HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 05.28.2024
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2024
6:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
WELCOME . . . By your presence in the City Council Chambers, you are participating in the process of representative
government. To encourage that participation, the City Council has specified times for citizen comments on its agenda -- once
following the Consent Agenda, at which time citizens may address the Council concerning any brief community announcement
not to exceed one minute in duration for any speaker; and again following Items Removed from the Consent Agenda, at which
time citizens may address the Council on any matter of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. Each speaker will be
limited to three minutes, unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. Citizens may also
comment on any item removed from the consent agenda prior to council action, with each speaker limited to three minutes,
unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. If a citizen would like to comment on an age nda
item, we ask that you wait until the agenda item is presented to the Council by the Mayor and the public is asked to comment
by the Mayor.
Any person who has any question concerning any agenda item may call the City Clerk -Treasurer's office to make an inquiry
concerning the nature of the item described on the agenda. Your City government welcomes your interest and hopes you will
attend the Laurel City Council meetings often.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call of the Council
Approval of Minutes
1. Approval of Minutes of May 14, 2024.
Correspondence
Council Disclosure of Ex Parte Communications
Public Hearing
2. Public Hearing on A Resolution Of The City Council To Adopt Updated Growth Management
Policy For The City Of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction.
3. Public Hearing on An Ordinance Repealing And Replacing Certain Sections Of Title 17 Of The
Laurel Municipal Code Related To Zoning.
Consent Items
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The Consent Calendar adopting the printed Recommended Council Action will be enacted with one vote. The Mayor will
first ask the Council members if any Council member wishes to remove any item from the Consent Calendar for
discussion and consideration. The matters removed from the Consent Calendar will be considered individually at the end of
this Agenda under "Items Removed from the Consent Calendar." (See Secti on 12.) The entire Consent Calendar, with the
exception of items removed to be discussed under "Items Removed from the Consent Calendar," is then voted upon by roll
call under one motion.
4. Claims entered through May 24, 2024.
5. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 5/12/2024 totaling $239,169.93.
6. Council Workshop Minutes of May 7, 2024.
7. Council Workshop Minutes of May 21, 2024.
Ceremonial Calendar
8. Captian Pinning Ceremony
9. Sergeant Pinning Ceremony
Reports of Boards and Commissions
1
10. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of May 14, 2024.
11. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of May 20, 2024.
12. Public Works Committee Minutes of May 20, 2024.
13. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of May 20, 2024.
Audience Participation (Three-Minute Limit)
Citizens may address the Council regarding any item of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. Comments regarding
tonight’s agenda items will be accepted under Scheduled Matters. The duration for an individual speaking under Audience
Participation is limited to three minutes. While all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not
on the agenda.
Scheduled Matters
14. Appointment of John Collins and Killian Mayo to the Laurel Police Department.
15. Resolution No. R24-40: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Execute
The Agreement For Provision Of Fire Services By And Between The City Of Laurel And Fire
District 5.
16. Resolution No. R24-41: A Resolution Of The City Council To Adopt Updated Growth
Management Policy For The City Of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction.
17. Resolution No. R24-42: Prosecutor Contract
18. Ordinance O24-02: An Ordinance Repealing And Replacing Certain Sections Of Title 17 Of
The Laurel Municipal Code Related To Zoning.
Items Removed From the Consent Agenda
Community Announcements (One-Minute Limit)
This portion of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for citizens to address the Council regarding community
announcements. The duration for an individual speaking under Comm unity Announcements is limited to one minute. While
all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not on the agenda.
Council Discussion
Council members may give the City Council a brief report regarding committees or groups in which they are involved.
Mayor Updates
Unscheduled Matters
Adjournment
The City makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person’s ability to participate
in this meeting. Persons needing accommodation must notify the City Clerk’s Office to make needed arrangements. To make
your request known, please call 406-628-7431, Ext. 2, or write to City Clerk, PO Box 10, Laurel, MT 59044, or present your
request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana.
2
File Attachments for Item:
1. Approval of Minutes of May 14, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
6. Council Workshop Minutes of May 7, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
7. Council Workshop Minutes of May 21, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
8. Captian Pinning Ceremony
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File Attachments for Item:
10. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of May 14, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
11. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of May 20, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
12. Public Works Committee Minutes of May 20, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
13. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of May 20, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
15. Resolution No. R24-40: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To
Execute The Agreement For Provision Of Fire Services By And Between The City Of Laurel
And Fire District 5.
73
R24-40 Approve Agreement for Provision of Fire Services for Fire District 5
RESOLUTION NO. R24-40
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO
EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT FOR PROVISION OF FIRE SERVICES BY AND
BETWEEN THE CITY OF LAUREL AND FIRE DISTRICT 5.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana,
Section 1: Approval. The Agreement for Provision of Fire Services for the Laurel
Airport Authority, by and between the City of Laurel and the Fire District 5 (hereinafter “the
Agreement for Provision of Fire Services”), a copy attached hereto and incorporated herein, is
hereby approved.
Section 2: Execution. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute the Agreement
for Provision of Fire Services for the Fire District 5 on behalf of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 28th day of May 2024, by
Council Member ______.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 28th day of
May 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 28th day of May 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
74
R24-40 Approve Agreement for Provision of Fire Services for Fire District 5
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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File Attachments for Item:
16. Resolution No. R24-41: A Resolution Of The City Council To Adopt Updated Growth
Management Policy For The City Of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction.
80
R24-41 Adopt Growth Management Policy
RESOLUTION NO. R24-41
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO ADOPT UPDATED GROWTH
MANAGEMENT POLICY FOR THE CITY OF LAUREL-YELLOWSTONE
COUNTY JOINT PLANNING JURISDICTION.
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel City Council tasked the City of Laurel-Yellowstone
County Joint Planning Board (hereinafter “the Planning Board”) with the preparation of an
Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning
Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the Planning Board approved an Action Plan incorporating public input
and an approximate time-frame for the adoption of an Updated Growth Management Policy for
the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the Planning Board conducted a series of public meetings and invited
extensive public participation in the preparation of the Updated Growth Management Policy
for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the Planning Board considered various factual and legal issues in
relationship to the Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone
County Joint Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the Planning Board heard both written and verbal testimony on issues and
items of interest and concern related to the future growth and development expected to occur
during the pendency of the Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-
Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the proposed Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-
Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction addresses all statutory components of a
Growth Policy, as set forth in Mont. Code Ann. § 76-1-601, to the extent considered and
deemed acceptable, within the full discretion of City Council, as the governing body, consistent
with Mont. Code Ann. § 76-1-601(2);
WHEREAS, the Planning Board conducted Public Hearings on the Updated Growth
Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction on
December 20, 2023 and February 21, 2024, and the Planning Board has recommended adoption
of the Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint
Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel continues to work cooperatively with Yellowstone
County through the Planning Board on various planning, subdivision, and land use related
issues;
81
R24-41 Adopt Growth Management Policy
WHEREAS, the City desires to establish updated growth management standards that
relate to the continued growth of the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning
Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, Mont. Code Ann. § 76-1-604 provides the process for the adoption,
revision, or rejection of a Growth Policy by the City Council;
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on May 28, 2024 at 6:30 p.m., in City
Council Chambers, regarding the Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-
Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction;
WHEREAS, the City desired to provide persons who may be affected by the adoption
of the Updated Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint
Planning Jurisdiction ample opportunity for involvement in the adoption process, and as such,
the City passed Resolution No. 24-32, affirming the City’s intent to adopt an Updated Growth
Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction and
allowing for a thirty (30) time period for public comment; and
WHEREAS, the thirty (30) day time period for public comment has passed, the City
has considered the public comments provided, and the City now desires to adopt an Updated
Growth Management Policy for the City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning
Jurisdiction.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, that the City Council hereby adopts the Updated Growth Management Policy for the
City of Laurel-Yellowstone County Joint Planning Jurisdiction.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 28th day of May 2024, by
Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 28th day of
May 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 28th day of May 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
82
R24-41 Adopt Growth Management Policy
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
83
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-01
LAUREL – YELLOWSTONE CITY COUNTY PLANNING BOARD
A resolution of the Laurel - Yellowstone City County Planning Board to
recommend adoption of the 2023 Laurel - Yellowstone City County Growth Policy
and implementation measures by the City of Laurel and the Yellowstone County
Commissioners.
WHEREAS: The Yellowstone County Commission and the City of Laurel City
Council tasked the Planning Board with the preparation of a Growth Policy for
Laurel - Yellowstone City County Planning Jurisdiction, AND;
WHEREAS: The Planning Board approved an action plan incorporating public
input and an approximate timeline for the adoption of an updated Growth Policy
for Yellowstone – Laurel Planning Jurisdiction, AND;
WHEREAS: The Planning Board conducted a series of public meetings, surveys
and outreach to encourage public participation in the preparation of the Growth
Policy, AND;
WHEREAS: The Planning Board considered several strategies and policies that
could be adopted by the County Commissioners to implement the Growth Policy,
AND;
WHEREAS: The Planning Board encouraged both written and verbal testimony
on issues and items of concern related to the future growth and development
expected to occur during the life of the new Growth Policy. AND;
WHEREAS: The proposed Growth Policy addresses all of the statutory
components of a Growth Policy found in §76-1-601 et. seq. MCA to the extent
acceptable to the Planning Board, AND;
WHEREAS: The Planning Board did conduct a public he arings of the Growth
Policy on December 20, 2023 and February 21, 2024. AND;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Laurel - Yellowstone City County
Planning Board to recommend that the Governing Bodies of Yellowstone County
and the City of Laurel, Montana Adopt the Laurel - Yellowstone City County
Growth Policy in accordance with §76-1-604 MCA.
84
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, By the Laurel - Yellowstone City County Planning
Board that the following regulations, policies, plans and strategies be considered
by the County Commissioners to implement the Growth Policy:
Subdivision Regulations;
Design and Development Standards;
Capital Improvements Planning;
Economies of scale in the provision of local government services;
Empower City/Town Governments;
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.
Zoning Regulations
Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations.
Dated this 21th day of February 2024.
_______________________________
Laurel - Yellowstone City County Planning Board
Judy Goldsby, President
_______________________________
Kurt Markegard, Executive Secretary
85
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LAUREL ZONING BOUNDARY
LAUREL CITY LIMITS
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Land Use
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P L A N N I N G J U R I S D I C T I O NPLANNING J U R I S D I C T I O N
Planning Jurisdiction
City Limits
Annexation Priority Areas
Creeks and Canals
Major Roadways
County Line
PLSS
Parcels
Surface WaterÊ
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This page to be replaced upon final
approval with the above Title Page.
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Contents
....................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE ................................................................................................................ 1
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Historical Context ............................................................................................................................................................. 1
Purpose ............................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Community Vision ............................................................................................................................................................ 2
Regulatory Requirements ................................................................................................................................................ 3
CHAPTER 2: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT .............................................................................................................................. 4
Overview ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Prior Efforts ....................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Outreach ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Timeline of Meetings for the Growth Management Policy Update .............................................................................. 5
CHAPTER 3: GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES ..................................................................................................... 9
Overview ........................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Land Use Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Annexation Goals and Objectives .................................................................................................................................. 10
Housing Goals and Objectives ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Infrastructure Goals and Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 11
Transportation Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................................ 12
Economic Development Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................. 13
Public Facilities and Services Objectives, Policies and Strategies ................................................................................ 14
Recreation Goals and Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 15
Natural Resource Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 16
Intergovernmental Coordination Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................... 16
CHAPTER 4: COMMUNITY PROFILE ............................................................................................................................. 18
Population Trends .......................................................................................................................................................... 18
Ethnic Characteristics ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Households and Families................................................................................................................................................ 20
Education ........................................................................................................................................................................ 20
Work Commute .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
CHAPTER 5: EMPLOYMENT AND POPULATION FORECASTS ....................................................................................... 21
Employment Forecasts ................................................................................................................................................... 21
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Housing ........................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Population Forecasts ...................................................................................................................................................... 23
CHAPTER 6: Land Use.................................................................................................................................................. 24
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Trends ............................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Existing Land Uses .......................................................................................................................................................... 24
Residential and Rural Residential .................................................................................................................................. 28
Commercial ..................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Public ............................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Parks ................................................................................................................................................................................ 28
Industrial ......................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Urban Renewal ............................................................................................................................................................... 29
CHAPTER 7: FUTURE LAND USE .................................................................................................................................. 30
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Residential Districts ........................................................................................................................................................ 30
Vacant Land .................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Development Standards ................................................................................................................................................. 30
Extraterritorial Zoning .................................................................................................................................................... 31
Infrastructure Extension................................................................................................................................................. 31
Future Land Use Goals and Objectives .......................................................................................................................... 33
CHAPTER 7.5: ANNEXATION ....................................................................................................................................... 35
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Purpose ........................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Importance...................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Priority Areas .................................................................................................................................................................. 36
Annexation Policies ........................................................................................................................................................ 38
Infrastructure Extension................................................................................................................................................. 38
Annexation Goals ............................................................................................................................................................ 38
CHAPTER 8: HOUSING ................................................................................................................................................. 39
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Households and Housing Units ...................................................................................................................................... 39
Housing Affordability ...................................................................................................................................................... 40
Housing Programs and Incentives ................................................................................................................................. 41
Housing Goals and Objectives ....................................................................................................................................... 42
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CHAPTER 9: INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................................................... 43
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Wastewater System........................................................................................................................................................ 43
Water System ................................................................................................................................................................. 44
Stormwater System ........................................................................................................................................................ 45
Solid Waste Services ....................................................................................................................................................... 45
Infrastructure Goals and Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 45
CHAPTER 10: TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................................ 47
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Local Routes & Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................... 47
State Highways ............................................................................................................................................................... 48
Federal Highways............................................................................................................................................................ 48
Railroad ........................................................................................................................................................................... 49
Roadway Classifications ................................................................................................................................................. 51
Public Transportation ..................................................................................................................................................... 51
Funding Sources ............................................................................................................................................................. 52
Transportation Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................................ 52
CHAPTER 11: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT .................................................................................................................. 53
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 53
The Local Economy ......................................................................................................................................................... 54
Economic Development Organizations ......................................................................................................................... 54
Economic Development Objectives and Policies and Strategies ................................................................................. 56
CHAPTER 12: PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ......................................................................................................... 57
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 57
City Administration ......................................................................................................................................................... 57
Laurel Police Department .............................................................................................................................................. 57
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services......................................................................................................... 59
School District ................................................................................................................................................................. 60
Public Library .................................................................................................................................................................. 61
Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office .............................................................................................................................. 62
Yellowstone County Public Works Department ............................................................................................................ 62
Yellowstone County GIS Department ............................................................................................................................ 62
Yellowstone County Disaster and Emergency Services Department ........................................................................... 62
Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorders Office .......................................................................................................... 63
Yellowstone County Elections Office ............................................................................................................................. 63
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Public Services and Facilities Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................... 64
CHAPTER 13: RECREATION PLAN ................................................................................................................................ 65
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 65
City Parks ......................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Yellowstone County Parks .............................................................................................................................................. 66
Parks Funding, Governance, and Operations ................................................................................................................ 66
Community Sponsored Events ....................................................................................................................................... 66
Recreation Objectives and Policies and Strategies ....................................................................................................... 67
CHAPTER 14: NATURAL RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................... 68
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 68
Groundwater Resources ................................................................................................................................................ 68
Wildlife Habitat ............................................................................................................................................................... 69
Agricultural Land ............................................................................................................................................................. 70
Wildland-Urban Interface .............................................................................................................................................. 73
Floodplain ....................................................................................................................................................................... 73
Natural Resource Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................................................ 74
CHAPTER 15: GROWTH POLICY IMPLEMENTATION .................................................................................................... 76
Overview ......................................................................................................................................................................... 76
Implementation Tools .................................................................................................................................................... 76
Land Use Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................................... 88
Annexation Goals and Objectives .................................................................................................................................. 90
Housing Goals and Objectives ....................................................................................................................................... 91
Infrastructure Goals and Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 92
Transportation Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................................ 96
Economic Development Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................................. 98
Public Facilities and Services Goals and Objectives .................................................................................................... 101
Recreation Goals and Objectives ................................................................................................................................. 102
Natural Resource Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 104
Intergovernmental Coordination Goals and Objectives ............................................................................................. 105
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
Introduction
The Growth Management Policy is a guide for the development of the City of Laurel Laurel Planning
jurisdiction area over the next five years. The purpose of this plan is to provide general guidelines to
develop and maintain Laurel as a safe, livable, and economically viable community that residents,
institutions, and businesses are proud to call home. This document presents information about the
planning jurisdiction ,City its residents, and the goals and objectives the City planning board will work
towards in the long term.
This document is focused on the City of Laurel and
its surrounding zoning and planning jurisdictions.
Laurel is at a crossroads both in place and time. It
is located at a vital junction for agriculture,
transportation, and industry that helped develop
the area over the past 130 years. The timing of this
policy update is also essential given a growing
population, changing demographics, a fast-
growing municipality nearby (Billings), and the
need for updated regulations and policies to face
21st century technological, economic, and land-
use challenges.
Historical Context
The Crow was the principle Tribe in the Yellowstone Basin when European explorers first arrived. In July
of 1806, Captain William Clark and his expedition floated down the Yellowstone River from current-day
Livingston in crude canoes on their return journey. Clark and his expedition camped at the mouth of the
Clark's Fork of the Yellowstone River near Laurel's present site and noted it as a possible location for a
trading post. Chief Joseph later led the Nez Perce over the Yellowstone River near Laurel during their
retreat to Canada in 1877. Colonel Sam Sturgis and his cavalry caught up and battled the Tribe at Canyon
Creek approximately six miles north of present-day Laurel. The Nez Perce escaped the cavalry and
continued their flight to Canada after the battle. Laurel is located on both the Lewis & Clark and Nez
Perce National Historic Trails that commemorate these events.
European settlement of the area began in 1879. The railroad reached Billings by 1882 and reached
current-day Laurel by that fall. The City of Laurel, initially called Carlton, was established in 1882 along
the newly laid railroad tracks. The western legend of "Calamity Jane" Canary was associated with Laurel
in its early years after she came to Laurel in 1882 and had her dugout near the Canyon Creek
Battleground.
Laurel's population and its economy boomed during the early years. By 1920, the population had
reached 2,338 residents. The rail yards were a permanent fixture of the local economy and became a
dependable employer due to the consistent demand for agricultural products nationwide. The three
major industries which have played a significant role in the growth of the City have been agriculture, the
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railroad, and oil. Local farms near current-day Laurel were settled before any official town being
established. Popular crops for area farmers and ranchers included alfalfa, grains, and sugar beets.
This agricultural production was a significant draw for the region outside of the rail yard's ability to ship
goods. These farms were an essential driver of the local economy despite the railyard's outsized role as
a shipping center.
The Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroads all made their
junction in Laurel by 1906. The Northern Pacific was building terminal yards in 1907, which would
eventually lead to Laurel being the largest terminal and classification station between St. Paul,
Minnesota, Seattle, and Washington. The yards would eventually have a fifty-five-stall roundhouse,
machine shop, ice-making plant, loading docks, water tank, and disinfecting plant. The yard is currently
operated by Montana Rail Link, which is leased from the Burling Northern/Santa Fe Railroad. Laurel
remains the largest rail yard between Minneapolis and Seattle.
The area was repeatedly drilled for oil exploration in the early 1920s. The Northwest Refining Company
bought a site for a proposed 2,000-barrel refinery in 1922. In 1927, productive oil fields were discovered
in the nearby Oregon Basin of Wyoming. The existing regional rail infrastructure made Laurel an ideal
location for the refining and exporting of crude oil from Wyoming and other regions. The refinery in
Laurel has been operated by many companies, including the Independent Refining Company, Farmers
Union Central Exchange, and now CHS Inc.
Purpose
The Growth Management Policy is a statement of the community goals and objectives that will guide
the City's planning jurisdiction’s development. The policy is a comprehensive document covering many
different study areas, including demographics, land use, infrastructure, public services, transportation,
and housing. The purpose of this Growth Management Policy is to:
Establish Community Goals and Objectives
Present an updated profile of the community
Provide projections for housing, natural resources, population, land use, and other subjects
Ensure an orderly set of policy priorities for the expansion of the City
Put forward an implementation guide for the established Goals and Objectives
Act as a guide and resource for city and county staff and other local stakeholders
Community Vision
The Growth Management Policy allows
local stakeholders to create a future vision
for the Laurel community. A well-thought-
out vision is important because it informs
the structure and form of the document
and influences the City's work long after it
is published. This vision can involve where
the City wants to grow, what types of
business residents would like to see,
priorities for project funding, and the
quality of life residents would like to have.
The Growth Management Policy's goals,
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objectives, and recommendations for implementation are developed from this community vision. City
staff worked with Planning Board members to develop a community vision for the planning jurisdiction.
Laurel.
In the future, the Laurel area will have:
A diverse array of residents, businesses, and institutions,
Greater employment opportunities,
Connected and accessible neighborhoods,
A variety of housing options and levels of affordability,
A thriving downtown and commercial district,
Well-functioning public services and amenities,
Clear and consistent regulations for development, and
An engaged community.
Regulatory Requirements
The Growth Management Policy is a statutory necessity for local governments. Montana Code
Annotated Title 76, Chapter 1, Part 6 provides the foundation for establishing a municipal growth policy.
These statutes require certain general items to be included, but the direction, focus, and contents of the
policy are the local governing body's responsibility. These statutes were established to enable local
governments to proactively envision their future and implement change in a coordinated way.
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CHAPTER 2: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Overview
The update process for the 2020 Growth Management Policy began in November 2019 and continued
through October of 2020. Much of the plan was developed in the spring and early summer of 2020. The
Planning Department convened multiple meetings of the Planning Board to discuss and review draft
chapters and information and reached out to local, county, and state officials for input.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent shelter-in-place directives disrupted the Laurel
City-County Planning Board's in-person meetings. The Planning Department continued to draft sections
of the plan, met with stakeholders virtually, and compiled chapters despite this disruption.
Prior Efforts
Before this update, the most recently approved Growth Management Policy was completed and
approved by Laurel City Council in December of 2013. Before adopting the 2013 Growth Management
Policy, The City of Laurel had prepared and adopted a Growth Management Policy in 2004.
Outreach
Outreach efforts were made during the late winter and early spring of 2020. The City reached out to
many local, regional, and state groups. These groups and organizations were identified as essential
stakeholders in the development of the plan. Many groups were unable to comment due to the COVID-
19 pandemic, which caused significant scheduling and contact issues. The chart below shows the groups
that the City met with and those contacted but who did not follow-up or could not provide direct
information due to the pandemic.
Laurel Growth Management Policy Update Outreach
Groups with which Meetings were held Groups Contacted
Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Laurel Chamber of Commerce
Laurel School District Big Sky Economic Development Authority
City of Laurel Public Works Montana Department of Commerce
City of Laurel Fire Department Yellowstone County Disaster & Emergency Services
City of Laurel Police Department Yellowstone County GIS
Laurel Rotary Club Montana Department of Justice
Yellowstone County Board of County Commissioners
Yellowstone County Sheriff's Department
Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Montana Department of Transportation (Billings District)
Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development
Montana Department of Environmental Quality
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Timeline of Meetings for the Growth Management Policy Update
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed meetings of the Planning Board between March and June
of 2020. Compiling the policy components and preparation of narrative portions continued during this
time under the previously established schedule. The chart below shows the Planning Board and City
Council meetings in which the Growth Management Policy Update was presented.
Laurel Growth Management Policy Update 2020 - Meeting Schedule
Date Purpose Task Outcome
December 11, 2019 Approve Schedule and
Contacts Initial Visioning Discussion Invites to
Agencies
January 8, 2020 Disc: Chapters 1&3 Introduction, Purpose and Common Goals Work Session
February 12, 2020 Disc: Chapters 4&5 Community Profile, Employment Forecast Work Session
February 26, 2020 Disc: Chapter 6 Land Use Work Session
March 11, 2020 Disc: Chapter 7 Future Land use Work Session
March 25, 2020 Disc: Chapter 8 Housing Work Session
April 8, 2020 Disc: Chapter 9 Infrastructure Work Session
April 22, 2020 Disc: Chapter 10 Transportation Work Session
May 13, 2020 Disc: Chapter 11 Economic Development Work Session
May 27, 2020 Disc: Chapters 12&13 Public Services, Facilities & Recreation Plan Work Session
June 10, 2020 Disc: Chapters 3, 14, 15 Community Goals, Natl Resources &
Implementation Work Session
June 24, 2020 Review Document Review Completed Chapters Work Session
July 22, 2020 Planning Board Review Chapters 3, 7, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13 Work Session
August 19, 2020 Planning Board Review Review Draft Document Schedule Public
Hearing
October 21, 2020 Planning Board Public
Hearing Full Document Review and Approval Resolution of
Adoption
November 3, 2020 City Council Discussion
Session Full Document (PB Approved) Preliminary
Presentation
November 17, 2020 City Council Workshop Full Document (PB Approved)
City Council
Review and
Comments
November 24, 2020 City Council Public
Hearing
Receive Public Comment, Approve Resolution
of Adoption
Resolution of
Adoption
December 24, 2020 Final Adoption 30 Day Comment Period
Adoption of
Growth
Management
Policy
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Laurel Growth Management Policy Update 2023 - Development Schedule
Date Purpose Task Outcome
January 24, 2023
County Commissioners
Meeting Approving
Resolution No. 23-03
County Commissioners request to update
2020 Growth Management Policy with
changes to the City of Laurel/ Yellowstone
Couty Planning Board
Planning Board to
take up the task
February 15, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Report to the Panning Board of the County’s
request
Started the
review
March 15, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Work Session
April 19, 2023 Planning Board Meeting
May 2, 2023 City Council Workshop
Staff recommendation asking City Council to
request Growth Management Policy update
with changes to The City of
Laurel/Yellowstone County Planning Board
Discussion
May 9, 2023
City Council Meeting
Approving Resolution
R23-29
City Council’s request to update 2020 Growth
Management Policy with changes to the City
of Laurel/ Yellowstone Couty Planning Board
Planning Board to
continue updates
May 17, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Inform Planning Board of City Council
Resolution R23-29 Review changes
June 21, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Review 2020 growth management policy Review changes
July 26, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Review 2020 growth management policy Review changes
September 20,2023 Planning Board Meeting Set work sessions for planning board and to
send legal notice to the community Work Session Set
September 29, 2023
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Work Session Public Notice for every
Wednesday in October Public Notice
October 4, 2023 Planning Board Review Review 2020 growth management policy draft
changes Work Session
October 6, 2023
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Work Session Public Notice for every
Wednesday in October Public Notice
October 11, 2023 Planning Board Review Review 2020 growth management policy draft
changes Work Session
October 18, 2023 Planning Board Review Review 2020 growth management policy draft
changes Regular Meeting
October 18,2023 Planning Board Meeting Review 2020 growth management policy draft
changes Work Session
November 15, 2023 Planning Board Meeting Review draft changes and to set a public
hearing for December 20th, 2023
Advertise Public
Hearing for
Planning Board
December 1, 2023
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public Notice Public Notice
December 1, 2023
Send out draft document
and maps to City and
County Offices for
Comments
City and County Staff Notice
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December 8, 2023
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 2nd Notice Public Notice
December 15, 2023
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 3rd Notice Public Notice
December 20, 2023 Planning Board Public
Hearing Full Document Review and Approval
December 20, 2023 Planning Board Tabled – Resolution to approve Growth
Management Policy
January 17, 2024 Planning Board
Tabled and set Workshop for January 31,2024
and additional Public Hearing for February 21,
2024.
January 25, 2024
Legal Advertisement
Published in Laurel
Outlook
Community Public Notice for Workshop
Session Public Notice
January 31, 2024 Planning Board
Workshop
Amended Maps for Annexation Priority Area
and Future Land Use Maps
February 1, 2024 Legal Advertisement in
Laurel Outlook
Community Public Notice for 2/21/2024 Public
Hearing Public Notice
February 8, 2024 Legal Advertisement in
Laurel Outlook
Community Public Notice for 2/21/2024 Public
Hearing Public Notice
February 9, 2024
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public Notice for 2/21/2024 Public
Hearing Public Notice
February 15, 2024 Legal Advertisement in
Laurel Outlook
Community Public Notice for 2/21/2024 Public
Hearing Public Notice
February 16, 2024
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public Notice for 2/21/2024 Public
Hearing Public Notice
February 21, 2024 Planning Board Public
Hearing Full Document Review and Approval
TBD City Council discussion
Session Full Document Preliminary
Presentation
TBD City Council Workshop Full Document
City Council
Review and
Comments
TBD County Commissioners
Discussion Session Full Document Preliminary
Presentation
TBD County Commission
Discussion Session Full Document
City Council
Review and
Comments
TBD
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 1st Notice - City Public Notice
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TBD
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 1st Notice - County Public Notice
TBD
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 2nd Notice - City Public Notice
TBD
Legal Advertisement
Published in Yellowstone
County News
Community Public 2nd Notice - County Public Notice
TBD City Council Public
Hearing
Receive Public comment, Approve Resolution
of Adoption
Resolution of
Adoption
TBD County Commissioners
Public Hearing
Receive Public Comment, Approve Resolution
of Adoption
Resolution of
Adoption
TBD Final Adoption 30 Day Comment Period
Adoption of
Growth
Management
Policy
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CHAPTER 3: GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES
Overview
The community goals and objectives presented in this chapter were established to transform the
community vision into a concrete reality. These goals, objectives, and strategies were developed
through research, data collection, interviews, and public meetings that the City and the planning board
conducted throughout the planning process.
These goals cover a wide range of topics, including Land Use, Transportation, Housing, Economic
Development, Infrastructure, and more. This collection of community goals and objectives is meant to
be exhaustive to provide the City, developers, residents, and business owners with comprehensive
guidance to inform local efforts across different sectors, topics, and areas of influence.
Land Use Goals and Objectives
Land use policy is one of the most potent tools a city has. Zoning and subdivision codes influence growth
patterns, infrastructure placement, road connectivity, and much more. The City of Laurel planning board
is focused on the effective use of land in and around the City. The City planning board also plans to
conserve open space and traditional land uses by focusing on smarter, denser development clustered
along significant routes and commercial areas.
This plan's overall goals are to conserve open space while maximizing the areas currently in and directly
adjacent to the City. Laurel's downtown and Southeast 4th Street rehabilitation are possible through a
mix of infill development, mixed-use buildings, improved infrastructure, and updated façade and signage
standards.
Goal 1: Conserve open space and traditional land uses
Encourage cluster developments to incorporate open space into new developments
Provide options for landowners for conserving portions of their land
Study and Implement strategies to create an interconnected system of parks and greenways and
open space that are accessible to area residents
Goal 2: Develop downtown Laurel into a vibrant place to live, work, and play
Encourage mixed uses for living, working, and shopping local
Identify priority parcels for infill development
Implement Placemaking projects to create a more livable and enjoyable downtown
Partner with local groups to support community businesses, events, and gatherings
Connect with regional agencies to access project funding, receive technical support, and boost
the visibility of Laurel development opportunities
Goal 3: Update Subdivision Code to meet the needs of Laurel and the surrounding area
Provide clear and consistent standards
Ensure the proper scale and scope of regulations
Include trails, open space, and greenway considerations in parkland subdivision review
Regularly review and update the Subdivision Code as needed to remain current
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Goal 4: Update the Zoning Code to provide for greater flexibility of allowable uses, clearer
requirements, and more efficient land use
Study the inclusion of different types of housing within residential districts
Update Overlay Districts, Parking Requirements, and the Sign Code to better fit the City's needs
and character
Allow mixed-use live/work opportunities in commercial areas
Enable property owners to use their land more effectively and efficiently
Goal 5: Use long term planning documents to identify funding and address priority needs
for infrastructure and development
Establish an Annexation Plan to develop priority growth areas and strategies
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for vital infrastructure to support the City as it grows
Prepare a Commercial and Industrial Development Study for land adjacent to major
transportation routes in the Laurel area
Annexation Goals and Objectives
Municipalities need to seize growth opportunities. Having strategies to address challenges for
developing a community and preparing priorities for expansion are vital activities. Two overarching goals
have been designated to help the City of Laurel grow through annexation.
Goal 1: Adopt a long-range view for the growth of the City
Establish a growth-conscious set of policies to expand the City and its services
Create priority growth areas for extension of services
Develop and approve an Annexation Plan for the Laurel Planning Jurisdiction
Support the creation of a long-term Capital Improvement Plan for the extension of essential
infrastructure
Goal 2: Manage fiscal responsibility with established and proposed annexation standards
Ensure that the established standards are right and proper for the City of Laurel
Ease the burden for developers to annex into the City while meeting established standards
Allow greater flexibility in development patterns
Determine the cost and benefits of annexation
Housing Goals and Objectives
Housing is a necessity in any community. The goals presented below are a means to ensure that people
can find affordable, accessible, comfortable, and attractive housing in the community. To date, Laurel
has not struggled with significant housing affordability issues. One housing trend that Laurel might
consider is the growing demand for closer-knit, denser, and connected neighborhoods near commercial
areas. Many younger Americans have abandoned the traditional single-family home for other housing,
including rowhouses, tiny homes, condominiums, and apartments. Many older Americans are also
focusing on downsizing to housing that is more accessible to local services, including restaurants,
medical services, and grocery stores.
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Housing is closely connected with transportation and economic development. Updating the zoning code
to allow a more comprehensive array of housing options such as tiny homes, accessory dwelling units,
and multi-family housing is an important goal. This update will ensure that currently developed parcels
and vacant parcels within the City can be developed with more options for prospective buyers or
renters. It is also crucial for Laurel to have standards and code that allow for the efficient use of space
already within the City while enabling the effective use of land in the surrounding area.
Goal 1: Encourage a mixture of housing types to meet the demand of all market sectors
Maintain a diverse array of housing and affordability levels
Promote higher density housing types in the downtown area and adjacent to major
transportation corridors
Study mixed-use housing and other alternative housing types and styles
Provide options for a full spectrum of housing from rentals to retirement housing
Goal 2: Provide information on housing-related grants, loans, and ownership programs
Develop a list of resources for renters and homeowners
Collect information on federal, state, local, and philanthropic rental and homeownership
programs
Advise Laurel area residents as to available support for housing, rent, and homeownership
Infrastructure Goals and Objectives
Infrastructure is the foundation of the community. It will be vital for the City to utilize long-range
planning to establish infrastructure standards, map current infrastructure facilities, and identify
infrastructure development costs for necessary and prospective projects.
The drafting of planning documents, including master plans and preliminary engineering reports (PERs)
relating to the Laurel water system, wastewater system, and stormwater system, is critical to ensure
orderly and effective growth of the City. A Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is another vital infrastructure
planning document that should be completed. Plans and engineering reports should provide useable
data, allow for inclusion in grant applications, and present direct insight into necessary current and
future projects.
Goal 1: Maintain an Effective and Efficient Public Infrastructure System that Adequately
Serves the Needs of the City
Develop a data-driven infrastructure maintenance schedule
Determine any existing gaps in services and other infrastructure deficiencies within the City
Adopt up-to-date infrastructure standards that are appropriate for the needs of the City
Study using public spaces within floodplains, watercourses, and wetlands to be used as passive
recreation areas such as parks and greenways
Study the feasibility of recycling programs and other means to reduce solid waste
Incorporate stormwater system planning into roadway and other infrastructure planning
processes
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Goal 2: Establish the Long-Term Capital and Infrastructure Needs for the City
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for the improvement and expansion of infrastructure
Prepare a Water System Master Plan
Create a Wastewater System Master Plan
Complete a Stormwater Management Plan
Ensure infrastructure planning documents are routinely updated.
Confirm that the established infrastructure priorities are adequate
Goal 3: Seek out Possible Funding Sources for the Expansion and Improvement of
Infrastructure and Essential Community Services
Study the physical and financial needs for the extension of infrastructure to priority growth
areas.
Collaborate with Montana agencies on major projects and studies
Explore federal, state, and philanthropic infrastructure grant opportunities
Determine positive impacts from the expansion and improvement of infrastructure
Apply for funding opportunities that are appropriate for city priorities and projects and assist in
keeping user fees reasonable
Transportation Goals and Objectives
The transportation network brings people together. This network is a patchwork of streets, roads,
sidewalks, bike paths, trails, and rail. It is crucial to couple transportation development with land use. To
this end, a goal is the development of a more multi-modal approach to streets and pathways.
Implementing bicycle and pedestrian improvements such as bike lanes, greenways, improved signage,
and sidewalk improvements is critical. Furthermore, traffic and speed data should be studied on
significant routes to determine street safety and determine possible resolutions to improve motorized
and non-motorized traveler safety. Laurel seeks to make neighborhoods and commercial areas more
accessible and connected by improving pedestrian facilities, including sidewalks, accessible curb cuts,
signage, and road markings. Establishing a road network master plan is also vital to create a concrete
plan for street expansion and continuity to support orderly and consistent growth patterns.
These transportation goals are a way to increase the quality of life, connect people to their community,
increase safety, and plan for current trends and future growth. There are three overarching
transportation goals, including objectives and strategies.
Goal 1: Preserve, Maintain, and Improve the Existing Transportation System
Update the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
Establish a systematic approach for the maintenance and repair of the road network.
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan to identify and prioritize significant transportation projects
Establish a Road Network Master Plan to ensure street continuity, traffic flow, and
neighborhood connectivity,
Promote fiscal responsibility and high return on investment
Coordinate roadway improvement projects to coincide with underground infrastructure
improvements
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Goal 2: Improve the Mobility, Safety, and Accessibility for all users and modes of travel
Implement bicycle and pedestrian improvements and traffic calming measures to transform the
downtown area into a pedestrian-friendly place
Create a looping bicycle/pedestrian trail and street system that connects different areas of
Laurel
Adopt pedestrian and multi-modal friendly transportation standards and safety measures
Explore options to improve and expand the Laurel Transit program and strategies to create
other multi-modal transportation connections.
Partner with local, regional, and statewide groups to further integrate Laurel into the more
comprehensive passenger transportation network
Goal 3: Connect Transportation Decisions with Land-Use Decisions
Integrate land-use planning and transportation planning to manage better and develop the
transportation network.
Utilize transportation projects to encourage intensive development patterns along significant
routes and existing areas of the City.
Adopt and implement consistent system policies and maintenance standards
Ensure the development of a sustainable transportation system that minimizes environmental
impacts
Economic Development Goals and Objectives
The Laurel economy has changed dramatically in the past few decades. The emergence of online retail
has shifted the focus away from traditional brick and mortar downtowns businesses to easy to use and
seemingly more convenient online or delivery options. Recently, small towns and cities across the
country are finding that thoughtful economic development and land use planning can rehabilitate their
downtowns and neighborhoods to reverse some of the losses related to the emergence of online retail.
The City has established focus areas for economic development. These areas include Laurel's traditional
downtown core, the Southeast 4th St. Commercial district, the 1st Avenue Corridor, and Old Route 10
running west from the City. This chapter's primary focus is to establish a smarter, more sustainable
development that adds character and connectivity to commercial areas. Commercial areas of Laurel
should be attractive places to visit. Placemaking and beautification projects are useful to encourage
residents and visitors to explore different areas of the City. Increasing walkability and mixed-use
development can also create better housing and commercial opportunities.
The goals presented below are an effort to increase the attractiveness, usefulness, and quality of the
community's commercial and economic sectors. The expansion brings new opportunities, and the area
near the West Laurel Interchange has significant growth potential. This area could become a central
area for the Laurel community's growth and development through the effective use of placemaking
strategies, smart growth concepts, and cohesive zoning and development standards. Four main goals
with related objectives have been established related to Economic Development as follows:
Goal 1: Develop downtown Laurel as a destination to live, work, and play
Institute placemaking projects to further enhance district character
Increase live-work opportunities for current and future residents and businesses
Apply TIF funding to beautification, blight removal, and public improvement projects
Identify and find solutions for unused or underused parcels as candidates for development
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Goal 2: Create a resilient local economy
Strengthen core businesses and industries through communication and connections with
technical support
Ensure that local economic activities are inclusive and accessible to all stakeholders
Implement policies that create stable and sustainable economic growth
Work to highlight the shared benefits of working together as a community with local businesses
stakeholders, and developers
Provide an economic ecosystem that allows for a wide array of businesses, industries, and
developments to thrive
Study and implement policies to enhance local business demand and alternative strategies for
value creation for the community
Goal 3: Collaborate with area organizations to support economic growth and local
employment and training opportunities
Communicate with local groups to determine any needs and assistance
Create partnerships with local and regional groups to fill local service gaps and create needed
programming
Take part in events and workshops to support local business initiatives and activities
Establish common ground with local and regional groups to provide resources and assistance
Connect residents and businesses with like-minded economic, financial, and entrepreneurship
resources and opportunities
Goal 4: Study options for new commercial and industrial properties in anticipated high-
growth areas
Create a Corridor Master Plan for growth in and around the intersection with Old Route 10 and
the West Laurel Interchange
Study options and determine priorities for the possible establishment of Tax Increment
Financing Districts (TIFs) and Targeted Economic Development Districts (TEDDs)
Review and pursue opportunities for clustered commercial or industrial parks
Develop funding strategies to provide services for priority growth areas.
Public Facilities and Services Objectives, Policies and Strategies
Effective and efficient public services are a significant draw for prospective residents, developers, and
businesses. Above all, public facilities and services must be accessible, useful, and dependable for
everyone residing, working, and visiting the City. Laurel should identify current gaps and determine the
projected needs of public facilities as the City grows. It is crucial to work with public stakeholders and
departments to include the whole population. Providing consistent and stable service delivery is
essential.
Goal 1: Provide consistent and high-quality public services to the community
Develop standard operating procedures to ensure consistency for city departments
Develop maintenance procedures for parks, facilities, and public areas.
Study current facilities and services to identify gaps and determine projected needs in services
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Goal 2: Respond to the changing nature of the community
Plan for the expansion of public facilities in priority growth areas
Invest in public facilities that are accessible to everyone in the community
Study how to improve city services to boost the quality of life for residents, businesses, and
institutions
Goal 3: Work with city departments and local stakeholders to determine the priority
expansion of public facilities and services
Open lines of communication between city departments and local stakeholders to gather input
on major projects
Consider the public service requirements of large-scale projects before their approval and
implementation
Develop plans for the expansion of Fire, Police, and EMS facilities
Recreation Goals and Objectives
The wide array of Laurel city parks is a great asset to residents. It is the goal to ensure that current and
future city parkland is an essential amenity. Parks should be developed and improved to act as
neighborhood focal points. Many of Laurel's parks are very small, with some located in less than optimal
locations. It is a goal to ensure that parkland is a useable and enjoyable amenity for residents. The City
should study underutilized or burdensome parkland parcels and consider re-use scenarios.
Historical Riverside Park has been a staple of the community for almost one hundred years. The
Riverside Park Master Plan was developed in 2018 to provide a blueprint for improvements and the
park's use. It will be essential to continue the ongoing improvement efforts and develop policies to
attract visitors. Riverside Park should be maintained as a historical, recreational, and economic asset in
the future.
Goal 1: Develop parkland as an essential and enjoyable amenity for residents
Ensure new developments have appropriate park space for recreation and general use
Study how existing parks can be improved through new facilities, changed layouts, or additions
Review current park infrastructure and determine if improvements are necessary to serve the
needs of the surrounding area better
Goal 2: Promote Riverside Park as a vital historic, civic, and recreation resource for
residents and visitors
Adhere to the projects and strategies presented in the 2018 Riverside Park Master Plan
Seek grant funding for structural and site improvements
Develop historic markers for Riverside Park and its historic structures
Study options for connecting Riverside Park to the city proper through infrastructure
improvements, civic engagement, or other means
Establish signage and marketing for the assets and resources of Riverside Park to area residents
and visitors
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Goal 3: Create an interconnected system of parks, greenspace, and trails that are accessible
to all
Create a city-wide Park System Master Plan to develop project priorities
Consider the creation of a City Parks Department to oversee park operations and maintenance
Identify unused land that can be transformed into green space or trails for use by the public
Update the zoning and development codes to encourage the creation of bicycle and pedestrian
trail corridors
Natural Resource Goals and Objectives
The Laurel planning jurisdiction contains a variety of terrain types and environments. The natural
environment should be preserved and enhanced to balance environmental sustainability with economic
growth, recreational opportunities, and development. Natural resources and the natural environment
can be managed with growth activities to provide social, economic, and community benefits to people
over time while continuing their natural functions. The natural resource goals and objectives have been
developed with this balance of activities in mind.
