER 1, 2008 2009, THE DEPARTMENT SHALL ADOPT RULES IDENTIFYING APPROPRIATE20
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES THAT MAY BE USED BY A LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN MITIGATION OF IDENTIFIED FIRE HAZARDS21
PURSUANT TO 76-3-504(1)(E). RULES ADOPTED UNDER THIS SECTION MAY NOT BE CONSTRUED TO BE PART OF THE STATE22
BUILDING CODE AS PROVIDED IN 50-60-203. THE ADOPTION, AMENDMENT, OR REPEAL OF A RULE UNDER THIS SECTION23
IS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST FOR THE PURPOSES OF 2-3-103.24
25
NEW SECTION. SECTION 6. ENFORCEMENT. RULES PROMULGATED UNDER [SECTION 5] MAY BE ENFORCED26
ONLY AS PROVIDED IN TITLE 76, CHAPTER 3, PART 5. THE POWERS AND DUTIES FOR ENFORCEMENT PROVIDED IN 76-3-50127
APPLY TO RULES ADOPTED UNDER [SECTION 5] AND DO NOT APPLY TO OR INCLUDE ANY RULES ADOPTED UNDER TITLE 50,28
CHAPTER 60, PARTS 1 THROUGH 8.29
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NEW SECTION. SECTION 7. CODIFICATION INSTRUCTION. [SECTIONS 5 AND 6] ARE INTENDED TO BE CODIFIED1
AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF TITLE 50, CHAPTER 60, AND THE PROVISIONS OF TITLE 50, CHAPTER 60, APPLY TO [SECTIONS2
5 AND 6].3
4
NEW SECTION. Section 8. Effective date -- applicability. [This act] is effective on passage and5
approval and applies on or after October 1, 2008 2009.6
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