Development Review
Design Review Board
Persons interested in constructing or remodeling a commercial structure or a residential structure with eight or more units will need Design Review Board approval of the building and site design. Contact Kim McCleary in the Department of Community Development to schedule design review early in your planning process. Design review will need to be approved by the Design Review Board before a building permit can be issued.
See also: Application for project review by the Design Review Board.
Landscaping
See the Land Development Code Chapter 44
Residential
Within one year of issuance of a building permit, owner must install and maintain one canopy tree in the boulevard area for every 35 ' of street frontage. A canopy tree or evergreen shall be planted and maintained on the private lot for each 1500 sq. ft. of gross lot area (up to two boulevard trees may be applied to this requirement). Turf grass or ground cover plant shall cover at least 50% of the net lot area. Residential boulevards shall be maintained in turf grass.
Commercial
Minimum square footage of interior landscaping shall be 15% of the gross property area for all property in a commercial zone, and 18% for non residential uses in residential zones. All vehicular use areas shall be paved and striped per requirements in Land Development Code Chapter 36.
Parking
The design of parking areas is critically important to the economic viability of commercial areas, pedestrian and driver safety, the efficient and safe operation of adjoining streets, and community image and livability.
All commercial vehicle use areas must be paved and striped according to the standards set in the Land Development Code. SeeLand Development Code Chapter 36.
Flood Protection and Floodplain Information
Flood protection can involve a variety of changes to your house and property – changes that can vary in cost and complexity. If you aren't sure whether your house is at risk from flooding, check with the City Floodplain Administrator at 455-8405.
Flood protection and floodplain information documents and FIRM and floodway maps are available for review at the Civic Center Community Development Office and the Great Falls Public Library.