Goal 1: Protect Laurel's natural resources and traditional environment
Provide options for landowners for conserving portions of their land while developing others
Achieve a balanced pattern of growth to ensure environmental concerns are considered during
the development
Manage the local water resources as a healthy, integrated system that provides long-term
benefits from enhanced environmental quality
Goal 2: Incorporate sustainable development patterns in the Laurel subdivision and land
use codes
Review and update existing zoning and subdivision regulations to ensure environmental
preservation and conservation are addressed
Review and update landscaping ordinances as needed to best suit Laurel's natural environment
Manage rivers, floodplains, wetlands, and other water resources for multiple uses, including
flood and erosion protection, wildlife habitat, recreational use, open space, and water supply
Goal 3: Connect with local, regional, and state agencies and stakeholders to improve the
natural environment in and around Laurel
Sponsor environmental cleanup and rehabilitation programs that include the City, school
district, community organizations, and residents
Participate in regional watershed studies to achieve adequate long-term flood protection
Explore the possibility of creating a conservation corridor along the Yellowstone River
Intergovernmental Coordination Goals and Objectives
Intergovernmental coordination and collaboration are essential to ensure that the City of Laurel can
sustainably develop, seize growth opportunities, and improve residents, visitors, and businesses' quality
of life. Consistent intergovernmental coordination will allow Laurel to be a partner and participant
rather than a bystander in regional growth.
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It will be necessary for the City to regularly communicate with local, county, and state partners to seize
grant and development opportunities, provide the Laurel perspective, and connect local groups to those
in the broader region. It is envisioned that the City will help direct residents, businesses, developers, and
groups to helpful county, state, federal and institutional resources and supports.
Goal 1: Establish lines of communication with local, county, and state partners
Create an accurate directory of government representatives and staff
Update governmental stakeholders regarding ongoing projects and work in the Laurel area
Develop working relationships with legislators, staff, and stakeholders at different levels of
government
Goal 2: Coordinate with local and regional institutions to support and grow the Laurel
community
Work with economic development groups to seize opportunities for business growth
Connect area businesses with institutions and governmental groups that can support their
mission
Communicate with area legislators to provide information on growth patterns and development
in the Laurel area.
Maintain open communications with state agencies and the Board of County Commissioners to
confirm compliance with statewide codes and operational needs.
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CHAPTER 4: COMMUNITY PROFILE
Population Trends
The City of Laurel was incorporated in 1908. The population of Laurel grew steadily after the early boom
years of railroad and oil development. The nearby City of Billings has also contributed to the overall
growth and development in Yellowstone County in the past few decades, with Laurel playing a
somewhat lesser role. City staff anticipates a continuation of steady growth despite certain
developments that may impact this, such as establishing the West Laurel Interchange for interstate I-90.
U.S. Decennial Census, 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Laurel has grown slowly over the past forty years. It is anticipated that Laurel will reach a population of
7,000 after the 2020 U.S. Census is completed. Laurel’s current population is 7,203.
U.S. Decennial Census, 2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
160,000
180,000
1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2018
Est.
Yellowstone County Population
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
8000
1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2018
Est.
Laurel Population
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Residents of Laurel tend to be older. The chart below shows that most residents are above 25, with
almost 40 percent of the population between the ages of twenty-five and fifty-nine.
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Ethnic Characteristics
The charts below provide a summary of the ethnic makeup of the City of Laurel. The current Census
estimates indicate that Laurel is not a very diverse community. The lowest estimate for white/Caucasian
residents is 95.11 percent, which is displayed in the “Hispanic or Latino and Race” Chart below.
Race Estimate Percent
Total Population 6,885 100.00%
White 6,775 98.40%
Black or African American 11 0.16%
American Indian and Alaska Naïve 192 2.79%
Asian 0 0.00%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 0 0.00%
Some Other Race 16 0.23%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Hispanic or Latino and Race Estimate Percent
Total Population 6,885 100.00%
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 178 2.59%
Mexican 101 1.47%
Other Hispanic or Latino 77 1.12%
Not Hispanic or Latino 6,707 97.41%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
0.00%
2.00%
4.00%
6.00%
8.00%
10.00%
12.00%
14.00%
Laurel Age Distribution
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Households and Families
There are an estimated 2,882 households and 1,907 families in the City of Laurel. Households in Laurel
have a median household income of $50,778, while Laurel families have an estimated median income of
$68,575. An estimated 9 percent of Laurel residents are below the poverty level compared with 5.5
percent of families. It is forecasted that Laurel’s overall population will increase by 1.3 percent between
2019 and 2024, with an increase in total households of 1.1 percent and families of 8.6 percent.
Education
Laurel is a well-educated community. 94.07 percent of the population over the age of 25 has attained a
high school diploma, with 51.21 percent having at least completed some college or an associate degree
program. Laurel spends less per student than the United States average but maintains a more positive
student per librarian and student per counselor ratio.
Education Laurel, MT United States
Expenditures Per Student 8,629.00 12,383.00
Educational Expenditures Per Student 7,897.00 10,574.00
Instructional Expenditures per Student 5,080.00 6,428.00
Pupil/Student Ratio 15.87* 16.80
Students per Librarian 464.70 538.10
Students per Counselor 348.50 403.20
Education in Laurel, Montana. Bestplaces.net. Accessed 2/3/2020.
*Figure 25: Student to Teacher Ratios (2013), Towncharts.com
Work Commute
Seventy-nine percent of Laurel residents commute to work alone in a car, truck, or van. This percentage
is slightly higher than the national average of 76.4 percent. Laurel does have a higher than average
carpool rate, with 13.66 percent versus the national average of 9.2 percent, according to the American
Community Survey. Laurel residents travel an average of 21.5 minutes to work, which can be partially
attributed to the fact that several Laurel residents travel to the nearby city of Billings for employment
purposes. (Billings is approximately 17 miles away).
Commuting to Work Estimate Percent
Workers 16 Years and Over 3,528 100.00%
Car, Truck, or Van - Drove Alone 2,787 79.00%
Car, Truck, or Van - Carpooled 482 13.66%
Public Transportation (excluding Taxicab) 22 0.62%
Walked 82 2.32%
Other Means 15 0.43%
Worked at home 140 3.97%
Mean travel time to work (minutes) 21.50
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
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CHAPTER 5: EMPLOYMENT AND POPULATION
FORECASTS
A diverse mix of businesses helps a city thrive and allows residents to live, work, and play in their
communities. A diverse array of businesses also keeps a community more resilient in the case of
economic downturns. The Laurel community has been blessed with two long-term stable
employers; the Montana Rail Link -BSNF railyard and the CHS Refinery. These two institutions
are well established and are not anticipated to disappear. The City of Laurel hopes to diversify
the local economy further and attract various businesses and related employment. The growth
policy focuses on revitalizing Laurel’s downtown businesses, assessing how zoning can be
updated to meet the needs of businesses and employees better, and connecting Laurel
neighborhoods with the existing business communities to help increase traffic to existing
establishments.
Employment Forecasts
66.92 percent of the estimated 5,362 residents of Laurel aged 16 years and over are in the labor force.
Only 2.69 percent are unemployed, and 30.40 percent are not in the labor force, according to the 2017
U.S. Census estimates. The unemployment rate has remained steady, with the current rate at
approximately 2.5 percent. Laurel also has a balanced split of occupations, with no general sector
having more than 16 percent of the total labor pool. This type of mix of industries and employment is
suitable for a community as it helps to insulate it from major economic shifts.
Industry Estimate Percent
Total Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 3,588 100.00%
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, and Mining 153 4.26%
Construction 262 7.30%
Manufacturing 315 8.78%
Wholesale Trade 157 4.38%
Retail Trade 603 16.81%
Transportation and Warehousing, and Utilities 206 5.74%
Information 66 1.84%
Finance and Insurance, and Real estate and rental and leasing 208 5.80%
Professional, Scientific, and Management, and Administrative and waste
management services 299 8.33%
Education Services, and Healthcare and Social Assistance 533 14.86%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation, and Accommodation and Food
Services 493 13.74%
Other Services, except public administration 233 6.49%
Public Administration 60 1.67%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
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Housing
Housing is a critical asset to a community. Maintaining a mix of affordable housing is essential to
attracting a diverse array of people to the community. Housing provides shelter and provides character
to a community by way of how it is designed, situated, and utilized. The charts below provide an
overview of housing in Laurel. Laurel has a low housing vacancy rate and many owner-occupied units.
Housing Occupancy Estimate Percent
Total housing units 2,992 100%
Occupied housing units 2,882 96.30%
Vacant housing units 110 3.70%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Sixty-seven percent of all houses in Laurel are owner-occupied. This information means that people have
invested their time, money, and effort into the Laurel community because they live here full-time.
Housing Tenure Estimate Percent
Occupied Housing Units 2,882 100.00%
Owner-Occupied 1,931 67.00%
Renter-Occupied 951 33.00%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Affordable rents enable a wide array of people to live in the community. Seventy percent of renters in
Laurel pay 35 percent or less of their income toward their monthly rent. This percentage is positive
because it allows more money to be utilized for other consumer purposes, such as restaurants,
shopping, and other services.
Gross Rent as a Percentage of
Household Income
Estimate Percent
Occupied units paying rent 898 100.00%
Less than 15.0 percent 115 12.81%
15.0 to 19.9 percent 183 20.38%
20.0 to 24.9 percent 52 5.79%
25.0 to 29.9 percent 161 17.93%
30.0 to 34.9 percent 121 13.47%
35.0 percent or more 266 29.62%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
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Seventy-eight percent of houses in Laurel are worth between $100,000 and $300,000. The median
household value is $169,900. This data is very positive as affordable houses and rents allow a more
diverse array of people to become homeowners and put long-term roots into the community.
Housing Value Estimate Percent
Owner-Occupied Units 1,931 100.00%
Less than $50,000 203 10.51%
$50,000 to $99,999 155 8.03%
$100,000 to 149,999 377 19.52%
$150,000 to $199,999 592 30.66%
$200,000 to $299,999 554 28.69%
$300,000 to $499,999 50 2.59%
$500,000 to $999,999 0 0.00%
$1,000,000 or More 0 0.00%
Median (In Dollars) $ 165,900
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Population Forecasts
Laurel saw a dip in population between 2013 and 2018 (from 7,035 to 6,766). This trend was reversed in
2019, with an increase in population to 7,242 residents. It is anticipated that Laurel will grow at a steady
rate over at least the next five years. This assumption considers the community’s proximity to the City of
Billings and the ability to attract businesses, residents, and commuters that support the Billings and
Yellowstone County economy.
Growth Rate 2010-2019 2019-2024
Population 0.880% 1.30%
Households 0.840% 1.10%
Families 0.580% 8.60%
Median Household Income X 1.68%
Per Capita Income X 2.44%
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CHAPTER 6: Land Use
Overview
Laurel is in South Central Montana, 16 miles west of Billings, the largest City in Montana. Laurel is
located along major transportation routes, including Interstate I-90, Route 212, and Old Route 10. Laurel
is located 223 miles east of Helena, the state capital, seventy miles from the northeast entrance of
Yellowstone National Park, 80 miles from the Little Big Horn Battlefield National Monument, and 137
miles from Bozeman.
Laurel is located on the western boundary of Yellowstone County. This area has seen significant
development with the City of Billings' continued growth, but the surrounding region remains sparsely
populated and remains mostly prairie, rangeland, and farmland.
Trends
The City of Laurel has developed slowly in the past few decades. The development has focused itself
north and west of the City. There are also many vacant and underused parcels within the City itself. The
area adjacent to Interstate I-90 is mostly commercial and industrial. This similar land use is seen along
Old Route 10 to the west of the City.
Existing Land Uses
The City of Laurel has a variety of established zoning districts. These districts cover a wide range of uses
and purposes. The districts and their official definitions can be found below.
Agricultural-open space (AO) zone - The agricultural-open space zone is intended to preserve
land for agricultural and related use. Land within this zone is usually un-subdivided and contains
a minimum of roads, streets, and other utilities. It may be cultivated acreage or land less
suitable for cultivation, yet suitable for various agricultural enterprises using the broadest scope
of the agricultural definition. Land within this zone may be located adjacent to highways and
arterial streets. The AO zone is further intended to discourage the scattered intrusion of uses
not compatible with an agricultural rural environment.
Suburban residential (SR) zone - This zone is limited to single-family residential tracts on a
minimum of five acres of land and on which agricultural uses may be conducted with the
exception that animal units shall not exceed ten per five acres.
Residential tracts (RT) zone - This zone is designed for single-family residential homes on a
minimum of one acre of land. Livestock is limited to two livestock units per acre with additional
units allowed per additional half-acre increments in conformance with Section 17.08.651 of this
code. No livestock is allowed in the city limits, and all livestock must be removed if/when
annexation occurs.
Residential estates-22,000 (RE-22,000) zone - This zone is intended to provide of low-density,
single-family, residential development in areas near or adjacent to the City that are served by
either central water or sewer systems.
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Residential-7500 (R-7500) zone – This zone is intended to provide an area for medium, urban-
density, single-family, residential environment on lots that are served by a public sewer and
sewer system.
Residential-6000 (R-6000) zone – This zone is intended to promote an area for a high, urban-
density, duplex residential environment on lots that are usually served by a public water and
sewer system.
Residential light multifamily (RLMF) zone – This zone is intended to provide a suitable residential
environment for medium density (up to a fourplex) residential dwellings. The area is usually
served by a public water and sewer system.
Residential multifamily (RMF) zone - The RMF zone is intended to provide a suitable residential
environment for medium to high density residential dwellings; and to establish, where possible,
a buffer between residential and commercial zones.
Residential manufactured home (RMH) zone - The RMH zone is intended to provide a suitable
residential environment for individual manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, and
competitive accessory uses.
Planned unit development (PUD) zone – This zone is intended to provide a district in which the
use of the land is for the development of residential and commercial purposes, as an integrated
unit.
Residential professional (RP) zone - This zone is intended to permit professional and
semiprofessional uses compatible with surrounding residential development.
Neighborhood commercial (NC) zone - The NC zone is intended to accommodate shopping
facilities consisting of convenience retail and personal service establishments which secure their
principal trade by supplying the daily needs of the population residing within a one-half mile
radius of such neighborhood facilities. The location and quantity of land within the NC zone
should be a business island not more than four acres in size and that no business frontage
should extend more than six hundred feet along any street.
Central business district (CBD) classification - The CBD classification is intended to primarily
accommodate stores, hotels, governmental and cultural centers and service establishments at
the central focal point of the City's transportation system.
Community commercial (CC) classification - The CC classification is primarily to accommodate
community retail, service and office facilities offering a greater variety than would normally be
found in a neighborhood or convenience retail development. Facilities within the classification
will generally serve an area within a one and one-half mile radius and is commensurate with the
purchasing power and needs of the present and potential population within the trade area. It is
intended that these business facilities be provided in business corridors or islands rather than a
strip development along arterials.
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Highway commercial (HC) district - The purpose of this district is to provide areas for commercial
and service enterprises which are intended primarily to serve the needs of the tourist, traveler,
recreationist, or the general traveling public. Areas designated as highway commercial should be
located in the vicinity of, and accessible from freeway interchanges, intersections in limited
access highways, or adjacent to primary or secondary highways. The manner in which the
services and commercial activities are offered should be carefully planned in order to minimize
the hazard to the safety of the surrounding community and those who use such services; and to
prevent long strips of commercially zoned property.
Light industrial (LI) classification - A LI classification is intended to accommodate a variety of
business warehouse and light industrial uses related to wholesale plus other business and light
industries not compatible with other commercial zones, but which need not be restricted in
industrial or general commercial zones, and to provide locations directly accessible to arterial
and other transportation systems where they can conveniently serve the business and industrial
center of the City and surrounding area.
Heavy industrial (HI) district – This district accommodates manufacturing, processing,
fabrication, and assembly of materials and products. Areas designated as heavy industry should
have access to two or more major transportation routes, and such sites should have adjacent
space for parking and loading facilities.
Airport (AP) zone - The AP zone is designated to preserve existing and establish new compatible
land uses around the Laurel airport.
Floodplain (FP) zone - This zone is designed to restrict the types of uses allowed within the areas
designated as the floodplain and floodways as officially adopted by the Montana Board of
Natural Resources and Conservation, Helena, Montana.
Public (P) zone – This zone is intended to reserve land exclusively for public and semipublic uses
in order to preserve and provide adequate land for a variety of community facilities which serve
the public health, safety and general welfare.
Zoning District Number 18- County Zoning – The regulations and development pattern adopted
in the zone are for the purpose of protecting and furthering the health, safety, and general
welfare of the people living in the district and in Yellowstone County, Montana. This zoning
district comprises of an agriculture zone, a suburban zone, a residential zone, a recreational
zone, and a commercial zone. Zoning District Number 18 was adopted in July of 1997.
The planning board is currently reviewing the zoning designations inside Laurel city limits and may be
tasked with county zoning recommendations and after future discussions with the County
Commissioners. A new interlocal agreement between the City of Laurel and the Yellowstone County
may be necessary to facilitate zoning regulations for the City of Laurel and an area to be determined
around the City of Laurel.
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Laurel Area Existing Land Use Zoning, 2020 Updated maps are attached to this document for the 2023 update.
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Residential and Rural Residential
Laurel's many residential districts provide a variety of housing densities, volumes, and types. Laurel has
a joint city-county planning board and has regulations that accommodate these two different modes of
living. The older areas of the City, such as the south side and neighborhoods adjacent to downtown,
have higher density zoning as is appropriate for those originally platted parcels and smaller-scale
residential buildings. Newer developments and additions to the City generally have lower density zoning
than the original Laurel townsite and are more suburban. It is important to provide a mix of residential
styles and types to provide residents and prospective residents a housing choice.
Commercial
Laurel is a full-service community with supermarkets, gas stations, bars, and restaurants accessible to
the public. There are a variety of different commercial areas as well. The traditional central business
district remains heavily commercial, with some buildings containing apartments on the upper floors. The
area adjacent to I-90 accessible from 1st Avenue S. by E. Railroad St. and SE 4th St. contains commercial
and industrial properties that serve residents and highway travelers. The parcels along Old Rt. 10
contain a mix of zoning, including highway-focused commercial properties. Many properties located
along E. Main Street are zoned Community Commercial and contain a variety of establishments.
Public
The City of Laurel maintains a full array of public facilities to serve the residents, businesses, and
institutions within the city limits. The City maintains a fully staffed city hall, public library, public works
shops, a water treatment plant, and a sewer treatment plant. The Laurel School District maintains the
Laurel High School and Middle School along with Graff Elementary School, South Elementary School, and
West Elementary School.
Parks
Laurel is home to many parks of all shapes and sizes. The most important of these parks are Thompson
Park and Riverside Park. Thompson Park is in the City center and has many athletic fields, a public pool,
and public facilities. Riverside Park is a historic park that has been used by residents and travelers to the
area since before the City of Laurel officially existed. Throughout Laurel's history, this park has been
used by private, civic, and government groups. Many other smaller parks are established as land has
been annexed into the City and further developed.
Industrial
There is a large amount of industrial property in and around the City of Laurel. The City of Laurel was
initially built around the commercial rail yard currently operated by Montana Rail Link, the most massive
switching yard between Minneapolis and Seattle. The second major industrial property is the large
refinery complex owned and operated by CHS Inc. The other crucial industrial property in and around
the City is the Fox Lumber operation, located along East Railroad Street.
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Urban Renewal
The City of Laurel established a Tax Increment Finance District (TIF) in 2007 that encompasses the
traditional downtown area and the SE 4th Street commercial area. This District has provided financing for
infrastructure projects and grant funding to local property owners and residents for façade, structural,
signage improvements, and technical assistance within the district. The grant program is managed by
the volunteer board that makes up the laurel Urban Renewal Agency.
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CHAPTER 7: FUTURE LAND USE
Overview
Laurel has struggled to grow over the past two decades due to a lack of long-term planning capacity,
lack of funding, and a lack of focus on larger goals. Laurel's somewhat stagnant growth happened during
a time of consistent growth for the neighboring City of Billings and other areas throughout Yellowstone
County. Laurel must be forward-thinking if it wants to thrive as a separate entity outside of Billings. This
change of thinking involves planning for commercial and industrial expansion, seizing growth
opportunities, and adopting zoning and development standards that meet the city needs and attract
developers and new residents.
Residents of Laurel pride themselves on the small-town character of the community. The City needs to
properly plan for growth and have the appropriate regulations to grow and maintain the classic
community character that residents enjoy. This balance includes establishing appropriate building
design standards, zoning requirements, and signage standards to maintain community character.
Residential Districts
Residential areas within Laurel’s planning jurisdiction come in many shapes and sizes. Some are more
densely built and more urban looking, while others are the traditional, modern American suburb with
single-family homes. Many American cities continue to maintain a more restrictive style code that limits
specific residential uses, types, and sizes while others have begun moving toward a more inclusive
model of allowing different styles, sizes, and housing types in residential areas.
Some different housing types compared to the traditional single-family home include accessory dwelling
units (ADU's), townhomes, and rowhouses. Expanding housing options can be as simple as adjusting the
number of allowable units and setbacks for lots. Development in residential neighborhoods can be
increased through small changes. Studying the existing districts and updating setbacks and other
restrictions can significantly impact helping our neighborhoods evolve and grow over time.
Vacant Land
The City currently has numerous unused or vacant parcels that could be brought into productive use.
Adaptive reuse of vacant structures is a strategy many cities use to revitalize downtowns. Prioritizing
infill development for the downtown area and the SE 4th Street District can help bring new businesses,
jobs, and residents. The City can also utilize Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) funding to support vacant
properties' acquisition and rehabilitation within the downtown and SE 4th Street commercial areas.
Partnering with local institutions and organizations to better utilize unused land as gathering spaces or
as a home for community projects and other efforts can help people see new land uses that may have
been unused/vacant for many years.
Development Standards
The City of Laurel currently has multiple development standards that include the Public Works
Standards, rules governing utilities, and subdivision development requirements. Adopting a consistent
and understandable set of development standards for areas within the City and its zoning jurisdiction
planning jurisdiction will ease the development process for residents, landowners, and developers.
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Extraterritorial Zoning
The extraterritorial zoning of Laurel extends approximately one mile outside the municipal city limits.
This current zoning district is classified as "Residential Tracts" and is focused on low-density residential.
The City needs to ensure that this zoning designation and its requirements still adequately cover county
residents' needs within the zoning jurisdiction. It is recommended that City staff ensure this
extraterritorial zoning can easily allow county residents to join the City if they so choose.
Infrastructure Extension
Planning for the expansion of city services and infrastructure is vital in bringing new growth to a
community. The City did not address long-term infrastructure and growth for many years. Installing new
infrastructure is expensive, but it is more costly to lose development opportunities that allow the
community to grow and develop.
Identifying and installing critical
infrastructure along major routes needs
to be a priority for city staff. There are
many opportunities to support these
infrastructure efforts through public
and private grants and loan programs.
Many grant programs exist to extend
infrastructure to support job creation
and economic growth. Grants such as
these can be used to expand
infrastructure to the recently completed
West Laurel Interchange.
New development and growth require
adequate infrastructure to support it.
Development of an Annexation Plan and
a Capital Improvement Plan can
establish the priority areas for growth and establish project costs for identified infrastructure needs.
Laurel has not previously prepared either of these types of plans. It would be wise for city staff,
partners, and stakeholders to study the possibilities for significant commercial and industrial
development in the area and plan infrastructure to accommodate these new land uses.
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Laurel Future Land Use, 2020 Updated maps are attached to this document for the 2023 update and shall be inserted upon final approval.
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Future Land Use Goals and Objectives
This plan's overall goal is to conserve open space while maximizing areas currently in and directly
adjacent to the City. Parks and greenways will be essential amenities for residential developments and
commercial corridors and should be considered in initial planning rather than as an afterthought. Zoning
will be updated to provide a more diverse array of housing types and density. Priority areas and parcels
for annexation and development will be determined, and infrastructure extension costs will be
discussed. Codes will be updated to maintain community character while simultaneously enabling the
development of new neighborhoods. Work in the central business district will focus on infill and mixed-
use development to create the most effective use of Laurel's traditional downtown.
Goal 1: Conserve open space and traditional land uses
Encourage cluster developments to incorporate open space into new developments
Provide options for landowners for conserving portions of their land
Study and Implement strategies to create an interconnected system of parks and greenways and
open space that are accessible to area residents
Goal 2: Develop downtown Laurel into a vibrant place to live, work, and play
Encourage mixed uses for living, working, and shopping local
Identify priority parcels for infill development
Implement Placemaking projects to create a more livable and enjoyable downtown
Partner with local groups to support community businesses, events, and gatherings
Connect with regional agencies to access project funding, receive technical support, and boost
the visibility of Laurel development opportunities
Goal 3: Update Subdivision Code to meet the needs of Laurel and the surrounding area
Provide clear and consistent standards
Ensure the proper scale and scope of regulations
Include trails, open space, and greenway considerations in parkland subdivision review
Regularly review and update the Subdivision Code as needed to remain current
Goal 4: Update the Zoning Codes to provide for greater flexibility of allowable uses, clearer
requirements, and more efficient land use of the planning jurisdiction
Study the inclusion of different types of housing within residential districts
Update Overlay Districts, Parking Requirements, and the Sign Code to better fit the City's needs
and character
Allow mixed-use live/work opportunities in commercial areas
Enable property owners to use their land more effectively and efficiently
Work with Yellowstone County Commissioner’s to enact previous believed zoning regulations
for the area around the City of Laurel
Goal 5: Use long term planning documents to identify funding and address priority needs
for infrastructure and development
Establish an Annexation Plan to develop priority growth areas and strategies
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for vital infrastructure to support the City as it grows
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Prepare a Commercial and Industrial Development Study for land adjacent to major
transportation routes in the Laurel area
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CHAPTER 7.5: ANNEXATION
Overview
The annexation of properties outside the current city limits must have Laurel remain a viable,
independent community. Annexing territory into a municipality helps a city grow geographically,
economically, and socially. Laurel's actual City has grown slowly over the past few decades, with very
few new subdivisions and parcels annexing into the City despite many developments in the surrounding
area. The City of Laurel and its residents seek to maintain their longstanding identity and character while
supporting steady growth. Due to the City's proximity to the fast-growing City of Billings, annexation is
now necessary to ensure Laurel's long-term viability, character, and independence.
Annexation planning is a long-term process in both scope and scale. Targets and goals are usually set for
a timeline of five and ten years, with performance measures in place to track progress. Implementing
successful annexation and growth activities involves thoughtful updates to local development and
annexation codes, addressing infrastructure gaps, and outreach to nearby county property owners and
developers to showcase the City's benefits.
Purpose
Annexation is presented in Title 7, Chapter 2. in the Montana Code Annotated that establishes the
Creation, Alteration, and Abandonment of Local Governments. Parts of this chapter sets the conditions
and rules for annexation and addition of territory into a municipality, establishes the ways areas can be
annexed and provides specific limitations to these processes for both municipalities and property
owners.
Annexation is a process that brings new territory into a municipality and extends public services to that
territory. Annexation is a necessary process to continue the growth and development of communities in
Montana. Adding new territory to a community adds new business opportunities, industry, recreation,
and residential developments. Annexation also provides an opportunity for new resources and
amenities to be added.
Importance
Laurel is currently at a crossroads in development. The City has not grown or expanded significantly in
the past few decades, while the nearby city of Billings has been steadily expanding westward toward
Laurel. Billings has established and implemented a long-term annexation and expansion plan while
Laurel has had piecemeal annexations and additions to the City. Laurel could find itself hobbled
financially if it does not address annexing new territory that can create growth opportunities as Billings
steadily expands into western Yellowstone County.
Proper annexation planning and implementation can lead to increased economic activity, new
residential development, and increased revenues for the local government to provide services. Growth
and expansion need to be an official part of Laurel's conversation to remain a viable, livable, and
autonomous community in the future. It will be necessary to update the current annexation policy to
ensure it provides reasonable restrictions, clear guidelines, and options and incentives to developers
and property owners who want to annex the City.
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Priority Areas
Establishing priority areas is essential for setting a plan for growth, starting discussions with property
owners and developers, and preparing projects. A map of the Laurel Planning Jurisdiction and priority
growth areas are presented on the next page.
Areas to the west of Laurel are a high priority for development due to their proximity to the City and
established transportation corridors. The annexation of territory to the west presents the most viable
options for growth. Roadways already serve this area, and there are adjacent services nearby. A high
priority should be placed on parcels between 8th Avenue and Golf Course Road, parcels neighboring the
intersection of Old Rt. 10, and the West Laurel Interchange.
There are many areas directly adjacent to the east of the City that would be prime candidates for
annexation in addition to the previously mentioned westward expansion. The parcels between Alder
Avenue and Yard Office Road, especially those along East 8th Street, should be considered and the lands
adjacent to the Village Subdivision. These areas are already closely linked to the City with roads and
services, and their inclusion would fill gaps in the Laurel City Map.
A few specific areas should be looked at for annexation north of the City as well. These include lands off
West 12th Street that straddle the big ditch, areas between Montana Avenue and Great Northern Road,
and the land neighboring 1st Ave North to Lois Place.
Growing the City of Laurel to the south is not a viable option because the CHS refinery makes up the
bulk of the land between Interstate-90 and the Yellowstone River. The costs associated with the
extension and construction of city services to those parcels adjacent to and south of the Yellowstone
River would be prohibitive due to the distances needed to extend infrastructure and the fact that
floodplain makes up much of the land adjacent to the Yellowstone River.
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Laurel Planning Jurisdiction and Priority Growth Areas, 2020 Updated maps are attached to this document for the 2023 update and shall be inserted upon final
approval.
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Annexation Policies
Laurel has not annexed many territories in recent years. This lack of annexation can be attributed to the
2008 annexation policy, which many prospective developers consider draconian. Many property owners
and developers have remarked that the policy's strict requirements and its lack of alternatives and
options for infrastructure financing and build-out place too high a price on annexation to make it
feasible. Discussions should take place as to if this approved policy still serves the City's needs and what
policies and requirements would enable growth activities and annexation more fully. A future
annexation policy should also establish priority areas and specific goals over the next five to ten years.
The City of Laurel may want to update its annexation policy as it was last adopted in 2008 and changes
may be necessary to provide the best opportunities for land inclusion into the City of Laurel.
Infrastructure Extension
Connection to improved utilities and services is the main driver behind annexing into a municipality.
Laurel has not developed a long-term plan around extending services that can enable property owners
to annex into the City more quickly. Developing a CIP will help Laurel prioritize growth areas and build
out public services to position Laurel for growth and attract new properties and development to the
City.
Annexation Goals
The following two goals were prepared to help the City of Laurel grow through annexation.
Goal 1: Adopt a long-range view for the growth of the City
Establish a growth-conscious set of policies to expand the City and its services
Create priority growth areas for extension of services
Develop and approve an Annexation Plan for the Laurel Planning Jurisdiction
Support the creation of a long-term Capital Improvement Plan for the extension of essential
infrastructure
Goal 2: Manage fiscal responsibility with established and proposed annexation standards
Ensure that the established standards are right and proper for the City of Laurel
Ease the burden for developers to annex into the City while meeting established standards
Allow greater flexibility in development patterns
Determine the cost and benefits of annexation
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CHAPTER 8: HOUSING
Overview
Housing is an essential element of any community. This chapter summarizes housing in Laurel and
discusses some housing support programs to help renters and current and prospective homeowners.
Having adequate, accessible, and affordable housing is an essential piece of what attracts people to a
community. The City of Laurel has a variety of housing options and housing types that provide options
for residents. It is crucial to maintain a wide array of housing that meets the market's different
demands, including rental properties, multifamily units, single-family homes, and retirement homes.
Laurel's location has made it an attractive bedroom community to Billings. This strategic location opens
opportunities for traditional neighborhood residential housing and embraces the growing trends of
building closer-knit, dense, connected neighborhoods for more urban and in-town development. It will
be necessary for the city to think about housing and real estate trends as it grows. This will ensure that
the current population's housing needs are met while creating housing that will interest prospective
residents and homeowners.
Households and Housing Units
Approximately 68 percent of Laurel's housing stock dates to before 1979. Aging housing stock can pose
issues for maintenance, safety, and accessibility. These issues can lead to the need for code
enforcement to step in to ensure the local ordinances are followed and that the situation has not
become hazardous or dangerous. Ensuring that new housing is built will provide new homeownership
opportunities and help raise the standard of housing available for residents.
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Sixty-five percent of Laurel's housing stock is made up of detached single-family homes. Mobile homes
make up the next most significant share of housing at 15 percent of units.
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
Built
2014
or later
Built
2010
to
2013
Built
2000
to
2009
Built
1990
to
1999
Built
1980
to
1989
Built
1970
to
1979
Built
1960
to
1969
Built
1950
to
1959
Built
1940
to
1949
Built
1939
or
earlier
36 19
172
255
446
770
325 342
116
511
Housing Structure Age
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This proportion of detached single-family homes has been the norm for Laurel and many other cities and
towns throughout the United States.
It is important to think about current and emerging housing trends to embrace growth opportunities,
whether in a traditional residential neighborhood or more urban or downtown environments.
Units in Structure Estimate Percent
Total housing units 2,992 2,992
1-unit, detached 1,952 65.20%
1-unit, attached 87 2.90%
2 units 92 3.10%
3 or 4 units 103 3.40%
5 to 9 units 119 4.00%
10 to 19 units 48 1.60%
20 or more units 130 4.30%
Mobile home 461 15.40%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 0 0.00%
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
A move back towards traditional downtowns has also been seen across the United States. This trend
presents various opportunities for diversifying the type and size of housing options to include
rowhouses, townhomes, live-work (mixed-use) buildings, and more.
Housing Affordability
Many parts of the United States are facing issues with housing affordability. This affordability issue has
included some communities in Montana, such as Bozeman and Whitefish. Housing in Laurel has
generally remained affordable despite being located within twenty miles of the state's largest city. The
charts below provide an overview of both current housing value and rental expenditures.
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
10.51%
8.03%
19.52%
30.66%
28.69%
2.59%
Housing Value
Less than $50,000 $50,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to 149,999
$150,000 to $199,999 $200,000 to $299,999 $300,000 to $499,999
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Rental affordability is an essential factor in retaining residents, especially those who may work in the
service and retail industries. Overall, 57 percent of Laurel residents spend less than 30 percent of their
income on rent. These statistics is a positive figure that allows a diverse array of residents to afford to
live in Laurel.
2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Housing Programs and Incentives
Many housing support and incentive programs exist that are sponsored by non-profits, institutions, and
state and federal agencies, including the following:
Montana Housing Support Programs
Bond Advantage Down Payment Assistance program
MBOH Plus 0% Deferred Down Payment Assistance Program
Multi-Family Coal Trust Homes Program
Housing Choice Voucher Program
Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH)
Project-Based Section 8
Section 811 Supporting Housing for Persons with Disabilities
The Federal Government also has several First Time Homebuyer Loans and Programs, including the
following:
FHA Loan Program
HUD - Good Neighbor Next Door Buyer Aid Program
Homepath ReadyBuyer Program
Energy Efficient Mortgage Program
HOME Investment Partnerships Program
12.81%
20.38%
5.79%17.93%
13.47%
29.62%
Rent as Share of Household Income
Less than 15.0 percent 15.0 to 19.9 percent 20.0 to 24.9 percent
25.0 to 29.9 percent 30.0 to 34.9 percent 35.0 percent or more
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Community Land Trust
Community Land Trusts (CLTs) are non-profits that hold land permanently in trust for communities to
make it available for housing, farming, ranching, commercial space, historic preservation, or open space.
These organizations separate the land price from the improvements made to it, investing subsidy, and
enforcing resale restrictions on properties to ensure permanent affordability. Trust Montana is a
statewide organization that assists rural cities and towns with managing community land trusts to
ensure they can maintain affordable and traditional land uses. CLTs serve an essential role in setting
aside land as a community asset for generations to use and enjoy.
Inclusionary Zoning
Inclusionary zoning is a land-use policy that incentivizes dense housing development through tax relief,
abatements, and bonuses. These zoning policies enable developers to maintain regular profits while
capturing a share of excess profits for public benefit. Inclusionary zoning utilizes feasibility studies to
analyze the impact of density and infill development on specific areas. Communities must carefully
weigh each incentive's costs and benefits and evaluate them relative to the affordable housing
requirements or goals. Incentives include:
Density Bonuses
Expedited Processing
Fee waivers
Parking reductions
Tax abatements
Housing Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Encourage a mixture of housing types to meet the demand of all market sectors
Maintain a diverse array of housing and affordability levels
Promote higher density housing types in the downtown area and adjacent to major
transportation corridors
Study mixed-use housing and other alternative housing types and styles
Provide options for a full spectrum of housing from rentals to retirement housing
Goal 2: Provide information on housing-related grants, loans, and ownership programs
Develop a list of resources for renters and homeowners
Collect information on federal, state, local, and philanthropic rental and homeownership
programs
Advise Laurel area residents as to available support for housing, rent, and homeownership
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CHAPTER 9: INFRASTRUCTURE
Overview
The City of Laurel Department of Public Works operates the municipal water treatment and distribution
system, the wastewater collection and treatment system. It conducts maintenance and improvement
work on roads, streets, sidewalks, and parks. The City of Laurel has recently completed several major
infrastructure upgrades. These include an upgrade to the Wastewater Treatment Plant, an overhaul of
the Water Treatment Plant, installation of a new water Intake, and improvement of the sedimentation
basins at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
There are still primary infrastructure needs that need to be
addressed. The City's water and sewer lines are aging, and in
many places are still the original lines installed around the time
of incorporation. A major priority is to study how to provide
services to the West Laurel Interchange area, which has
significant growth potential.
Opportunities also include expanding services to nearby county
residents to the north, west, and east of the current city limits.
There is a total of 2,858 water connections in the city system.
Exploring funding for the extension and improvement of water
and wastewater services to enable more annexation and
development is worthwhile. Additionally, funding the
expansion of the capacity of the City to handle stormwater
runoff is of vital importance in increasing the longevity of
streets, roads, and pedestrian areas.
The goals and objectives presented in this chapter are focused
on just a few critical areas. It is hoped that the City can
maintain an efficient and effective system of infrastructure and
services that meets the City's needs while establishing long-
term capital infrastructure goals to expand and improve
services. The City should seek federal, state, and philanthropic
grant and loan programs to support these goals and priorities.
Wastewater System
The City of Laurel's Wastewater Treatment Plant is located at 5310 Sewer Plant Road. It is staffed with
three operators and one relief. The facility was first constructed in 1908 and underwent substantial
upgrades in the 1930s and 1986. The Plant most recently underwent a significant upgrade that was
completed in 2016. The reclamation system is a Biological Nutrient Removal system (BNR). The facility
now conducts sludge dewatering as well. The new system has reduced nitrogen levels and phosphorus
being discharged into the Yellowstone River. Improvement of the Sedimentation Basins was completed
in 2019. The wastewater system has a capacity of 1,120,000 gallons per day. City staff should monitor
the current wastewater and sewer system to ensure that it can meet the growing demands of the City.
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Water System
The Laurel Water Treatment Plant is located at 802 Highway 212 South. An upgrade of the Water
Treatment Plant was completed in 2019. The Plant operates 24 hours per day and is staffed with six
employees plus management. The Water Treatment Plant has a treatment capacity of 5,000,000 gallons
per day. The Plant provides water service to more than 6,700 people and has a total of 2,858 metered
connections.
The Yellowstone River is the raw water source for the City of Laurel. A water right was filed in 1908,
giving the City access to 12,600,000 gallons per day. A water reserve was granted in 1978 that allowed
for the anticipation of future growth and added 6,380,000 gallons per day.
The original water distribution system was installed in 1908. There is currently one ground storage tank
built in 1967 with a capacity of 4,000,000 gallons, with 2,000,000 of them being usable and the other
2,000,000 creating pressure for distribution. Additionally, the City has two booster pump stations. Pipe
sizes in the system range from 2 to 18 inches in diameter. The 301 fire hydrants scattered throughout
the system are tested routinely to ensure they are working correctly.
The City provides water to all areas within the City Limits; however, 82 residential connections and one
industrial connection are outside the City boundary. Property owners in the county who are interested
in connecting to the City system must make all the necessary excavations and pay for all materials
necessary for connections. The current standards and regulations for public works and utilities require
developers to extend to utilities.
The Yellowstone River has provided adequate water for the City, but in recent years concerns have been
raised regarding enough flow due to erosion from flooding and droughts. The City has taken steps to
counteract these concerns through significant upgrades to the Water Treatment System. Upgrades and
improvements were completed on the sedimentation basins and the Water Treatment Plant in 2019.
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Additionally, a new water intake in the Yellowstone River was completed in 2017 to ensure a stable
water supply despite the changing nature of the river's course and level. One additional project that has
been identified is the need for a second water reservoir to create extra storage capacity as the City
grows. The City should include this in any future public works planning documents.
Stormwater System
Stormwater is collected and managed to prevent flooding, erosion, and contamination of water sources.
Water can carry pollutants such as oil, fertilizer, pesticides, soils, and trash as it runs off rooftops, paved
streets, highways, and parking lots after a rain event or during snowmelt. Stormwater can flow directly
into the Yellowstone River from a property or into a storm drain and through the city infrastructure until
it is released into the Yellowstone River. The three significant concerns of stormwater management are
the volume of runoff water, the timing of runoff water, and the potential contaminants the water is
carrying.
The City of Laurel has historically experienced problems with flooding in the downtown area. Flooding
activities are generally from heavy rain runoff and not directly due to the nearby Yellowstone River. The
City of Laurel has a limited stormwater infrastructure to handle stormwater runoff. The majority of
stormwater infrastructure is in the central business district and the South East 4th Street area.
Stormwater management has also been established for the Elena, Iron Horse, and Foundation
Subdivisions.
The City needs to address stormwater infrastructure within its current limits and as it expands. Creating
an adequate stormwater management system helps keep roadways in good condition and lessens
drivers' hazards in inclement weather. Stormwater system extensions should be considered during any
roadway planning procedure to ensure roadways improvements do not have to be recreated.
Solid Waste Services
The City of Laurel Public Works Department provides exclusive solid waste collection services within the
city limits. The City does not provide any solid waste collection services outside of the city limits.
Garbage services are not exclusive to parcels that choose to annex into the City as per Montana state
regulations. The City of Laurel operates the City's transfer station, which is located at 175 Buffalo Trail
Road. The transfer station provides added services such as taking in large or bulky items, tree branches,
and other unusual materials and pieces. Laurel utilizes the Billings Regional Landfill located nearby.
Infrastructure Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Maintain an Effective and Efficient Public Infrastructure System that Adequately
Serves the Needs of the City
Develop a data-driven infrastructure maintenance schedule
Determine any existing gaps in services and other infrastructure deficiencies within the City
Adopt up-to-date infrastructure standards that are appropriate for the needs of the City
Study using public spaces within floodplains, watercourses, and wetlands to be used as passive
recreation areas such as parks and greenways
Study the feasibility of recycling programs and other means to reduce solid waste
Incorporate stormwater system planning into roadway and other infrastructure planning
processes
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Goal 2: Establish the Long-Term Capital and Infrastructure Needs for the City
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for the improvement and expansion of infrastructure
Prepare a Water System Master Plan
Create a Wastewater System Master Plan
Complete a Stormwater Management Plan
Ensure infrastructure planning documents are routinely updated.
Confirm that the established infrastructure priorities are adequate
Goal 3: Seek out Possible Funding Sources for the Expansion and Improvement of
Infrastructure and Essential Community Services
Study the physical and financial needs for the extension of infrastructure to priority growth
areas.
Collaborate with Montana agencies on major projects and studies
Explore federal, state, and philanthropic infrastructure grant opportunities
Determine positive impacts from the expansion and improvement of infrastructure
Apply for funding opportunities that are appropriate for city priorities and projects and assist in
keeping user fees reasonable
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CHAPTER 10: TRANSPORTATION
Overview
Laurel is at the center of a major transportation network that includes local streets and sidewalks, state
arterials, railroad lines, and an interstate highway. The city itself was surveyed and built on a gridded
road network that provided orderly development for residential and commercial properties close to the
railroad, Old Route 10, and 1st Avenue, which run through Laurel's downtown. The establishment of
Interstate-90 near Laurel led to commercial development on the south side of the city. Subsequent
developments of residential subdivisions and commercial areas have not continued the original ordered
network, causing problems for road continuity, provision of services, and orderly and consistent city
growth at its boundaries. The railyard and numerous railroad lines bisect the city, separating
neighborhoods from each other and creating only two north-south access points, the 1st Avenue
underpass, and the 5th Avenue railroad crossing.
