Columbia Falls is updating its zoning and subdivision laws to comply with Montana’s Land Use Planning Act, aimed at streamlining housing development. Key changes include eliminating public hearings for subdivisions or housing projects that comply with zoning within city limits, while annexations or zone changes not aligned with the land use plan require a city council hearing. The law also introduces an appeals process for decisions, which can extend project timelines significantly. Notably, single-family zoning is effectively abolished, allowing duplexes wherever single-family homes are permitted, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are now allowed by right with specific size limits and no additional parking requirements.

Other significant revisions include reduced parking requirements, the removal of the board of adjustment and conditional use permits in favor of administrative processes, and increased building height limits to 60 feet in business and light industrial zones. The city plans to add density bonuses for affordable housing and refine zoning further later in the year, including regulations for bear-resistant garbage containers and stream setbacks. Public comments on the changes can be submitted via the city’s website or by mail.