Current Planning
The Current Planning Section deals primarily with the ongoing physical development and redevelopment of real property in the community. This involves the review and analysis of proposed land subdivisions, zone changes, conditional uses, and annexations.
The Planning Board and staff are responsible for reviewing land subdivisions within the City of Great Falls, including those proposed for annexation to the City. City zoning, subdivision, annexation and other land development regulations may be found in the City’s online Land Development Code and related Zoning Map.
All of the land in the City of Great Falls is zoned and subject to land development regulations. The members of the Planning Advisory Board also serve as the City Zoning Commission. In that capacity, the Commission reviews zoning and conditional use petitions, holds public hearings, and makes recommendations to the City Commission.
City building permits, Safety Inspection Certificates, floodplain permits, design review, and zoning enforcement are the responsibility of the Community Development Department. However, prior to issuance of a building permit or a new business license or safety certificate, a zoning permit (37k PDF) is required from the Planning Office.
Forms that are used to perform the above actions include:
- Development Review Application (213k PDF) (Covers subdivisions, zone changes, conditional uses and annexations.)
- Zoning Permit (37k PDF)
Please refer to the following links for a synopsis of the various development review procedures:
- General Procedures for processing Annexations and Subdivisions
- General Procedures for processing Zone Changes and Conditional Uses
- Development Review Process Flowchart
Questions on subdivision, zoning and land use in Cascade County outside of the City of Great Falls, as well as Floodplain Permits, zoning enforcement and placement of structures outside the City limits, should be directed to the Cascade County Planning Office. The office can be contacted at cewald@co.cascade.mt.us, or at 406-454-6905.
Contacts:
Bill Walters
Senior Planner
406-455-8432
Charlie Sheets
Planner I
406-455-8431