Connecting transportation decisions with land use policy is a crucial city goal. A priority for the city is to
develop a multi-modal approach to streets and pathways. The City will encourage intensive land use
within and adjacent to the city and along major transportation routes while ensuring residential
developments provide adequate and accessible pedestrian improvements to allow everyone to access
their community. Establishing a consistent maintenance plan to preserve, improve, and expand the
transportation network will provide current and future residents with an easy and effective way to move
around the city regardless of travel mode. The orderly growth of the transportation network will also be
essential to ensure neighborhoods and commercial areas are easily accessible to all. These
transportation goals help increase quality of life, connect people to their community, increase safety,
and plan for current trends and future growth.
Local Routes & Maintenance
Laurel's downtown core
and original
neighborhoods were
developed on a gridded
network of streets and
alleyways. Subsequent
developments have
strayed from this system
and have not followed any
set guidelines for road
connections or continuity.
This lack of orderly roads
and pedestrian systems
outside Laurel's traditional
core has created future
growth issues.
Very few existing streets allow for unbroken travel from the east to the west side of Laurel. New
development has taken place without considering roadway connections and traffic planning.
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Subsequent subdivisions and construction have not provided easements or right of way to continue city
thoroughfares, and structures were constructed within the path of right of ways. This lack of
forethought is especially apparent west of 8th Avenue, which has many roads that seemingly go
nowhere. It will be necessary for Laurel to establish specific guidelines to ensure adequate road
connectivity for traffic flow, safety, wayfinding, and the extension of future services.
Laurel has only two north-south road connections between its northern and southern neighborhoods.
The two connections are the 1st Avenue underpass and 5th Avenue railroad crossing. The nearest other
connections are Exit 437 for East Laurel and Exit 426 to Park City. Investigating other means of north-
south access and finding other connection points will improve emergency service response, ease traffic
along major routes, and improve accessibility to and from different city areas.
Many of Laurel's roads are also in dire need of repair. Many of the city's older local roads were built with
deficiencies and antiquated design methods, which now compound annual maintenance problems.
The city recently completed a study of its municipal road network that included an inventory and
provide solutions to the system's infrastructure deficits. Utilizing this study and updated development
and service standards will lead to improved road conditions and connectivity for Laurel residents,
businesses, and visitors.
State Highways
Two major state routes pass through Laurel. These are 1st Avenue, which forms the major north-south
route, and Old Route 10, which runs east-west and acts as Laurel's Main Street. These routes support
significant commercial and industrial traffic, resulting in congestion during peak hours at intersections.
Seeking mobility and safety improvements along these two routes is encouraged to create more livable,
accessible, and safer streets as the city updates its zoning code, subdivision code, and roadway
standards. A map of road classifications has also been provided to show further details of the Laurel
road network and other major streets and roadways in the city.
Federal Highways
Interstate-90 passes directly through Laurel. There are currently three off-ramps to access the highway,
the most recent of these just completed in 2020 on the city's west end. The interstate has been a source
of growth for the city, with many businesses locating in the SE 4th Street District adjacent to the
highway.
The Montana Department of Transportation recently completed a north-facing on/off-ramp west of
Laurel to connect to 19th Avenue West. This additional on/off-ramp is expected to alleviate some access
issues and provide new development opportunities. This additional access point is also anticipated to
bring new growth opportunities for the area. Planning for this growth and seeking out possible funding
sources to extend city services to this area is vital
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Railroad
Montana Rail Link has operatesd the rail yard in Laurel. MRL has decided to terminate its lease with
BNSF and BNSF is transitioning to once again assuming operations. This yard has been active since the
late 1800s and is a historic asset to the transportation and economic sectors. The rail yard is a hub for
freight and raw materials heading through the area. Despite not being within the city limits, the railroad,
CHS refinery, and other industrial properties provide many benefits to the area by providing a healthy
job base, revenue to the school district, and lower tax rates for residential and commercial properties.
The railroad is a major asset to the area and hinders transportation in and around the Laurel area. The
railroad is not within the Laurel city limits, and as such, the city has little oversight of the activities taking
place. The rail yard and its lines split the city into a north and south side with only two north-south
connections, the 1st Avenue underpass, and the 5th Avenue crossing. The only other north-south
connections are the East Laurel Exit and West Laurel Exit on Intersate-90.
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Laurel Road Classifications, 2020 Updated maps are attached to this document for the 2023 update and shall be inserted upon final approval.
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Roadway Classifications
Interstate Highway (Principal Arterial)
o Primary through travel route
o Longest trip length
o Highest trip speed
Principal Arterial
o Serves major activity centers and includes corridors with the highest traffic volumes and
the city's longest trip length.
o Provides the highest level of mobility, at the highest speed, for long uninterrupted
travel.
Minor Arterial
o Interconnects principal urban arterials
o Provides continuity for rural arterials that intercept urban boundaries
Collector
o Designed for travel at lower speeds and shorter distances.
o Collectors are typically two-lane roads that collect and distribute traffic from the arterial
system.
o Collector roads penetrate residential communities, distributing traffic from the arterials
o Urban collectors also channel traffic from local roads onto the arterial system.
o Serves both land access and traffic circulation in higher density residential and
commercial/industrial areas
Local
o Largest element in the American public road network in terms of mileage.
o Local roads provide basic access between residential and commercial properties,
connecting with higher-order roadways.
o Provides access to adjacent land
o Short distance trips
Public Transportation
Laurel Transit was established in 2010 through grant
funding from the State of Montana to provide
transportation services to the elderly and disabled
population in the Laurel area. Laurel Transit
currently provides on-demand transportation
services within Laurel, its surrounding area, and
scheduled service to Billings. Laurel Transit operates
Monday-Friday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. The Billings
scheduled service route begins at 7:30 am. Laurel
Transit has connected with local and regional
agencies whenever possible to expand its services.
Discussions have previously taken place around the
viability of a fixed route system for the city of Laurel. These services are currently not feasible but future
growth and development in Laurel could also necessitate better in-town transit connections or a
commuter route to Billings.
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Funding Sources
Many state and federal funding sources exist for transportation projects that impact:
Road Safety
Alternative Transportation
Improved Mobility
Economic Development
Job Creation and Retention
Federal Agencies with available grants include:
Federal Highways Administration
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Transit Administration
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Transportation Goals and Objectives
The three overarching transportation goals with objectives and strategies are as follows:
Goal 1: Preserve, Maintain, and Improve the Existing Transportation System
Update the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
Establish a systematic approach for the maintenance and repair of the road network.
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan to identify and prioritize significant transportation projects
Establish a Road Network Master Plan to ensure street continuity, traffic flow, and
neighborhood connectivity,
Promote fiscal responsibility and high return on investment
Coordinate roadway improvement projects to coincide with underground infrastructure
improvements
Goal 2: Improve the Mobility, Safety, and Accessibility for all users and modes of travel
Implement bicycle and pedestrian improvements and traffic calming measures to transform the
downtown area into a pedestrian-friendly place
Create a looping bicycle/pedestrian trail and street system that connects different areas of
Laurel
Adopt pedestrian and multi-modal friendly transportation standards and safety measures
Explore options to improve and expand the Laurel Transit program and strategies to create
other multi-modal transportation connections.
Partner with local, regional, and statewide groups to further integrate Laurel into the more
comprehensive passenger transportation network
Goal 3: Connect Transportation Decisions with Land-Use Decisions
Integrate land-use planning and transportation planning to manage better and develop the
transportation network.
Utilize transportation projects to encourage intensive development patterns along significant
routes and existing areas of the City.
Adopt and implement consistent system policies and maintenance standards
Ensure the development of a sustainable transportation system that minimizes environmental
impacts
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CHAPTER 11: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Overview
Laurel has two traditional industries that have been the community economic pillars; the railroad and oil
refining. These two economic sectors play a significant role in the economy. Still, they have been joined
by many other services and businesses that diversify economic opportunity to include retail, education,
healthcare, and finance. Laurel has seen a decline in downtown and local businesses as Billings has
become more accessible, and online shopping and delivery become more readily used. Large and small
communities have been forced to compete more and more for businesses, workers, and growth
opportunities in an increasingly connected global economy. It will take significant effort to develop
Laurel as a community with a self-contained business ecosystem where local businesses and
entrepreneurs and larger statewide and national establishments can thrive.
Laurel's proximity to Billings is a smaller scale example of how different factors impact the local
community economy. Laurel has been considered a bedroom community to Billings due to its proximity
and number of Laurel residents who commute into Billings. It has also become easier for Laurel
residents to travel to Billings for food, shopping, and other services. If it were in any other county in
Montana, Laurel would be the center of economic development and business activities.
Laurel can still become a community where small businesses thrive, the downtown is healthy, and
entrepreneurs take the risk to open a business even with its proximity to Billings. Creating a more
attractive and active business community is not an impossible task. Goals have been established to help
develop Laurel independently while keeping it connected with Yellowstone County and the Billings area.
Studying and adopting policies to develop downtown Laurel into a destination to live, work, and play can
help breathe new life into the community. Focusing on resilient economic growth activities will create
both new activity and sustainable, long term economic stability. Increasing Laurel's collaboration and
communication with area groups can help connect stakeholders to business funding supports,
employment, and training opportunities that would otherwise not be available. Growth is anticipated on
the west side of Laurel. It is essential to plan for this growth by studying options for new commercial and
industrial properties in priority areas.
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The Local Economy
Workers in Laurel are employed in a wide array of industries. The following chart presents a visual
representation of the different industries and their percentage in those workforces. A diverse
employment base helps to ensure a stable and resilient economy. Improving the City's core sectors
while opening up new growth opportunities is an important objective to help keep the local economy
healthy.
Several major industries are located directly outside the city limits that have a large impact on the
community. These include the MRL railyard and the CHS refinery. These two industries provide many
jobs to Laurel residents and those residing within the Laurel planning jurisdiction. These anchor
industries provide livelihoods to many Laurel area residents and support other industries and businesses
in the Laurel planning areal. It will be essential to maintain good relationships with MRL and CHS to
coordinate growth efforts and adequately develop the Laurel area.
(2013-2017 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates)
Economic Development Organizations
Various groups are active in the economic development field in the Laurel and Yellowstone County area.
Big Sky Economic Development and Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development serve the Laurel
community and have services available for businesses and residents.
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These agencies can help leverage funding and access to different state and federal programs to support
local economic development efforts.
Laurel Chamber of Commerce
The Laurel Chamber of Commerce
provides services to foster a healthy
business climate in the Laurel area for
business owners, employees, and
customers. The Chamber supports and
hosts many community events, including
farmer's markets, the July 4th Celebration,
and the Christmas Stroll. The Chamber has
also developed relationships with local
organizations and businesses to create a
better business climate, a thriving
downtown, and improve the community.
Big Sky Economic Development
Agency
The official mission statement of Big Sky Economic Development is "… to sustain and grow our region's
vibrant economy and outstanding quality of life, by providing leadership and resources for business
creation, expansion, retention, new business recruitment, and community development."
Big Sky Economic Development Agency (BSEDA) is the South-Central Montana region's certified
economic development authority. BSEDA directly serves a nine-county region, including Petroleum,
Wheatland, Golden Valley, Musselshell, Sweetgrass, Stillwater, Yellowstone, Carbon, and Big Horn
counties. BSEDA provides services and support for small business development, community
development initiatives, federal procurement assistance, tax increment financing assistance, workforce
development, veterans business assistance, and business financing.
The City of Laurel Planning Director is currently the Ex-Officio representative for the City of Laurel on
BSEDA's Board of directors. The Ex-Officio member represents the interests of the City on the Board and
communicates the position of the City to BSEDA's staff and partners.
Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development
Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development, or Beartooth RC&D, began in 1969 as a partnership
between the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service and Carbon and Stillwater Counties to serve
that area. Beartooth is now an officially designated Economic Development District and has expanded its
support to Sweet Grass, Yellowstone, and Big Horn Counties. Beartooth RC&D provides technical
assistance and community development services to groups in the South-Central Montana region.
The overall mission of Beartooth RC&D is to improve local economic and social conditions by focusing on
the conservation, utilization, and development of the natural and human resources of the region. The
City has begun regular conversations with Beartooth RC&D to coordinate local economic development
efforts and be notified of ongoing work in the region. Keeping communication channels open and
collaborating on projects will help support Laurel's economic development and the surrounding area.
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Economic Development Objectives and Policies and Strategies
Four main goals and related objectives have been established that focus on Economic Development and
are as follows:
Goal 1: Develop downtown Laurel as a destination to live, work, and play
Institute placemaking projects to further enhance district character
Increase live-work opportunities for current and future residents and businesses
Apply TIF funding to beautification, blight removal, and public improvement projects
Identify and find solutions for unused or underused parcels as candidates for development
Goal 2: Create a resilient local economy
Strengthen core businesses and industries through communication and connections with
technical support
Ensure that local economic activities are inclusive and accessible to all stakeholders
Implement policies that create stable and sustainable economic growth
Work to highlight the shared benefits of working together as a community with local businesses
stakeholders, and developers
Provide an economic ecosystem that allows for a wide array of businesses, industries, and
developments to thrive
Study and implement policies to enhance local business demand and alternative strategies for
value creation for the community
Goal 3: Collaborate with area organizations to support economic growth and local
employment and training opportunities
Communicate with local groups to determine any needs and assistance
Create partnerships with local and regional groups to fill local service gaps and create needed
programming
Take part in events and workshops to support local business initiatives and activities
Establish common ground with local and regional groups to provide resources and assistance
Connect residents and businesses with like-minded economic, financial, and entrepreneurship
resources and opportunities
Goal 4: Study options for new commercial and industrial properties in anticipated high-
growth areas
Create a Corridor Master Plan for growth in and around the intersection with Old Route 10 and
the West Laurel Interchange
Study options and determine priorities for the possible establishment of Tax Increment
Financing Districts (TIFs) and Targeted Economic Development Districts (TEDDs)
Review and pursue opportunities for clustered commercial or industrial parks
Develop funding strategies to provide services for priority growth areas.
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CHAPTER 12: PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Overview
Municipalities and County Governments provide numerous public services to their residents, businesses,
and institutions. Effective public services are vital for a community to thrive. Public services include fire
departments, police and sheriff departments, parks and recreation programs, libraries, emergency
medical services, public works departments and water and sewer utility systems. Public officials need to
take a lead role by planning and implementing expansions and improvements of public services that
maintain and improve their community's quality of life.
This chapter presents the array of public services operated by the City of Laurel and Yellowstone County
and provides goals and objectives to improve and expand those services to help the community better.
A proactive approach to public services can also lead to many benefits as newly established or upgraded
services can incentivize new development and growth. Effective public services show prospective
residents, business owners, and developers that the municipality and the county is working to provide
stable services while addressing future service needs.
City Administration
Laurel City Hall is located at 110 West 1st Street. The City Hall contains offices for the City Clerk-
Treasurer, Water Department, Planning Department, and the Public Works Department. The City Hall
also contains the City Council Chambers, the Office of the Mayor, City Court, and related administrative
archives.
Laurel Police Department
The Laurel Police Department is a full-service department serving the community twenty-four hours a
day, seven days a week. The City of Laurel currently has 14 sworn officers employed by the City. Services
include patrolling for criminal activities and traffic violations, accident investigation, and misdemeanor
and felony crime investigation. The Department's service area is within Laurel's municipal boundaries
unless responding as backup to another law enforcement agency in the surrounding area. The Laurel
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Police Department works with the Eastern Montana Drug Task Force, (EMDTF) assists the Yellowstone
County Sherriff on calls near Laurel, and works closely with the Montana Highway Patrol.
The City of Laurel ensures that its officers are appropriately certified and trained above and beyond the
state requirements. Officers must pass a twelve-week introductory police officer course at the Montana
Law Enforcement Academy in the state capital of Helena. Furthermore, communication officers must
also attend and pass a one-week course for their additional responsibilities. The Laurel Police
Department also hosts its introductory reserve course annually for reserve officers.
The Laurel Police Department is currently located in the Fire-
Ambulance-Police Building (FAP building). The facility is shared with
the Fire Department and Ambulance service. The facility was built in
1976 and has seen several additions and renovations over time. The
FAP Building is aging and lacks many facilities that the departments
require. The Police Station lacks sufficient office space for its officers,
a breakroom, separate locker room facilities for male and female
officers, and the radio room lacks adequate fire control due to the
space required for department servers. This space also lacks secure
vehicle and equipment storage areas. It is essential that the city seek
out funding options to improve, expand, and construct new facilities
for the Police Department.
The Department is in need of a new facility. Planning should focus on construction of a new Police
Station to the West of the City to follow anticipated growth trends. This location is also a security
requirement for the Department. A westward location would be upwind from the Railroad lines and
Refinery complex which would be secure in the face of any major ecological, chemical, or radiological
crisis that might originate at these industrial and shipment points. Major elements for a future Police
Station include:
DUI Processing Rooms (secure with camera system)
Video Security system (specifically for animal storage, inventory, and evidence)
Separate Locker Rooms with bathing facilities and adequate locker space
Full kitchen/breakroom area
Secure and reinforced lobby area and front desk with audio system
Evidence storage rooms with processing rooms and secure lockers
Storage bays for larger amounts of evidence and vehicles
Secure weapons room for ammunition, weaponry, and cleaning supplies
Vehicle Storage area for Police vehicles and equipment under cover and secured.
Conference room for meetings, presentations, press conferences, and trainings
Department leadership has identified certain staffing needs for the department as Laurel grows. The
department needs a second Lieutenant position and a possible Captain position. These command
positions would provide more effective leadership for the patrol officers. The Department also plans to
add a Parking & Animal Control position in the near future. The department also needs additional
civilian positions filled including an additional dispatcher, and an evidence technician and executive
assistant to help with day to day duties.
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The current policies and procedures for the Department date to 2014 and have not been updated due to
a lack of manpower and lack of time. Department leadership has identified the program Lexipol as a vital
digital resource that will help to keep the department’s policies and procedures up to date. The
Department plans to contract with Lexipol to assist with updating policies, training, and overall helping
to keep law enforcement agencies current.
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services
Laurel Volunteer Fire Department
The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department (LVFD) has served the City of Laurel and the surrounding area
since its inception in 1909. The Mission statement of the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department is:
"Laurel Fire Department is committed to serving the City of Laurel, its residents, the surrounding fire
districts, and the visitors to our City for any of their emergency fire
rescue needs. We will do this through strong dedication and
commitment to our community with a long tradition guiding us to
what is important."
The LVFD provides full-service fire response service to the City of
Laurel, Laurel Airport Authority, Yellowstone Treatment Center,
Laurel Urban Fire Service Area, and Fire Districts 5, 7, and 8. These
services include structure fires, wildland fires, vehicle fires, industrial
hazards, water, ice rescue, vehicle extractions, Hazmat situations,
rope rescue, and public service calls.
It has been recognized that the LVFD needs to adapt to the changing
nature of fire services. It will be essential to improve the delivery of high-quality services to the
community by planning and implementing new policies. The LVFD has begun the development of a "Fire
Services Business and Work Plan" that presents information about the Department as well as goals and
objectives to improve and expand fire services. Goals presented in the Draft Work Plan include:
Finance – Develop avenues of revenue to offset costs for manpower, operations, and equipment
replacement
Equipment replacement – Develop a schedule for equipment replacement
Education – Communicate with city officials on the beneficial aspects of the current LVFD
structure
Training – Continue and expand training to evolve with ever-changing fire services
Communications – Develop communication lines between various groups at Department, local,
county, and state levels.
Performance Management – Evaluate Department on skills and abilities for career advancement
and adjustments to training needs
Construction of a New Fire Station – A new station will be necessary to meet a growing
community's needs.
Firefighters in Montana are required to complete a minimum of thirty training hours per year. Many of
the members of the LVFD regularly complete over 100 hours of training hours per year. Members of the
LVFD are allowed to travel to specialized schools and training sessions to learn new information and
share it with their fellow firefighters in the Department.
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The LVFD is actively involved in the community through events and has held annual events such as Fire
Prevention Weeks and Safety Days. The LVFD also manages the fireworks display for the 4th of July
celebration. The Laurel 4th of July celebration is well-known throughout the state and brings awareness
of the work of the LVFD.
The LVFD is currently set at 45 members to meet current community needs. The Department undertook
a reorganization in 2010 to better coordinate efforts. This reorganization allowed the Department to
meet any partially paid staff requirements for a department if the City of Laurel met the requirements
for a Second-Class city of 7,500 residents or more. The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department has a mutual
aid agreement with Yellowstone County Fire Services.
As previously noted, the Department is in the Fire-Ambulance-Police Building (FAP building). This facility
has three full bays and an extra half bay for equipment. The LVFD also has access to equipment bays at
the Laurel City shops as necessary. It is anticipated that an expansion of the FAP building or the
construction of a new facility will be necessary to cover the Laurel community's fire service needs long-
term adequately.
Ambulance Service
The primary mission of the City of Laurel Ambulance Service (LAS) is to provide quality pre-hospital
emergency medical services and transportation to medical facilities promptly and safely to those
residing, visiting, or traveling through the Laurel service area. The Department is a hybrid model, with
certain full-time positions and additional volunteers. The Department has a full-time director and five
full-time Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). LAS staff are trained to provide at least a minimum of
Basic Life Support (BLS) assistance. They also have the necessary endorsements from the state to
provide other advanced services.
As previously noted, the LAS is located at the Fire-Ambulance-Police building. The FAP building has space
for three ambulances, restrooms, a crew lounge, offices, a small kitchen, and storage rooms. The
building also has a community meeting room attached. The City needs to consider options for upgrades,
expansions, or new facility locations to improve emergency services.
School District
The Laurel School District serves the City of Laurel and the surrounding area. The District instructs 2,100
students in total. The District maintains instructional levels from Kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-
12). The grades are grouped as follows:
Kindergarten through 4th grade – Elementary School
Grades 5 through 8 – Middle School
Grades 9 through 12 – High School
The Laurel School District currently operates five school buildings that include:
Laurel High School
Laurel Middle School
Fred W. Graff Elementary
South Elementary
West Elementary
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The Laurel School District's Mission is: "Dedicated to the individual development of each student, every
day, without exception." Students are assigned to a classroom or group depending on what will best
serve that student. Considerations are made for class size, peer relations, student/teacher relations, and
teaching instructional style. The School District also has administrative offices located at the old Laurel
Middle School at 410 Colorado Avenue.
The Goals of the Laurel School District are:
To deliver a quality educational program that promotes both academic success and the overall
development of every student.
To meet the needs and skill level of each student.
To promote high student expectations, the importance of lifelong learning and creative/critical
thinking.
To provide the students with a strong desire to learn.
To foster self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-discipline.
To develop an awareness of and appreciation for cultural diversity.
To stimulate intellectual curiosity and growth.
To provide fundamental career concepts and skills.
To help the student develop sensitivity to others' needs and values and respect for individual
and group differences.
To be free of any sexual, cultural, ethnic, or religious bias.
The District previously established goals for District growth in a 10-15 Year Master Facility Plan. This plan
included developing a new facility for grades 3 through 5 and a transportation facility, the remodeling of
existing schools, relocating administrative offices, selling aging district-owned structures, and addressing
inadequate learning environments in certain facilities. The District developed these goals to grow with
the community and adapt when necessary and will be updating their Master Facility Plan in 2021.
Public Library
The Laurel Public Library was created in 1916 via ordinance and opened to the public on July 18, 1918.
The Library was first established at 115 West 1st Street, the site of the current City Hall. The Library
relocated to its current facility at 720 West 3rd Street in 1989 after fundraising by volunteers, and the
Library Board allowed for the move. The Laurel Public Library serves the citizens that reside within the
city limits. Yellowstone County residents are served without cost. Stillwater and Carbon County
residents can also apply for and receive a library card. The Library's mission is to provide a "place where
community members can grow, teach, and interact in mutual benefit with others."
The current library facility is approximately 6,000 square feet and contains four wings. The Library's
clients' general needs are met by the current building, but improvements have been discussed.
The Library could be improved by expanding the building to include a storage room, meeting rooms, and
small study rooms. The needs of library clients have been growing, and the Library will need to grow
with them.
The Library does not have any specific sharing agreements with the Parmly Library in Billings or other
regional libraries. The Library is currently part of the Montana Shared Library Catalog Consortia by
agreeing with the Montana State Library. This consortium comprises more than 140 libraries across the
state consisting of public, academic, and particular library types.
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Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office
The mission of the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office is to maintain and improve the quality-of-life
withing the community by working will all people to preserve life, maintain human rights, protect
property, and promote individual responsibility and community commitment.
The Sheriff’s department covers the entire county and is the sole operator of the county’s only
detention facility. The sheriff’s department provides law enforcement withing the planning jurisdiction
around Laurel and coordinates law enforcement activities with the Laurel Police Department.
The Yellowstone County detention facility is in Billings Montana and serves as the only detention facility
for inmates from the local community as well as a detention facility for state and federal inmates while
they are being processed through the court system. The detention facility is overcapacity most of the
time and the county is currently focused on ways to improve the detention facility and plan for
expansion as the population in Yellowstone County continues to increase.
Yellowstone County Public Works Department
This department is comprised of four divisions: The Administration Division, the Road and Bridge
Division, the Junk Vehicle Division, and the Noxious Weed Division.
The mission of the Yellowstone County Public Works Department is to manage the county’s
transportation infrastructure, junk vehicle disposal, and noxious weed control in the most cost-effective
manner possible.
The Public Works Department is managed by a director who is appointed by and reports to the
Yellowstone County Board of Commissioners. The Director is responsible for all operations, programs,
and services provided by the department.
Yellowstone County GIS Department
This department maintains a computer system designed for storing, manipulating, analyzing, and
displaying data in a geographic context. The GIS department provides the ability to assist in the
decision-making process by providing an additional tool to analyze and compare numerous geographic
data layers along with traditional databases.
The GIS department provides an interactive way to find information about Yellowstone County.
Information about Floodplain, Public Works, School, Sheriff, Zoning, Elections, Levy Districts, and
Emergency and Cemeteries are displayed as layers that can be turned on/off, queried, and identified by
using a click of your mouse on the map.
Yellowstone County Disaster and Emergency Services Department
The DES department or emergency management is an integrated effort to prevent- or minimize the
seriousness of emergencies and disasters and to plan and coordinate the community’s response to them
should they occur. It requires establishing partnerships among professional emergency management
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personnel to prevent, respond to, and recover from disasters. This department is responsible for an
emergency management program, and continual improvement saves lives and reduces losses from
disasters.
Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorders Office
The Clerk and Recorder is an elected county official established by the Constitution of Montana.
Statutory authority establishes the duties as providing the primary administrative function for recording
and maintaining the majority of all the legal documents relating to real estate records, land descriptions,
county birth and death records and the records of the Board of County Commissioners. The first
Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorder took office on February 2, 1883. Currently the office records an
average of about 200 documents per day.
The types of documents that are maintained in the Clerk's office include:
Deeds
Mortgages
Liens
Powers of Attorney
Homestead Declarations
Subdivision Plats
Certificate of Survey
Military Discharge
Federal Income Tax Liens
Yellowstone County Elections Office
The Election Department administers the maintenance of the voter registration files, candidate filings
and all aspects of the election process. Additionally, information is available concerning upcoming
election dates, polling places and the results of current elections. Of primary emphasis and concern is
making voter registration and the process of voting as simple and accessible as possible.
Voter registration cards will be mailed out if requested, can be downloaded from this the Yellowstone
County website, or completed in the office. Cards are also available in the telephone book, Montana tax
booklets and state agencies. Absentee ballot requests can also be mailed out upon request or
downloaded and upon our receipt of this signed document a ballot will be mailed to the elector.
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Public Services and Facilities Goals and Objectives
Effective and efficient public services are a necessity for existing and prospective residents, developers,
and businesses. Above all, public facilities and services must be accessible, helpful, and dependable for
everyone residing, working, and visiting the City and County. City Departmental staff should identify the
current gaps and projected needs of public facilities as the City and County experiences grows growth. It
is vital to work with public stakeholders and departments to ensure input and projects positively impact
the whole population. Providing consistent and stable service delivery is paramount.
Goal 1: Provide consistent and high-quality public services to the community
Develop standard operating procedures to ensure consistency for city and county departments
Develop maintenance procedures for parks, facilities, and public areas.
Study current facilities and services to identify gaps and determine projected needs in services
Goal 2: Respond to the changing nature of the community
Plan for the expansion of public facilities in priority growth areas
Invest in public facilities that are accessible to everyone in the community
Study how to improve city services to boost the quality of life for residents, businesses, and
institutions
Goal 3: Work with city /county departments and local stakeholders to determine the
priority expansion of public facilities and services
Open lines of communication between city/county departments and local stakeholders to
gather input on major projects
Consider the public service requirements of large-scale projects before their approval and
implementation
Develop plans for the expansion of Fire, Police Law Enforcement, and EMS facilities
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CHAPTER 13: RECREATION PLAN
Overview
Access to recreational opportunities and parkland is a critical component of quality of life for
communities, especially Montana communities. The parks and public areas owned and maintained by
the City of Laurel are assets to local and area residents. Access to walking, biking, hiking, and other local
amenities help boost residents' and visitors' quality of life. Many cities and towns have begun
establishing greenways and trails to connect parks and open spaces with local neighborhoods.
Incorporating these into Laurel planning and development strategies can help enhance livability and
help residents be healthier and more active.
The City should consider
developing a vision for the
Laurel parks system that
would establish priorities for
park funding and placement
of parks that would be most
useful for residents. Creating
a connected park and trail
system would enable
residents to enjoy more parts
of Laurel and the surrounding
area.
Many of Laurel's parks are
very small, with some
located at less than ideal or
fully accessible locations. Parkland must be a fully useable amenity for residents. Parks should be
developed and improved to act as neighborhood focal points. The City should also study underutilized or
burdensome parkland parcels and consider reuse scenarios.
Repurposing vacant or underused land as parks and trails can create many added benefits for a
community. Downtown Laurel currently has large areas of vacant land owned by the BNSF Railroad and
leased by MRL. Studying options for low impact reuse of this land as parkland or greenways could
enliven downtown by activating the south side of Main Street, creating more opportunities for residents
to spend time downtown, and creating more public space for events or gatherings.
Riverside Park has been a staple of the community for almost one hundred years. The Riverside Park
Master Plan was developed in 2018 to provide a blueprint for improvements and the park's use. It will
be essential to continue the ongoing improvement efforts detailed in that plan and develop policies to
attract Yellowstone County and beyond. Riverside Park should be maintained as a historical,
recreational, and economic asset in the future.
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City Parks
There are many public parks throughout the City of Laurel. Some of the larger, more established parks
are listed below. There are also many smaller unnamed parks throughout the city.
Thomson Park
Russell Park
Nutting Park
Kiwanis Park
Murray Park
South Pond
Riverside Park
Lions Park
MT State Firefighters Memorial Park
Yellowstone County Parks
The County has many parks in the Laurel Yellowstone City County Planning jurisdiction. Most of these
parks are the result of subdivisions of land that required parkland dedication as part of the subdivision
process. Many of these parks are not developed or are underdeveloped. Yellowstone County has a
parks board that advises the County Board of Commissioners on park planning and implementation of
park improvements.
Parks Funding, Governance, and Operations
The City of Laurel Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining and improving park facilities.
Public Works provides staff time and funding toward the upkeep of park facilities. The City of Laurel Park
Board comprises volunteers who provide oversight and input on park operations, maintenance, and
activities.
Riverside Park is an essential historic asset for the city, the region, and Montana. Many private and
public groups are active in this park's historic preservation, including the Yellowstone Historic
Preservation Board that helps to support preservation and improvement efforts in Riverside Park.
Community Sponsored Events
Community sponsored events are an effective way to get residents outside, engaged with nature, and
connected to their community. Laurel has a history of hosting popular events that get people outside
and active. City staff and local stakeholders should continue to work together to promote outdoor
events to encourage people to be more active in the community.
Laurel hosts several events throughout the year. The July 4th festivities include the Chief Joseph Run,
pancake breakfast, parade, and fireworks celebration. Laurel also hosts an annual Christmas tree lighting
event downtown, farmer's markets, and other seasonal events throughout the year.
The city's parks are a focal point for residents and visitors. They represent an important asset that
makes Laurel a better place to live. City staff should partner with local groups to support community
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events and create more opportunities for recreational activities and outdoor enjoyment in the city's
neighborhood parks.
Recreation Objectives and Policies and Strategies
Goal 1: Develop parkland as an essential and enjoyable amenity for residents
Ensure new developments have appropriate park space for recreation and general use
Study how existing parks can be improved through new facilities, changed layouts, or additions
Review current park infrastructure and determine if improvements are necessary to serve the
needs of the surrounding area better
Goal 2: Promote Riverside Park as a vital historic, civic, and recreation resource for
residents and visitors
Adhere to the projects and strategies presented in the 2018 Riverside Park Master Plan
Seek grant funding for structural and site improvements
Develop historic markers for Riverside Park and its historic structures
Study options for connecting Riverside Park to the city proper through infrastructure
improvements, civic engagement, or other means
Establish signage and marketing for the assets and resources of Riverside Park to area residents
and visitors
Goal 3: Create an interconnected system of parks, greenspace, and trails that are accessible
to all
Create a city-wide Park System Master Plan to develop project priorities
Consider the creation of a City Parks Department to oversee park operations and maintenance
Identify unused land that can be transformed into green space or trails for use by the public
Update the zoning and development codes to encourage the creation of bicycle and pedestrian
trail corridors
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CHAPTER 14: NATURAL RESOURCES
Overview
The Laurel planning jurisdiction contains a variety of terrains and environments. The city itself is
urbanized and is surrounded by several residential subdivisions. A variety of farmland, grazing land,
riverine areas, and wetlands surround the city and make up much of the planning area. Laurel's natural
features pose unique opportunities and challenges that should be considered when planning for growth.
The natural environment should be preserved and enhanced to balance environmental sustainability
with economic growth, recreational opportunities, and development. Natural resources and the natural
environment can be balanced with growth activities to provide social, economic, and community
benefits to people over time while continuing their natural functions. The proximity to natural areas
such as parks, trails, and other open spaces is an essential variable for many people as they choose
where to live and work.
The Laurel area is an interconnected network of land and water resources that contribute to the
community's health, economic well-being, and quality of life. This network of natural resources requires
investment and maintenance, just like roads and utility systems. Creating a balance of conservation,
management, and growth can reward a community with excellent benefits, including increased quality
of life, longer-lasting infrastructure, and improved property values.
Groundwater Resources
Groundwater quality and quantity will become a growing concern as Laurel and the surrounding area
develops. Traditional modes of living will shift because of groundwater issues. The direct impact of
development in the area will be a reduction of groundwater recharge capacity. Groundwater recharge
has averaged 8.2 inches per year but depends on the specific land use and soil type. The planning area
contains relatively thin alluvial gravel deposits of groundwater. The average saturated thickness of local
aquifers is fifteen feet, with the thinnest saturated zones occurring along cliffs and bluffs and the
Yellowstone River's channel.
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Wildlife Habitat
Rivers, Streams, and Lakes
It is important to recognize the Yellowstone River as a critical asset to Laurel. The Yellowstone River
provides a stable water source for the city and recreational opportunities and riverine wildlife habitat.
Maintaining the Yellowstone River as a resource is a complex job that includes managing the river
ecosystem, monitoring historic water rights, and considering the local community's needs for economic
and residential uses.
There are also many year-round
and seasonal drainage and
irrigation ditches that carry water
through the city. These ditches
include the Nutting Drain Ditch, Big
Ditch, High Ditch, and Cove Ditch.
Flooding is known to occur
intermittently near the ditches.
High water levels on properties
near the ditches are a concern for
property owners seeking to develop
their property.
Floodplains
A floodplain is an area of land
adjacent to a stream, river, or other
water sources that stretches from
the banks or boundaries of its channel to the base of higher elevation terrain that experiences flooding
during high discharge rainfall periods. Floodplains are natural drainage basins for the discharge of heavy
precipitation. The Yellowstone River exhibits vast floodplains and variations in flow due to terrain.
Flow rates are dependent upon the season and the amount of rain and snowmelt. Flows are usually at
their highest during the spring months and into early summer.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) utilizes the 100-year floodplain boundaries as the
standard measurement for floodplain regulation. The 100-year floodplain is the area that has a one
percent chance of flooding each year from a specific water source. The federal government expects
municipalities and counties to take a proactive approach to flood damage prevention. Laurel has had an
established Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) since 1982. This map was most recently updated in
November of 2013.
Most of the Laurel planning area is outside the 100-year floodplain. The areas within the 100-year
floodplain include many properties directly abutting the Yellowstone River and its tributaries, some
irrigation and stormwater ditches running through the city, and portions of downtown Laurel along
Main Street as well as directly adjacent side streets. Laurel's Riverside Park is also within the floodplain.
Wetlands
Wetlands are ecosystems that are flooded by water permanently or seasonally. Wetlands have unique
vegetation, wildlife, and hydric soils.
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Wetlands near Laurel include riparian areas along the Yellowstone and Clark's Fork Rivers, marshes,
spring seeps, and prairie potholes. Wetlands have historically been obstacles and have been removed
whenever possible. Much of Laurel and the surrounding area suffers from high groundwater. Close
attention must be paid to high groundwater and its impacts on public utilities such as water lines, sewer
lines, and stormwater drainage systems. It is vital to understand wetlands and their traditional role in
the environment to better plan for growth and development.
Agricultural Land
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) defines prime
farmland as land with the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food,
feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops. These crops also have the soil quality, growing season, and
moisture supply needed to produce economically sustained high crop yields when managed
appropriately.
Laurel and Yellowstone
County have been home
to agricultural farms and
ranches since the
beginning of European
settlement in the area.
There a vast amount of
agricultural farmland
within the Laurel planning
jurisdiction itself. The map
below presents the
varieties of crops in the
Laurel planning area.
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Wildland-Urban Interface
Laurel was part of the planning process for the Community Wildfire Protection Plan in 2006. A Wildland-
Urban Interface (WUI) map was prepared as a part of this process. The planning process's goal was to
improve fire prevention, reduce hazardous fuels, restore, fire-adapted ecosystems, and promote
community assistance.
Yellowstone County has a diverse ecosystem with an array of vegetation that has developed with, and
adapted to, fire as a natural disturbance. Decades of wildland fire suppression and long-standing land-
use practices have altered the plant community. They have resulted in dramatic shifts in the types of
fires and local species composition. Rangelands and farmland in Yellowstone County have become more
susceptible to large-scale, high-intensity fires that threaten life, property, and natural resources because
of these long-term practices.
Floodplain
Floodplain – The area of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area including and adjoining the watercourse or
drainway that would be covered by the floodwater of a Base Flood. The area is partitioned into a Flood
Fringe and Floodway where specifically designated. See Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
Floodway – The identified portion of the Floodplain of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area that is the channel
and the area adjoining the channel that is reasonably required to carry the discharge of the Base Flood
without cumulatively increasing the water surface by more than one half foot.
Regulated Flood Hazard Area – A Floodplain whose limits have been designated pursuant to Part 2,
Chapter 5 of Title 76, MCA, and is determined to be the area adjoining the watercourse that would be
covered by the floodwater of a Base Flood. The Regulated Flood Hazard Area consists of the Floodway
and Flood Fringe where specifically designated.
The purpose of Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations is to promote public health, safety and
general welfare of the residents and minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in
Regulated Flood Hazard Areas. These Regulations are intended to:
Protect human life and health.
Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and
generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;
Minimize prolonged business and public service interruptions.
Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains,
electric, telephone and sewer lines, streets and bridges;
Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development
of flood-prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood disruptions; and
to
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Ensure compliance with the minimum standards for the continued participation in
the National Flood Insurance Program for the benefit of the residents.
The Regulated Flood Hazard Area includes areas specifically identified, labeled and illustrated on maps
such as Floodplain, Floodway, or Flood Fringe that have differing uses allowed and minimum building
standards that apply. The Regulated Flood Hazard Area is the geographic area inundated by the Flood of
100-year Frequency illustrated and depicted in the referenced studies and maps.
The Regulated Flood Hazard Area supporting study and maps illustrating the regulatory area are based
on studies and maps that have been specifically adopted pursuant to 76-5-201et.seq. The maps and
accompanying study become the Regulated Flood Hazard Area only when formally adopted by DNRC
and subsequently by the political subdivision by these regulations. The original source of studies and
data may be from a Flood Insurance Study by FEMA, or other studies by Corps of Engineers, Soil
Conservation, United States Geological Service or other federal or state agency.
Within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, subdivisions including new or expansion of existing
manufactured home parks, must be designed to meet the following criteria:
The Base Flood Elevations and boundary of the Regulated Flood Hazard area must
be determined and considered during lot layout and building location design;
Locations for future structures and development must be reasonably safe from
flooding;
Adequate surface water drainage must be provided to reduce exposure to flood
hazards;
Public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems must
be located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and
Floodplain permits must be obtained according to these regulations before
development occurs that is within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
Natural Resource Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Protect Laurel's natural resources and traditional environment
Provide options for landowners for conserving portions of their land while developing others
Achieve a balanced pattern of growth to ensure environmental concerns are considered during
the development
Manage the local water resources as a healthy, integrated system that provides long-term
benefits from enhanced environmental quality
Goal 2: Incorporate sustainable development patterns in the Laurel subdivision and land
use codes
Review and update existing zoning and subdivision regulations to ensure environmental
preservation and conservation are addressed
Review and update landscaping ordinances as needed to best suit Laurel's natural environment
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Manage rivers, floodplains, wetlands, and other water resources for multiple uses, including
flood and erosion protection, wildlife habitat, recreational use, open space, and water supply
Goal 3: Connect with local, regional, and state agencies and stakeholders to improve the
natural environment in and around Laurel
Sponsor environmental cleanup and rehabilitation programs that include the City, school
district, community organizations, and residents
Participate in regional watershed studies to achieve adequate long-term flood protection
Explore the possibility of creating a conservation corridor along the Yellowstone River
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CHAPTER 15: GROWTH POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
Overview
The 2020 Laurel Growth Policy is a significant upgrade of the existing Growth Management Plan. The
previous Growth Management Plan provided very useful information regarding existing community
characteristics as well as trends that had future implications for the community, but it did not provide
specific recommendations regarding how the community might best address existing and emerging
issues.
The content of this chapter is critical to compliance with state law and provides necessary details for the
Laurel community to be eligible for various funding programs and resources. The chapter is organized
into two primary sections as follows:
1. Section 1: Identification of tools available to Montana cities to help implement the growth
policy; and
2. Section 2: Fulfills a specific requirement in Montana State Law requiring growth policies to
evaluate jurisdictional subdivision regulations in the following three ways:
a. Identification of how local government defines various impact assessments as specified
in the law
b. Addressing how public hearings for proposed subdivisions will be conducted, and
c. Addressing how the local government will make decisions with respect to various impact
assessments
In addition, the second section identifies specific objectives, policies, and strategies for six planning topic
areas which are also outlined throughout the Growth Policy text:
Land Use
Housing
Infrastructure
Economic Development
Public Facilities and Services
Intergovernmental Coordination
In some cases, the topic areas identify specific resources and programs that are available to help
implement strategies identified for each topic area. Objectives are also listed, and for each identified
objective, there are recommended implementation measures. The implementation measures are either
recommended policies or strategies. Recommended policies reflect the intent of how a governing body
might address a planning topic or issue through policy. Strategies reflect a specific course of action that
a governing body might utilize to address a specific planning topic or issue.
Implementation Tools
This section identifies several types of Growth Policy implementation tools. Generally, there are five
types of tools at a local government’s disposal to help implement a growth policy. They include:
Regulations: Regulations are generally outlined and authorized by Montana Code Annotated
(MCA) and adopted into law by local government.
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Policies: The Growth Policy and other adopted plans contain policies that express the
community’s interest in pursuing a course of action on topics and issues. Unlike regulations,
local government has discretion in the implementation of policies.
Government Finance: Government finance tools represent the community’s financial
commitment to fund the implementation of policies and strategies outlined in the Growth
Policy.
Education: Educational tools, such as the growth policy itself, include several activities that
inform the public, appointed officials and elected officials that facilitate effective decision
making.
Coordination: Coordination tools are voluntary measures in the local government or between a
local government and other local, state and federal government or agency that result in more
efficient and effective delivery of services or a shared response to a common concern.
A discussion of each of the types of growth policy implementation tools is provided below. The tools
described are not all inclusive but rather are intended to provide examples of tools that are commonly
used by communities in Montana. Several of the tools are already being utilized by the City of Laurel.
The tools not in use may be considered as additional means to advance the implementation of the
Growth Policy.
Regulatory Tools
Subdivision Regulations
MCA requires counties to adopt subdivision regulations that comply with the Montana Subdivision and
Platting Act. Subdivision regulations control the creation or modification of the division of land into new
parcels or tracts. They also control the design of subdivisions and provide standards for adequate
provision of infrastructure without adversely impacting public services and natural resources.
The City of Laurel has adopted subdivision regulations that are enforced in the City or on lands proposed
for annexation into the City. Subdivision regulations will need to be updated to be consistent with this
Growth Policy and must include any amendments made during the 2020 Montana Legislative session.
Zoning Regulations
Zoning regulations are a common regulatory tool to control land use. One of the primary purposes of
zoning regulations is to minimize land use incompatibility. Zoning regulations also establish standards
that limit the density or intensity of development as well as other characteristics of development such as
off-street parking, signs, lighting, site layout, etc. Zoning regulations are supplements to a zoning map
that establishes zoning districts in the jurisdiction. The zoning map provides the means to separate
incompatible land uses and zoning regulations mitigate potential land use incompatibilities at the
boundaries separating different zoning districts.
The City of Laurel adopted zoning regulations in 2001. Over the years, several amendments have been
made. The city is in the process of reviewing a comprehensive update to the zoning regulations as
prepared by their planning consultant. Pursuant to MCA, the City of Laurel can establish extraterritorial
zoning jurisdiction up to one mile beyond the city limits if Yellowstone County and the city create the
extraterritorial area and provide for joint administration.
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The area around the City of Laurel’s city limits was previously believed to an extra-territorial zoning
jurisdiction up until recently when state statues were reviewed and it was discovered that MCA 76-2-
310 does not give the City of Laurel the right to adopt extra-territorial zoning beyond municipal
boundaries.
MCA 76-2-310 states “Extension of municipal zoning and subdivision regulations beyond municipal
boundaries. (1) Except as provided in 76-2-312 and except in locations where a county has adopted
zoning or subdivision regulations, a city or town council or other legislative body that has adopted a
growth policy pursuant to chapter 1 for the area affected by the regulations may extend the application
of its zoning or subdivision regulations beyond its limits in any direction subject to the following limits:
(a) up to 3 miles beyond the limits of a city of the first class as defined in 7-1-
4111;
(b) up to 2 miles beyond the limits of a city of the second class; and
(c) up to 1 mile beyond the limits of a city or town of the third class
Yellowstone County has adopted subdivision regulations for the planning jurisdiction around Laurel city
limits and therefore the City cannot extend it’s zoning regulations beyond it’s municipal boundaries.
Yellowstone County has enforced the adopted subdivision regulations for lands outside the City of
Laurel limits and has historically approved or denied the subdivision of land in the area surrounding the
City of Laurel.
Design Standards
Design standards are most often contained within zoning regulations but can also be established in
subdivision regulations. The purpose of design standards is to enhance the appearance and functionality
of a development. Overly restrictive design standards can impede development. If properly crafted,
design standards can significantly enhance the built environment without placing undue burdens on a
developer.
Floodplain Regulations
Floodplain regulations are intended to regulate the use of land located within an officially designated
100-year floodplain in order to protect buildings and occupants from the risks associated with flooding.
Floodplain provisions are contained in the subdivision regulations. Some communities choose to
participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System (CRS). CRS is a voluntary
incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that
exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. Any community in compliance with the minimum
requirements of NFIP may participate. Participation in the CRS results in discounted premiums for flood
insurance policy holders; between 5 to 45 percent depending on the rating of proposed floodplain
management activities, reducing the likelihood or magnitude of damage resulting from a flood.
Zoning Compliance Permits
Zoning compliance permits ensure that development activities comply with zoning regulations. The City
of Laurel requires the issuance of zoning compliance permits for most types of improvements to private
property.
Building Permits
Building permits are utilized to ensure that construction of buildings follows the State of Montana
Building Code. Building permits are required for all buildings over two hundred (200) square feet. Most
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residential building permits are issued by the City Building Inspector but permits for commercial or
residential buildings with five or more dwelling units are issued by the State.
Policy Tools
Neighborhood or Area Plans
The Growth Policy can be further implemented by more detailed neighborhood or area plans. With the
adoption of the Growth Policy, plans may be prepared that provide a greater level of detail for specific
areas or issues as the City finds need.
Annexation Policy
A city expands its boundaries and its jurisdictional authority through the process of annexation. There
are six different methods for annexation authorized by state statute (Parts 42 through 46 of Title 7,
Chapter 2, MCA). Part 46 authorizes an annexation resulting from a petition from private property
owners.
Cities use two tools to facilitate and guide future annexations. The first is a “Limits of Annexation” map
that delineates the areas surrounding the city that can be reasonably supported by urban services and
infrastructure. The map is prepared in coordination with the preparation of a capital improvements plan.
The second is the use of annexation agreements. Entering into an annexation agreement with a property
owner prior to the submission of development plans gives a local jurisdiction the opportunity to assign
infrastructure and other costs associated with development of the annexed property.
Urban Planning Area
Urban planning areas are different than Extra Territorial/City-County Planning areas. An Urban Planning
Area focuses on extension of infrastructure over a portion of the City-County Planning Jurisdiction and
typically for a shorter time horizon than the jurisdictional area associated with the City-County Planning
Jurisdiction.
Designation of an urban planning area is utilized for the extension of urban services as a jurisdiction
grows. It delineates the geographic extent of how far outside the city limits the jurisdiction is prepared
to extend urban services within a 10-year planning horizon. This is often accomplished by establishing an
urban service area boundary beyond the city limits. The urban service area boundary is established in
coordination with planned growth areas identified in the Growth Policy as well as the city’s capital
improvement plan. This tool helps a city plan for future growth outside the city limits and puts property
owners outside the city limits on notice of what areas will and will not be supported by the extension of
urban services.
Urban Renewal Districts
The establishment of urban renewal districts facilitates redevelopment of specifically selected areas in
the city. Title 7, Chapter 15, Part 42 of the MCA gives municipalities authority to establish urban renewal
districts in areas that meet the statutory definition of “blighted” areas and authorizes the municipality to
expend funds in the area to stimulate private investment.
Tax increment finance (TIF) districts are often used to recapture the city’s expenditure of funds for public
improvements in the redevelopment area. TIF districts use the incremental increase in tax collections as
blighted areas are redeveloped or other improvements are made to properties within the district. It is
this increment that is used to retire debt to install the additional or new capital infrastructure.
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Municipalities are required to prepare and adopt an urban renewal plan prior to establishing an urban
renewal district. For more information see the TIF Section under Government Finance Tools.
Government Finance Tools
Capital Improvement Programs
City and county governments often program capital improvements on an annual basis. This is a
reasonable practice for communities experiencing minimal or no growth activity. However, the use of a
multi-year capital improvement program is an important tool to plan for public expenditures when
communities are experiencing or anticipating high levels of growth. In such cases, a local government
may establish a five-year capital improvement program. As noted above, a multi-year capital
improvement program can support the establishment of urban service areas and facilitate negotiation
of an annexation agreement.
Fee Incentives
The reduction or full waiver of municipal fees can be utilized to support implementation of specific
growth policy goals and objectives. Often the financial incentive is used to support affordable housing or
redevelopment projects. The tool can also be used to support specific economic development policy.
Impact Fees
An impact fee is a charge on development assessed at the building permit or zoning compliance permit
stage of a project to assist the funding of new or expanded facilities that are needed to accommodate
the development. Impact fees are used by communities anticipating or experiencing high levels of
growth and are intended to maintain existing or minimum levels of service with minimal costs to existing
property owners.
Impact fees can be assessed for a wide range of community services including but not limited to public
safety (EMS, police and fire), public works (sewer, water, transportation and drainage facilities),
recreation, libraries, etc. Citizens who are assessed impact fees need to receive benefit from impact fee
expenditures within a reasonable period, which most often is five years.
Local Government Owned Land
Land that is owned by local government, including school districts, is a valuable resource that can be
used to implement growth policy goals and objectives. Undeveloped public land may be used to
financially leverage private development that meets a community’s high demand need. By reducing or
eliminating land acquisition costs the jurisdiction provides a significant financial incentive to facilitate
development that supports the implementation of land use, housing or economic development policy.
When this implementation tool is used the local government should consider entering into a
development agreement to ensure the developer provides the desired outcome.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) was first authorized by the Montana legislature in 1974. It is a locally-
driven funding mechanism that allows cities and counties to direct property tax dollars that accrue from
new development, within a specifically designed district, to community and economic development
activities within that district. It is intended as a tool that can encourage and support investment in areas
where growth has been hindered by a lack of infrastructure and/or the presence of blight.
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TIF does not increase property taxes for individuals and businesses located within a designated district. It
only affects the way that taxes are distributed after they have been collected. A base taxable value is
determined upon the establishment of a TIF district, and any additional tax revenue that accrues due to
new development over a specified time frame is used to finance a variety of district improvements.
Eligible improvement activities include:
Land acquisition
Rehabilitation and renovation
Demolition and removal of structures
Planning, marketing, and analysis
General redevelopment activities
Constructing, improving, and connecting to infrastructure
Education Tools
Planning Studies and Data Collection
The Growth Policy provides significant information and data on the community’s various characteristics.
It also provides an extensive list of policies and strategies to implement growth policy objectives. In most
cases the information and data contained in the growth policy will be enough to justify and implement
the policies and strategies.
However, there may be cases where the community will need to conduct more detailed follow-up
planning studies and collect additional information to support an implementation activity. Establishing
impact fees or urban renewal districts are examples of implementation measures requiring additional
study. As discussed below, ongoing collection of data will support Growth Policy monitoring.
Growth Policy Monitoring
The recommended policies and strategies contained in the Growth Policy are based on an assessment of
current information and data. Policies and strategies remain relevant so long as conditions in the
community are aligned with current trends. However, unanticipated circumstances or opportunities are
likely to arise that will warrant a re-evaluation of policies or strategies whether they have been
implemented or not. To support a re-evaluation of policies or strategies, data that is applicable to
planning topics should be collected and reported on an annual basis. This data will, in effect, provide
community indicator information allowing the community to identify the emergence of new trends.
It is recommended that the City consider preparation of an annual community indicator report that can
be used to support an evaluation of the level of success in achieving community goals and objectives,
and an assessment of the need to implement or revise selected policies and strategies contained in the
Growth Policy. Annual community Indicator reports also provide valuation information that can be used
in the next update of the Growth Policy. The reports can also be used to justify need when requests for
outside funding are made.
Community indicator reports should provide information that can be compared to information
contained in the Growth Policy, so change can be measured. Annual community indicator reports should
include, but are not limited to an assessment and review of the following information:
Building permits for new housing
Volume of sales of residential property (Laurel Real Estate MLS Service)
Crime statistics (Laurel Police Department)
Client caseloads for senior citizen programs (Yellowstone County Council on Aging)
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Number and type of new or expanded businesses
Number and type of new jobs created (Montana Department of Labor and Industry)
Tax revenue
School enrollment
Levels of participation in recreational programs
Remaining capacity of sewer treatment facilities
Remaining capacity of the landfill
Updated population projections prepared by the Montana Department of Commerce
Annual departmental budget reports/requests
Medical Facility programming/services
Coordination Tools
Intra-Governmental Coordination
The functions of local government are logically divided into departments. The departmentalization of
local government services tends to discourage the sharing of information and coordination between
departments. Too often synthesizing information from the various departments to get a holistic view of
the community is solely the responsibility of the elected officials and most often occurs during
preparation of annual budgets. It is recommended that Laurel consider the timely sharing of department
reports with staff members responsible for overseeing implementation of the Growth Policy.
In addition, the City might consider assigning individual departments the task of implementing or
evaluating the need to implement recommended policies and strategies that most clearly impact those
individual departments. This is an excellent way to spread ownership of the Growth Policy. Annual
department reports can provide information on the status of recommended implementation activities.
The City might consider including a Growth Policy Implementation section into each department budget,
to institutionalize the community’s commitment to Growth Policy implementation.
Intra-governmental coordination is also an effective tool to more efficiently deliver services. When
leaders of each department meet periodically to share information and service delivery challenges,
there is more opportunity to enhance coordination between departments and identify ways that staff,
equipment and other departmental resources might be shared to mitigate service delivery challenges.
Inter-Governmental Coordination
The same principles discussed in the previous section apply to coordination between local governments
and between local governments and regional, tribal, state and federal agencies. Inter-governmental
coordination provides an opportunity to regularly share information about plans and programs and
enhance working relationships.
The City might consider establishing a semi-annual meeting schedule with regional, state and federal
agencies and a quarterly meeting schedule for local governments within the county. Individual County
Commissioners and City Council members can be designated as the liaison for each agency and/or local
government. The intangible benefits of this coordination are often the maintaining of open lines of
communication and a greater mutual understanding of the perspectives and needs of the larger region
and state.
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Evaluation of Yellowstone County/Laurel Subdivision Regulations
An evaluation of the administration and standards contained in the Laurel Subdivision Regulations is
required as part of the Growth Policy. There are three items that need to be evaluated per Title 76,
Chapter 1, Part 6, 76-1-601(3)(h), MCA. 1).
1. How local government defines the various impacts assessments as specified in 76-3-608(3)(a),
2. How local government makes decisions with respect to the impact assessments as made, and
3. How public hearings for proposed subdivisions are conducted.
Impact Assessments: Definitions and Evaluation Factors
Local government subdivision regulations are required to review proposed subdivisions in accordance
with the following criteria provided in 76-3-608(3)(a):
The effect on agriculture
The effect on agricultural water user’s facilities
The effect on local services
The effect on the natural environment
The effect on wildlife and wildlife habitat
The effect on public health and safety
For each of the above criteria, applicable definitions and evaluative provisions contained in the
subdivision regulations must be identified.
Effect on Agriculture
Agriculture is defined as all aspects of farming or ranching including the cultivation or tilling of soil;
dairying; the production, cultivation, growing, harvesting of agricultural or horticultural commodities;
raising of livestock, bees, fur-bearing animals or poultry; and any practices including forestry or
lumbering operations, including preparation for market or delivery to storage, to market, or to carriers
for transportation to market. The effect on agriculture is evaluated utilizing the following provisions:
1. Is the proposed subdivision or associated improvements located on or near prime farmland or
farmland of statewide importance as defined by the Natural Resource Conservation Service? If
so, identify each area on a copy of the preliminary plat.
2. Is the proposed subdivision going to result in removal of any agricultural or timber land from
production? If so, describe.
3. Are there any possible conflicts with nearby agricultural operations (e.g., residential
development creating problems for moving livestock, operating farm machinery, maintaining
water supplies, controlling weeds or applying pesticides; agricultural operations suffering from
vandalism, uncontrolled pets or damaged fences)? If so, describe.
4. Are there any possible nuisance problems which may arise from locating a subdivision near
agricultural or timber lands? If so, describe.
5. What effects would the subdivision have on the value of nearby agricultural lands?
Effect on Agricultural Water User Facilities
Agricultural water user facilities are defined as those facilities which provide water for irrigation or stock
watering to agricultural lands to produce agricultural products. These facilities include, but are not
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limited to, ditches, head gates, pipes and other water conveying facilities. The effect on agricultural
water user facilities is evaluated by the following provisions:
1. Are there any conflicts the subdivision would create with agricultural water user facilities (e.g.
residential development creating problems for operating and maintaining irrigation systems) or
would agricultural water user facilities be more subject to vandalism or damage because of the
subdivision? Describe.
2. Are there any possible nuisance problems which the subdivision would generate regarding
agricultural water user facilities (e.g. safety hazards to residents or water problems from
irrigation ditches, head gates, siphons, sprinkler systems or other agricultural water user
facilities)? Describe.
Effect on Local Services
Local services are defined as any and all services that local governments, public or private utilities are
authorized to provide for the benefit of their citizens. The effect on local services is evaluated by the
following provisions:
1. Are there any additional or expanded public services and facilities that would be demanded of
local government or special districts to serve the subdivision? Describe.
2. Are there any additional costs which would result for services such as roads, bridges, law
enforcement, parks and recreation, fire protection, water, sewer and solid waste systems,
ambulance service, schools or busing, (including additional personnel, construction and
maintenance costs)? Describe.
3. Who would bear these costs (e.g. all taxpayers within the jurisdiction, people within special
taxing districts, or users of a service)?
4. Can service providers meet the additional costs given legal or other constraints (e.g. statutory
ceilings on mill levies or bonded indebtedness)?
5. Are there off-site costs or costs to other jurisdictions that may be incurred (e.g. development of
water sources or construction of a sewage treatment plant; costs borne by a nearby
municipality)? Describe.
6. How does the subdivision allow existing services, through expanded use, to operate more
efficiently, or makes the installation or improvement of services feasible (e.g. allow installation
of a central water system or upgrading a country road)?
7. What are the present tax revenues received from the un-subdivided land?
a. By the County $ ________
b. By the municipality, if applicable, $ ________
c. By the school(s) $ ________
8. What are the approximate revenues received by each above taxing authority if the lots are
reclassified, and when the lots are all improved and built upon? Describe any other taxes that
would be paid by the subdivision and into what funds (e.g. personal property taxes on
mobile/manufactured homes are paid into the County general fund).
9. Would new taxes generated from the subdivision cover additional public costs?
10. How many special improvement districts would be created which would obligate local
government fiscally or administratively? Are any bonding plans proposed which would affect the
local government's bonded indebtedness?
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Effect on Natural Environment
Natural environment is defined as the physical conditions which exist within a given area, including land,
air, water, mineral, flora, fauna, sound, light and objects of historic and aesthetic significance. The effect
on the natural environment is evaluated by the following provisions:
1. What are the known or possible historic, paleontological, archaeological or cultural sites,
structures or objects which may be affected by the proposed subdivision? Describe and locate
on a plat overlay or sketch map.
2. How would the subdivision affect surface and groundwater, soils, slopes, vegetation, historical
or archaeological features within the subdivision or on adjacent land? Describe plans to protect
these sites.
3. Would any stream banks or lake shorelines be altered, streams re-channeled or any surface
water contaminated from sewage treatment systems, run-off carrying sedimentation, or
concentration of pesticides or fertilizers?
4. Would groundwater supply likely be contaminated or depleted as a result of the subdivision?
5. Would construction of roads or building sites require cuts and fills on steep slopes or cause
erosion on unstable, erodible soils? Would soils be contaminated by sewage treatment systems?
Explain
6. What are the impacts that removal of vegetation would have on soil erosion, bank or shoreline
instability?
7. Would the value of significant historical, visual or open space features be reduced or
eliminated?
8. Are there any natural hazards the subdivision could be subject to (such as flooding, rock, snow
or landslides, high winds, severe wildfires, or difficulties such as shallow bedrock, high water
table, unstable or expansive soils, or excessive slopes?
9. How would the subdivision affect visual features within the subdivision or on adjacent land?
Describe efforts to visually blend the proposed development with the existing environment (e.g.
use of appropriate building materials, colors, road design, underground utilities and re-
vegetation of earthworks).
Effect on Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat
Wildlife is defined as those animals that are not domesticated or tamed, or as may be defined in a
Growth Policy. Wildlife habitat is defined as the place or area where wildlife naturally lives or travels
through. The effect on wildlife and wildlife habitat are evaluated by the following provisions:
1. What impacts would the subdivision or associated improvements have on wildlife areas such as
big game wintering range, migration routes, nesting areas, wetlands or important habitat for
rare or endangered species?
2. What effect would pet, or human activity have on wildlife?
Effect on Public Health and Safety
Public health and safety are defined as the prevailing healthful, sanitary condition of wellbeing for the
community at large. Conditions relating to public health and safety include but are not limited to:
disease control and prevention; emergency services; environmental health; flooding, fire or wildfire
hazards, rock falls or landslides, unstable soils, steep slopes and other natural hazards; high voltage lines
or high pressure gas lines; and air or vehicular traffic safety hazards. The effect on public health and
safety is evaluated by the following provisions:
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1. Are there any health or safety hazards on or near the subdivision, such as: natural hazards, lack
of water, drainage problems, heavy traffic, dilapidated structures, high pressure gas lines, high
voltage power lines or irrigation ditches? These conditions, proposed or existing, should be
accurately described with their origin and location identified on a copy of the preliminary plat.
2. Would the subdivision be subject to hazardous conditions due to high voltage lines, airports,
highways, railroads, dilapidated structures, high pressure gas lines, irrigation ditches and
adjacent industrial or mining uses?
3. How will the subdivision affect the adjacent land use? Identify existing uses such as feed lots,
processing plants, airports or industrial firms which could be subject to lawsuits or complaints
from residents of the subdivision.
4. What public health or safety hazards, such as dangerous traffic, fire conditions or contamination
of water supplies would be created by the subdivision?
In addition to the above factors, the subdivision regulations also require preparation of a community
impact report on the following public services and facilities.
1. Education and busing
2. Roads and maintenance
3. Water, sewage, and solid waste facilities
4. Fire and police protection
5. Payment for extension of capital facilities
Public Hearing Requirements and Procedures
The subdivision regulations contain several sections that specify the procedural requirements for the
following types of subdivision applications.
1. Divisions of land exempt from subdivision review
2. Review and approval procedures for minor subdivisions
3. Review and approval procedures for major subdivisions, including review and approval of
preliminary and final plats
4. Expedited review of a first minor subdivision
The subdivision regulations apply to all jurisdictions within the county. The County is in the process of
updating the subdivision regulations for consistency with all applicable enacted amendments to the
MCA during the last three Montana legislative sessions. All procedural provisions, including those
applicable to public hearings, are consistent with the current statutory provisions contained in the MCA.
Objectives, Policies and Strategies
A growth policy is a foundational document. It is intended to provide an overview of the community in
terms of guidance for future planning. As a guiding document, the growth policy should encourage as
many “finer point” studies and documents as possible to encourage refining of larger scope ideas.
Items outlined in the following tables are only options, and do not in any way obligate the governing
body to pursue, fund or prioritize any given option or opportunity. Instead, the following are the
recommended objectives and policies and strategies for each topic of the Growth Policy. For each policy
and strategy, the entity responsible for implementation is identified and a recommended time frame for
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implementation is provided. The entity listed first for each policy and strategy (in italicized type) is
assigned the primary responsibility to initiate and follow-through with implementation measures. In a
few cases, multiple entitles are assigned the primary responsibility for implementation. Other listed
entities for recommended policies and strategies are responsible for supporting the implementation
measures. Four implementation time frames are provided:
1. Immediate (defined as within a year after adoption of the Growth Policy)
2. Short-term (defined as not later than two years after adoption of the Growth Policy)
3. Mid-term (defined as between two and four years after adoption of the Growth Policy)
4. Long-term (defined as prior to the future update of the Growth Policy in 5 years (2025)
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Land Use Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Conserve Open Space and Traditional Land Uses
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Encourage cluster developments to
incorporate open space into new
developments
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Provide options for landowners for conserving
portions of their land
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Immediate
Study and Implement strategies to create an
interconnected system of parks and
greenways and open space that are accessible
to area residents
Public Works
Planning
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Long-term
Goal 2: Develop downtown Laurel into a vibrant place to live, work, and play
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Encourage mixed uses for living, working, and
shopping local
Planning Board
County Commission
City Council
Short-term
Identify priority parcels for infill development Planning Board
LURA
Mid-term
Implement Placemaking projects to create a
more livable and enjoyable downtown
Planning Dept
Chamber of Commerce
LURA
Public Works
Short-term
Mid-term
Partner with local groups to support
community businesses, events, and
gatherings
City Council
Planning
Chamber of Commerce
Immediate
Connect with regional agencies to access
project funding, receive technical support,
and boost the visibility of Laurel development
opportunities
City Council
County Commission
Planning Dept
BSEDA
Long-term
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Goal 3: Update Subdivision Code to meet the needs of Laurel and the surrounding area
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Provide clear and consistent standards Planning Dept
Zoning Commission
Public Works Dept
Short-term
Ensure the proper scale and scope of
regulations
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Zoning Commission
Mid-term
Include trails, open space, and greenway
considerations in parkland subdivision review
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Mid-term
Long-term
Regularly review and update the Subdivision
Code as needed to remain current
Planning Board
City Council
County Commission
Long -term
Goal 4: Update Zoning Code to provide for greater flexibility of allowable uses, clearer
requirements, and more efficient land use
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Study the inclusion of different types of
housing within residential districts
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Mid-term
Update Overlay Districts, Parking
Requirements, and the Sign Code to better fit
the City's needs and character
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Public Works
LURA
Short-term
Mid-term
Allow mixed-use live/work opportunities in
commercial areas
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Short-term
Enable property owners to use their land
more effectively and efficiently
Planning Board
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Goal 5: Use long term planning documents to identify funding and address priority needs for
infrastructure and development
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Establish an Annexation Plan to develop
priority growth areas and strategies
City Council
Planning Dept
Public Works
Mid-term
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for vital
infrastructure to support the City as it grows
Public Works
Planning Dept
Short-term
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Goal 5: Use long term planning documents to identify funding and address priority needs for
infrastructure and development
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Prepare a Commercial and Industrial
Development Study for land adjacent to major
transportation routes in the Laurel area
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Annexation Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Adopt a long-range view for the growth of the City
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Establish a growth-conscious set of policies to
expand the City and its services
Planning Board
City Council
Mid-term
Long-term
Create priority growth areas for extension of
services
Planning Board
City Council
Immediate
Develop and approve an Annexation Plan for
the Laurel Planning Jurisdiction
Planning Dept
City Council
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
Short-term
Mid-term
Goal 2: Mange fiscal responsibility with established and proposed annexation standards
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Ensure that the established standards are
right and proper for the City of Laurel
Planning Board
County Commission
City Council
Short-term
Ease the burden for developers to annex into
the City while meeting established standards
Planning Board
City Council
Mid-term
Allow greater flexibility in development
patterns
Planning Board
Planning Dept
Short-term
Mid-term
Determine the cost and benefits of
annexation
Clerk-Treasurer
City Council
Planning Dept
Public Works
Mid-term
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Housing Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Encourage a mixture of housing types to meet the demand of all market sectors
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Maintain a diverse array of housing and
affordability levels
Planning Dept Immediate
Promote higher density housing types in the
downtown area and adjacent to major
transportation corridors
Planning Dept Mid-term
Study mixed-use housing and other alternative
housing types and styles
Planning Dept Mid-term
Long-term
Provide options for a full spectrum of housing
from rentals to retirement housing
Planning Dept Long-term
Goal 2: Provide information on housing-related grants, loans, and ownership programs
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Develop a list of resources for renters and
homeowners
Planning Dept
Montana Housing
Short-term
Collect information on federal, state, local,
and philanthropic rental and homeownership
programs
Planning Dept
Montana Housing
HUD
Short-term
Mid-term
Advise Laurel area residents as to available
support for housing, rent, and homeownership
Planning Dept Immediate
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Infrastructure Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Maintain an effective and efficient public infrastructure system that adequately serves
the needs of the City and County
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Develop a data-driven infrastructure
maintenance schedule
City/County Public
Works
Short-term
Determine any existing gaps in services and
other infrastructure deficiencies within the
City
City/County Public
Works
Planning
Short-term
Mid-term
Adopt up-to-date infrastructure standards that
are appropriate for the needs of the City
City/County Public
Works
Short-term
Study using public spaces within floodplains,
watercourses, and wetlands to be used as
passive recreation areas such as parks and
greenways
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Mid-term
Long-term
Study the feasibility of recycling programs and
other means to reduce solid waste
City/County Public
Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Incorporate stormwater system planning into
roadway and other infrastructure planning
processes
Planning Dept
City/County Public
Works
City Council
Mid-term
Long-term
Goal 2: Establish the long-term capital and infrastructure needs for the City and County
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan for the
improvement and expansion of infrastructure
City/County Public
Works
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Prepare a Water System Master Plan Public Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Create a Wastewater System Master Plan Public Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Complete a Stormwater Management Plan City/County Public
Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Ensure infrastructure planning documents are
routinely updated.
City/County Public
Works
Long-term
Confirm that the established infrastructure
priorities are adequate
City/County Public
Works
Planning
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
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Infrastructure Funding Opportunities:
Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program
The Montana Legislature established the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Loan Program
for Drinking Water projects. The program provides at or below market interest rate loans to eligible
Montana entities. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the administering agency and
assures the technical, financial and programmatic requirements of the program are met.
Eligible water projects include acquisition of land that is integral to the project, consolidating water
supplies, engineering, new sources, treatment, source water protection, storage and distribution.
Eligible applicants are municipalities, public or private community water systems and non-profit, non-
community water systems. The current interest rate for loans is 3.75 percent with payment schedules
not to exceed 20 years. Drinking Water Projects qualifying as disadvantaged may extend the term up to
30 years.
Applications are accepted year-round. Preliminary engineering analysis must be reviewed prior to
submittal of application.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Water Pollution Control State Revolving Fund Loan
Program
The Montana Legislature established the Water Pollution Control State Revolving Fund (WPCSRF) Loan
Program for water pollution control projects. The program provides at or below market interest rate
loans to eligible Montana entities. Cooperatively, DEQ and DNRC administer the Water Pollution Control
State Revolving Fund Loan Program.
Goal 3: Seek out possible funding sources for the expansion and improvement of infrastructure
and essential community services
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Study the physical and financial needs for the
extension of infrastructure to priority growth
areas
Planning Dept
Public Works
Mid-term
Collaborate with Montana agencies on major
projects and studies
City Council
County Commissioners
Immediate
Explore federal, state, and philanthropic
infrastructure grant opportunities
City/County Public
Works
Planning Dept
Short-term
Determine positive impacts from the
expansion and improvement of infrastructure
City/ County Public
Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Apply for funding opportunities that are
appropriate for city and county priorities and
projects and assist in keeping user fees
reasonable
Public Works
Planning Dept
Clerk-Treasurer
Mid-term
Long-term
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Eligible water quality projects include wastewater treatment plant improvements, interceptors,
collectors and lift stations, lagoon construction and rehabilitation, engineering and project inspection,
and land used for disposal purposes. All projects must be included in a project priority list and intended
use plan for the fiscal year in which funding is anticipated, and the ability to repay loan funding must be
demonstrated.
Eligible applicants are municipalities for wastewater projects as well as municipalities and private
entities for nonpoint source projects. The current interest rate for loans is 3.75 percent with payment
schedules not to exceed 20 years. Water Pollution Control projects qualifying as disadvantaged may
extend the payment term up to 30 years. Applications are accepted year-round. Preliminary engineering
analysis must be reviewed prior to submittal of application.
Montana Department of Commerce, Treasure State Endowment Program Construction Grants (TSEP)
The Treasure State Endowment Program (TSEP) awards matching grants to local governments for
construction of local infrastructure projects. TSEP construction grants provide help in financing
infrastructure projects throughout Montana. Eligible applicants include incorporated cities and towns,
counties, consolidated governments, Tribal governments and county or multi-county water, sewer or
solid waste districts.
A dollar-for-dollar match is required, but in cases of extreme financial hardship where the public's health
and safety are seriously affected, grants up to 75 percent of the project costs may be awarded. Matching
funds can be public or private funds. Construction grant applications are limited to a maximum of
$750,000. Applications are typically due the first week of May on even numbered years.
US Department of Agriculture, Water and Environmental Load and Grant Program (WEP)
Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) loans and grants provide funding for drinking water, sanitary
sewer, solid waste and storm drainage facility projects in rural areas and cities and towns of 10,000 or
less. WEP also makes grants to nonprofit organizations to provide technical assistance and training to
assist rural communities with their water, wastewater and solid waste problems. Eligible projects include
construction, repair and expansion of water, wastewater, storm water and solid waste systems.
Public bodies, non-profit organizations and recognized Indian Tribes are all eligible applicants for the
program. This funding opportunity is capped at 75 percent of total project costs. Applications are
accepted on a continual basis.
Economic Development Administration, Public Works Grant Program
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) provides public works investments to support
construction or rehabilitation of essential public infrastructure and facilities to help communities and
regions leverage their resources and strengths to create new and better jobs, drive innovation, become
centers of competition in the global economy and ensure resilient economies.
Eligible projects are those pertaining to water and wastewater systems that address national strategic
priorities, assist economically distressed and underserved communities, demonstrate a good return on
EDA’s investment through job creation or retention, demonstrate or support regional collaboration and
employ public-private partnerships to use both public and private resources and/or leverage
complementary investments.
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Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, and Indian Tribes. The maximum award attainable is
75 percent of project cost. Application deadlines are variable and would need to be determined at the
time of application.
US Department of Interior, Water Grant Program System Optimization Review Grant
The Water Program focuses on improving water conservation, sustainability and helping water resource
managers make sound decisions about water use. It identifies strategies to ensure present and future
generations will have enough clean water for drinking, economic activities, recreation and ecosystem
health. The program also identifies adaptive measures to address climate change and its impact on
future water demands.
Eligible projects include any plan of action that focuses on improving efficiency and operations on a
regional or basin perspective. Eligible applicants include the state, Indian Tribes, irrigation districts,
water districts or other organizations with water or power delivery authority.
A 50 percent match is required for this funding opportunity and the maximum award attainable is
$300,000.
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Transportation Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Preserve, maintain, and improve the existing transportation system
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Update the Long-Range Transportation Plan
(LRTP)
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Establish a systematic approach for the
maintenance and repair of the road network.
City/County Public
Works
City Council
County Commission
Short-term
Develop a Capital Improvement Plan to
identify and prioritize significant
transportation projects
City Council
County Commission
City/County Public
Works
Planning Dept
Short-term
Mid-term
Establish a road network master plan to
ensure street continuity, traffic flow, and
neighborhood connectivity
Planning Dept
Planning Board
City/ County Public
Works
Mid-term
Long-term
Promote fiscal responsibility and high return
on investment
Clerk-Treasurer
City-Council
County Commission
City/ County Public
Works
Immediate
Coordinate roadway improvement projects to
coincide with underground infrastructure
improvements
Public Works
Planning Dept
MDT
Immediate
Goal 2: Improve the mobility, safety, and accessibility of all users and modes of travel
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Implement bicycle and pedestrian
improvements and traffic calming measures to
transform the downtown area into a
pedestrian-friendly place
Planning Dept
City/County Public
Works
MDT
Mid-term
Long-term
Create a looping bicycle/pedestrian trail and
street system that connects different areas of
Laurel
Planning Dept
Planning Board
Long-term
Adopt pedestrian and multi-modal friendly
transportation standards and safety measures
Planning Board
Public Works
City Council
Short-term
Mid-term
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Explore options to improve and expand the
Laurel Transit program and strategies to
create other multi-modal transportation
connections.
Planning Dept
Clerk-Treasurer
Mid-term
Long-term
Partner with local, regional, and statewide
groups to further integrate Laurel into the
more comprehensive passenger
transportation network
Planning Dept
Planning Board
City Council
Long-term
Goal 3: Connect transportation decisions to land-use decisions
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Integrate land-use planning and
transportation planning to manage better and
develop the transportation network.
Planning Dept
Public Works
MDT
City Council
Short-term
Utilize transportation projects to encourage
intensive development patterns along
significant routes and existing areas of the City
Planning Dept
Public Works
Short-term
Adopt and implement consistent system
policies and maintenance standards
Public Works
City Council
Short-term
Ensure the development of a sustainable
transportation system that minimizes
environmental impacts
Planning Dept
Planning Board
City Council
Long-term
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Economic Development Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Develop downtown Laurel as a destination to live, work, and play
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Institute placemaking projects to further
enhance district character
Planning Dept
LURA
Chamber of Commerce
Short-term
Increase live-work opportunities for current
and future residents and businesses
Planning Dept Long-term
Apply Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funding to
beautification, blight removal, and public
improvement projects
LURA
Planning Dept
City Council
Mid-term
Long-term
Identify and find solutions for unused or
underused parcels as candidates for
development
Planning Dept
LURA
Mid-term
Goal 2: Create a resilient local economy
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Strengthen core businesses and industries
through communication and connections with
technical support
Planning Dept
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Immediate
Ensure that local economic activities are
inclusive and accessible to all stakeholders
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Immediate
Implement policies that create stable and
sustainable economic growth
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Long-term
Work to highlight the shared benefits of
working together as a community with local
businesses stakeholders, and developers
Planning Dept
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Immediate
Provide an economic ecosystem that allows
for a wide array of businesses, industries, and
developments to thrive
Planning Dept
Chamber of Commerce
Big Sky EDA
Beartooth RC&D
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Long-term
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Study and implement policies to enhance local
business demand and alternative strategies for
value creation for the community
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
Long-term
Goal 3: Collaborate with area organizations to support economic growth and local employment
and training opportunities
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Communicate with local groups to determine
any needs and assistance
Planning Dept
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
Immediate
Create partnerships with local and regional
groups to fill local service gaps and create
needed programming
City Council
City/County
Departments
County Commission
Mid-term
Take part in events and workshops to support
local business initiatives and activities
Planning Dept
Chamber of Commerce
City Council
County Commission
Immediate
Short-term
Establish common ground with local and
regional groups to provide resources and
assistance
BSEDA
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Connect residents and businesses with like-
minded economic, financial, and
entrepreneurship resources and opportunities
Planning Dept
BSEDA
Chamber of Commerce
Mid-term
Long-term
Goal 4: Study options for new commercial and industrial properties in anticipated high-growth
areas
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Create a Corridor Master Plan for growth in
and around the intersection with Old Route 10
and the West Laurel Interchange
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Study options and determine priorities for the
possible establishment of Tax Increment
Financing Districts (TIFs) and Targeted
Economic Development Districts (TEDDs)
City Council
County Commission
Planning Dept
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
Planning Board
Short-term
Mid-term
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Economic Development Funding Opportunities
Community Development Block Grant Program
Each year the US Entity of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocates grant funding to the
Montana Department of Commerce for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
Funds are intended to benefit low or moderate-income persons, aid in prevention or elimination of
slums or meet urgent community development needs. CDBG is broken into five different funding
categories: Planning, Public Facilities, Housing and Neighborhood Renewal, Neighborhood Stabilization
Program and Economic Development.
Eligible applicants include counties, incorporated cities and towns, and consolidated city-county
governments. Deadlines are staggered throughout the year with planning grants being offered one year
and construction grants the following year generally.
Montana Department of Commerce, Montana Main Street Program
The mission of the Montana Department of Commerce Main Street program is to be a coordinating
resource for communities seeking to revitalize their historic downtown or core commercial districts and
to provide technical assistance to communities of all sizes. The underlying premise of the Montana Main
Street Program is to encourage economic development within the context of historic preservation.
In 2011, the project began gearing toward community development. The Montana Main Street Program
was awarded a Preserve America sub grant from the Montana State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
in 2011. The purpose of the grant was to focus on core and downtown planning and to build capacity
under the Main Street program. It was this sub grant that focused the program toward community
development.
Review and pursue opportunities for clustered
commercial or industrial parks
Planning Dept
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
City Council
County Commission
Chamber of Commerce
Short-term
Mid-term
Develop funding strategies to provide services
for priority growth areas.
Planning Dept
City/County Public
Works
Clerk-Treasurer
Short-term
Mid-term
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Public Facilities and Services Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Provide consistent and high-quality public services to the community
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Develop standard operating procedures to
ensure consistency for city and county
departments
City Council
County Commission
City/County Public
Works
Planning Dept
EMS
Fire Dept
Police Dept
Law Enforcement
Mid-term
Long-term
Develop maintenance procedures for parks,
facilities, and public areas.
City/County Public
Works
Mid-term
Study current facilities and services to identify
gaps and determine projected needs in
services
City Council
County Commission
City/County Public
Works
Mid-term
Goal 2: Respond to the changing nature of the community
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Plan for the expansion of public facilities in
priority growth areas
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
City/County
Departments
Short-term
Mid-term
Invest in public facilities that are accessible to
everyone in the community
City/County Public
Works
Long-term
Study how to improve city services to boost
the quality of life for residents, businesses,
and institutions
Planning Dept
Public Works
Long-term
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Recreation Goals and Objectives
Goal 3: Work with city and county departments and local stakeholders to determine the priority
expansion of public facilities and services
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Open lines of communication between
city/county departments and local
stakeholders to gather input on major projects
City/County
Departments
MDT
County Commission
City Council
Chamber of Commerce
Immediate
Consider the public service requirements of
large-scale projects before their approval and
implementation
Planning Dept
Public Works
Immediate
Develop plans for the expansion of Fire, Police
Law Enforcement, and EMS facilities
Planning Dept
City /County Public
Works
Fire Dept
Police Dept
Sheriff Dept
EMS
Short-term
Mid-term
Goal 1: Develop parkland as an essential and enjoyable amenity for residents
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Ensure new developments have appropriate
park space for recreation and general use
Planning Dept
Public Works
County Parks Board
City Council
County Commission
Immediate
Short-term
Study how existing parks can be improved
through new facilities, changed layouts, or
additions
Public Works
County Parks Board
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Review current park infrastructure and
determine if improvements are necessary to
serve the needs of the surrounding area better
Public Works
County Parks Board
Planning Dept
Long-term
Goal 2: Promote Riverside Park as a vital historic, civic, and recreation resource for residents and
visitors
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Adhere to the projects and strategies
presented in the 2018 Riverside Park Master
Plan
Planning Dept
Public Works
City Council
Immediate
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Seek grant funding for structural and site
improvements
Planning Dept
City Council
Immediate
Develop historic markers for Riverside Park
and its historic structures
Planning Dept
YC Historic Pres. Board
Western Heritage Center
Mid-term
Study options for connecting Riverside Park to
the city proper through infrastructure
improvements, civic engagement, or other
means
Planning Department
Public Works
City Council
Long-term
Establish signage and marketing for the assets
and resources of Riverside Park to area
residents and visitors
Planning Dept
YC Historic Pres. Board
Western Heritage Center
Mid-term
Goal 3: Create an interconnected system of parks, greenspace, and trails that are accessible to all
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Create a city-wide Park System Master Plan to
develop project priorities
Planning Dept
Park Board
Mid-term
Consider the creation of a City Parks
Department to oversee park operations and
maintenance
Public Works
Park Board
City Council
Long-term
Identify unused land that can be transformed
into green space or trails for use by the public
Park Board
Public Works
Planning Dept
Mid-term
Long-term
Update the zoning and development codes to
encourage the creation of bicycle and
pedestrian trail corridors
Planning Dept Short-term
Mid-term
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Natural Resource Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Protect Laurel’s planning jurisdiction and natural resources and traditional environment
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Provide options for landowners for conserving
portions of their land while developing others
Planning Dept
Planning Board
City Council
County Commission
Short-term
Immediate
Achieve a balanced pattern of growth to
ensure environmental concerns are
considered during the development
Planning Dept Long-term
Manage the local water resources as a
healthy, integrated system that provides long-
term benefits from enhanced environmental
quality
Planning Dept
Public Works
Montana DEQ
Montana DNRC
Immediate
Goal 2: Incorporate sustainable development patterns in the Laurel subdivision and land use codes
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Review and update existing zoning and
subdivision regulations to ensure
environmental preservation and conservation
are addressed
Planning Board
Planning Dept
City Council
County Commission
Short-term
Review and update landscaping ordinances as
needed to best suit Laurel's natural
environment
Planning Board Mid-term
Manage rivers, floodplains, wetlands, and
other water resources for multiple uses,
including flood and erosion protection, wildlife
habitat, recreational use, open space, and
water supply
Planning Dept
Planning Board
City/County
Departments
Immediate
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Intergovernmental Coordination Goals and Objectives
Goal 3: Connect with local, regional, and state agencies and stakeholders to improve the
natural environment in and around Laurel
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Sponsor environmental cleanup and
rehabilitation programs that include the City,
County, school district, community
organizations, and residents
City Council
County Commission
Mid-term
Participate in regional watershed studies to
achieve adequate long-term flood protection
Planning Board
City/County
Departments
Long-term
Explore the possibility of creating a
conservation corridor along the Yellowstone
River
Planning Dept
County Park Board
County Commission
Long-term
Goal 1: Establish lines of communication with local, county, and state partners
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Create an accurate directory of government
representatives and staff
Clerk-Treasurer
City Planner
Immediate
Update governmental stakeholders regarding
ongoing projects and work in the Laurel area
City Council
County Commission
Planning Dept
Short-term
Develop working relationships with legislators,
staff, and stakeholders at different levels of
government
City Council
Department Heads
Immediate
Goal 2: Coordinate with local and regional institutions to support and grow the Laurel community
OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBLE ENTITY TIME FRAME
Work with economic development groups to
seize opportunities for business growth
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
City Council
Immediate
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Ongoing inter-governmental coordination efforts will be maintained. The City of Laurel has inter-local
agreements with the School District on cooperative efforts, the shared use of facilities, and other areas
of mutual interest. The City interacts with a number of agencies and organizations including but not
limited to the Laurel School District, Eastern Montana Drug Task Force (EMDTF), Fish, Widlife Wildlife &
Parks (FWP), Department of Environmental Quality, (DEQ), Department of Natural Resources and
Conservation (DNRC), and the many departments and shared Yellowstone County jurisdictions.
It will be important to maintain regular communications between City officials and the many local,
county, regional, and state groups to discuss ongoing efforts and coordination activities. The County
Commissioners have a direct impact on the Laurel area through the four members they appoint to the
Laurel City-County Planning Board. This is done due to the mixed city-county make-up of the Laurel
planning area that encompasses the city as well as areas within the County jurisdiction. A copy of the
2020 Laurel Growth Management Policy will be submitted to the Yellowstone County Commissioners for
review and comment prior to the official adoption by the City Council.
The 2023 update to the Laurel Growth Management Policy is rewritten to rebrand the policy as the
Laurel-Yellowstone City-County Planning Jurisdiction Growth Management Policy. Changes to the policy
were needed to incorporate properties outside the City of Laurel but within the planning jurisdiction.
County departments were added to include the public services that are reflective in the area adjacent to
the City of Laurel. The Growth Management Policy 2023 update will serve as a guiding document for
the City and County Governments but in no way obligates either entity to strict adherence to this
document.
Connect area businesses with institutions and
governmental groups that can support their
mission
Chamber of Commerce
BSEDA
Beartooth RC&D
Immediate
Communicate with area legislators to provide
information on growth patterns and
development in the Laurel area.
City Council
Planning Dept
Short-term
Maintain open communications with state
agencies and the Board of County
Commissioners to confirm compliance with
statewide codes and operational needs.
City Council
Department Heads
Long-term
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File Attachments for Item:
17. Resolution No. R24-42: Prosecutor Contract
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R24-42A Non-Renewal of City Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC
RESOLUTION NO. R24-42A
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL NON-RENEWING THE CITY
PROSECUTOR CONTRACT WITH LORE LAW FIRM, PLLC.
WHEREAS, the City Council (hereinafter “City Council”) of the City of Laurel
(hereinafter “the City”) previously authorized a contract for the City Prosecutor position with
Lore Law Firm, PLLC, effective until June 30, 2024;
WHEREAS, in and around April 2024, the City submitted a Request for Proposal for
commencement of a new Prosecutor Contract effective July 1, 2024;
WHEREAS, no qualified and fully-responsive submissions were provided to the City
in response to the Request for Proposal;
WHEREAS, the Prosecutor Contract provides that the Parties “may ex tend or renew”
the Contract “upon written agreement”;
WHEREAS, the Prosecutor Contract further provides that the Contract “may be
terminated at any time by either party without cause”;
WHEREAS, the City believes it is in the best interests of the City to non-renew the
existing Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC and seek different prosecutorial
services, moving forward, after June 30, 2024.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana:
Section 1: Non-Renewal of Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC. The City hereby
elects to non-renew the Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC. The Prosecutor
Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC is considered terminated as of June 30, 2024.
Section 2: Authority. The Mayor is hereby given authority to move ahead with seeking
different prosecutorial services, commencing July 1, 2024, based upon determining factors that
the Mayor believes are in the best interests of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 28th day of May 2024 by
Council Member _____________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana on the
28th day of May 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 28th day of May 2024.
203
R24-42A Non-Renewal of City Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
204
R24-42B Renewal of City Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC
RESOLUTION NO. R24-42B
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL RENEWING THE CITY PROSECUTOR
CONTRACT WITH LORE LAW FIRM, PLLC.
WHEREAS, the City Council (hereinafter “City Council”) of the City of Laurel
(hereinafter “the City”) previously authorized a contract for the City Prosecutor position with
Lore Law Firm, PLLC, effective until June 30, 2024;
WHEREAS, in and around April 2024, the City submitted a Request for Proposal for
commencement of a new Prosecutor Contract effective July 1, 2024;
WHEREAS, no qualified and fully-responsive submissions were provided to the City
in response to the Request for Proposal;
WHEREAS, the Prosecutor Contract provides that the Parties “may ex tend or renew”
the Contract “upon written agreement”;
WHEREAS, the Prosecutor Contract further provides that the Contract “may be
terminated at any time by either party without cause”;
WHEREAS, the City believes it is in the best interests of the City to renew the existing
Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC for a period of one (1) year, terminable at will
be either party upon thirty (30) days’ written notice, without any cause stated f or such
termination by either party.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana:
Section 1: Renewal of Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC. The City hereby elects to
renew the Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC. The Prosecutor Contract with Lore
Law Firm, PLLC is considered renewed as of July 1, 2024, terminable at will by either party
upon thirty (30) days’ written notice, without cause stated for such termination by either party.
The existing Prosecutor Contract shall be revised to incorporate the aforementioned length of
term and terms of termination.
Section 2: Authority. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute a Revised and
Amended Prosecutor Contract, reflecting the aforementioned length of term and terms of
termination.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 28th day of May 2024 by
Council Member _____________________.
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R24-42B Renewal of City Prosecutor Contract with Lore Law Firm, PLLC
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana on the
28th day of May 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 28th day of May 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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File Attachments for Item:
18. Ordinance O24-02: An Ordinance Repealing And Replacing Certain Sections Of Title 17 Of
The Laurel Municipal Code Related To Zoning.
216
Ordinance No. 024-02 Amend LMC Title 17 (Zoning)
ORDINANCE NO. 024-02
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND REPLACING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF
TITLE 17 OF THE LAUREL MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO ZONING.
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to keep the Laurel Municipal Code current by
modifying and updating Chapters, Sections, and Subsections to address situations and problems
within the City and to remain in accordance with Montana law;
WHEREAS, City Staff prepared, reviewed, and approved the following amendments to
the existing LMC Title 17, as noted herein and on the attached, and hereby recommends the
same to the City Council for its full approval;
WHEREAS, the attached LMC Title 17 changes fully repla ce, amend, and supersede
the existing Title 17 of the Laurel Municipal Code, except to the extent that certain Sections of
Title 17 are not addressed in the attachment hereto;
WHEREAS, the proposed changes to the existing LMC Title 17 are attached hereto and
hereby fully incorporated herein (see attached revised LMC Title 17 changes, which repeal and
replace certain Sections of Title 17 of the LMC); and
WHEREAS, to the extent that the attachment hereto does not repeal and replace certain
Sections of Title 17, those Sections not addressed in the attachment hereto remain in full force
of law as presently codified.
This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after final passage by the City
Council and approved by the Mayor.
Introduced and passed on first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the
14th day of May 2024, upon Motion by Council Member Klose.
PASSED and ADOPTED by the Laurel City Council on second reading on the 28th day
of May 2024, upon Motion by Council Member _____________________.
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR on the 28th day of May 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
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Ordinance No. 024-02 Amend LMC Title 17 (Zoning)
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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ZONING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ZC-24-01
2024 Laurel Zoning Regulations
March 4, 2024
BACKGROUND:
The City of Laurel is an incorporated City within the State of Montana with powers
established under the Constitution of Montana XI.4. The power and processes for the City
to establish zoning regulations are found in §76-2-301 et. seq. M.C.A.
Starting in early 2023 the City Council charged its Zoning Commission to update the
existing zoning regulations to reflect changes to the City Growth Policy and the community
in general.
After extensive discussion and consideration, the Zoning Commission drafted revised
Zoning Regulations but there were a number of technical issues in need of resolution. To
resolve these issues the City applied for and was awarded a Planning Grant to hire a
consultant to help the Zoning Commission refine the document resolve the technical issues
and prepare the draft regulations and a new zoning map that would implement the Growth
Policy. The Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on the draft Zoning
Regulations and Zoning Map, which is scheduled for Wednesday, December 20, 2023.
Following the hearing it is expected that the Zoning Commission will recommend the
Zoning Regulations and Map as the prevailing zoning for the City of Laurel.
The draft regulations incorporated the changes made during the 2023 Legislative session,
several of which were not viewed favorably by the Zoning Commission but were
incorporated as they were passed during the session. On December 29, 2023, Judge
Salvagni of the 18th Judicial District (Gallatin County) issued a preliminary injunction on
the implementation of Senate Bill 323 and 528 with a provision that communities could
unless they were otherwise inclined to implement the changes they could be repealed. SB
245 and 382 were part of the litigation but were not set aside by the injunction but are still
subject to potential repeal.
At the January 17, 2024, Zoning Commission meeting, the Zoning Commission
recommended that those section of the draft Regulations that were included but had been
enjoined, be removed from the document. It was also noted that the revised Growth Policy
was nearing completion and a decision on the Northwestern Energy site and zoning
authority was approaching. Given this, it was decided to slow down the Zoning adoption
until some additional answers were available.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
The City of Laurel, Montana, an incorporated City located in Yellowstone County,
Montana.
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EXISTING CONDITION:
Currently, all property within the City of Laurel is covered by the Laurel Zoning
Regulations which date back to the late 1970’s with minor revisions and updates over
roughly 40 years. The Zoning Regulations were updated and recodified in 1996 via
Ordinance 96-5. The zoning code is lacking in several aspects related to compliance with
the Growth Policy, statutory changes, and administrative processes. When coupled with
the fact that the conditions have radically changed over the past 30 to 40 years, it is time to
consider new zoning regulations that are easier to administer, clearly define roles and
responsibilities and address new/expanded uses in the city. While State Law speaks to
implementation of the Growth Policy via Subdivision Regulations, the city recognizes that
the major tool necessary to implement large sections of the Growth Policy is a zoning
ordinance.
As discussed in the following sections and in the answers to the Lowe Test, the City
Council will see the sections of the Growth Policy that are slated for implementation via
the proposed Zoning Regulations and Zoning Map for the City of Laurel.
PROCESS:
The Zoning Commission with the assistance of City Staff and a Consultant has
prepared draft zoning regulations and a zoning map.
The Zoning Commission conducts a duly noticed Public Hearing on the proposed
regulations and map on December 20, 2023.
The Zoning Commission following the Public Hearing may make changes to both
the regulations and map to reflect the comments received on the draft.
Those changes coupled with findings of fact to support the adoption of the draft
regulations and map will need to be submitted to the City Council for consideration.
The City Council will conduct a duly noticed Public Hearing on the Zoning
Commission recommendation and an Ordinance of the City Council on First
Reading.
Should the recommendation or the recommendation with amendments pass on First
Reading, another public hearing and Second Reading and adoption will be
scheduled.
If passed on Second Reading, the regulations and map would become effective 30-
days post Second Reading.
RECOMMENDED ZONES:
The Zoning Commission is recommending the creation of the following zones:
R-7500 - Residential 7500 District.
o The residential-7500 zone is intended to provide an area for low to medium
urban-density, single-family residential environment on lots that are served
by a public sewer and sewer system.
R-6000 - Residential 6000 District.
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o The residential-6000 zone is intended to promote an area for medium urban-
density, duplex residential environment on lots that are usually served by a
public water and sewer system.
RLMF - Residential Light Multifamily District.
o The residential light multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable
residential environment for medium to high density (up to a fourplex)
residential dwellings. The area is usually served by a public water and sewer
system.
RMF – Residential Multifamily District.
o The residential multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential
environment for high density residential dwellings; and to establish, where
possible, a buffer between residential and commercial zones.
RMH - Residential Manufactured Home District
o The residential manufactured home zone is intended to provide a suitable
residential environment for individual manufactured homes, manufactured
home parks, and competitive accessory uses.
RP – Residential Professional District
o The residential professional zone is intended to permit professional, and
semiprofessional uses compatible with surrounding residential
development.
NC – Neighborhood Commercial District.
o The neighborhood commercial zone is intended to accommodate shopping
facilities consisting of convenience retail and personal service
establishments which secure their principal trade by supplying the daily
needs of the population residing within a one-half mile radius of such
neighborhood facilities. The location and quantity of land within the NC
zone should be a business island not more than four acres in size and that
no business frontage should extend more than six hundred feet along any
street.
CBD – Central Business District.
o The central business district classification is intended to primarily
accommodate stores, hotels, governmental and cultural centers, and service
establishments at the central focal point of the city's transportation system.
CC – Community Commercial District.
o The community commercial classification is primarily to accommodate
community retail, service and office facilities offering a greater variety than
would normally be found in a neighborhood or convenience retail
development. Facilities within the classification will generally serve an area
within a one and one-half mile radius and is commensurate with the
purchasing power and needs of the present and potential population within
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the trade area. It is intended that these business facilities be provided in
business corridors or islands rather than a strip development along arterials.
HC – Highway Commercial District.
o The purpose of the highway commercial district is to provide areas for
commercial and service enterprises which are intended primarily to serve
the needs of the tourist, traveler, recreationist, or the general traveling
public. Areas designated as highway commercial should be located in the
vicinity of, and accessible from freeway interchanges, intersections in
limited access highways, or adjacent to primary or secondary highways. The
manner in which the services and commercial activities are offered should
be carefully planned in order to minimize the hazard to the safety of the
surrounding community and those who use such services; and to prevent
long strips of commercially zoned property.
LI - Light Industrial District.
o A light industrial classification is intended primarily to accommodate a
variety of business warehouse and light industrial uses related to wholesale
plus other business and light industries not compatible with other
commercial zones, but which need not be restricted in industrial or general
commercial zones, and to provide locations directly accessible to arterial
and other transportation systems where they can conveniently serve the
business and industrial center of the city and surrounding area.
HI – Heavy Industrial District.
o A district intended to accommodate manufacturing, processing, fabrication,
and assembly of materials and products. Areas designated as heavy industry
should have access to two or more major transportation routes, and such
sites should have adjacent space for parking and loading facilities.
P - Public District.
o The public zone is intended to reserve land exclusively for public and
semipublic uses in order to preserve and provide adequate land for a variety
of community facilities which serve the public health, safety and general
welfare.
PUD Planned Unit Development.
o The planned unit development zone is intended to provide a district in which
the use of the land is for the development of residential and commercial
purposes, as an integrated unit.
RATIONAL BASIS OF ZONING:
In the State of Montana, all jurisdictions proposing to zone or rezone property or to adopt
or revise their zoning regulations must issue findings of fact on a twelve-point test that
constitute the rational nexus/legal basis for the adoption of a zoning di strict, zoning
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regulations, or changes to zoning or zoning regulations. This rational nexus is called the
“Lowe Test”.
I. Is the zoning in accordance with the growth policy;
The proposed zoning regulations and map are based on the Growth Policy. A
simple look at the Growth Policy and future land use map will verify that the
zone assignments with few exceptions will verify that the proposed zoning
assignments are consistent with the text and mapping components of the
Growth Policy.
Several strategies from the Growth Policy pertaining to the commercial and
Business development are met with the new zoning. Most notably, the
regulations are designed to provide easier conversion, reuse and restoration of
existing structures; The sign code has not been modified in terms of advertising
up to the permitted maximum limits but the entryway overlay, multiple
categories and tables that existed in previous regulations have been eliminated.
Opportunities for internally illuminated signs and signs incorporating neon
elements are contemplated in some commercial districts; and the regulations
encourage infill development and expanded use opportunities.
Several strategies from the Growth Policy are implemented in the
administrative sections and individual District Standards. The items include
but are not limited to walkability, pedestrian sidewalks are required for all new
development and major renovations; concerns centered on nuisances and noise,
the regulations impose limits on noise and potentially offensive activity in the
standards of general applicability; and the regulations address concerns about
the pace and quality of development that the citizens of Laurel expect to see as
we move forward.
Several residential neighborhood goals and strategies are implemented.
Diversity of Neighborhoods, historic to modern; accommodation of a diverse
population both age and economic condition; Creation of zones where
manufactured homes and manufactured home parks are contemplated;
expansion of non-motorized routes and access to the core of the community.
and Residential districts protected from excessive noise and commercial
impacts the conversion of structures to new uses is encouraged.
The concept of residential Planned Unit Developments with increased density,
lot coverage and modified use regimens is contemplated in all Zoning Districts.
Finding: The recommended zoning regulations and zoning map is in accordance with the
Growth Policy and other adopted rules and regulations of the City of Laurel.
II. Is the zoning designed to lessen congestion in the streets;
The regulations encourage compact walkable development in most every district as
well as expand opportunities for new uses beyond the 1996 code. By following this
line of logic residents would be able to walk or bicycle to essential services which
would by default reduce the vehicular traffic on the streets.
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The regulations encourage compact urban development as such the need for
vehicular travel is limited.
The expanded use opportunities in many of the commercial and residential districts
will encourage compatible higher density residential development near the city
core. Implementation of these regulations will further reduce the dependency or
need for vehicular travel.
The zoning regulations in conjunction with the development standards adopted with
the Subdivision Regulations will provide for flow through development, logical
extension of the gridded infrastructure network, and encourage pedestrian- friendly
growth.
Finding: The recommended zone will lessen congestion in the streets by ensuring orderly
growth and development of the property that is consistent with the proposed
zoning and other regulations adopted by the City of Laurel.
III. Is the zoning designed to secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers;
The recommended zoning regulations and zoning map will provide for consistency
in development along with provision of police and fire protection.
The recommended zoning regulations and zoning map will incorporate
enforcement of development standards, setbacks and compliance with the other
development standards adopted by the City of Laurel.
The recommended zoning regulations and zoning map have restrictions on lot
coverage, grading and development on steep slopes and other areas that are
potentially hazardous.
Finding: The recommended zoning will provide safety to residents and visitors to the
city from fire, panic and other dangers.
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IV. Is the zoning designed to promote health and the general welfare;
The recommended zoning imposes setbacks, height limits and building restrictions.
The recommended zoning groups together like and consistent uses within existing
neighborhoods.
The recommended regulations restrict development in hazardous areas.
Finding: The grouping together of like and consistent uses promotes the health and
general welfare of all citizens of the City of Laurel. Further, the recommended
zoning is substantially consistent with the land use in our existing
neighborhoods.
V. Is the zoning designed to provide adequate light and air;
The recommended zoning imposes building setbacks, height limits, limits on the
number of buildings on a single parcel, and reasonable area limits on new
development.
The regulations implement the concept that the City of Laurel was developed
historically on a gridded network. The draft zoning requires the perpetuation of
this pattern. In doing so as the City plans for growth, the spacing and layout of new
development will facilitate provision of light and air to new development.
Finding: The recommended zoning will insure the provision of adequate light and air to
residents of the City through various development limitations.
VI. Is the zoning designed to prevent the overcrowding of land;
The zoning regulations impose minimum lot size, use regulations and other
limitations on development.
While the minimum lot sizes proposed with these regulations remains substantially
consistent with the historic pattern of development within the City of Laurel.
The major change is in the clarification of additional permitted residential uses
in the R-7500 and commercial districts mandated in the 2023 legislative session.
These proposed new standards are easy to interpret and by default administer.
The range of allowable lot sizes provides for ease of transition from rural to
urban development. These standards encourage annexation to the City and
development at a scale that justifies the capital extension of water and sewer
while spreading the costs out on an equitable basis.
Finding: The existing standards of the recommended zoning will prevent the
overcrowding of land.
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VII. Is the zoning designed to avoid undue concentration of population;
The recommended zoning is a holistic approach to land use regulation for the
entirety of the City of Laurel and is not focused on any single special interest.
The recommended zoning establishes areas that are suitable for exclusive
residential, commercial, and mixed uses.
The recommended regulations create four residential zoning districts that provide
a continuum of residential densities and manage development to create land use
compatibility.
The recommended zoning imposes minimum lot sizes, maximum number of
residences on a single parcel and setback standards.
Finding: The existing standards of the recommended zoning will prevent the undue
concentration of population by encouraging the most appropriate use and
residential density at any given location within the jurisdiction.
VIII. Is the zoning designed to facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water,
sewerage, schools, parks and other public requirements;
The recommended zoning establishes minimum standards for the provision of
infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, water sewer, wire utilities and storm water
management.
The recommended zoning encourages compact urban scale development and
groups together similar uses that will not detract from the quality of life expected
in Laurel while providing the economies of scale to extend water, sewer, streets,
parks, quality schools and other public requirements.
Finding: The standards of the recommended zoning will insure the adequate provision
of transportation, water, sewerage, school, parks, and other public
requirements.
IX. Does the zoning give reasonable consideration to the character of the district and
its peculiar suitability for particular uses;
The recommended zoning creates four residential districts that provide a continuum
of residential densities and uses that are compatible with existing neighborhoods
and ensures proper transitions between districts. The recommended zoning also
creates three commercial zoning districts that are designed to provide for various
land uses that are compatible with existing uses and neighborhood characteristics.
The recommended zones impose setbacks, height limits and building restrictions.
These restrictions insure compatible development in the residential, commercial,
and industrial zones.
The recommended zoning creates a new mixed-use district that is specifically
intended to ease the transition between residential and commercial uses.
The recommended zoning groups together like and consistent uses and is consistent
with the existing zoning in the neighborhoods.
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The regulations create eight zoning districts each with the opportunity to create
overlays in the form of a Planned Unit Development that represent new
opportunities for development and redevelopment within the City of Laurel.
Finding: The recommended zoning gives due consideration to the character of the
existing neighborhoods, within the city as well as suitability for the particular
uses.
X. Does the zoning give reasonable consideration to the peculiar suitability of the
property for its particular uses;
The recommended zoning groups together like and consistent uses and is consistent
with the existing zoning in the neighborhood.
The recommended zoning creates four residential districts that provide a continuum
of residential densities and uses that are compatible with existing neighborhoods
and ensures proper transitions between districts. The recommended zoning also
creates three commercial and one industrial zoning districts that are designed to
provide for various land uses that are compatible with existing uses and
neighborhood characteristics.
The recommended zoning creates a new mixed-use district that is specifically
intended to ease the transition between residential and commercial uses.
The recommended zoning implements all of the significant outstanding sections of
the Growth Policy. While the Growth Policy ties directly to and values the City’s
history and existing use of property and structures, the tools used to encourage
development of property needed to be designed to reflect this change in direction.
The proposed zoning regulations and map reflect this change.
Finding: The recommended zone gives reasonable consideration to the peculiar
suitability of the property for its particular uses.
XI. Will the zoning conserve the value of buildings;
The recommended zone groups together like and consistent uses and is consistent
with the existing zoning in the various neighborhoods of the City of Laurel.
The proposed zoning reinforces that commercial buildings will continue to have
commercial potential.
The proposed zoning reinforces that residential buildings will continue to be used
for equal or greater potential residential purposes.
The proposed zoning recognizes that buildings that are located in transitional areas
have options either to remain as they are or to be converted to uses that reflect the
highest and best use, in the owner’s opinion, for the subject property.
Finding: The recommended zoning will conserve or in many cases enhance the value of
buildings.
XII. Will the zoning encourage the most appropriate use of land throughout the
municipality?
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The proposed zoning and zoning map provide for use districts that group like and
compatible uses.
The proposed zoning and zoning map provide for transitional areas between uses
that may be incompatible.
The recommended zoning creates a new mixed-use district that is specifically
intended to ease the transition between residential and commercial uses.
The recommended zoning is consistent with the type of development that exists and
is occurring in the neighborhoods within the City of Laurel.
The proposed zoning recognizes that buildings that are located in transitional areas
have options either to remain as they are or to be converted to uses that reflect the
highest and best use, in the owner’s opinion, for the subject property.
Finding: The recommended zoning will encourage the most appropriate use of land
throughout the municipality.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Zoning Commission find that the proposed 2024 Zoning Regulations and Proposed
Official Zoning Map reflects the Growth Policy; that the rational nexus for the adoption of
zoning has been met or exceeded by the proposed regulations; and that the citizens of
Laurel have participated in the creation of the proposed Zoning Regulations and Zoning
Map. Further, that the Zoning Commission recommends that the City Council adopt the
2024 Laurel Zoning Regulations and Official Zoning Map.
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Chapter 17.04 - Title, Purpose and
Scope
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17.04.010 – Title Cite
This title and herein referred to maps shall be known and cited as the "Laurel Zoning Ordinance" for the
incorporated limits of the city and any additional territory authorized by either state statute or county
commissioners.
17.04.020 – Purpose of Provisions
A. The zoning regulations, classifications and districts as herein set forth are in accordance with
Sections 76-2-301 to 76-2-328, 76-1-101 to 76-1-606, and 76-2-201 to 76-2-228, MCA, 1979.
B. They have been made in accordance with the comprehensive planning process, and have been
deemed necessary and developed with consideration among other things, to the character of each
zoning district and its peculiar suitability for particular uses, to conserve the value of buildings, to
stabilize property values, to preserve recreation and agricultural lands from conflict with urban
development, to promote the interest of health, safety, and general welfare, to secure safety from
fire, and to provide adequate open space for light and air, and to facilitate the economic provision
of adequate transportation, water, sewer, schools, parks, and other public requirements.
C. The Laurel city council further declares the zoning plan is adopted for the following s pecific
purposes.
1. To promote and guide development consistent with the goals and objectives of the
comprehensive planning process.
2. To prevent waste and inefficiency in land use.
3. To encourage innovations in residential development and renewal so that the needs of the
community for housing may be met by greater variety in type and design of dwellings and
by conservation of open space; to preserve and enhance housing values and maintain
residential neighborhood aesthetics; and4.To provide adequate land and spa ce for the
development of commercial and industrial uses and to encourage such development in
locations calculated to benefit the community at large and in a manner consistent with the
goals and objectives of the city's comprehensive planning process.
17.04.030 – Scope
A. This title applies to all lands in the incorporated limits of the city; and any additional territory
authorized by either state statutes or the county commissioners.
B. In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this title may be regarded as the minimum
requirements for the protection of the public health, safety, comfort, prosperity and welfare.
C. This title is not intended to abrogate or annul any building permit, certificate of occupancy, variance
or other lawful permit issued prior to the effective date of the ordinances codified in this title.
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Chapter 17.08 – Definitions
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17.08.010 - Purpose of provisions
For the purpose of this title, certain words and terms used herein are defined in this chapter.
17.08.020 - Rules of construction
All words used in the present tense include the future tense. All words used in the plural number include
the singular number, and all words used in the singular number include the plural number, unless the natural
construction of the wording indicates otherwise. The word "building" includes the word "structure." The word
"shall" is mandatory and not discretionary. The word "used" shall be deemed to include "designed, intended
or arranged to be used."
Unless otherwise specified, all distances shall be measured horizontally. The word "city" means the city of
Laurel, Montana; the term "city council" means the city council of the city; the term "board of adjustment"
means the board of adjustment of the city; the term "city zoning commissio n" means the zoning commission
of the city.
17.08.030 - Accessory living quarters
"Accessory living quarters" means living quarters within an accessory building for the sole use of the family
or of persons employed on the premises, or for the temporary use of guests of the occupants of the
premises. Such quarters have no kitchen facilities and are not rented, leased, or otherwise used as a
separate dwelling unit. The term "accessory living quarters" includes "guest house."
17.08.080 – Alley
"Alley" means a public way which affords only secondary access to abutting property.
17.08.090 – Apartment
"Apartment" means a room or suite of two or more rooms in a multiple dwelling or in any other building not
a single-family dwelling or a two-family dwelling, occupied or suitable for occupancy as a dwelling unit for
one family. A bachelor apartment or efficiency unit shall qualify under this definition.
17.08.100 - Auto wrecking
See "junkyard”.
17.08.110 – Basement
"Basement" means that portion of a building below the first-floor joists, the floor of which is more than one-
half clear ceiling height below the adjacent ground.
17.08.120 – Billboard
See "Sign — Outdoor advertising."
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17.08.130 – Block
"Block" means the property abutting one side of a street and lying between the two nearest intersecting
streets, or between the nearest such street and railroad right -of-way, unsubdivided acreage, river or live
stream: or between any of the foregoing and any other barrier to the continuity of development.
17.08.131 - Bed and breakfast inn
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"Bed and breakfast inn" means a house or portion thereof that contains short-term guest rooms where
lodging with or without meals is provided for compensation. The operator of the inn shall live on the same
property upon which the term is located.
17.08.132 - Boarding or lodging house
"Boarding or lodging house" means a house where meals (with or without lodging) are provided for
compensation and by pre-arrangement for a definite period for three or more people. "Boarding or lodging
house" shall not be construed to mean rest or convalescent homes nor "Bed and breakfast inns".
17.08.140 – Building
"Building" means a structure having a roof supported by walls or columns for the shelter, support, or
enclosure of persons, animals, or chattels. When, in a building all of which is used for nonresidential
purposes, any portion of the building is completely separated from all other portions by a masonry division
wall from the ground up to the roof, and no door or other opening directly communicating between the two
portions of the building, such portions so separated shall be deemed separate buildings.
17.08.150 - Building, accessory
"Accessory building" means a subordinate building, the use of which is customarily incidental to that of a
principal building on the same lot.
17.08.160 - Building codes
"Building codes" means the current building code adopted by the city.
17.08.170 - Building inspector
"Building inspector" means the official designated by the mayor to enforce this title and building codes.
17.08.180 - Building line
"Building line" means a line established in general, parallel to the front street line between which and the
front street line no part of a building shall pro ject, except as otherwise provided by this title.
17.08.190 - Building—Principal
"Principal building" means a building in which is conducted the principal use of the lot on which it is situated.
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17.08.200 - Business or commerce
"Business" or "commerce" means the purchase, sale, offering for sale, or other transaction involving the
handling or disposition of any article, service, substance or commodity for livelihood or profit; or the
management or occupancy of the office buildings, offices, recreational or amusement enterprises; or the
maintenance and use of buildings, offices, structures or premises by professions and trades or persons
rendering services.
17.08.210 - Camp, public
"Public camp" means any area or tract, or land used or designed to accommodat e two or more camping
parties, including cabins, tents, camping trailers or other camping outfits.
17.08.220 – Carport
"Carport" means a structure to house or to protect motor vehicles owned or operated by the occupants of
the main building which is open to the weather for at least fifty percent of the total area of its sides; when
attached to another building it shall comply with the yard requirements of that building.
17.08.230 - Child care facilities
"Daycare home" means a private residence in which supplemental parental care is provided for up to fifteen
children, including the operator's children, from separate families on a regular basis. Such daycare home
shall be registered with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
"Daycare center" means a place in which supplemental parental care and/or adult supervision is provided
to sixteen or more children, including the operator's children, on a regular basis, and which may include
nursery schools, private kindergartens, or after school c are and supervision. Such daycare center shall be
license as required by the state, city, or county and conducted in accordance with applicable state and local
requirements.
17.08.240 – City
"City" means the city of Laurel, Montana.
17.08.250 – Clinic
"Clinic" means a building designed and used for the medical, dental, and surgical diagnosis and treatment
of patients under the care of doctors and nurses.
17.08.260 - Clinic, animal
"Animal clinic" means a building or premises for the medical treatment of pets or customary household
animals, including but not limited to cats and dogs, provided no overnight boarding occurs on the premises.
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17.08.270 – Club
"Club" means an incorporated or unincorporated association of persons organized for a social, educational,
literary or charitable purpose. Property occupied by a club shall be deemed to be semiprivate in character
and shall be subject to the city regulations governing public buildings and places, excluding groups
organized primarily to render a service which is normally considered a business.
17.08.280 – Cluster
"Cluster" means a pattern of residential development where dwelling units are grouped, with the remainder
of the yard left in landscaped open space.
17.08.285 - College or university
"College or university" means a post-secondary school as defined in this chapter.
17.08.290 - Commercial district
"Commercial district" means any NCL, NC, CBD, CC or HC district.
17.08.291 - Community residential facilities
"Adult foster family care home" means a private home licensed by the Montana Department of Family
Services owned by one or more persons eighteen years of age or older which offers light personal care o r
custodial care to disabled adults who are not related to the owner by blood or marriage or which offers light
personal care or custodial care to aged persons. The number of aged persons or disabled adults in an adult
foster family care home may total no more than four.
"Community group home" means a family-oriented residence or home licensed by the appropriate state
agency designed to provide residential services and facilities for developmentally, severely disabled or
mentally disabled persons, but does not provide skilled or intermediate nursing care.
"Halfway house" means a place operated in accordance with the regulations of the Montana Department
of Health and Environmental Sciences for the rehabilitation of alcohol or drug dependent persons.
"Nursing homes, convalescent homes, orphanages, and charitable institutions" means a home operated
similarly to a boarding house but not restricted to any number of guest or guest rooms, and the operator of
which is licensed by the state, city, or county to giv e special care and supervision to his/her patients. In
such homes, nursing, dietary, and other personal services are furnished to convalescent, invalids, and aged
persons, but within which homes are kept no persons suffering from a contagious or communicab le disease,
and within which are performed no surgery, maternity, or other primary treatments such as are customarily
provided in sanitariums or hospitals, and within which no persons are kept to be served who normally would
be admitted to a mental hospital. Adult foster care homes are not included in this definition.
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"Youth foster home" means a youth care facility licensed by the Montana Department of Family Services in
which substitute care is provided to one to six foster children or youths, other than the foster parent's own
children, stepchildren, or wards.
"Youth group home" means a youth care facility licensed by the Montana Department of Family Services
in which individual care is provided to seven to twelve children or youth.
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17.08.300 – Condominium
"Condominium" means ownership in common with others of a parcel of land and certain parts of a building,
together with individual ownership in fee of a particular unit or apartment in such building. Each individual
has an absolute title to his apartment which he may sell, mortgage or devise as he could with a single -
family dwelling that he owned.
17.08.310 – Dairy
"Dairy" means any premises where three or more cows, three or more goats, or any combination thereof
are kept, milked or maintained.
17.08.330 – Density
"Density" means the number of families residing on, or dwelling units developed on, an acre of land. As
used in this title, all densities are stated in families per net acre, that is, per acre of land devoted to residential
use, exclusive of land in streets, alleys, parks, playgrounds, schoolyards, or other public lands and open
spaces.
17.08.340 - Drive-in restaurant
"Drive-in restaurant" means a use whose retail character is dependent on a driveway approach and parking
space for motor vehicles so as to either serve customers while in the vehicle or permit consumption of food
or beverages obtained on the premises, in a vehicle.
17.08.350 – Dwelling
"Dwelling" means a building or portion thereof arranged or designed to provide living fac ilities for one or
more families. The term "dwelling" shall not be deemed to include a motel, hotel or travel trailer. All dwellings
except manufactured homes must conform to the Uniform Building Code.
17.08.360 - Dwelling, group
In general, "group dwelling" means a building in which several unrelated individuals or families permanently
reside, but in which individual cooking facilities are not provided for the individual persons or families.
Specifically, "group dwelling" shall include a rooming house, fra ternity house, sorority house and private
club in which one or more members have a permanent residence. "Group dwelling" shall not be deemed to
include a hotel, motel, tourist home, mobile park, or any use included in the "health-medical group."
17.08.370 - Dwelling, multifamily
"Multifamily dwelling" means a building containing three or more dwelling units.
17.08.380 - Dwelling, multifamily high rise
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"Multifamily high-rise dwelling" means a building containing over three dwelling units with a height not ov er
six stories or sixty feet.
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17.08.390 - Dwelling, single-family
"Single-family dwelling" means a building containing only one dwelling unit.
17.08.400 - Dwelling, two family
"Two family dwelling" means a building containing only two dwelling units.
17.08.410 - Dwelling unit
"Dwelling unit" means a building or portion thereof providing complete housekeeping facilities for one family.
17.08.420 – Easement
"Easement" means a grant by the property owner of the use of a strip of land by the public, or by one or
more persons or corporations for a specific purpose or purposes.
17.08.430 - Senior housing
"Senior housing" means housing designed specifically for occupancy with at least one resident domiciled
in each living unit therein with an age of sixty-two years or older.
17.08.440 - Fallout shelters
"Fallout shelters" means a structure or portion of a structure intended to provide protection to human life
during periods of danger from nuclear fallout, air raids, storms, or other emergencies.
17.08.450 – Family
"Family" means one or more persons occupying a dwelling unit and living as a single, nonprofit
housekeeping unit.
17.08.460 – Fence
"Fence" means a barrier of posts connected by boards, rails, panels, or wire constructed for purposes of
enclosing space, for separating parcels of land or for landscaping and including masonry walls, ornamental
structures, privacy screens and shrubs.
17.08.470 - Filling station
"Filling station" means a building or lot having pumps and storage tanks where fuels, oils, or accessories
for motor vehicles are dispensed, sold or offered for sale at retail only; repair service is in cidental; and no
storage or parking space is offered for rent.
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17.08.480 - Floodplain or floodway
"Floodplain" or "floodway" means in all cases of interpretation the regulations of the Montana Water
Resources Board as provided in Sections 76-5-103 and 76-5-104, MCA, 1979.
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17.08.490 - Floodplain zone
"Floodplain zone" means a separate and distinct portion of the Laurel Zoning Ordinance governing those
lands affected by a one-hundred-year floodplain classification.
17.08.500 - Fraternity, sorority, or student
cooperative
"Fraternity," "sorority," or "student cooperative" means a building occupied by and maintained exclusively
by students.
17.08.510 – Frontage
"Frontage" means all of the property on one side of the street or highway between two intersecting st reets
or highways (crossing or terminating) measured along the line of the street or highway, or if the street or
highway is dead ended, then all of the property abutting on one side between an intersecting street or
highway and the dead end of the street or highway.
17.08.520 - Garage, private
"Private garage" means an accessory building or part of principal building used only for the storage of motor
vehicles as an accessory use, when the storage space does not exceed that for the following number of
vehicles:
A. For any single-family dwelling — three passenger vehicles.
B. For any two-family dwelling — four passenger vehicles.
C. For any multifamily dwelling — passenger vehicles equal in number to two hundred fifty percent of
the number of dwelling units in the principal building.
D. For any other use — no limitation.
17.08.530 - Garage, public
"Public garage" means a building or premises which is operated for commercial purposes and used for the
storage, care, or repair of motor vehicles, but a "public garage" shall not be used for the storage of
dismantled or wrecked motor vehicles, parts thereof, or junk.
17.08.540 - Group dwelling
See "Dwelling group."
17.08.550 - Height of building
"Height of building" means the vertical distance measured from the highest of the f ollowing three levels:
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A. The street curb level; or
B. The established or mean street grade in case the curb has not been constructed; or
C. The average finished ground level adjoining the building if it sets back from the street line to the
level of the highest point at the roof beams to flat roofs, or roofs inclining not more than one inch to
the foot, and to the mean height level of the top of the main plate and highest ridge for other roofs.
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17.08.560 – Hospital
"Hospital" means an institution specializing in giving clinical, temporary, and emergency services of a
medical or surgical nature to human patients and licensed by state law to provide facilities and services in
surgery, obstetrics and general medical practice, as distinguished from treatment of menta l and nervous
disorders, but not excluding surgical and post-surgical treatment of mental cases. Nursing homes and
convalescent homes are not included.
17.08.570 - Hospital, animal
"Animal hospital" means a place where livestock or pets are given medical o r surgical treatment. Use of a
kennel shall be limited to short time boarding and shall only be incidental to such hospital use.
17.08.580 - Hospital, mental
"Mental hospital" means an institution licensed by state agencies under the provisions of law to o ffer
facilities, care and treatment of cases of mental and nervous disorders.
17.08.590 – Hotel
"Hotel" means a building in which lodging, with or without meals, is provided and offered to the public for
compensation, and which is open to transient guests. Hotels include motels and automobile courts, but do
not include group dwellings as defined herein.
17.08.600 - Industrial district
"Industrial district" means any LI or HI district.
17.08.610 – Junkyard
"Junkyard" means the use of any premises whether inside or outside of a building for the storage, keeping
or abandonment of junk, including scrap metals, rags, paper, or other scrap material and equipment for
dismantling, demolition or storage of unlicensed or abandoned automobiles or other vehicles, or machinery
or parts thereof.
17.08.620 - Jurisdictional area
"Jurisdictional area" means the area included within the incorporated areas of the City of Laurel.
17.08.630 - Kennel, commercial
"Commercial kennel" means a place where dogs or cats other than those owned by the kennel owner are
kept and boarded for any period in excess of twenty-four hours. Female dogs or cats bred for the sole
purpose of the sale of puppies or kittens for profit and female dogs or cats numbering more than two
constitute a commercial kennel.
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17.08.640 - Kennel, noncommercial
"Noncommercial kennel" means a kennel at, in or adjoining a private residence where hunting dogs or other
dogs or cats are kept for the hobby of the householder in using them in shows or field or obedience trials
or for the guarding or protecting the householder's property. The occasional raising of a litter of puppies or
kittens at the kennel should not change the character of residential prop erty (no more than one litter of
puppies or kittens shall be allowed in a calendar). In residential districts each household shall not possess
more than two adult dogs or cats (an adult dog or cat is herein defined as any dog or cat over the age of
twelve months).
17.08.670 – Lot
"Lot" when used alone, means, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, "zoning lot" as defined in this
title.
17.08.680 - Lot, corner
"Corner lot" means a zoning lot at the junction of and abutting on two or more intersecting streets when the
interior angle of intersection does not exceed one hundred thirty -five degrees. Any zoning lot adjoining a
curved street at a point where the street boundary described an arc subtended by an angle of one hundred
thirty-five degrees or less, shall be considered a "corner lot."
17.08.690 - Lot depth
"Lot depth" means the mean horizontal distance between the front and rear lot lines, measured in the
general direction of the side lot lines.
17.08.700 - Lot, interior
"Interior lot" means a zoning lot other than a corner lot.
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17.08.710 - Lot line, rear
"Rear lot line" means the lot line generally opposite or parallel to the front street line. If a rear lot line is less
than ten feet long, or the lot comes to a point at the rear, the rear lot lin e is assumed to be a line at least
ten feet long, lying wholly within the lot, parallel to the front street line or, if the front street line is curbed,
parallel to the chord of the arc of the front street line.
17.08.720 - Lot, record
"Record lot" means land designated as a separate and distinct parcel on a legally recorded subdivision plat
or in a legally recorded deed filed in the records of Yellowstone County, Montana.
17.08.730 - Lot width
"Lot width" means the average width of the lot.
17.08.740 - Lot, zoning
"Zoning lot" means a tract of land occupied or to be occupied by a principal building and its accessory
buildings, together with such open spaces and yards as are required under the provisions of this title, having
not less than the minimum area required by this title for a zoning lot in the district in which such land is
situated and having its principal frontage on a street or a permanent, exclusive, unobstructed easement of
access or right-of-way to a street, not less than twenty feet wide. A "zoning lot" need not necessarily
coincide with a "record lot" as herein defined.
17.08.750 – Marquee
"Marquee" means a fixed shelter used only as a roof and extending beyond a building line and which is
entirely supported by the building to which it is attached.
17.08.760 - Medical marijuana cultivation facility or
cultivation facility
"Medical marijuana cultivation facility" or "cultivation facility" shall mean a building, structure or premises
used for the cultivation or storage of medical marijuana that is physically separate and off site from any
medical marijuana dispensary and that is designated as part of the premises of a medical marijuana
dispensary licensed pursuant to Title 5, Chapter 5.70 of the Laurel Municipal Code. The city shall not license
a medical marijuana cultivation facility or cultivation facility within one thousand feet of any private or public
preschool, elementary, secondary, vocational or trade school, any childcare center, place of worship or
religious assembly, any public or private park, pool, playground or recreational facility, any juvenile or adult
halfway house, correctional facility, or substance abuse rehabilitation or treatment center as provided in
Title 5, Chapter 5.70.050.
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17.08.761 - Medical marijuana dispensary or
dispensary
"Medical marijuana dispensary" or "dispensary" shall mean a property or structure used to sell, distribute,
transmit, give, dispense, or otherwise provide marijuana in any manner to patients or primary caregivers
pursuant to the authority contained in MCA § 50-46-101 et. seq. and the implementing of administrative
regulations promulgated thereto. The city shall not license a medical marijuana dispensary facility or
dispensary facility within one thousand feet of any private or public preschool, e lementary, secondary,
vocational or trade school, any childcare center, place of worship or religious assembly, any public or private
park, pool, playground or recreational facility, any juvenile or adult halfway house, correctional facility, or
substance abuse rehabilitation or treatment center as provided in Title 5, Chapter 5.70.050.
17.08.762 - Mobile home
See "Manufactured home parks, travel trailer parks and individual manufactured homes.
17.08.763 - Manufactured home parks, travel trailer
parks and individual manufactured homes
The following definitions shall be utilized in determining the appropriate classification of manufactured
homes, modular homes and travel trailers:
1. "Manufactured home" means a dwelling unit that: (a) is not constructed in accor dance with the
standards set forth in the Uniform Building Code, applicable to site -built homes; and (b) is
composed of one or more components, each of which was substantially assembled in a
manufacturing plant and designed to be transported to the home site on its own chassis; and (c)
exceeds forty feet in length and eight feet in width.
2. Manufactured Home, Class A. "Class A manufactured home" means a manufactured home
constructed after June 15, 1976, that meets or exceeds the construction standards promulgated by
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that were in effect at the time of
construction and that satisfies each of the following additional criteria:
a. The roof is finished with a type of shingle that is commonly used in standard residen tial
construction; and
b. The standard siding consists of wood, hardboard or aluminum (vinyl covered or painted,
but in no case exceeding the reflectivity of gloss white paint) comparable in composition,
appearance and durability to the exterior siding commonly used in standard residential
construction; and
c. A continuous, permanent masonry foundation, unpierced except for required ventilation
and access, is installed under the home; and
d. The tongue, axles, transporting lights and removable towing apparatus are removed after
placement on the lot and before occupancy.
3. Manufactured Home, Class B. "Class B manufactured home" means a manufactured home
constructed after June 15, 1976, that meets or exceeds the construction standards promulgated b y
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that were in effect at the time of
construction but that does not satisfy the criteria necessary to qualify the house as a Class A
manufactured home.
4. Manufactured Home, Class C. "Class C manufactured home" means any manufactured home that
does not meet the definitional criteria of a Class A or Class B manufactured home.
250
5. "Manufactured home park" means a residential use in which more than one manufactured home is
located on a single lot.
6. "Modular home" means a dwelling unit constructed in accordance with the standards set forth in
the Uniform Building Code, applicable to site-built homes, and composed of components
substantially assembled in a manufacturing plant and transported to the building site for fi nal
assembly on a permanent foundation. Among other possibilities, a modular home may consist of
two sections transported to the site in a manner similar to a manufactured home (except that the
modular home meets the Uniform Building Code Standards applicable to site-built homes), or a
series of panels or room sections transported on a truck and erected or joined together on the site.
17.08.770 – Motel
"Motel" means a group of attached or detached buildings containing individual sleeping units where a
majority of such units open individually and directly to the outside, and where a garage is attached to or a
parking space is conveniently located at each unit, all for the temporary use by automobile tourist or
transient, and such word shall include tourist courts, motor courts, automobile courts and motor lodges.
251
17.08.780 - Motor vehicle parts salvage yard
252
"Motor vehicle parts salvage yard" means the use of not more than fifty percent of the premises of a motor
vehicle repair garage or motor vehicle body repair shop for the storage of motor vehicles for dismantling
and sale of used parts thereof.
17.08.790 - Nonconforming use
The use of a building or other structure or of a tract of land which does not conform to the use or regulations
of this title for the district in which it is located, either at the effective date of the ordinance codified in this
title, or as a result of subsequent amendments which may be incorporated into this title.
17.08.800 - Off-street parking space
"Off-street parking space" means an off-street area for parking of one motor vehicle having an all-weather
surface, shall have a width of not less than twelve feet when directly connected to a driveway approach; in
all other instances the width shall be not less than ten feet; in both instances the length shall be not less
than twenty feet. Easy access to a street shall be provided by a driveway having an al l-weather surface.
17.08.810 - Parking lot
"Parking lot" means any land legally used for the parking of motor vehicles.
17.08.820 - Residential district
"Residential district" means any RE, R-7500, R-6000, RLMF, PUD, RMH, or RP district.
17.08.830 - Outdoor advertising display
"Outdoor advertising display" means card, cloth, paper and metal painted signs, wooden, plaster, stone or
other sign of any kind or character whatsoever placed for outdoor advertising purposes on the ground or
on any tree, wall, bush, rock, post, fence, building, structure or thing whatsoever. The term "placed" as used
in the definition of "outdoor advertising sign" and "outdoor advertising structure" shall include erecting,
construction, posting, painting, printing, tacking, nailing, gluing, sticking, carving, or otherwise fastening,
affixing, or making visible in any manner whatsoever. See also definition for "sign."
17.08.850 - Planning board
"Planning board" means the Laurel-Yellowstone city-county planning board as authorized under the
provisions of 76-1-101 to 76-1-606, MCA 1979.
17.08.860 - Planning director
"Planning director" means the individual appointed by the chief executive in accordance with 76 -1-
306(1)(3), MCA, 1979, and whose duties and responsibilities shall include, di recting the planning and
administrative activities of the planning department serving as the technical adviser to the planning board,
zoning commission, board of adjustment and city council.
253
17.08.870 - Planned unit development
"Planned unit development" means a land development project consisting of residential clusters, industrial
parks, shopping centers, office building parks, or any combination thereof which compromises a planned
mixture of land uses built in a prearranged relationship to each other and having open space and community
facilities in common ownership or use.
17.08.875 - Post-secondary school
"Post-secondary school" means a community college, a unit of the Montana University System, or a private
university or college.
17.08.877 – Preschool
"Preschool" means a place or facility that provides, on a regular basis and as its primary purpose,
educational instruction designed for children five years of age or younger and that: (a) serves no child under
five years of age for more than three hours a day; and (b) serves no child five years of age for more than
six hours a day. See also "Childcare facilities" of this chapter.
17.08.880 - Principal use
"Principal use" means the primary or predominant use to which the property is or may be devoted, and to
which all other uses on the premises are accessory.
17.08.890 - Public use zone
"Public use zone" means a separate zone intended to reserve land for public and semipublic uses.
17.08.900 - Public utility
"Public utility" means a private business, performing a public service and subject to special governmental
regulations, or a governmental agency performing similar public services, the services by either or which
are paid for directly by the recipients thereof. Such services shall include but are not lim ited to, water supply,
electric power, gas and transportation for persons and freight.
17.08.910 - Recreational area, commercial
"Commercial recreational area" means an area operated for profit and devoted to facilities and equipment
for recreational purposes, including swimming pools, tennis courts, skiing, horseback riding, playgrounds,
and other similar uses, whether the use of such area is limited to private membership or whether open to
the public upon the payment of a fee or service charge.
17.08.920 - Recreational area, noncommercial
254
"Noncommercial recreational area" means an area devoted to facilities and equipment for recreational
purposes, swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, community club houses and other similar uses
maintained and operated by a nonprofit club, homeowner's association or other corporate structure and
whose membership is limited to the residents within the area.
255
17.08.950 - Row housing
"Row housing" means a building which has not less than three one -family dwelling units erected in a row
as a single building on adjoining lots, each being separated from the adjoining unit or units by an approved
masonry party wall or walls extended from the basement or cellar floor to the roof along the dividing lot line;
and each such building being separated from any other building by space on all sides.
17.08.960 - Salvage yards
See "motor vehicle parts salvage yards."
17.08.970 – Sanitarium
"Sanitarium" means a facility where resident patients are kept, and which specializes in giv ing clinical,
temporary and emergency services of medical or surgical nature to human patients and licensed by the
state to provide facilities and services in surgery, obstetrics and general medical practice.
17.08.980 – School
"School" means a place or institution for the teaching of individuals, the curriculum of which is composed
of the work of any combination of kindergarten through grade twelve, a post -secondary school or a
preschool.
17.08.990 - School, commercial
"Commercial school" means a building where instruction is given to pupils in arts, crafts, or trades, and
operated as a commercial enterprise as distinguished from schools endowed and/or supported by taxation.
17.08.1010 - Secondhand store
"Secondhand store" means a retail establishment in which the principal portion of the articles, commodities,
or merchandise handled, offered for sale, or sold on the premises is used or not new. Antique stores are
exempt.
17.08.1020 - Service station, automobile gasoline
and motor fuels
"Service station, automobile gasoline and motor fuels" means a use which provides for drive -in type
business in which service can be provided without a customer leaving the vehicle. It may also include the
following:
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A. The servicing of motor vehicles and operations incidenta l thereto but not necessarily limited to the
retail sale of petroleum products and automotive accessories, automobile waxing and polishing, tire
changing and repairing (excluding recapping), battery service, charging and replacement, excluding
repair and rebuilding, radiator cleaning and flushing, excluding steam cleaning and repair, and
installation of accessories.
B. The following operations, if conducted within a building: Lubrication of motor vehicles, brake servicing
limited to servicing and replacement of brake cylinders, lines and brake shoes, wheel balancing, the
testing, adjustment, and replacement or servicing of carburetors, coils, condensers, distributor caps,
fan belts, filters, generators, points, rotors, spark plugs, voltage regulators, water and fuel pumps,
water hoses and wiring, replacing mufflers and shock absorbers.
257
17.08.1030 – Sign
"Sign" means any device intended for visual communication that is used for the purpose of bringing the
subject thereof to the attention of the public; provided, however, that the following shall not be included in
the application of the regulations herein:
A. Signs not exceeding one square foot in area and bearing only property numbers, post box numbers,
names of occupants of premises, or other identification of premises not having commercial
connotations.
B. Flags and insignias of any government except when displayed in connection with commercial
promotion.
C. Legal notices, identification, information, or directional signs erected or required by governmental
bodies.
D. Integral decorative or architectural features of buildings, except letters, trademarks, moving parts,
or moving lights.
E. Signs directing and guiding traffic and parking on private property but bearing no advertising matter.
F. Real estate "For Sale" signs ten sq. feet or less in size.
G. Package containers, designed for the purpose of holding letters, parcel post, packages, and
delivery service orders.
H. Temporary political campaign signs.
17.08.1040 - Stable, private
"Private stable" means a detached accessory building in which animals are kept entirely for the use of the
owner or members of the immediate family.
17.08.1050 - Stable, nonprofit, or commercial
"Nonprofit or commercial stable" means a structure and customary accessory buildings owned and
operated by a nonprofit association or club conducted for the exclusive use of its members or guests; or a
structure and customary accessory buildings operated for the boarding, rental, or sale of horses and other
animals, and otherwise used by the general public.
17.08.1060 – Story
"Story" means that portion of a building included between the surface of any floor and the surface of the
floor next above it, or if there be no floor above it, then the space between the floor and the ceiling next
above it. A basement shall be counted as a story if its ceiling is more than five feet above the level from
which the height of the building is measured.
17.08.1070 - Story, half
"Half story" means a story with at least two opposite exterior sides meeting at a sloping roof not more than
two feet above the floor of such story.
258
17.08.1080 – Street
"Street" means a public thoroughfare which affords principal means of access to abutting property.
17.08.1090 - Structural alteration
"Structural alteration" means any change in the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls or
partitions, columns, beams or girders, or any structural change in the roof, or dimension of the rooms
therein.
17.08.1100 – Structure
"Structure" means anything constructed or erected, which requires location on the ground or is attached to
something having a location on the ground; including but not limited to buildings, advertising signs,
billboards, and poster panels; but not including customary fences or boundary or retaining walls.
17.08.1110 - Theater, drive-in
"Drive-in theater" means an establishment to provide entertainment through projection of motion pictures
on an outdoor screen for audiences whose seating accommodations are provided by their own motor
vehicles parked in car spaces provided on the same site with the outdoor screen.
17.08.1120 - Trailer or mobile home
See "Manufactured home parks, travel trailer parks and individual manufactured homes."
17.08.1130 - Travel trailer
"Travel trailer" means a portable structure built on a chassis, designed to be used as a temporary dwelling
for travel, recreational and vacation use. When factory- equipped for the road, it shall have a maximum
dimension of eight by thirty-two feet.
17.08.1160 – International Building Code
"International building codes" means the currently adopted set of regulations in effect concerning building
in the city, as defined in Section 17.08.160 of this chapter, and as utilized in the zoning jurisdiction of the
city and in that area around Laurel in which Laurel enforces the building code.
17.08.1170 – Use
"Use" means the term referring to:
A. Any purpose for which buildings, other structures or land may be arranged, designed, intended,
maintained, or occupied; and
B. Any occupation, business, activity, or operation carried on (or intended to be carried on) in a
building or other structure or on land; or
259
C. The name of a building, other structure or tract of land which indicates the purpose for which it is
arranged, designed, intended, maintained, or occupied.
17.08.1180 - Usable open space
"Usable open space" means space on the same lot and contiguous to the principal building or buildings
and which is either landscaped or developed and maintained for recreational purposes and excludes that
portion of the lot which is utilized for off-street parking or loading space or for front yard setback
requirements.
17.08.1190 - Uses permitted
"Uses permitted" means any use permitted by the regulations of this title. The term "permitted use" or its
equivalent shall not be deemed to include any nonconforming use.
17.08.1200 – Variance
"Variance" means an adjustment in the application of the specific regulations of this title to a particular piece
of property which property, because of special circumstances applicable to it, is deprived of privileges
commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same vicinity or zone.
17.08.1210 - Yard, front
"Front yard" means a yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the front line of the
lot and the nearest line of the principal building.
17.08.1220 - Yard, rear
"Rear yard" means a yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the rear line of the lot
and the nearest line of the principal building.
260
17.08.1230 - Yard, side
"Side yard" means a yard between the sideline of the lot and the nearest line of the principal building and
extending from the front yard to the rear yard, or, in the absence of either side yards, is a front or rear lot
line, respectively, no case being closer than four feet. The first two fe et of the overhang shall not be
subtracted from the allowable side yard spacing; provided that the overhang is not closer than four feet to
the property line.
17.08.1240 – Yard
"Yard" means an open space of uniform width or depth on the same zoning lot with a building or group of
buildings, which open space lies between the buildings or group of buildings and the nearest lot line and is
unoccupied and unobstructed, from the ground upward except as may be specifically provided in this title.
In measuring a yard, the line of a building shall be deemed to mean a line parallel to the nearest lot line
drawn through the point of a building or group of buildings nearest to such lot line, exclusive of such features
specified as not to be considered in measuring yard dimensions or as being permitted to extend into a yard,
and the measurements shall be taken at right angles from the line to the building to the nearest lot line.
261
Chapter 17.12 – Zoning Districts
Established
262
17.12.010 – Intent
It is the intent of this chapter to establish zones wherein compatible uses of land may be located to create,
protect, and maintain a desirable living environment, to stabilize and protect residential harmony and to
conduct a profitable business. It is also the intent of this chapter to make it possible to efficiently and
economically design and install public facilities in terms of size and capacity to adequately meet the needs
resulting from a defined intensity of land use.
17.12.020 - Districts designated
In order to carry out the provisions of this title, the city and other areas so authorized by the county
commissioners or state statute, is divided into the following zoning districts in which the erection,
construction, alteration, reconstruction, repair or use of build ings, structures, and land shall be regulated
and restricted. The regulations in each district shall be uniform throughout each district but may differ from
those in other districts. The districts are designated as follows:
A. R-7500 — Residential-7500.
B. R-6000 — Residential-6000.
C. RLMF — Residential Light Multifamily.
D. RMF — Residential Multifamily.
E. RMH — Residential Manufactured Home.
F. PUD — Planned Unit Development.
G. RP — Residential Professional.
H. NC — Neighborhood Commercial.
I. CBD — Central Business District.
J. CC — Community Commercial.
K. HC — Highway Commercial.
L. LI — Light Industrial.
M. HI — Heavy Industrial.
N. FP — Floodplain.
O. P — Public.
263
17.12.050 - Residential-7500 District (R-7500)
The residential-7500 zone is intended to provide an area for medium, urban-density, single-family, and
duplex residential environment on lots that are served by a public sewer and sewer system.
17.12.060 - Residential-6000 District (R-6000)
The residential-6000 zone is intended to promote an area for a high, urban-density, duplex residential
environment on lots that are usually served by a public water and sewer system.
17.12.070 - Residential Light Multifamily District
(RLMF)
The residential light multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for medium
density (up to a fourplex) residential dwellings. The area is usually served by a public water and sewer
system.
17.12.080 - Residential Multifamily District (RMF)
The residential multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for medium to high
density residential dwellings; and to establish, where possible, a buffer between residential and commercial
zones.
17.12.090 - Residential Manufactured Home District
(RMH)
The residential manufactured home zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for
individual manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, and competitive accessory uses.
17.12.100 - Planned Unit Development District (PUD)
The planned unit development zone is intended to provide a district in which the use of the land is for the
development of residential and commercial purposes, as an integrated unit.
17.12.110 - Residential Professional District (RP)
The residential professional zone is intended to permit professional, and semiprofessional uses compatible
with surrounding residential development.
17.12.120 - Neighborhood Commercial District (NC)
264
The neighborhood commercial zone is intended to accommodate shopping facilities consisting of
convenience retail and personal service establishments which secure their principal trade by supplying the
daily needs of the population residing within a one-half mile radius of such neighborhood facilities. The
location and quantity of land within the NC zone should be a business island not more than four acres in
size and that no business frontage should extend more than six hundred feet along any street.
17.12.130 - Central Business District (CBD)
The central business district classification is intended to primarily accommodate stores, hotels,
governmental and cultural centers, and service establishments at the central focal point of the city's
transportation system.
17.12.140 - Community Commercial District (CC)
The community commercial classification is primarily to accommodate community retail, service and office
facilities offering a greater variety than would normally be found in a neighborhood or convenience retail
development. Facilities within the classification will genera lly serve an area within a one and one-half mile
radius and are commensurate with the purchasing power and needs of the present and potential population
within the trade area. It is intended that these business facilities be provided in business corridors or islands
rather than a strip development along arterials.
17.12.150 - Highway Commercial District (HC)
The purpose of the highway commercial district is to provide areas for commercial and service enterprises
which are intended primarily to serve the needs of the tourist, traveler, recreationist, or the general traveling
public. Areas designated as highway commercial should be located in the vicinity of, and accessible from
freeway interchanges, intersections in limited access highways, or adjacent to pri mary or secondary
highways. The manner in which the services and commercial activities are offered should be carefully
planned in order to minimize the hazard to the safety of the surrounding community and those who use
such services; and to prevent long strips of commercially zoned property.
17.12.160 - Light industrial District (LI)
A light industrial classification is intended primarily to accommodate a variety of business warehouse and
light industrial uses related to wholesale plus other business and light industries not compatible with other
commercial zones, but which need not be restricted in industrial or general commercial zones, and to
provide locations directly accessible to arterial and other transportation systems where they can
conveniently serve the business and industrial center of the city and surrounding area.
17.12.170 - Heavy industrial District (HI)
A district intended to accommodate manufacturing, processing, fabrication, and assembly of materials and
products. Areas designated as heav y industry should have access to two or more major transportation
routes, and such sites should have adjacent space for parking and loading facilities.
17.12.200 - Public District (P)
265
The public zone is intended to reserve land exclusively for public and semipublic uses in order to preserve
and provide adequate land for a variety of community facilities which serve the public health, safety and
general welfare.
17.12.210 - District boundaries and zoning map
The location and boundaries of districts established in the city are shown on the official zoning map of the
city. This map is entitled "Zoning Map of the City of Laurel, Montana," and is on file in the office of the city
clerk-treasurer. This map is hereby made a part of this chapter. This map shall reflect the ordinances
adopted prior to this date and all ordinances adopted after this date relating to the boundaries of zoning
districts. The city engineer shall show changes upon the o fficial zoning map of the city in accordance with
such ordinances as they are from time to time enacted.
17.12.220 - Interpretation of district boundaries
Where uncertainties exist as to the boundaries of the various districts as shown on the zoning map
accompanying and made a part of this title, the following rules shall apply:
A. District boundary lines are intended to follow street, alley or lot lines, or lines parallel to or
perpendicular thereto, unless such district boundary lines are fixed by dimensions as shown on the
zoning map.
B. Where district boundaries are indicated as approximately following street or alley lines or proposed
street or alley lines, such lines shall be construed to be such boundaries.
C. Where district boundaries are so indicated that they approximately follow lot lines and are not more
than ten feet distant therefrom, such lot lines shall be such boundaries.
D. Where land within the city limits is not subdivided into lots and blocks or where district boundary
lines are not approximately street, alley, or lot lines, the district boundary lines on the zoning map
shall be determined by the scale shown on such map, and where uncertainty exists, the district
boundary line shall be determined by the zoning commission by written decision. If land within the
city limits has been or is subsequently subdivided into lots and blocks by a duly recorded
subdivision map and the lot and block arrangement does not conform to that anticipated when the
district boundaries were established, or property is re-subdivided by a duly recorded subdivision
map into a different arrangement of lots and blocks than shown on the zoning map, the zoning
commission, after notice to the property affected thereby and a public hearing, may interpret the
zoning map and make minor readjustments in the district boundaries in such a way as to carry out
the intent and purpose of these regulations and conform to the street and lot layout of the ground.
Such interpretations or adjustments shall be by written decision, and thereafter the copies of the
zoning map in the office of the city building inspector shall be changed to conform thereto.
E. Any street, alley or railroad right-of-way, watercourse, channel, or body of water, included in the
zoning map shall, unless otherwise indicated, be included in the zoning district of adjoining property
on either side thereof. Where such a street, alley, right-of-way, watercourse, channel, or body of
water serves as a boundary between two or more different zoning districts, a line midway in such
street, alley, right-of-way, watercourse, channel or body of water, and extending in the general
direction of the long dimension thereof shall be considered the boundary between zones. If a
dedicated street or alley shown on the zoning map is vacated by ordinanc e, the property formerly
in the street or alley shall be included within the zone of the adjoining property on either side of the
vacated street or alley. In the event the street or alley was a zone boundary between two or more
different zones, the new zone boundary shall be the former center line of the vacated street or alley.
F. All land or territory annexed to the city after the date of adoption of this section shall immediately
become classified as an R-7500 residential district and the zoning map shall thereupon be
amended to indicate such land or territory in the R-7500 residential district without additional
procedure.
G. The hearing for annexation and zone change may be held at the same time.
266
267
Chapter 17.16 – Residential Districts
268
17.12.050 - Residential-7500 District (R-7500)
The residential-7500 zone is intended to provide an area for medium, urban-density, single-family,
residential environment on lots that are served by a public sewer and sewer system.
17.12.051 - List of uses
The following Tables designate the Permitted, Conditional, and Dimensional Standards in the R-7500
District.
Allowed Uses R-7500
Permitted
Accessory building or use
incidental to any permitted
residential use customarily
in connection with the
principal building and
located on the same land
parcel as the permitted use
Parks, playgrounds, playfields, and golf
courses community center buildings—
operated by public agency, neighborhood, or
homeowners' associations
Automobile parking in
connection with a
permitted residential use
Animals (see zoning district
description for specifics) Day care homes Dwellings Single-family
Community residential
facilities serving eight or
fewer persons
Kennels (noncommercial)
Greenhouses for domestic
uses Home occupations Post-secondary school
Schools, public elementary, junior, and
senior high schools
Conditional
Churches and other places
of worship including parish
house and Sunday school
buildings
Boarding and lodging houses Cemetery
Orphanages and charitable
institutions Convents and rectories
Schools, commercial Public service installations
Community residential
facilities serving nine or
more persons
Bed and breakfast inn Preschool Parking, public
269
Dimensional Standards R-7500
Minimum lot area per dwelling unit in square feet
One unit 7,500
Two unit N/A
Three unit N/A
Four unit N/A
Five unit N/A
Six units and more N/A
Minimum yard—setback requirements (expressed in feet) and measured
from public right-of-way
Front 20
Side 5
Side adjacent to streets 20
Rear 5
Maximum height for all buildings 30
Maximum lot coverage (percentage) 30
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
270
271
17.12.060 - Residential-6000 District (R-6000)
The residential-6000 zone is intended to promote an area for a high, urban-density, duplex residential
environment on lots that are usually served by a public water and sewer system.
17.12.061 - List of uses
The following Tables designate the Permitted, Conditional, and Dimensional Standards in the R-6000
District.
Allowed Uses R-6000
Permitted
Accessory building or use
incidental to any permitted
residential use customarily in
connection with the principal
building and located on the
same land parcel as the
permitted use
Parks, playgrounds, playfields, and
golf courses community center
buildings—operated by public
agency, neighborhood, or
homeowners' associations
Automobile parking in connection
with a permitted residential use
Animals (see zoning district
description for specifics) Day care home Community residential facilities
serving eight or fewer persons
Dwellings Single-family Kennels (noncommercial) Dwellings Two-family
Home occupations Greenhouses for domestic uses Public service installations
Schools, public elementary,
junior and senior high schools Post-secondary school
Conditional
Churches and other places of
worship including parish
house and Sunday school
buildings
Boarding and lodging houses Cemetery
Orphanages and charitable
institutions Convents and rectories
Bed and breakfast inn Community residential facilities
serving nine or more persons Preschool
Parking, public Schools, commercial
Dimensional Standards R-6000
Minimum lot area per dwelling unit in square feet
One unit 6,0001
272
Two unit 7,500
Three unit N/A
Four unit N/A
Five unit N/A
Six units and more N/A
Minimum yard—setback requirements (expressed in feet) and measured
from public right-of-way
Front 20
Side 5
Side adjacent to streets 20
Rear 5
Maximum height for all buildings 35
Maximum lot coverage (percentage) 30
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
273
274
17.12.070 - Residential Light Multifamily District
(RLMF)
The residential light multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for medium
density (up to a fourplex) residential dwellings. The area is usually served by a public water and sewer
system.
17.12.071 - List of uses
Allowed Uses RLMF
Permitted
Accessory building or use
incidental to any permitted
residential use customarily in
connection with the principal
building and located on the
same land parcel as the
permitted use
Parks, playgrounds, playfields, and
golf courses community center
buildings—operated by public
agency, neighborhood, or
homeowners' associations
Community residential facilities
serving eight or fewer persons
Animals (see zoning district
description for specifics)
Automobile parking in connection
with a permitted residential use Dwellings Single-family
Day care home Kennels (noncommercial) Two-family
Greenhouses for domestic
uses Multifamily (limit 4-Plex) Home occupations
Schools, public elementary,
junior and senior high schools Post-secondary school
Conditional
Bed and breakfast inn Boarding and lodging houses Cemetery
Orphanages and charitable
institutions Convents and rectories
Post-secondary school Preschool Schools, commercial
Churches and other places of
worship including parish
house and Sunday school
buildings
Community residential facilities
serving nine or more persons Parking, public
Public service installations Day care center Row Housing
275
Dimensional Standards RLMF
Minimum lot area per dwelling unit in square feet
One unit 6,000
Two unit 7,500
Three unit 8,500
Four unit 10,000
Five unit N/A
Six units and more N/A
Minimum yard—setback requirements (expressed in feet) and measured
from public right-of-way
Front 20
Side 5
Side adjacent to streets 20
Rear 5
Maximum height for all buildings 35
Maximum lot coverage (percentage) 40
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
276
277
17.12.080 - Residential Multifamily District (RMF)
The residential multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for medium to high
density residential dwellings; and to establish, where possible, a buffer between residential and commercial
zones.
17.12.081 - List of uses
Allowed Uses RMF
Permitted
Accessory building or use
incidental to any permitted
residential use customarily in
connection with the principal
building and located on the
same land parcel as the
permitted use
Parks, playgrounds, playfields, and
golf courses community center
buildings—operated by public
agency, neighborhood, or
homeowners' associations
Schools, public elementary, junior,
and senior high schools
Animals (see zoning district
description for specifics)
Automobile parking in connection
with a permitted residential use Family day care home
Community residential facilities
serving eight or fewer persons Kennels (noncommercial) Dwellings Single-family
Greenhouses for domestic
uses Day care homes Multifamily
Post-secondary school
Two-family Home occupations
Conditional
Bed and breakfast inn Boarding and lodging houses Cemetery
Orphanages and charitable
institutions Convents and rectories Day care Center
Public service installations Schools, commercial Community residential facilities
serving nine or more persons
Churches and other places of
worship including parish house and
Sunday school buildings
Preschool
Row Housing Parking, public
Dimensional Standards RMF
278
Minimum lot area per dwelling unit in square feet
One unit 6,000
Two unit 7,750
Three unit 9,500
Four unit 11,250
Five unit 13,000
Six units and more Add 2,500 for each additional unit
Minimum yard—setback requirements (expressed in feet) and measured
from public right-of-way
Front 20
Side 5
Side adjacent to streets 20
Rear 5
Maximum height for all buildings 40
Maximum lot coverage (percentage) 45
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
279
280
17.12.090 - Residential Manufactured Home District
(RMH)
The residential manufactured home zone is intended to provide a suitable residential environment for
individual manufactured homes, manufactured home parks, and competitive accessory uses.
17.12.091 - List of uses
Allowed Uses RMH
Permitted
Accessory building or use
incidental to any permitted
residential use customarily in
connection with the principal
building and located on the
same land parcel as the
permitted use
Parks, playgrounds, playfields, and golf
courses community center buildings—
operated by public agency, neighborhood,
or homeowners' associations
Schools, public elementary,
junior, and senior high
schools
Animals (see zoning district
description for specifics)
Automobile parking in connection with a
permitted residential use Day care home
Home Occupations Post-secondary school
Community residential facilities
serving eight or fewer persons Kennels (noncommercial) Dwellings Single-family
Greenhouses for domestic uses
Class A Class B Class C
Conditional
Bed and breakfast inn Boarding and lodging houses Day care center
Churches and other places of
worship including parish house
and Sunday school buildings
Community residential facilities serving
nine or more persons Schools, commercial
Orphanages and charitable
institutions Convents and rectories
Cemetery Public service installations Parking, public
Preschool
Dimensional Standards RMH
281
Minimum lot area per dwelling unit in square feet
One unit 6,000
Two unit 6,000
Three unit 6,000
Four unit 6,000
Five unit 6,000
Six units and more 6,000
Minimum yard—setback requirements (expressed in feet) and measured
from public right-of-way
Front 10
Side 5
Side adjacent to streets 20
Rear 5
Maximum height for all buildings 30
Maximum lot coverage (percentage) 40
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
282
283
Chapter 17.20 – Commercial-Industrial
Use Regulations
284
17.20.010 - Residential Professional District (RP)
The residential professional zone is intended to permit professional, and semiprofessional uses compatible
with surrounding residential development.
17.20.011 - List of uses
The following Table designates the Permitted and Conditional uses as governed by commercial —
industrial use regulations.
Allowed Uses Residential Professional RP
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Communication Towers Dwelling single and two
family
Class A, Class B Mobile Homes Bed and breakfast inns Hospital Animal
Home Occupation Boarding and lodging houses Day Care Home
Community residential facilities:
Nursing, homes, convalescent
homes, orphanages, and
charitable institutions
Day Care Center
Conditional
Class C: Row hosing Preschool Public utilities service
installations
On premise signs.
Ceramics Shop
Churches and other places of worship
including parish houses and Sunday school
building
Extractive Industries
Office building, professional
government and private office
buildings in which no activity is
carried on catering to retail trade
and no stock of goods is
maintained for sale.
Parking Public. Photographic studios
285
Dimensional Standards RP*
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) 25
Maximum lot coverage in percent 50
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
The lot area and lot coverage
requirements for residential
development in commercial districts
shall be the same as RLMF
286
17.20.020 - Neighborhood Commercial District (NC)
The neighborhood commercial zone is intended to accommodate shopping facilities consisting of
convenience retail and personal service establishments which secure their principal trade by supplying the
daily needs of the population residing within a one-half mile radius of such neighborhood facilities. The
location and quantity of land within the NC zone should be a business island not more than four acres in
size and that no business frontage should extend more than six hundred feet along any street.
17.20.021 - List of uses
The following Table designates the Permitted and Conditional uses as governed by commercial —
industrial use regulations.
Allowed Uses Neighborhood Commercial NC
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Banks, savings and loan, commercial credit
unions Camera supply stores
Ambulance service Bed and breakfast inns Ceramics shop
Appliance - (household) sales
and service Bicycle sales and repair Day Care Home
Automobile service station Blueprinting and Photostatting
Churches and other places
of worship including parish
houses and Sunday school
building
Bakery shops and
confectioneries Boarding and lodging houses Clinic, animal
Barber and beauty shops Book and stationery store Clinics, medical and dental
Clothing and apparel stores Colleges or universities Day Care Center
Communication towers
(commercial) Construction contractors: Office Furniture and home
furnishings, retail sales
Community residential facilities:
Nursing, homes, convalescent
homes, orphanages, and
charitable institutions
Drug stores Dwellings: single-family Manufactured
home
Florist, retail sales
287
Two family Multiple family Food stores (retail only) -
3000 sq. ft.
Hobby and toy stores Hospitals (for the care of human patients) Hospital, animal
Jewelry and watch sales Laundries, steam pressing, drycleaning
and dyeing establishments in conjunction
with a retail service counter under 2500 sq.
ft. in size
Laundries, pick up stations
Laundries, self-service coin
operated
Libraries, museums, and art galleries Lock and gunsmiths
Mortuary Music stores Office building, professional
government and private
office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering
to retail trade and no stock of
goods is maintained for sale
Office equipment, supplies and
service
Optician and optical supplies and sales Paint and body shops
Paint and retail sales Paint and retail sales Pet shops
Photographic studios Post-secondary school Real estate office
School, commercial Sign: On premises Home Occupations
Conditional
Class C: Row hosing Preschool Public utilities service
installations
Commercial Recreation Area
Dimensional Standards NC*
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) 25
Maximum lot coverage in percent 50
288
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
The lot area and lot coverage
requirements for residential
development in commercial districts
shall be the same as RLMF
289
290
17.20.030 - Central Business District (CBD)
The central business district classification is intended to primarily accommodate stores, hotels,
governmental and cultural centers and service establishments at the central focal point of the city's
transportation system.
17.20.031 - List of uses
Allowed Uses Central Business District - CBD
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. Less than 1,500-gallon barrels per
year
Banks, savings and loan,
commercial credit unions
Ambulance service Retail Sales and Services Wholesale Sales and
Services
Automobile sales (new and
used) Automobile service station
Bus passenger terminal
buildings local and cross
country
Automobile - commercial
parking enterprise Automobile and truck repair garage Gambling establishments
Car wash - coin operated
Churches and other places of worship
including parish houses and Sunday school
building
Hospitals (for the care of
human patients)
Clinic, animal Commercial recreation areas Libraries, museums, and art
galleries
Colleges or universities Two family; Multiple family Motorcycle sales and repair
Construction contractors: Office Furriers, retail sales and storage Pet shops
Dwellings: single-family Laundries, self-service coin operated Communication towers
(commercial)
Manufactured home Class A,
Class B,
Lodges, clubs, fraternal and social
organizations provided that any such club
establishment shall not be conducted
primarily for gain
Office building, professional
government, and private
office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering
to retail trade and no stock of
goods is maintained for sale
291
Laundry, Dry Cleaners Motels and motor courts Radio and TV broadcasting
stations
Laundries, pick up stations Office equipment, supplies and service Post-secondary school
Mortuary Public utilities service installations Processing of previously
slaughtered meats,
including cutting, wrapping,
and freezing by freezer and
locker provisioners
School, commercial Storage associated with Existing Business
in CBD.
Real estate office
Conditional
Manufactured home Class C:
Row hosing
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. 1,500 to 5,000 31-gallon barrels
per year
Cocktail lounge, restaurants,
bars and taverns
Auction house Restaurants (without the sale of alcoholic
beverages) Heliports
Preschool Sign: Off premises
Dimensional Standards CBD
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet. NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) NA
Side (b) NA
Side adjacent to street NA
Rear (b) NA
Maximum height for all buildings (c) NA
Maximum lot coverage in percent NA
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
The lot area and lot coverage
requirements for residential
development in commercial districts
shall be the same as RLMF
292
No building, structure or premises shall be used for retail alcoholic beverage sales unless:
1. The lot or parcel of land so to be used has a street frontage of at least one hundred feet and
an average depth of at least one hundred feet.
2. A distance of Six hundred feet between property lines measured in a straight line is maintained
from any building that is primarily used as a church or school, or from a public park that
contains a children's playground or playfield.
a. Properties or establishments which are located in the Central Business District zoning
district are exempt from [sub]section 2.
b. Properties may be granted a waiver from the six-hundred-foot separation required in
subsection 2. if the governing body finds that a physical barrier exists between the
proposed use requiring the 600-foot separation. These barriers include, but are not
limited to, the following:
i. An arterial street with no existing or proposed signalized pedestrian crossing.
ii. A building or buildings that entirely obstruct the view between the separated
uses; and
iii. No direct physical access exists between the separate uses.
3. The applicant must provide the governing body with proof that the proposed property or
establishment meets one of the above-described physical barriers or that other types of
physical barriers exist that warrant the waiving of the six-hundred-foot separation.
293
294
17.20.040 - Community Commercial District (CC)
The community commercial classification is primarily to accommodate community retail, service and office
facilities offering a greater variety than would normally be found in a neighborhood or convenience retail
development. Facilities within the classification will generally serve an area within a one and one -half mile
radius and are commensurate with the purchasing power and needs of the present and potential population
within the trade area. It is intended that these business facilities be provided in business corridors or islands
rather than a strip development along arterials.
17.20.041 - List of uses
Allowed Uses Community Commercial - CC
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. Less than 1,500-gallon barrels per
year
Banks, savings and loan,
commercial credit unions
Ambulance service Retail Sales and Services Wholesale Sales and
Services
Automobile sales (new and
used) Automobile service station
Bus passenger terminal
buildings local and cross
country
Automobile - commercial
parking enterprise Automobile and truck repair garage Gambling establishments
Car wash - coin operated
Churches and other places of worship
including parish houses and Sunday school
building
Hospitals (for the care of
human patients)
Clinic, animal Commercial recreation areas Libraries, museums, and art
galleries
Colleges or universities Two family; Multiple family Motorcycle sales and repair
Construction contractors: Office Furriers, retail sales and storage Pet shops
Dwellings: single-family Laundries, self-service coin operated Communication towers
(commercial)
Manufactured home Class A,
Class B,
Lodges, clubs, fraternal and social
organizations provided that any such club
establishment shall not be conducted
primarily for gain
Office building, professional
government, and private
office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering
295
to retail trade and no stock of
goods is maintained for sale
Laundry, Dry Cleaners Motels and motor courts Radio and TV broadcasting
stations
Laundries, pick up stations Office equipment, supplies and service Post-secondary school
Mortuary Public utilities service installations Processing of previously
slaughtered meats,
including cutting, wrapping,
and freezing by freezer and
locker provisioners
School, commercial Storage associated with Existing Business. Real estate office
Conditional
Camps, public
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. 1,500 to 5,000 31-gallon barrels
per year
Cocktail lounge, restaurants,
bars, and taverns
Assembly halls and stadium Bakery products manufacturing Drive-in restaurants
Auction house, excluding Class A, Class B, Class C: Row hosing Kennels - commercial
Hospital, animal Sign: Off premises
Dimensional Standards CC
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet,
except as noted, 20 acres
NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) 25
Maximum lot coverage in percent 50
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
The lot area and lot coverage
requirements for residential
296
development in commercial districts
shall be the same as RLMF
297
17.20.050 - Highway Commercial District (HC)
The purpose of the highway commercial district is to provide areas for commercial and service enterprises
which are intended primarily to serve the needs of the tourist, traveler, recreationist, or the general traveling
public. Areas designated as highway commercial should be located in the vicinity of, and accessible from
freeway interchanges, intersections in limited access highways, or adjacent to primary or secondary
highways. The manner in which the services and commercial activities are offered should be carefully
planned in order to minimize the hazard to the safety of the surrounding community and those who use
such services; and to prevent long strips of commercially zoned property.
17.20.051 - List of uses
Allowed Uses Highway Commercial - HC
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. Less than 1,500-gallon barrels per
year
Banks, savings and loan,
commercial credit unions
Ambulance service Retail Sales and Services Wholesale Sales and
Services
Automobile sales (new and
used) Automobile service station
Bus passenger terminal
buildings local and cross
country
Automobile - commercial
parking enterprise Automobile and truck repair garage Gambling establishments
Car wash - coin operated
Churches and other places of worship
including parish houses and Sunday school
building
Hospitals (for the care of
human patients)
Clinic, animal Commercial recreation areas Libraries, museums, and art
galleries
Colleges or universities Two family; Multiple family Motorcycle sales and repair
Construction contractors: Office Furriers, retail sales and storage Pet shops
Dwellings: single-family Laundries, self-service coin operated Communication towers
(commercial)
298
Manufactured home Class A,
Class B,
Lodges, clubs, fraternal and social
organizations provided that any such club
establishment shall not be conducted
primarily for gain
Office building, professional
government, and private
office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering
to retail trade and no stock of
goods is maintained for sale
Laundry, Dry Cleaners Motels and motor courts Radio and TV broadcasting
stations
Laundries, pick up stations Office equipment, supplies, and service Post-secondary school
Mortuary Public utilities service installations Processing of previously
slaughtered meats,
including cutting, wrapping,
and freezing by freezer and
locker provisioners
School, commercial Storage associated with Existing Business. Real estate office
Fuel oil, gasoline and petroleum
products bulk storage or sale Boat building and repair Boat sales new and used
Paint and body shops Truck terminals, repair shops, hauling and
storage yards
Gases or liquified petroleum
gases in approved portable
metal containers for storage
or sale
Tire recapping and retreading Trailer and recreational vehicle sales area
Conditional
Commercial food products,
storage, and packaging
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. 1,500 to 5,000 31-gallon barrels
per year
Construction contractors:
Open storage of
construction materials or
equipment
Assembly halls and stadium Crematorium Drive-in restaurants
Assembly of machines and
appliances from previously
prepared parts
Cocktail lounge, restaurants, bars and
taverns Fertilizer wholesale sales
Food products manufacturing,
storage and processing Grain elevators Heliports
Hospital, animal Laboratories for research and testing Machine shops
Manufacturing - light
manufacturing not otherwise
mentioned in which no
excessive fumes, odors, smoke,
noise, or dust is created
Heavy manufacturing not otherwise
mentioned or blending or mixing plants
Meat processing - excluding
slaughter plants
299
Meat processing - excluding
slaughter plants Metal fabrication
Prefabricated building
materials assembly and
manufactures
Billboards Sign: Off premises Drive-in theaters
Travel trailer park (transient) Wholesale and jobbing establishments Woodworking shops,
millwork
Dimensional Standards HC
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet,
except as noted, 20 acres
NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) 45
Maximum lot coverage in percent 75
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
300
301
17.20.060 - Light Industrial District (LI)
A light industrial classification is intended primarily to accommodate a variety of business warehouse and light industrial
uses related to wholesale plus other business and light industries not compatible with other commercial zones, but
which need not be restricted in industrial or general commercial zones, and to provide loc ations directly accessible to
arterial and other transportation systems where they can conveniently serve the business and industrial center of the
city and surrounding area.
17.20.061 - List of uses
Allowed Uses Light-Industrial - LI
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. 1,500 to 5,000 31-gallon barrels
per year.
Banks, savings and loan,
commercial credit unions
Ambulance service Auction house, excluding Barber and beauty shops
Antique store Bakery products manufacturing Bicycle sales and repair
Appliance - (household) sales
and service Bakery shops and confectioneries Blueprinting and photo
stating
Automobile sales (new and
used) Automobile service station Boat building and repair
Automobile - commercial
parking enterprise Automobile and truck repair garage Boat sales new and used
Boiler works (repair and
servicing) Book and stationery store Bottling works
Bowling alleys Bus passenger terminal buildings local and
cross country
Bus repair and storage
terminals
Camera supply stores Car washing and waxing Car wash - coin operated
Ceramics shop
Churches and other places of worship
including parish houses and Sunday school
building
Clinic, animal
Clinics, medical and dental Clothing and apparel stores Cold storage
Commercial food products,
storage, and packaging Communication towers (commercial)
Concrete mixing plants and
manufacturing of concrete
products
Construction contractors: Office Construction contractors: Open storage of
construction materials or equipment Crematorium
302
Creameries, dairy products
manufacturing Department stores Drug stores
Restaurants (without the sale of
alcoholic beverages) Farm implements, sales and service Feed and seed - farm and
garden retail sales
Fertilizer retail sales Florist, wholesale sales Florist, retail sales
Food stores (retail only) Food stores (retail only) - 3000 sq. ft. Frozen food lockers
Fuel oil, gasoline and petroleum
products bulk storage or sale Furnace repair and cleaning Furniture and home
furnishings, retail sales
Furriers, retail sales and storage Gambling establishments
Gases or liquified petroleum
gases in approved portable
metal containers for storage
or sale
Greenhouses Hardware, appliance and electrical
supplies, retail sales Hobby and toy stores
Hospital, animal Hotels Irrigation equipment sales
and service
Janitor service Jewelry and watch sales Kennels - commercial
Laboratories for research and
testing Laundries, steam and drycleaning plants
Laundries, steam pressing,
drycleaning and dyeing
establishments in
conjunction with a retail
service counter under 2500
sq. ft. in size
Laundries, pick up stations Laundries, self-service coin operated Libraries, museums, and art
galleries
Lock and gunsmiths Machine shops
Manufacturing - light
manufacturing not otherwise
mentioned in which no
excessive fumes, odors,
smoke, noise or dust is
created
Meat processing - excluding
slaughter plants
Meat processing - excluding slaughter
plants
Medical marijuana
cultivation facility or
cultivation facility
Medical marijuana dispensary
or dispensary Motorcycle sales and repair Mortuary
Music stores
Office building, professional government
and private office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering to retail trade
and no stock of goods is maintained for
sale
Office equipment, supplies
and service
303
Optician and optical supplies
and sales Paint and body shops Paint and retail sales
Paint and retail sales Pawn shops Pet shops
Photographic studios Prefabricated building materials assembly
and manufactures
Printing, publishing,
reproduction and lithography
Processing of previously
slaughtered meats, including
cutting, wrapping, and freezing
by freezer and locker
provisioners
Public utilities service installations Public utilities storage yard
Radio and TV broadcasting
stations Radio and TV tower Railroad yard
Real estate office Rental service store and yard
Repair and servicing of
industrial equipment and
machinery
Secondhand stores and/or
antique store Sheet metal shops and processing Shoe repair
Sign manufacturing, painting
and maintenance Sign: On premises Sporting goods sales
Taxi stands Theaters, cinema, opera houses Tire recapping and
retreading
Trailer and recreational vehicle
sales area
Truck terminals, repair shops, hauling and
storage yards
Wholesale and jobbing
establishments
Woodworking shops, millwork
Conditional
Assembly halls and stadium Cocktail lounge, restaurants, bars, and
taverns Drive-in restaurants
Assembly of machines and
appliances from previously
prepared parts
Extractive industries - excavations of sand
and gravel Fertilizer wholesale sales
Flour mills Food products manufacturing, storage, and
processing
Garbage, offal and animal
reduction or processing
Grain elevators Hatcheries Heliports
Heavy manufacturing not
otherwise mentioned or
blending or mixing plants
Lumber yards, building materials, storage
and sales Metal fabrication
Billboards Sign: Off premises Storage, compartmentalized
storage for commercial rent
304
Storage and warehouse and
yards
Stone cutting, monuments manufacturing
and sales
Dimensional Standards LI
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet,
except as noted, 20 acres
NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) 70
Maximum lot coverage in percent 75
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
305
306
17.20.070 - Heavy Industrial District (HI)
A district intended to accommodate manufacturing, processing, fabrication, and assembly of materials and
products. Areas designated as heavy industry should have access to two or more major transportation
routes, and such sites should have adjacent space for parking and loading facilities.
17.20.071 - List of uses
Heavy-Industrial Uses Regulations HI
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Alcoholic beverages manufacturing and
bottling. 1,500 to 5,000 31-gallon barrels
per year.
Boiler works (repair and
servicing)
Ambulance service Auction house, excluding Bottling works
Automobile - commercial
parking enterprise Barber and beauty shops Brick, tile or terra cotta
manufacture
Automobile and truck repair
garage Boat building and repair Bus repair and storage
terminals
Automobile service station Boat sales new and used Cement, lime, and plastic
manufacture
Bakery products manufacturing Boiler works (manufacturing servicing) Chemical and allied
products manufacture
Churches and other places of
worship including parish houses
and Sunday school building
Coal or coke yard Commercial food products,
storage and packaging
Communication towers
(commercial)
Concrete mixing plants and manufacturing
of concrete products
Construction contractors:
Office
Construction contractors: Open
storage of construction
materials or equipment
Crematorium Creameries, dairy products
manufacturing
Creosote manufacturing or
treatment plants Dry kiln Farm implements, sales,
and service
Fertilizer wholesale sales Food products manufacturing, storage, and
processing Foundry
Fuel oil, gasoline and petroleum
products bulk storage or sale Furnace repair and cleaning Gases or liquified petroleum
gases in approved portable
307
metal containers for storage
or sale
Grain elevators Greenhouses Hospitals (for the care of
human patients)
Hospital, animal Irrigation equipment sales and service Laboratories for research
and testing
Laundries, steam and
drycleaning plants
Lumber yards, building materials, storage
and sales Machine shops
Medical marijuana cultivation
facility or cultivation facility Metal fabrication
Office building, professional
government, and private
office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering
to retail trade and no stock of
goods is maintained for sale
Optician and optical supplies
and sales Oxygen manufacturing and/or storage Paint and body shops
Paint and retail sales Sawmills, wood product milling
Prefabricated building
materials assembly and
manufacture
Printing, publishing,
reproduction and lithography
Processing of previously slaughtered
meats, including cutting, wrapping, and
freezing by freezer and locker provisioners
Public utilities service
installations
Public utilities storage yard Radio and TV broadcasting stations Radio and TV tower
Railroad yard Repair and servicing of industrial
equipment and machinery
Scrap yards - storage and
processing
Sheet metal shops and
processing Shoe repair Sign manufacturing, painting
and maintenance
Sign: On premises Storage and warehouse and yards Stone cutting, monuments
manufacturing and sales
Tire recapping and retreading Truck terminals, repair shops, hauling and
storage yards
Wholesale and jobbing
establishments
Woodworking shops, millwork
Conditional
Automobile wrecking yard Fat rendering or production of fats and oils Feedlots
Fertilizer manufacturing Flour mills Garbage and waste
incineration
Gas storage Hatcheries Heliports
308
Industrial chemical manufacture
except highly corrosive,
flammable or toxic materials
Manufacturing - light manufacturing not
otherwise mentioned in which no excessive
fumes, odors, smoke, noise or dust is
created
Meat processing, packing
and slaughter
Billboards Sign: Off premises Slaughterhouse
Storage, compartmentalized
storage for commercial rent Sugar and sugar beet refining
Dimensional Standards HI
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet,
except as noted, 20 acres
NA
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) NA
Maximum lot coverage in percent 75
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
2.07
309
310
17.20.080 - Public District (P)
The public zone is intended to reserve land exclusively for public and semipublic uses in order to preserve
and provide adequate land for a variety of community facilities which serve public health, safety and general
welfare.
17.20.081 - List of uses
Allowed Uses Public - P
Permitted
Accessory buildings or uses
incidental and customary to a
permitted residential use and
located on the same parcel as
the permitted residential use
Swimming pools or beaches, public Landfills - reclamation or
sanitary
Camps, public Libraries, museums, and art galleries Paint and retail sales
Colleges or universities Post-secondary school Jails and penal institutes
Commercial recreation areas School, commercial Water and sewage
treatment plant
Zoo, arboretum
Conditional
Assembly halls and stadium Crematorium Heliports
Assembly of machines and
appliances from previously
prepared parts
Office building, professional government
and private office buildings in which no
activity is carried on catering to retail trade
and no stock of goods is maintained for
sale
Paint and retail sales
Communication towers
(commercial) Public utilities service installations Public utilities storage yard
Radio and TV tower
Dimensional Standards P
Zoning Requirements
Lot area requirements in square feet, NA
311
except as noted, 20 acres
Minimal Yard Requirements
Front (a) 20
Side (b) 0
Side adjacent to street 10
Rear (b) 0
Maximum height for all buildings (c) NA
Maximum lot coverage in percent 50
Minimum district size (expressed in
acres)
NA
312
313
Chapter 17.21 – Telecommunications
Towers and Antennae*
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17.21.010 – Intent
This chapter is established to regulate the placement of telecommunications towers and antennae within
the Laurel zoning jurisdictional area (one mile outside the municipal limits).
17.21.020 - Standards for amateur radio antenna support structures
A. Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the terms used shall be defined as follows:
i. "Amateur Radio Antenna" means a ground, building or tower-mounted antenna operated by a
federally licensed amateur radio operator as part of the Amateur Radio Service, 49 CFR § 97
and as designed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
ii. "Amateur Radio Antenna Support Structure" means any structure or device specifically
designed, constructed and/or erected for the purpose of attaching, mounting or otherwise
affixing amateur radio antennae. The term includes the structure and any support thereto.
iii. "Antenna Support Structure Height" means the vertical distance measured from the base of
the antenna support structure at grade to the highest point of the structure including any
attached antennae. If the support structure is on a sloped grade, then the average between the
highest and lowest grades shall be used in calculating the antenna height.
B. General Provisions. All amateur radio towers shall comply with the following
requirements:1.Amateur radio antenna support structures and antennae shall be located only
within the rear yard and shall not be placed within any required setback and shall be located so as
to minimize their impact on adjacent residential properties and adjacent rights -of-way while
maintaining acceptable signal quality.2.Amateur radio antenna structures and antennae exceeding
six feet in height above grade (if ground-mounted) or above the roof or ridge of the building on
which they are located (if building-mounted), shall require a building permit if located within the
municipal limits of Laurel. If located within one mile of such municipal limits, applicants must provide
evidence to the Laurel Code Enforcement Office that the device is adequately anchored, designed,
and/or constructed so as to safeguard the general public and/or adjacent property from damaged
in the event of failure of the device.3.It is recommended that amateur radio antenna support
structures be designed, installed, and maintained so as to blend into the sur rounding environment
through the use of color and alternative designs, except in instances where the color is dictated by
the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).4.In accordance with the FCC's preemptive ruling PRB1,
101 FCC 2d 952 (1985), antenna support structures erected for the primary purpose of supporting
amateur radio antennae may exceed height limitations of the underlying zoning.5.Attachments to
amateur radio antenna support structures, such as guy wires, shall not cross any property line or
any existing or proposed easement.6.No lighting shall be permitted on any amateur radio antenna
support structures except as mandated by the FAA.7.No signage (other than required warning
signs) or displays of any type shall be permitted on any amateur radio antenna support structure.
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C. Applicability. All amateur radio support structures and antennae located within the City of Laurel or
its surrounding zoning jurisdictional area whether upon private or public lands shall be subject to
this chapter. This chapter s hall apply to amateur radio antenna support structures and antennae
upon state and federal lands to the extent of the city's jurisdiction by way of law, pursuant to any
memoranda of understanding or otherwise. Only the following facilities shall be exempted from the
application of this chapter: Pre-existing amateur radio antenna support structures or antennae. Pre-
existing amateur radio antenna support structures and pre-existing amateur radio antennae shall
not be required to meet the requirements of this chapter, so long as said pre-existing antenna
support structures and antennae have received all required approvals, permits, and exceptions
prior to adoption of this chapter.
17.21.030 - Standards for wireless communications
facilities
A. Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish regulations for the siting of antenna support
structures and antennae on public and private property. The goals of this section are to:
1. Encourage the location of antenna support structures in non-residential areas and minimize
the total number of antenna support structures throughout the community.
2. Strongly encourage the joint use of new and existing antenna support structures.
3. Require wireless communication facilities to be located, to the extent possible, in areas where
the adverse impact on the community is minimal.
4. Require wireless communication facilities to be configured in a way that minimizes the adverse
visual impact of the towers and antennae; and
5. Enhance the ability of the providers of wireless communication s ervices to provide such
services to the community, as quickly, effectively, and efficiently as possible.
B. Definitions.
a. "Abandoned antenna support structures" means any antennae or antenna support
structures that are not utilized for the provision of wireles s communications services for a
continuous period of six months shall be considered abandoned.
b. "Alternative antennae support structure" means an antenna support structure designed to
shield, conceal, or disguise the presence of antennae or towers and blend with the
surrounding setting. Alternative structures may include, but are not limited to, unobtrusive
architectural features on new or existing structures, utility poles, clock towers, flagpoles,
and church steeples.
c. "Antenna" means any structure or device used for the purpose of collecting or transmitting
electromagnetic waves, including but not limited to directional antennae, such as panels,
microwaves dishes, and satellite dishes, and omni-directional antennae, such as whip
antennae but not including satellite earth stations.
d. "Antenna support structure" means any structure or device specifically designed,
constructed and/or erected for the purpose of attaching, mounting, or otherwise affixing
antennae. Antenna support structures may include, but are not limited to, self-supporting
lattice towers, guyed towers, or monopole towers. The term also includes radio and
television transmission towers, microwave towers, common-carrier towers, cellular
telephone towers, alternative antenna support structures, and the like. The term includes
the structure and any support thereto. Land mobile radio and radio and television antenna
support structures are regulated under Section 17.21.040 of this chapter.
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e. "Antenna support structure height" means the vertical distance measured from the base of
the antenna support structure at grade to the highest point of the structure including any
attached antennae. If the support structure is on a sloped grade, then the average between
the highest and lowest grades shall be used in calculating the antenna height. The height
of roof-mounted antenna support structure height of building on which they are mounted.
f. "Antenna or Tower farm" means an antenna or tower farm is a tract of land that contains
no more than three antenna support structures within seven hundred fifty linear feet of each
other. No antenna support structures located in tower farms shall exceed one hundred
ninety-nine feet in height. Legal tracts must be adjacent to each other to be included in this
definition.
g. "Co-location" means the use of a wireless communications facility by more than one
wireless communications provider.
h. "Commercial wireless communication services" means licensed commercial wireless
telecommunication services including cellular, personal communications services (PCS),
specialized mobilized radio (SMR), enhanced specialized mobilized radio (ESMR), paging,
and similar services that are marketed to the general public.
i. "Equipment enclosure" means a structure, shelter, cabinet, or vault used to house and
protect the electronic equipment necessary for processing wireless communication signals.
Associated equipment may include air conditioning, backup power supplies, and
emergency generators.
j. "Wireless communication facility" means an unstaffed facility for th e transmission and/or
reception of radio frequency (RF), microwave or other signals for commercial
communications purposes, typically consisting of an equipment enclosure, an antenna
support structure and one or more antennae. Amateur radio, land mobile ra dio, and
commercial radio and television facilities are excluded from this definition.
k. "FAA" means the Federal Aviation Administration.
l. "FCC" means the Federal Communication Commission.
C. Applicability. All wireless communication facilities located within the City of Laurel and its one-mile
zoning jurisdictional area whether upon private or public lands shall be subject to this chapter. This
chapter shall apply to wireless communication facilities upon state and federal lands to the extent
of the city's jurisdiction by way of law, pursuant to any memoranda of understanding or otherwise.
Only the following facilities shall be exempted from the application of this chapter.
1. Amateur radio stations and antenna support structures.
2. Antennae and antenna support structures for land mobile radio and radio and television.
3. Pre-existing antenna support structures or antennae. Pre-existing antenna support structures
and pre-existing antennae shall not be required to meet the requirements of this chapter, so
long as said pre-existing antenna support structures have received all required approvals,
permits, exceptions prior to adoption of this chapter.
D. Commercial Antenna Support Structures and Antennae Located in Residential Zoning Districts.
1. Antenna support structures and antennae shall be permitted as an allowed use in all residential
zoning districts provided, they meet all of the following criteria:
a. Alternative antenna support structures conforming to all applicable provisions of this
chapter and roof-mounted antennae that do not add more than twenty feet to the total
height of the building on which they are mounted shall be permitted as an allowed use
only when located on school, government-owned utility, and other government sites.
Proposed antennae or antenna support structures that are contrary to this section are subject to the
Conditional Use requirements of these zoning regulations. After the Conditional Use hearing and reaching
its decision, the city-county planning board shall forward its recommendations to the city council for its
decision.
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b. Antennae co-located on existing or approved alternative antenna support structures or
existing or approved antenna support structures that have previously received all
required approvals and permits shall be permitted as an allowed use.
2. Antenna support structures and antennae shall be permitted in the Agricultural-Open Space
(AO) zoning district provided the following conditions and all applicable setback, lot coverage,
and building (commercial equipment enclosures) height requirements are met:
a. Antenna support structures conforming to all applicable provisions of this ordinance
shall be permitted when:
(1) Located on school, government-owned utility, and government sites and alternative antenna
support structures for roof-mounted antenna are used. Proposed antennae or antenna support
structures that are contrary to this section are subject to the Conditional Use requirements of
Laurel's Zoning Ordinance. After the Conditional Use hearing and reachin g its decision, the city-
county planning board shall forward its recommendations to the city council for its decision.
(2) Antenna support structures fifty feet or less in height.
b. Antenna support structures that are greater than fifty feet in height shall be required to
obtain Conditional Use approval.
c. Antennae co-located on existing or approved alternative antenna support structures or
existing or approved antenna support structures that have previously received all
required approvals and permits shall be permitted as an allowed use.
d. Antennae or tower farms for antennae support structures fifty feet or less in height are
permitted by Conditional Use.
E. Commercial Antenna Support Structures and Antennae Located in Commercial Zoning Districts.
1. Alternative antenna support structures shall be permitted as an allowed use in all commercial
zoning districts.
2. Antenna support structures shall be permitted as an allowed use in all commercial zoning
districts when located on school, government-owned utility, and other government sites.
Proposed antennae or antenna support structures that are contrary to this section are subject
to the Conditional Use requirements of Laurel's Zoning Ordinance. After the Conditional Use
hearing and reaching its decision, city-county planning board shall forward its
recommendations to the city council for its decision.
3. Antennae co-located on existing alternative antenna support structures or existing antenna
support structures which have previously received all required approvals and permits shall be
permitted as an allowed use in all commercial zones.
4. Antenna support structures and antennae located in Residential Professional (RP) that do not
meet the requirements of preceding subsection E1, E2, and E3 shall be required to obtain
Conditional Use approval.
5. New antenna support structures shall not be erected in the Community Entryway Zone.
Antennae may be placed on existing antenna support structures and alternative antenna
support structures that have previously received all required approvals and permits and meet
the provision and requirements of this ordinance without obtaining permit zoning approval.
6. Antenna support structures and antennae located Neighborhood Commercial (NC), Highway
Commercial (HC), Light Industrial (LI), Central Business District (CBD), Heavy Industrial (HI),
and Public (P) zoning districts shall be permitted as an allowed use provided that the towers
meet the requirements subsections E1, E2, and E3, or:
a. Roof-mounted antenna that does not add more than twenty feet to the t otal height of the
building on which it is mounted shall be permitted as an allowed use. (See additional
requirements for roof-mounted antenna in subsection (G)(10) of this section).
318
b. Antenna support structures fifty feet in height or less shall be permitte d as an allowed use.
Antennae or tower farms for antennae support structures fifty feet or less in height are
permitted by Conditional Use.
c. Antenna support structures that are greater than fifty feet in height shall not be allowed in
the CBD or HC Zones.
F. Antenna Support Structures Located in Parks. The presence of certain wireless communication
facilities may conflict with the purpose of some city and county -owned parks. Wireless
communication facilities will be considered only following a recommendation by the city-county
planning board, the city parks committee, or the county board of park commissioners and approved
by the city council. Factors that will be considered include:
1. Public parks of a sufficient scale and character that are adjacent to an existin g commercial or
industrial use;
2. Commercial recreation areas and major playfields; and,
3. Park maintenance facilities.
G. General Requirements. The requirements set forth in this section shall govern the location and
construction of all wireless communications f acilities governed by this ordinance.
1. Building Codes and Safety Standards. To ensure the structural integrity of wireless
communication facilities, the owner of a facility shall ensure that it is maintained in compliance
with standards contained in applicable local building codes and the applicable standards for
such wireless communication facilities, as amended from time to time.
2. Regulatory Compliance. All wireless communication facilities must meet or exceed current
standards and regulations of the FAA, the FCC, and other local, state or federal agencies with
the authority to regulate facilities governed by this chapter. All wireless communication facilities
must comply with all revised standards and regulations within the date established by the
agency promulgating the standards or regulations.
3. Setbacks:
a. Antenna support structures adjacent to residential uses or zoning. Antenna support
structures must be set back from all property lines a distance equal to one-half the height
of the structure from any off-site residential structure or residentially zoned lot. Accessory
structures must maintain a minimum of a fifteen-foot setback from any lot line adjacent to
a residential structure or residentially zoned lot, or the required setback of the zoning
district where the antenna support structure is located, whichever is greater.
b. Commercial and Industrial Zoning Setbacks. Antenna support structures and accessory
facilities must meet the minimum yard setback requirements, including arterial setbacks,
for the commercial or industrial zoning district in which they are located.
4. Lot Coverage and Height. Antenna support structures and accessory structures shall not exceed
lot coverage requirements for the zoning district in which they are located. Accessory structures
shall not exceed the height restrictions for the zoning district in which they are located.
5. Fencing and buffering.
a. Fencing. A chain link or solid wood fence, or masonry wall at least six feet in height (eight
feet if razor or barbed wire is to be used) shall be constructed and maintained around the
perimeter of the antenna support structure site. Climb-proof shields can be substituted for
a fence or wall around the structure. Solid fences, at least six feet in height, are required
adjacent to residential uses and residentially zoned property.
319
b. Landscaping. For all facilities the following will be required: a continuous evergreen hedge
at least four feet in height when planted, shall be planted, and maintained around the
perimeter of the antenna support structure outside of the required fencing and spaced close
together to provide a continuous visual screen. Shrubs shall also be planted and
maintained around the guy anchors for visual screening purposes. A performance bond or
letter of credit for one hundred fifty percent of the landscaping and fencing materials and
labor costs shall be posted with the Laurel Code Enforcement Office, prior to zoning
approval or issuance of building permit, to ensure the placement of required landscaping
and fencing.
c. Commercial Landscaping. Landscaping requirements shall not apply to antenna support
structures located in the Heavy Industrial (HI) zoning district.
6. Lighting. Antenna support structures shall not be artificially lighted unless required by the FAA or
other local, state, or federal agency. If the FAA requires safety lighting, the use of red beacons is
preferred to flashing strobe lights.
Security lighting on site may be mounted up to twenty feet high on the tower and shall be directed towards
the ground to reduce light pollution, prevent off-site light spillage, and avoid illuminating the tower. Cut-off
security lighting must be used adjacent to residential uses or residentially zoned lots. When incorporated
into the approved design of the facility, light fixtures used to illuminate sports fields, parking lots, or similar
areas may be included in the facility.
7. Signage. Signage shall be limited to non-illuminated warning and equipment identification signs.
8. Co-location.
a. Antenna support structures should be designed in all resp ects to accommodate both the
applicant's antennae and antennae for at least two additional comparable antennae if the
antenna support structure is over one hundred feet in height or for at least one additional
comparable antenna if the tower is between fifty feet and one hundred feet in height.
b. All new antennae must co-locate on existing or approved antenna support structures or
alternative antenna support structures unless it can be demonstrated co-location is not feasible.
9. Maintenance.
a. Equipment at a wireless communication facility shall be automated to the greatest extent
possible to reduce traffic and congestion. Where the site abuts or has access to a collector or
local street, access for maintenance vehicles shall be exclusively by means of the collect or or
local street.
b. All property used for the siting of an antenna support structure or antenna shall be maintained,
without expense to the city so as to be safe, orderly, attractive, and in conformity with city
codes including those regarding the removal of weeds, trash, and landscape maintenance.
10. Visual impact/aesthetics.
a. Wireless communication facilities shall either maintain a galvanized steel finish or (subject to
any applicable standards of the FAA or other applicable local, state, or federal agency) be
painted a neutral color or painted and/or textured to match the existing structure so as to
reduce visual obtrusiveness.
b. If an antenna is installed on a structure other than a tower, the antenna and associated
electrical and mechanical equipment must be of a neutral color that is identical to, or closely
compatible with, the color of the supporting structure so as to make the antenna and related
equipment as visually unobtrusive as possible. Antennae and antenna support structures may
be mounted on existing buildings that are thirty feet or more in height above the street grade.
320
c. Roof-mounted antennae and antenna support structures shall not add more than twenty feet
to the total height of the building on which they are mounted. Roof -mounted equipment shall
be made visually unobtrusive to match existing air conditioning units, stairs, elevator towers,
or other architectural elements. Only monopole antennae support structures with omni -
directional (whip) or low profile single-directional (panel) shall be installed on building roofs.
Crow's nest antennae arrays are prohibited on rooftop structures.
d. Wireless communication facilities attached to new or existing structures shall be designed to
blend with the structure's architecture and should be placed directly above, below, or
incorporated with vertical design elements of a structure.
e. Wireless communication facilities shall be located to minimize their visibility and not be placed
within historic or scenic view corridors as designated by the Laurel city council or by any state
or federal law or agency.
11. Antenna support structure separation. All antenna support structures over fifty feet in height,
regardless of the zoning district in which the structure is located, shall be located at least one mile
from any other antenna support structure that is over fifty feet. Up to three antenna support
structures located within an approved wireless communication facility tower farm shall be located
at least one mile from any other tower farm.
Exceptions to the terms of subsection (G)(11) of this section may be granted by the City of Laurel during
the Conditional Use process when it is found that no existing or approved antenna support structure within
the required separation distance of the proposed site can accommodate the ap plicant's proposed antenna;
or a critical need exists for the proposed location, and it is technically infeasible to locate or co -locate
structures at or beyond the required separation distance.
H. Nonconforming Wireless Communication Facilities. Antenna supp ort structures and/or facilities in
existence on the date of the adoption of these regulations, that do not comply with the requirements
of these regulations, (nonconforming antenna support structures) are subject to the following
provisions:
1. Nonconforming antenna support structures may continue their present use but may not be
expanded or increased in height without complying with these regulations, except as further
provided in this section.
2. Nonconforming antenna support structures which are hereafter damaged and destroyed, by
less than fifty percent of its replacement value, due to any reason or cause may be repaired
and restored to their former use, location, and physical dimensions subject to obtaining a
building permit and other necessary approvals thereof, but without otherwise complying with
these regulations. If an antenna support structure is destroyed or damaged by more than fifty
percent of its replacement, the antenna support structure must be brought into compliance with
these regulations.
3. The owner of any nonconforming antenna support structure may make minor modifications in
order to improve the structural integrity of the facility, to allow the facility to accommodate co -
located antennae or facilities, or to upgrade the facilities to current e ngineering, technological,
or communications standards without having to conform to the provisions of these regulations.
I. Modifications of Existing Wireless Communication Facilities That Meet the Requirements of These
Regulations.
1. Minor Modifications. Minor modifications to facilities permitted under these regulations shall be
approved by the city-county planning board so long as they comply with the original approved
design. Minor modifications are as follows: the addition of more antenna arrays to any exis ting
antenna support structure, so long as the addition of the antenna arrays add no more than
twenty feet in height to the facility and the increase in height of the support structure is no
greater than ten percent. Placement of additional antennae, up to the number the antenna
support structure was originally designed to accommodate, shall be considered a minor
modification.
321
2. Major Modifications. Major modifications to antenna support structures permitted under these
regulations shall be approved through a Conditional Use. Major modifications are any that
exceed the definition of minor modifications.
J. Abandonment. Wireless communications facilities will be considered abandoned if they are unused
by all providers at the facility for a period of six months. De termination of abandonment shall be
made by the city-county planning board which shall have the right to request documentation from
the facility owner regarding support or antenna usage. Upon abandonment, the facility owner shall
have ninety days to:
1. Re-use the facility or transfer it to another owner who will re-use it; or
2. Dismantle the Facility. If the facility is not removed within ninety days of abandonment, the city
may remove the facility at the facility and/or property owner's expense. If the facilit y is removed,
city approval of the facility will expire.
If the facility owner is unable to remove the facility within the ninety days due to unusual circumstances, the
city-county planning board may grant the facility owner an additional ninety days in wh ich to comply with
the requirements of this section.
K. Conditional Use Submittal Requirements. The applicant of new wireless communication facilities
shall provide the following documentation for review by the city -county planning board:
1. A map to scale showing the service area of the proposed wireless communication facility and an
explanation of the need for that facility.
2. A site/landscaping plan showing the following items.
a. North arrow.
b. The location and dimensions of all vehicular points of ingress and egress, drives, alleys
and streets.
c. Property boundaries and lot line dimensions.
d. The locations and dimensions of all existing and proposed buildings, structures, and
improvements including those that will be removed. All information must be labeled.
e. Setbacks from all property boundaries for existing and proposed structures and buildings.
f. Centerline and names of major and minor arterial streets relevant to the application.
g. Elevation drawing of proposed wireless communication facility including the antenna
support structure, antenna platforms and associated equipment enclosures. Also indicate
the maximum number of antenna platforms that can be supported.
h. Detailed landscaping plan of the site.
i. Location of artificial light sources and the areas of illumination.
j. Applications for tower farms shall include subsections (a) through (i) of this section and an
overall development plan showing the location of future structures and equipment
enclosures.
k. Latitude, longitude, and height of proposed antenna support structures.
1. Other pertinent features as determined by the planning board or the city.
2. Area map showing the property boundaries of adjacent property and the location of existing
buildings.
3. Inventory of existing and approved sites. Each applicant for one or more antenna support structure
shall provide to the city-county planning board a map showing the locations and service area of
existing and approved antenna support structures operated or utilized b y the applicant, including
specific information on the location, height, and design of each antenna support structure. The city -
county planning board shall maintain an inventory of existing and approved antenna support
structures, including specific information about the location, height, and design of each antenna
support structure. The city may share such information with other persons, organizations, or
governmental authorities.
322
4. Documentation of minimum light requirements from the FAA or other local, state or federal agencies
for the antenna support structure and/or antennae. Where applicable, applicant will provide
documentation of the FAA airspace review and a copy of comments from the FAA.
5. When the applicant is a wireless service provider, proof that t he applicant is licensed by the FCC
to provide the wireless communication services that the proposed facility is designed to support.
6. Availability of suitable existing or approved antenna support structures. No new antenna support
structure shall be permitted unless the applicant clearly demonstrates, in writing, to the reasonable
satisfaction of the city that no existing or approved antenna support structure within the required
separation distance of the proposed site can accommodate the applicant's propos ed antenna.
Closer separation distances may be approved if the applicant clearly demonstrates a critical need
for the alternative location and the infeasibility of locating or co-locating wireless communication
facility at or beyond the required separation distance. Evidence submitted to demonstrate that no
existing or approved structure can accommodate the applicant's proposed antenna must include a
discussion of the following items, if relevant:
A. No existing or approved antenna support structures are located within the geographic
area required to meet the applicant's engineering requirements.
B. Existing or approved antenna support structures are not of sufficient height to meet the
applicant's engineering requirements.
C. Existing or approved antenna support structures do not have sufficient structural strength
to support the applicant's proposed antenna and related equipment and cannot be
reinforced to provide sufficient structural strength.
D. The applicant's proposed antenna would cause electromagnetic interferen ce with the
antenna on the existing or approved antenna support structures, or the antenna on the
existing or approved antenna support structures would cause interference with the
applicant's proposed antenna.
E. The fees or costs required to share an existing or approved antenna support structure or
to adapt an existing or approved antenna support structure for sharing are unreasonable.
Costs below new tower development is presumed reasonable.
F. Property owners or owners of existing or approved antenna support structures are
unwilling to accommodate the applicant's needs.
G. The applicant demonstrates that there are other limiting factors that render existing or
approved antenna support structures unsuitable.
7. Co-location Agreement. If co-location is feasible, the owner of the antenna support structure
shall certify, prior to permit approval, that the owner will accept for co-location any FCC licensed
wireless communication provider using compatible technology on commercially reasonable
terms up to the antenna support structure's capacity to accommodate additional antennae. The
applicant shall also include a statement on how requests for co -locators will be processed.
8. Effect of surrounding property values. The applicant must submit information that
substantiates there will be no adverse effects on surrounding property values resulting from
the proposed facility.
L. Conditional Use Uses.
1. A request for a Conditional Use shall be initiated by application to the city -county planning
board and handled in accordance with the C onditional Use procedure provided in Section
17.68 of this code. The Laurel city council may issue Conditional Use approval under these
sections provided it has determined that the requirements of this ordinance has been satisfied
and, further, that the benefits of and need for the proposed wireless communication facilities
are greater than possible depreciating effects and damage to neighboring properties.
2. In granting Conditional Use approval, the city council may impose additional conditions to the
extent determined necessary to buffer or otherwise minimize adverse effects of the proposed
wireless communication facilities on surrounding properties.
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3. Expiration of Conditional Use Approval.
a. If located within the one-mile zoning jurisdictional area of Laurel, construction of the
facility must be completed within one year of Conditional Use approval. If located within
the city of Laurel, a building permit must be applied for within six months of Conditional
Use approval and the project shall be completed within one year from the date the
Conditional Use is granted by the city council. For the purpose of these regulations, the
term standard of construction shall be defined as the installation of a permanent
foundation for the antenna support structure. The city co uncil may grant one six-month
extension of the period to start construction upon written request by the applicant.
b. The city council shall not approve an extension unless the development plan is brought
into conformance with any relevant zoning regulations that have been amended
subsequent to the original approval and unless the applicant provides adequate evidence
that construction is able to begin within the time period sought. This evidence shall
include, but not be limited to, the acquisition of any or all required government approvals
and project financing, the city council may as a condition of approval of a Conditional
Use establish the period of time such Conditional Use may remain in effect.
M. Appeals. Appeals from any decision of the city-county planning department, not requiring city council
approval, may be taken by any person aggrieved by the decision to the board of adjustment or to
the city council pursuant to Section 17.64 of this code.
N. Nuisances. Wireless communication facilities, includin g without limitation, power source, ventilation,
and cooling, shall not be maintained or operated in such a manner as to be a nuisance. (01 -2 (part),
2001)
17.21.040 - Standards for land mobile radio and radio
and television broadcast antennae and antennae
support structures
A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for the siting of broadcast facilities,
including land mobile radio services and radio and television broadcast antennae, antenna support
structures, and associated equipment and buildings on public and private property. The goals of
this section are to:
1. Encourage the location of broadcast facilities in non-residential areas and minimize the total
number of antenna support structures throughout the community.
2. Strongly encourage the joint use of new and existing broadcast antenna support structures.
3. Require broadcast facilities to be located, to the extent possible, in areas where the adverse
impact on the community is minimal.
4. Require broadcast facilities to be configur ed in a way that minimizes the adverse visual impact
of antenna support structures and antennae; and
5. Enhance the ability of the providers of land mobile radio services and radio and television
broadcast services to provide such services to the community as quickly, effectively, and
efficiently as possible.
B. Definitions. For the purposes of this section, the terms used shall be defined as follows:
a. "AM" means amplitude-modulated broadcasting in the frequency band 535-1,705 kilohertz.
b. "Antenna/antenna support structure height" means the vertical distance measured from the
base of the antenna support structure at grade to the highest point of the structure including
any attached antennae. If the support structure is on a sloped grade, then the average
between the highest and lowest grades shall be used in calculating the antenna height.
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c. "Broadcast antenna" means a ground, building or tower-mounted antenna operated as a
land mobile radio service or as a broadcast radio and/or television service as defined by
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under Code of Federal Regulations and
subsequent title amendments:
(a)Title 47, Part 90 (47 CFR § 90) - Private Land Mobile Radio Services,
(b)Title 47, Part 73 (47 CFR § 73) - Radio Broadcast Services, which includes AM, FM,
and Television Services, and
(c)Title 47, part 74 (47 CFR § 74) - Experimental Radio, Auxiliary, and Special Broadcast
and Other Program Distributional Services.
d. "Broadcast antenna support structure" means any structure or device specifically de signed,
constructed, and/or erected for the purpose of attaching, mounting, or otherwise affixing
antennae. Antenna support structures may include, but are not limited to, self -supporting
lattice towers, guyed towers, or monopole towers. In this section, the term applies to land
mobile radio service and broadcast radio and television transmission antenna support
structures. The term includes the structure and any support thereto.
e. "Broadcast antenna or tower farm" means a tract of land that contains three or more
broadcast or land mobile radio service antenna support structures, any two are spaced no
more than seven hundred fifty linear feet of each other. Legal tracts must be adjacent to
each other to be included in this definition. The term is inclusive of all antenna support
structures, equipment enclosures, buildings, and any additions thereto.
f. "Broadcast facilities" means an unstaffed facility for the transmission and/or reception of radio
signals for communications purposes, typically consisting of an equipment building or
enclosure, an antenna support structure, and one or more antennae. This definition applies
exclusively to land mobile radio fixed systems, and radio and television broadcast
transmission facilities.
g. "FAA" means the Federal Aviation Administration.
h. "FCC" means the Federal Communications Commission.
i. "Land Mobile Radio Service (LMRS)" means a mobile service between base stations and
land mobile stations or between land mobile stations as defined in Title 47, PART 90 (47
CFR § 90) - Private Land Mobile Radio Services.
C. Applicability. All land mobile radio service and radio and television broadcast antenna and antenna
support structures located within the City of Laurel zoning jurisdiction whether upon private or public
lands shall be subject to this chapter. This chapter shall apply to broadcast antenna and antenna
support structures upon state and federal lands to the extent of the city's jurisdiction by way of law,
pursuant to any memoranda of understanding or otherwise.
Pre-existing land mobile radio and radio and television broadcast antenna support structures and antennae
shall not be required to meet the requirements of this chapter except as provided under Section 17.56 of
this code, "Nonconforming broadcast facilities".
D. Broadcast antenna support structures and antennae located in residential zoning districts.
a. Land mobile radio and radio and television broadcast antenna support structures and
antennae shall be permitted as an allowed use in all residential zoning distr icts provided,
they meet all of the following criteria:
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b. Alternative broadcast antenna support structures conforming to all applicable provisions of
this ordinance and roof-mounted antennae that do not add more than twenty feet to the
total height of the building on which it is mounted shall be permitted as an allowed use only
when located on school, government-owned utility, and other government sites. Proposed
antennae or antenna support structures that are contrary to this section are subject to the
Conditional Use requirements of Laurel's Zoning Ordinance. After the Conditional Use
hearing and reaching its decision, the city-county planning board shall forward its
recommendations to the city council for its decision.
c. Antennae co-located on existing or approved alternative broadcast antenna support
structures or existing or approved broadcast antenna support structures, which have
previously received all required approvals and permits shall be permitted as an allowed
use.
2. Broadcast antenna support structures and antennae shall be permitted in the agricultural-
open space (AO) zoning district provided the following conditions and all applicable setback,
lot coverage, and building (commercial equipment enclosures) height requirements are met:
a. Broadcast antenna support structures conforming to all applicable provisions of this
ordinance shall be permitted when:(1) Located on school, government -owned utility, and
government sites and alternative antenna support structures or roof -mounted antenna
are used. Proposed antennae or antenna support structures that are contrary to this
section are subject to the Conditional Use requirements of Laurel's Zoning Ordinance.
After the Conditional Use hearing and reaching its decision, the city -county planning
board shall forward its recommendations to the city council for its decision. (2)Broadcast
antenna support structures fifty feet or less in height.
b. Broadcast antenna support structures that are greater than fifty feet in height shall be
required to obtain Conditional Use approval.
c. Broadcast antennae co-located on existing or approved alternative broadcast antenna
support structures or existing or approved broadcast antenna support structures that
have previously received all required approvals and permits shall be permitted as an
allowed use.
d. Broadcast antenna or tower farms are permitted by Conditional Use.
E. Broadcast Antenna Support Structures and Antennae Located in Commercial Zoning Districts.
1. Broadcast antenna support structures fifty feet in height or less shall be permitted as an
allowed use.
2. Broadcast antenna support structures that exceed fifty feet in height or the maximum
height limitations in the underlying commercial and industrial zoning districts (whichever
is greater) are permitted by Conditional Use.
3. Broadcast antenna or tower farms are permitted by Conditional Use, except in Entryway
Zone and the CBD and HC zoning districts.
4. All broadcast antenna support structures located in heavy industrial (HI) shall be
permitted as an allowed use, including broadcast antenna or tower farms.
5. All broadcast facilities located within the boundaries of an approved or pre -existing
broadcast antenna or tower farm shall be permitted as an allowed use.
F. General requirements. The requirements set forth in this section shall govern the location and
construction of all land mobile radio service and radio and television transmission facilities
governed by this chapter.
1. Building Codes and Safety Standards. To ensure the structural integrity of broadcast
facilities, the owner of a facility shall ensure that it is maintained in compliance with
standards contained in applicable local building codes and the applicable standards for
such facilities.
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2. Regulatory Compliance. All broadcast facilities must meet current standards and
regulations of the FAA, the FCC, and other local, state or federal agencies with the
authority to regulate facilities governed by this chapter.
3. Setbacks.
a. Broadcast antenna support structures adjacent to residential uses or zoning.
Broadcast antenna support structures must be set back, from all property lines, a
distance equal to one-half the height of the structure from any off-site residential
structure or residentially zoned lot. Accessory structures, such as equipment
enclosures or transmitter buildings, must maintain a minimum of a fifteen-foot setback
from any lot line adjacent to a residential structure or residentially zoned lot, or the
required setback of the zoning district where the antenna support structure is located,
whichever is greater.
b. Commercial and Industrial Zoning Setbacks. Broadcast antenna support structures
and accessory facilities must meet the minimum yard setback requirements, including
arterial setbacks, for the zoning district in which they are located.
c. Broadcast Facilities in Broadcast Antenna or Tower Farms. Antenna support structures
and accessory facilities located in antenna or tower farms must meet the minimum yard
setback requirements, including arterial setbacks, for the zoning district in which they
are located.
4. Lot Coverage and Height. Broadcast antenna support structures and accessory structures
shall not exceed lot coverage requirements for the zoning district in which they are located.
Building and equipment enclosures shall not exceed the height restrictions for the zoning
district in which they are located.
5. Fencing and Buffering.
a. Fencing. A chain link or solid wood fence, or masonry wall at least six feet in height
(eight feet if razor or barbed wire is to be used) shall be constructed and maintained
around the perimeter of the broadcast antenna support structure site. Climb -proof
shields can be substituted for a fence or wall around the structure. Solid fences, at
least six feet in height are required adjacent to residences and residentially zoned
property. All AM broadcast antenna support structures must be surrounded by a
suitable fence as required by FCC regulations.
b. Landscaping adjacent to residential uses and/or residential zoning. For b roadcast
facilities located in a residential zoning district, adjacent to a residential use, or adjacent
to a residentially zoned parcel, the following will be required: a continuous evergreen
hedge at least four feet in height when planted, shall be planted, and maintained
around the perimeter of the antenna support structure outside of the required fencing
and spaced close together to provide a continuous visual screen. Shrubs shall also be
planted and maintained around the guy anchors for visual screening purposes. AM
Broadcast stations are exempt from this requirement due to overriding FCC regulations
regarding vegetation in ground radial systems.
A performance bond or letter of credit for one hundred fifty percent of the landscaping and fencing material s
and labor costs shall be posted with the city to ensure the placement of required landscaping and fencing.
c. Commercial Landscaping. Landscaping requirements shall not apply to broadcast
antenna support structures located in Agricultural-Open Space or approved broadcast
antenna or tower farms.
6. Lighting. Broadcast antenna support structures shall not be artificially lighted unless required
by the FAA or other local, state, or federal agency. Security lighting may be placed on a
support structure no higher than twenty feet above ground. Cut-off security lights must be
used in or adjacent to residential areas to prevent light spillage onto adjacent property.
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7. Signage. Signage shall be limited to non-illuminated warning and equipment identification
signs unless otherwise required by the FAA and/or FCC.
8. Maintenance.
a. Equipment at a broadcast facility shall be automated to the greatest extent possible to
reduce traffic and congestion. Where the site abuts or has access to a collector or local
street, access for maintenance vehicles shall be exclusively by means of the collector
or local street.
b. All property used for the siting of a broadcast antenna support structure or antenna
shall be maintained, without expense to the city and/or county, so as to be safe, orderly,
attractive, and in conformity with city and/or county codes including those regarding
the removal of weeds, trash and landscape maintenance.
9. Visual impact/aesthetics.
a. Broadcast antenna support structures shall either maintain a galvanized steel finish or,
subject to any applicable standards of the FAA or other applicable local, state, or
federal agency, be painted a neutral color or painted and/or textured to match the
existing structure so as to reduce visual obtrusiveness.
b. If a broadcast antenna is installed on a structure other than a tower, the associated
electrical and mechanical equipment must be of a neutral color that is identical to, or
closely compatible with, the color of the supporting structure so as to make the related
equipment as visually unobtrusive as possible. Broadcast antennae and antenna
support structures may be mounted on existing buildings that are thirty feet or more in
height above the street grade.
c. Roof-mounted antennae and antenna support structures shall not add more than
twenty feet to the total height of the building on which they are mounted. Roof-mounted
equipment shall be made visually unobtrusive to match existing air conditioning units,
stairs, elevator towers or other background. Crow's nest antennae arrays are
prohibited on rooftop structures.
d. Broadcast antenna or antenna support structures attached to new or existing
structures shall be designed to blend with the structure's architecture and should be
placed directly above, below or incorporated with vertical design eleme nts of a
structure.
G. Nonconforming broadcast facilities.
Broadcast facilities in existence on the date of the adoption of this chapter, which do not comply with the
requirements of this chapter, are subject to the following provisions:
1. Nonconforming broadcast facilities may continue their present use but may not be expanded
without complying with these regulations, except as further provided in this section.
2. Nonconforming broadcast antenna support structures which are hereafter damaged and
destroyed, by less than fifty percent of its replacement value, due to any reason or cause
may be repaired and restored to their former use, location, and physical dimensions subject
to obtaining a building permit and other necessary approvals thereof, but without otherwise
complying with these regulations. If a broadcast antenna support structure is destroyed or
damaged by fifty percent or more of its replacement the broadcast antenna support structure
must be brought into compliance with these regulations.
3. The owner of any nonconforming broadcast antenna support structure may make minor
modifications in order to improve the structural integrity of the structure, to allow the structure
to accommodate co-located antennae, or to upgrade the facilities to current engineering,
technological or communications standards, without having to conform to the provisions of
these regulations.
H. Modifications of Existing or Broadcast Facilities That Meet the Requirements of These Regulations.
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1. Minor Modifications. Minor modifications to facilities permitted under these regulations shall
be approved by the city-county planning board so long as they comply with the original
approved design. Minor modifications are as follows:
a. The addition of one or more antenna arrays to any existing antenna sup port structure,
so long as the addition of the antenna arrays add no more than twenty feet in height to
the facility and the increase in height of the support structure is no greater than ten
percent.
b. Placement of additional antennae, up to the number the antenna support structure was
originally designed to accommodate, shall be considered a minor modification.
c. Repairs to or replacement of existing antennae or feedlines or support members (such
as guy wires) are not considered modifications under this part.
2. Major Modifications. Major modifications to antenna support structures permitted under these
regulations shall be approved through a Conditional Use. Major modifications are any that
exceed the definition of minor modifications.
I. Abandonment. Broadcast facilities will be considered abandoned if they are unused by all providers
at the facility for a period of six months. Determination of abandonment shall be made by the city -
county planning board which shall have the right to request documentation from the f acility owner
regarding support or antenna usage. Upon abandonment, the facility owner shall have ninety days
to:
1. Re-use the facility or transfer it to another owner who will re-use it; or
2. Dismantle the facility. If the facility is not removed within ninet y days of abandonment, the
city and/or county may remove the facility at the facility and/or property owner's expense. If
the facility is removed, city and/or county approval of the facility will expire. If the facility owner
is unable to remove the facility within ninety days due to unusual circumstances, the city -
county planning board may grant the facility owner an additional ninety days in which to
comply with the requirements of this section.
J. Conditional Use Submittal requirements. The applicant of new broadcast facilities shall provide the
following documentation for review by the city-county planning board:
1. A map to scale showing the service area of the proposed broadcast facility.
2. A site/landscaping plan showing the following items:
a. North arrow.
b. The location and dimensions of all vehicular points of ingress and egress, drives, alleys
and streets.
c. Property boundaries and lot line dimensions.
d. The locations and dimensions of all existing and proposed buildings, structures, and
improvements including those that will be removed. All information must be labeled.
e. Setbacks from all property boundaries for existing and proposed structures and
buildings.
f. Centerline and names of major and minor arterial streets relevant to the application.
g. Elevation drawing of proposed broadcast facility including the antenna support structure,
antenna platforms and associated equipment enclosures.
h. Latitude, longitude and height of proposed antenna support structures.
i. Location of artificial light sources and the areas of illumination.
j. Applications for tower farms shall include items a through h and a general overall
development plan showing the location of future structures and equipment enclosures.
k. Detailed landscaping plan of the site when applicable.
3. Other pertinent features as determined by the city.
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4. Area map showing adjoining property boundaries and the location of existing buildings within
a distance equal to the required setbacks as set forth in subsection (F)(3) of this section.
5. Documentation of minimum light requirements from the FAA or other local state or federal
agency for the antenna support structure and/or antennae. Where applicable, applicant will
provide documentation of the FAA airspace review and a copy of the comments provided by
the FAA. Where an application has been filed with the FAA for the services proposed and
decision on minimum light requirements by the FAA is still pending, submittal of a copy of the
proposed application shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of the is paragraph.
6. When the applicant is a land mobile radio service provider, or a radio or television
broadcaster, proof must be provided that the applicant is licensed by the FCC to provide the
services that the proposed facility is designed to support or the applicant must prove the
necessary application have been filed with the FCC and/or FAA for the services proposed,
together with proof all filing fees have been paid.
K. Conditional Use uses.
1. A request for a Conditional Use shall be initiated by application to the city -county planning
board and handled in accordance with the Conditional Use procedure provided in Section
17.68 of this code. The city of Laurel may issue Conditional Use approval under these
sections provided they have determined that the requirements of these regulations hav e
been satisfied.
2. In granting Conditional Use approval, the city council may impose additional conditions to the
extent determined necessary to buffer or otherwise minimize adverse effects of the proposed
broadcast facilities on surrounding properties.
3. Expiration of Conditional Use Approval.
a. If located within the one-mile zoning jurisdictional area of Laurel, construction of the
facility must be completed within one year of Conditional Use approval. Within the city
limits, a building permit must be applied for within six months of a Conditional Use
approval and the project shall be completed within one year from the date the Conditional
Use is granted by the city council. For the purpose of these regulations, the term standard
of construction shall be defined as the installation of a permanent foundation for the
antenna support structure. The city council may grant one six-month extension of the
period to start construction upon written request by the applicant.
b. The city council shall not approve an extension unless the development plan is brought
into conformance with any relevant zoning regulations that have been amended
subsequent to the original approval and unless the applicant provides adequate evidence
that construction is able to begin within the time period sought. This evidence shall
include, but not be limited to, the acquisition of any or all required government approvals
and project financing, the city council may as a condition of approval of a Conditional
Use establish the period of time such Conditional Use may remain in effect.
c. Small increases in the height of existing antenna support structures approved by
Conditional Use may be approved by the city-county planning board on an administrative
basis provided that the increase in the height of the antenna support structure is ten
percent or less.
d. Conditional Use approvals for broadcast antenna or tower farms shall not expire until
such time as all facilities within the boundaries of the antenna or tower farm have been
abandoned.
L. Appeals. Appeals from any decision of the city-county planning department, not requiring city
council approval, may be taken by any person aggrieved by the decision to the board of adjustment
or to the city council pursuant to Section 17.64 of this code.
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M. Nuisances. Wireless communication facilities, including without limitation, power source,
ventilation, and cooling, shall not be maintained or operated in such a manner as to be a nuisance.
(01-2 (part), 2001)
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Chapter 17.24 – Residential Mobile
Homes Districts
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17.24.010 – Intent
The RMH residential district is established as a district in which the principal use of land is for single -family
mobile home dwellings. For the RMH residential district the specific intent of this section is:
A. To encourage the placement of, and the continued use of the land for single-family mobile home
dwellings located within mobile home parks or mobile home subdivisions.
B. To prohibit commercial and industrial uses of the land.
C. To encourage suitable and proper development of mobile home parks or mobile home subdivisions.
17.24.020 – Definitions
For the purposes of this section:
"Mobile home park" also means "mobile home court."
"Mobile home subdivision" means a surveyed, approved, and filled subdivision where the lots are primarily
for sale rather than individual spaces for rent.
17.24.030 - Permitted uses
The following use is permitted:
Single-family mobile home dwellings when located within mobile home parks or on individual lots within a
mobile home subdivision.
17.24.040 - Allowable density
The maximum allowable density for all mobile home parks shall be nine mobile homes per net acre.
17.24.050 - Lot dimensions
A. For single-wide mobile home dwelling units, minimum site dimensions shall be forty feet wide and
one hundred feet deep with a minimum site area of four thousand square feet.
B. For double-wide mobile home dwelling units, minimum site dimension shall be fifty feet wide and
one hundred feet deep with a minimum of five thousand square feet.
17.24.060 - Lot coverage
A. The ground area occupied by a mobile home, attached storm shed, patio, storage building, and off-
street parking spaces shall not exceed fifty percent of the total area of the site. In computing the
ground coverage, four hundred square feet shall be added to the actual area of the mobile home
and the accessory buildings for the two required off-street parking spaces. This provision limits to
one storm shed, not over ten feet by twelve feet or one hundred twenty square feet in area per site
and the utility building shall be placed on a proper foundation.
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B. No mobile home, storm shed or other legal attachments to the mobile home shall be located less
than seven feet six inches from the side site line. Detached tool sheds shall be located not less
than five feet from the side or rear site lines. The ends of the mobile homes shall be at least ten
feet apart when opposing rear walls are staggered, otherwise fifteen feet apart. No portion of a
mobile home, or attachment thereto, or tool shed, or any other structure shall be located less than
fifteen feet away from any site or property line adjacent to a public right-of-way.
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17.24.070 - Mobile home park requirements
A. The minimum total area of a mobile home park shall be at least ninety thousand square feet,
including alleys and/or roadways.
B. The minimum street roadway shall conform to the requirements found in the city -county subdivision
regulations.
C. All entrances, exits, lanes and driveways between rows of mobile homes shall be lighted to provide
an intensity of five footcandles. Mobile home parks shall be provided with, at minimum, two
walkways at least three and one-half feet wide between the mobile home sites and each service
building; roadways and sidewalks within the parks shall be hard -surfaced, either concrete or
bituminized; and shall conform to the requirements found in the city-county subdivision regulations.
D. All provisions of water supply, laundry, sewage, and fire protection to be provided in any mobile
home park shall have been approved by the appropriate city department.
E. Off-street parking areas shall be provided in all mobile home parks at a ratio of at least two car
spaces per mobile home site. At least two car spaces shall be provided on each mobile home site.
The area per one car space shall be at least ten feet wide and twen ty feet deep, plus ingress and
egress.
F. There shall be provided, unless previously provided by a park dedication as required by the
subdivision regulations, within each mobile home park an adequate site or sites for recreation for
the exclusive uses of the park occupants. Such recreation site or sites shall have a minimum area
in aggregate of four thousand square feet plus one hundred square feet for each mobile home site
in the park. The recreation sites shall be of appropriate design and provided with adeq uate
equipment; and may be used to meet the one-ninth minimum area requirement of the subdivision
regulations.
G. All mobile home parks must provide a completely and permanently landscaped setback area of at
least fifteen feet in width around those portions of the park perimeter which border public right-of-
way. Such areas may contain trees, shrubbery, grass, benches, fences, landscaped water
resources and the like. Setback areas not bordering public rights -of-way may be used to fulfill the
recreation area requirements of subsection F.
H. All mobile home parks shall have near their main entrance a marquee or sign on which there shall
be an up-to-date list of the addresses and a diagram of the park layout.
I. All mobile home parks shall provide one additional parking space for every five sites as a main
parking area to be used by visitors or in the storage of recreational vehicles.
17.24.080 - Mobile home park restrictions
Existing mobile home parks shall not be enlarged or extensively altered unless such alteration co mplies
with the provisions of this chapter.
17.24.090 - Mobile home subdivision requirements
A. All lots in a mobile home subdivision shall conform to the requirements set forth in Section
17.16.020.
B. All lots shall be served by the city's water and sewer systems.
C. All lots shall be provided with direct access to a public street unless a homeowner’s association
has been set up to maintain a private street.
D. All mobile home subdivisions shall be designed in accordance with the criteria established in Title
16 of this code.
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17.24.100 - Mobile home requirements
A. All mobile homes, whether located in a mobile home park or a mobile home subdivision, shall be
set up and skirted in one of the following ways:
1. Individual concrete pads with cinder blocks used for supports, coupled with coordinate skirting.
2. Permanent concrete foundation.
3. 3. A dug-out style area with cinder blocks for support, designed to lower the unit to ground
level:
a. The owner of a mobile home park shall be required to establish one of these methods for
exclusive use throughout the park,
b. Individual lot owners in a mobile home subdivision will be required to indicate which of the
three methods they will use prior to receiving a permit to move a mobile home onto the lot.
B. Each mobile home, whether located in a mobile home park or a mobile home subdivision, shall be
anchored to the ground for purposes of withstanding wind pressures specified for such mobile
home by the city building inspection department prior to occupancy of the unit.
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Article 11.15.0 – Planned Unit
Development (PUD)
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17.15.10 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of the Planned Unit Development (PUD) is to create a procedure that allows
flexibility to design and develop a site in a creative and unified approach rather than a traditional lot -by-lot
approach. The flexibility and unified approach is intended to promote high quality open spaces that are
created by clustering development, create a diversity of housing types, permit a compatible mix of land
uses, and achieve context sensitive design that conforms to topography and minimizes impacts on natural
resources. The flexibility of the PUD also is intended to accomplish the goals of the Laurel Growth Policy.
17.15.20 APPLICABILITY AND LOCATION
A PUD is a development approved pursuant to the standard and procedures of this Section and can be
located on any site within the city that contains the following characteristics:
17.15.21 INFRASTRUCTURE
Water, wastewater roadway and storm water facilities with sufficient capacity to accommodate
the PUD, or these facilities can be reasonably extended to create the required capacity and that
conform to City of Laurel Public Works standards.
17.15.22 CONNECTIVITY
The opportunity for a PUD with extensive connectivity to the existing roadway, sidewalk, and trail
systems.
17.15.23 NATURAL RESOURCES
Natural resources that can be better protected by the flexible design of a PUD than by a traditional
lot-by-lot development and avoid construction in hazardous areas such as floodplains, steep
slopes, or poor soils.
17.15.30 LAND USES
17.15.31 RESIDENTIAL UNDERLYING ZONING
When the underlying zoning is residential, the PUD may contain all types of residential structures
and commercial uses, provided the mix of uses complies with the findings of Section 11.15.70,
Required Findings. Industrial uses are not allowed in PUD when underlying zoning is residential.
17.15.32 NON-RESIDENTIAL UNDERLYING ZONING
When the underlying zoning is commercial, industrial or another non -residential classification,
the PUD may contain all types of residential structures, commercial and industrial uses, provided
the mix of uses complies with the standards of Section 11.15.70 Required Findings.
17.15.40 DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
17.15.41 LOT SIZES, FRONTAGE, SETBACKS
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Lot sizes, lot frontage and setbacks established for the underlyin g zoning district may be varied
for the purpose of clustering buildings in a small footprint of development and setting aside open
spaces or protecting natural resources.
17.15.42 DENSITY, IMPERVIOUS COVERAGE
The number of residential units and the amount of impervious coverage may exceed the limits
established for the underlying zoning in portions of the PUD provided the total property covered
by the PUD complies with these two standards in an overall calculation.
17.15.43 BUILDING HEIGHT
Building heights within the PUD may exceed the maximum height of the underlying zoning district
for the purpose of clustering development in a small footprint of development and setting aside
open spaces or protecting natural resources.
17.15.50 SITE DESIGN STANDARDS
PUD shall comply with the following site design standards:
17.15.51 BUILDING SITES
The configuration and arrangement of development shall provide each lot and building with a
suitable site that minimizes disturbance of sloping hillsides, protects natural resources and is
serviceable by adequate infrastructure.
17.15.52 ACCESS
Safe and adequate vehicular access shall be provided to all lots and building sites to
accommodate routine and emergency accessibility.
17.15.53 NATURAL RESOURCES
Natural resources shall receive greater protection than is routinely provided by standards of the
Ordinance or other state and federal regulations. Examples of compliance with this standard
include but are not limited to:
A. SETBACKS
Providing greater setbacks from water bodies and wetlands than required by other
sections of this Ordinance or by the st ate and federal regulations, or
B. HILLSIDES
Avoiding the disturbance of hillsides that is otherwise permitted by other sections of
this Ordinance, or
C. WILDLIFE
Protecting wildlife habitats and migration corridors.
17.15.54 CONNECTIVITY, CIRCULATION
The roadway system shall maximize connectivity to the adjoining streets and promote efficient
circulation within the PUD.
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17.15.55 PEDESTRIAN SYSTEM
A safe and logical system of sidewalks, trails and pathways shall provide convenient pedestrian
connections throughout the PUD and to adjoining neighborhoods.
17.15.56 INTEGRATION, COMPATIBILITY
Site design and the arrangement of land uses shall integrate the PUD with surrounding
developments and maximize compatibility with neighboring properties. The PUD design shal l
blend with the existing development pattern and street network of the City.
17.15.57 HUMAN INTERACTION
Site design, arrangement of buildings and open spaces and the circulation system shall provide
places for, and promote, interaction among the residents and workers occupying the PUD.
17.15.58 GROWTH POLICY
A PUD application shall demonstrate in a convincing and persuasive way that the proposed
development will implement the goals and strategies of the Laurel Growth Policy.
17.15.60 STATEMENTS OF STANDARDS
Upon approval of a PUD, the owner shall prepare a Statement of Standards for review by the Zoning
Administrator that describes the specific uses, development standards, deviations from the underlying
zoning standards and conditions of approval. This Statement of Standards shall be approved as to form by
the City Attorney and upon approval by the City Council, recorded in the land records of Yellowstone
County.
17.15.70 REQUIRED FINDINGS
Approval of a PUD shall require the Planning Board/Planning Commissio n making the following findings of
fact:
17.15.71 GROWTH POLICY
The PUD implements the goals and strategies of the Laurel Growth Policy.
17.15.72 CONSISTENT WITH PURPOSE, INTENT
The PUD is fully consistent with the stated purpose and intent of this Section and in no way
contradicts the purpose and intent of this Section.
17.15.73 COMPLIES WITH STANDARDS
The PUD fully complies with all applicable standards of this Section and this Ordinance.
17.15.74 NO ADVERSE IMPACT
The PUD creates no significant adverse impact to neighboring property and does not negatively
impact natural resources.
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17.15.80 EXPIRATION
Approval of a PUD shall expire and become null and void one (1) year after the date of final approval if
development has not commenced. Development of the PUD shall proceed with reasonable diligence to
completion or proceed consistent with an approved phasing schedule. If development does not proceed
with reasonable diligence to completion or in accordance with an approved phasing schedule, the Planning
Board/Planning Commission may initiate a review of the partially completed PUD and determine if a specific
schedule of development should be established for completion or if the PUD approval should be deemed
expired. To render the decision about a completion schedule or expiration of approval, the Planning
Board/Zoning Commission shall consider the following criteria:
17.15.81 FUNCTIONALITY
Does the partially complete PUD contain functional infrastructure, including but not limited to
water, wastewater, streets, storm water management and pedestrian facilities?
17.15.82 VISUAL BLIGHT
Does the partially complete PUD create visual blight that deteriorates the aesthetic quality of the
neighborhood or the city?
17.15.83 COMMUNITY CHANGES
Has the City of Laurel enacted changes to the policies, goals, strategies or ordinances that would
cause the PUD to be denied approval if it were newly submitted for applicable Zoning
Conformance Permits?
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Article 17.17.0 – Standards for specific
uses
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17.17.10 CONDITIONAL USES
17.17.11 PURPOSE AND INTENT
This section establishes standards and requires Findings of Fact for Conditional Uses. The
purpose of Conditional Uses is to allow uses that may be suitable in some but not all locations in
the zoning district in which they are allowed or require special consideration because of unusual
operational or physical characteristics or must be designed and developed with conditions to
assure compatibility with adjoining uses.
A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) may be granted to allow a Conditional Use only for a use listed
as a “Conditional” use in an Allowed Uses table and only after the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission has made Findings of Fact that the Conditional Use complies with the following
standards. The following standards apply in addition to standards of general applicability.
17.17.12 FINDINGS OF FACT
The Planning Board/Zoning Commission shall make Findings of Fact that a Conditional Use
complies with the following standards as a prerequisite to the City Council granting a CUP.
A. CONSISTENT WITH GROWTH POLICY
The Conditional Use is consistent with the policies, goals, objectives, and strategies of
the Laurel Growth Policy.
B. COMPATIBILITY
The Conditional Use is compatible with the character of the immediate vicinity including
the bulk, scale, and general appearance of neighboring buildings and uses.
C. MINIMIZES ADVERSE IMPACT
The design, development, and operation of the Conditional Use minimizes and mitigate
adverse effects, including visual impact of the proposed use on adjacent lands.
D. MINIMIZES ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The development and operation of the proposed Conditional Use minimizes adverse
environmental impacts. Environmental resources to be assessed include, but are not
limited to wetlands, riparian areas, steep slopes, mature vegetation, and the floodplain.
E. IMPACT ON PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
The Conditional Use does not have a significant adverse impact on public facilities and
services, including, but not limited to, transportation systems, potable water and
wastewater facilities, storm drainage, solid waste and recycling, parks, trails, sidewalks,
schools, police, fire, and EMT facilities.
F. HAZARD, NUISANCE
The proposed Conditional Use will not create a hazard to persons or property and will
not create a nuisance arising from, but not limited to traffic, noise, smoke, odors, dust,
vibration or illumination.
G. OTHER CODES
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The Conditional use complies with all applicable City codes and ordinances.
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17.17.13 APPLICABILITY
An approved CUP shall run with the land and may be transferred to another owner but only for
the approved timeframe. The City Council may place the following conditions to mitigate any
adverse impact from the project: Special yards.
A. OPEN SPACES; AND
B. BUFFERS; AND
C. FENCES; AND
D. WALLS; AND
E. REQUIRING INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF
LANDSCAPING; AND
F. REQUIRING STREET DEDICATIONS AND
IMPROVEMENTS; AND
G. REGULATING POINTS OF VEHICULAR INGRESS AND
EGRESS; AND
H. REGULATING TRAFFIC CIRCULATION; AND
I. REGULATING SIGNS; AND
J. REGULATING HOURS OF OPERATION AND METHODS
OF OPERATIONS; AND
K. CONTROLLING POTENTIAL NUISANCES; AND
L. PRESCRIBING STANDARDS FOR MAINTENANCE OF
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS; AND
M. PRESCRIBING DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULES AND
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS; AND
N. SUCH OTHER CONDITIONS AS THE COUNCIL MAY DEEM
NECESSARY TO ENSURE COMPATIBILITY OF THE USE
WITH SURROUNDING DEVELOPMENTS AND USES AND
TO PRESERVE THE PUBLIC HEALTH, SAFETY, AND
WELFARE.
17.17.14 EXPIRATION, DISCONTINUANCE OR
ABANDONMENT
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An approved CUP shall expire on the one (1) year anniversary date of approval if the permit is
not put to use, unless an alternate timeline is established in the development approval. If a
Conditional Use is operationally discontinued or abandoned for a period of more than twelve (12)
consecutive months, regardless of the removal or non-removal of furniture/equipment or any
intention to resume such activity in the future, the Conditional Use may not be reestablished or
resumed. Any subsequent use of the site shall conform to this Ordinance. A timeframe shall be
established at approval for use of the conditional use permit.
17.17.20 USE SPECIFIC STANDARDS
17.17.21 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to establish certain standards th at apply to specific uses.
Some uses listed in the Allowed Uses tables are required to comply with use-specific standards.
The Allowed Uses tables contain references to sub-sections below that establish the use-specific
standards.
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17.17.22 SPECIFIC USES
A. BED AND BREAKFAST
1. Definition
A Bed and Breakfast is a private residence occupied by the owner or manager that
provides overnight lodging to paying guests.
2. Maximum Number of Rooms
A Bed and Breakfast shall not exceed five (5) rooms that are rented to gu ests in
addition to the rooms dedicated to the owner/manager. More than five (5) rooms
in a structure is considered a motel.
3. Meals
A Bed and Breakfast includes breakfast in the lodging rate. No other meals are
served to guests and no meals are served to the general public.
4. Duration of Stays
Bed and Breakfasts provide short-term lodging and guests shall not stay more than
fourteen (14) days in a thirty (30) day period.
5. Residential, Historic Character
Bed and Breakfast facilities shall be compatible to the bulk, scale, and appearance
of the neighborhood in which it is located. When a Bed and Breakfast is located in
an historic structure, the historically significant architectural elements of the
structure shall be maintained.
6. Parking
One (1) parking space for the owner/manager and one (1) space for each room
rented to guests shall be provided on-site. The Zoning Administrator may approve
tandem parking for two (2) spaces if it does not create an unsafe condition.
7. Signage
Notwithstanding the standards of Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising, a Bed and
Breakfast shall be allowed one (1) sign, not to exceed twelve (12) square feet in
sign area. This sign may be free-standing provided it is setback a minimum of ten
(10) feet from the property line. A Bed and Breakfast located within a Commercial
Zone falls entirely under Outdoor Advertising for sign requirements.
B. DAY CARE OR GROUP CARE CENTERS
1. Definitions
a. Day Care Facility
A commercial facility that provides care for more than two (2) children or adults
on less than a 24-hour basis for someone other than a family member or a
person who lives with the children or adult. Adult Day Care is the provision of
services and assistance to help adults with daily living.
b. Day Care Group, Day Care Center
An out-of-home place in which care is provided to thirteen (13) or more children
or adults or provides adult day care in conjunction with a Long-Term Care
Facility or Health Care Facility.
c. Day Care Family, Day Care Home
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A private residence or other structure in which day care services are provided
to seven (7) to twelve (12) children or adults.
2. License, Registration Certificates
Day Care Centers shall be licensed, and day care home facilities shall be issued
a registration certificate, by the Montana Department of Family Services.
3. Compatible Appearance
Day Care Centers in residential zoning districts shall maintain a residential
appearance as viewed from the street.
4. Centers for Children
a. Outdoor Play Area
Day Care Centers for children shall provide at least seventy-five (75) square
feet of outdoor play area per child.
b. Fence
Notwithstanding other standards of this Ordinance that regulate fences, Day
Care Centers for children may be required to provide a six (6) foot high solid
fence, or a minimum twenty (20) foot wide landscape buffer to separate
outdoor play areas from adjoining residential dwellings.
5. Signs
Notwithstanding Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising, a Day Care Center shall be
permitted one (1) sign not to exceed twelve (12) squ are feet in sign area when in
a residentially zoned district.
C. HOME OCCUPATIONS
1. Purpose and Intent
The purpose and intent of these standards are to provide for limited commercial
uses on the site of a residential dwelling unit. Home occupations provi de for
businesses that are carried out by residents of the dwelling and are incidental and
subordinate to the residential use. Home occupations provide a place for
businesses to start but do not permit their continued existence once the business
has grown beyond the size that can maintain the residential character and scale
of the residential property. It also is the purpose of these standards to provide
peace, quiet and tranquility in residential neighborhoods and to guarantee all
residents freedom from ex cessive noise, traffic, nuisance, fire hazard and other
deleterious effects of commercial uses.
2. Standards
Home Occupations on single-household sites shall comply with the following
standards:
a. One per Residence
Not more than one (1) Home Occupation can be located on a single-household
lot or property as an Accessory Use.
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b. Residents
A Home Occupation shall employ at least one (1) resident of the home with
which the Home Occupation is associated and may include one (1) non-resident
employee.
c. Character
Home Occupations shall not diminish the residential character of the property.
d. Inside Structure
Except for agricultural activities, Home Occupations shall be carried out within
the dwelling unit or accessory structure.
e. Maximum Area
Home Occupations shall not occupy more than thirty -three (33) percent of the
total floor area of all dwelling units, including accessory buildings.
f. Equipment
Mechanical equipment used in connection with the Home Occupations shall be
limited to equipment normally found in a dwelling unit, including accessory
buildings.
g. Outside Storage
Outside storage of equipment, materials, merchandise, inventory, or heavy
equipment that is associated with the Home Occupation shall be prohibited.
h. Parking
Off-street parking shall be provided pursuant to Section 11.18.40, Parking and
Loading Standards.
i. Signs
Notwithstanding Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising, each Home Occupation
shall be limited to one (1) wall sign containing the name, title and occupation of
the Home Occupation not exceeding twelve (12) square feet in sign area.
Window areas shall not be used to display or advertise merchandise to the
exterior of the dwelling unit or accessory building and no free-standing business
sign is permitted. Home occupations in commercial districts are permitted
twelve (12) square feet of sign area.
j. Trucks Prohibited
No trucks, vehicles with a manufacturer-rated capacity of two (2) tons or
equipment shall be parked overnight on the street or on the premise unless
totally enclosed in a building.
k. Deliveries
Delivery trucks shall not operate from the residential property. This standard
does not prohibit infrequent deliveries in a truck or vehicle to/from the occupants
of the dwelling unit.
l. Nuisance Prohibited
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Home Occupations shall not create a fire hazard, adversely affect neighboring
property values or constitute a nuisance or detrimental condition for neighboring
property from excessive traffic, noise, odor, vibrations, electrical disturbance or
other impact.
m. Hazardous Material Prohibited
The storage of flammable liquids in excess of ten (10) gallons or hazardous
materials related to the Home Occupation is prohibited in the dwelling unit,
accessory building or parked vehicles.
3. Single Household Standards
The residence containing the Home Occupation shall comply with all applicable
standards for single-household dwellings in the zoning district in which it is located.
D. MANUFACTURED HOME COMMUNITIES
Manufactured home communities are included in the state classification of land
subdivisions by rent or lease. Lots can also be sold as individual units. Therefore,
applicants for such developments shall apply for and be reviewed under both site plan
and subdivision. When both review processes are required, they will be reviewed
concurrently when appropriate. All standards of this chapter are applicable unless
explicitly waived.
1. State requirements
All manufactured home communities developed under this section shall comply
with the State Department of Public Health and Human Services, Department of
Environmental Quality and any other applicable state regulations. Prior to final
approval for a manufactured home community, copies of approval letters from
relevant state agencies shall be submitted or compliance with all applicable
regulations shall be certified by a professional civil engineer licensed by the State.
2. Lot improvements
The location of boundaries of each manufactured home lot for rent or lea se shall
be clearly and permanently marked on the ground with flush stakes, markers, or
other suitable means. The location marked must be closely approximate to those
depicted on the approved plans.
3. Utility Hookup
Every manufactured home shall be permanently connected to electric power, water
supply, sewage disposal, and gas lines in compliance with applicable City codes,
and all utility distribution and service lines shall be installed underground.
4. Permanent Foundations and Anchoring
All manufactured homes shall be required to be tied or otherwise physically
anchored in accordance with HUD or the manufactured home builder’s
requirements. Building permits for foundations and anchoring, issued through the
city building department in accordance with th e adopted International Building
Code, are required. The method of anchoring and foundations shall be specified
as part of the required preliminary development review.
5. Skirting
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Each manufactured home shall be skirted within sixty (60) days and be of a type
designed specifically for manufactured homes. Hay bales, foam insulation such as
blue board, lattice and other similar building materials are prohibited. Stamped
foam insulation specifically made for manufactured homes is allowed through the
building permit process.
6. Curb, Gutter and Sidewalks
Concrete curb, gutters and sidewalks shall be placed along the front lot line of any
lot which is occupied. All shall be installed according to plans and specifications of
the city and approved by the director of public works or the utilities manager.
7. Setbacks
Each manufactured home shall be set back from all adjacent structures a minimum
of ten feet (10’) to protect against fires and combustible items.
8. Offensive Activity
No noxious or offensive activity shall be carried on upon any lot, nor shall anything
be done thereon which may be, or may become an annoyance or nuisance to the
neighborhood.
9. Pre-1976 Units
Any manufactured home constructed prior to 1976 shall be prohibited in the district.
Existing manufactured homes within manufactured home parks can remain but
such structures cannot be moved into another park for use. Once removed, a pre -
1976 unit cannot be placed within the park.
10. Sales
11. Manufactured home sales may occur within the park provided that the area used
for sales is five (5) percent or less of the gross number of units within the park.
12. Maintenance
a. There shall be no exposed outdoor storage of furniture (except lawn furniture),
household goods, tools, equipment, or building materials or supplies.
b. No manufactured home may be parked on a public or private street for more
than 24 hours.
c. An abandoned, burned or wrecked manufactured home must be secured
against entry as directed by the fire marshal and may not be kept on a lot for
more than forty-five (45) days.
d. Each manufactured home must bear an insignia which attests that the
construction of the manufactured home meets or be certified as meeting the
Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards of the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development.
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e. Within sixty (60) days of placement, standard manufactured home skirting of
fire-resistive material that meets fire resistance ratings in the City’s building
code and is of similar character to that of the manufactured home must be
provided around the entire perimeter of the manufactured home between the
bottom of the body of the manufactured home and the ground, except where
the running gear has been removed and the manufactured home itself is
attached directly to the permanent foundation.
f. All private, commonly owned recreation areas not devoted to buildings,
structures, surfaced courts, sand boxes, etc., shall be landscaped.
13. Manufactured Home Lots for Rent or Lease
All units shall be arranged to permit the practical placement and removal of
manufactured homes. Every lot for rent or lease must front on a public or private
street.
14. Permits and Inspections
a. Owner's and Agent's Responsibility
It shall be the responsibility of the individual property owners or, in the case of
a rental community, the managers of the rental community, to see that all
sections of this article are complied with, including requirements relative to
placement of manufactured homes, and all required permits.
b. Building Permit Required
All manufactured homes moved into the city must be issued a building permit,
pursuant to this section, and be inspected by the City Building Official, prior to
gas and electric service being turned on by the servicing utility.
c. City Inspection Required
The required inspections for manufactured homes shall include on -site utilities
requirements including gas, electric, sewer and water; setback requirements;
and off-street parking requirements. It is unlawful for any person, firm,
corporation, or agency to turn on, or allow to be turned on, any gas or electric
service without an inspection and clearance from the appropriate official.
d. Non-manufactured Home Improvements Subject to the adopted International
Building Code
Permits must be obtained for additions, alterations, canopies, carports, sheds,
fences and similar structures.
15. The Preliminary and Final Plans Shall Accurately Depict:
a. All Proposed and Required Landscaping
b. Storage Areas
c. A Layout of Typical Lots
All lots for rent or lease, showing the location and dimensions of the lot,
manufactured home stand, driveway and parking spaces, and maximum size
of home allowed on each lot.
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d. Mail Delivery Area
e. Foundation and Anchoring Details.
f. Permanent Enclosure for Temporary Storage of Garbage
A permanent enclosure for temporary storage of garbage, refuse and other
waste material shall be provided for every manufactured home space. If trash
dumpsters are to be used, they shall be centrally and conveniently located, shall
not be located in any front yard, and shall otherwise comply with the
requirements of this chapter.
g. Landscaping Buffer
Landscaping may be required by the review authority to provide a buffer
between manufactured home communities and adjacent uses, and to enhance
the appearance of the development. The landscaping may be interspersed with
a fence or wall. Specific perimeter landscape/buffering treatments shall be
determined on a case-by-case basis, with the city considering appropriate
factors such as the nature of adjacent uses, noise, and proximity to busy
streets.
E. RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK
Recreational vehicle parks are included in the state classification of land subdivisions
by rent or lease. Therefore, applicants for such developments shall apply for and be
reviewed under both site plan and subdivision. When both review processes are
required, they will be reviewed concurrently when appropriate. All standards of this
chapter are applicable unless explicitly waived.
1. State requirements
All recreational vehicle parks developed under this section shall comply with the
State Department of Public Health and Human Services, Department of
Environmental Quality, and any other applicable state regulations. Prior to final
approval for a recreational vehicle park, copies of approval letters from relevant
state agencies shall be submitted or compliance with all applicable regulations
shall be certified by a professional civil engineer licensed by the State.
2. Lot improvements
The location of boundaries of each space for rent or lease shall be clearly and
permanently marked on the ground with flush stakes, markers or other suitable
means. The location marked must be closely approximate to those depicted on
the approved plans.
3. Utility Hookup
Every space shall have connections to electric power, water supply, sewage
disposal, and gas service lines in compliance with applicable City codes, and all
utility distribution and service lines shall be installed underground. Once installed
the utility lines must remain in place for the approved number of spaces.
4. Skirting
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Skirting is not required for RV units, travel trailers, campers, or similar structures.
If the owner of an RV unit, travel trailer, camper or similar structure does skirt their
respective unit, then skirting shall be of a type designed specifically for
recreational vehicles. Hay bales, foam insulation such as blue board, lattice and
other similar building materials are prohibited.
5. Curb, Gutter, and Sidewalks
Concrete curb, gutters and sidewalks shall be placed along the front lot line of the
entire park. Concrete curb and gutter shall be placed along the entire perimeter
to control for storm water discharge. Individual spaces are not required to have
sidewalks or curb and gutter. All improvements shall be installed according to
plans and specifications of the city and approved by the director of public works
or the utilities manager.
6. Setbacks
Each space shall ensure that units are set back from all adjacent structures in
accordance with State Regulations.
7. Propane Tanks
Unless otherwise provided as a central propane system for the entire park, each
space shall be limited to factory equipment propane tanks.
8. Offensive Activity
No noxious or offensive activity shall be carried on upon any space, nor shall
anything be done thereon which may be, or may become an annoyance or
nuisance to the neighborhood.
9. Pre-1976 Units
Existing manufactured homes within recreational vehicle parks can remain but
such structures cannot be moved into another park for use. Once removed, a pre-
1976 unit cannot be placed within the park. New manufactured homes are
prohibited from the Recreational Vehicle Park.
10. Maintenance
a. There shall be no exposed outdoor storage of furniture (except lawn furniture),
household goods, tools, equipment, or building materials or supplies.
b. No recreational vehicle may be parked on a public or private street for more
than 24 hours.
c. An abandoned, burned or wrecked recreational vehicle mus t be secured
against entry as directed by the fire marshal and may not be kept on a lot for
more than forty-five (45) days.
d. All required yards of the entire park including those spaces that front a public
street shall be fully landscaped.
e. All private, commonly owned recreation areas not devoted to buildings,
structures, surfaced courts, sand boxes, etc., shall be landscaped.
11. Permits and Inspections
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a. Owner's and Agent's Responsibility
It shall be the responsibility of the individual property owners or, in the case of
a rental community, the managers of the rental community, to see that all
sections of this article are complied with, including requirements relative to
placement of recreational vehicles, and all required permits.
b. City Inspection Required
The required inspections for recreational vehicle parks shall include on -site
utilities requirements including gas, electric, sewer and water; setback
requirements; and off-street parking requirements. It is unlawful for any
person, firm, corporation, or agency to turn on, or allow to be turned on, any
gas or electric service without an inspection and clearance from the City
Building Official prior to final plan approval.
12. The Preliminary and Final Plans Shall Accurately Depict:
a. All Proposed and Required Landscaping
b. Storage Areas
c. Recreational vehicles storage and other chattels of the residents.
d. A Layout of Typical Lots
All lots for rent or lease, showing the location and dimensions of the lot,
driveway and parking spaces.
e. Mail Delivery Area
f. Permanent Enclosure for Temporary Storage of Garbage
A permanent enclosure for temporary storage of garbage, refuse and other
waste material shall be provided. If trash dumpsters are to be used, they shall
be centrally and conveniently located, shall not be located in any front yard,
and shall otherwise comply with the requirements of this chapter.
g. Landscaping Buffer
Landscaping may be required by the review authority to provide a buffer
between recreational vehicle parks and adjacent uses, and to enhance the
appearance of the development. The landscaping may be interspersed with a
fence or wall. Specific perimeter landscape/buffering treatments shall be
determined on a case-by-case basis, with the city considering appropriate
factors such as the nature of adjacent uses, noise and proximity to busy
streets.
F. ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (GUEST HOUSE)
1. Relationship to Principal Dwelling
a. Attached, Separate
The Accessory Dwelling Unit (Guest House) may be attached to the principal
dwelling with an independent access or in a separate building on the same lot
as the principal building.
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b. Dimensional Standards
The Guest House shall comply with all dimensional standards that are
applicable to the principal building.
c. Not Sold Separately
A Guest House cannot be sold separately from the principal dwelling or
property containing the principal dwelling.
d. Permanent Structure
A Guest House shall be on a permanent foundation. A manufactured home,
travel trailer, RV or similar temporary or transportable vehicle or structure shall
not be approved as a Guest House.
2. Size
A Guest House shall not exceed 1,200 square feet in gross floor area.
3. One per Lot
No more than one (1) Guest House can be located on a single lot, tract or parcel.
4. No Home Occupation
A Guest House shall not contain a Home Occupation.
5. Parking
A minimum of one (1) off-street parking space shall be provided for the Guest
House.
G. TEMPORARY USES, BUILDING
1. Definition
Temporary Uses are allowed for a certain length of time that is determined by the
Zoning Administrator and prescribed in the permit authorizing such use. The
allowed duration of the use and any related structure shall reflect the purpose of
the Temporary Use. Temporary Uses include Christmas tree sales, on-site
construction office or construction equipment shed, community event, food and
merchandise vendors, temporary real estate office, farm stand or a similar short-
term activity.
2. Administrative Approval
The Zoning Administrator may approve a Temporary Use of a site or building
provided the use complies with all applicable standards of this Ordinance.
3. Duration
An approval for a Temporary Use shall expire in six (6) months unless granted a
one-time six (6) month extension by the Zoning Administrator for good cause. A
Temporary Use must leave the City Jurisdiction for at least six (6) months in order
to activate a new Temporary cycle.
H. SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS
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Sexually Oriented Business shall comply with the following standards.
1. Definition
A Sexually Oriented Business is a commercial facility that includes but is not limited
to adult bookstores, adult video centers, nude modeling studios, nude shows, adult
motion picture theaters, sexual encounter businesses, or similar activities.
2. Separation from Other Uses
A building containing a Sexually Oriented Business shall be setback a minimum of
1,000 feet from the boundary of a lot or a parcel that contains a church, public or
private school, Public Park, or a Medical Marijuana Dispensary.
3. Separation from another Sexually Oriented Business
A Sexually Oriented Business shall not be located, or an existing business
expanded, within 1,000 feet from another Sexually Oriented Business.
4. One per Building
No more than one (1) Sexually Oriented Business can be located in the same
structure or building.
5. Measurement
For the purpose of determining compliance with Subsection 11.17.22.H.2,
Separation from Other Uses, above, measurement shall be made in a straight line
measured from the lot line of the Sexually Oriented Business to the lot line
containing a church, school, public park, Medical Marijuana Dispensary or another
Sexually Oriented Business.
6. Signs
In addition to the standards of Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising, signs visible
from the exterior of the structure may state there is adult material inside, but no
pictures or other advertising may be displayed that indicates a nude person is
available for viewing.
7. No Alcohol
Alcohol sales, consumption and gambling are prohibited within a building
containing or in conjunction with a Sexually Oriented Businesses.
I. MARIJUANA DISPENSARY
1. Definition
A Marijuana Dispensary is any building, premises, facility, or part thereof where
marijuana is made available to consumers in accordance with Montana Law and
all applicable Federal Rules and Regulations.
2. Separation from Other Uses
A building containing a Marijuana Dispensary shall be setback a minimum of 1,000
feet from the boundary of a lot or parcel that contains a church, public or private
school, Public Park, another Marijuana Dispensary, or a Sexually Oriented
Business.
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3. Separation from another Dispensary
A Marijuana Dispensary allowing on-site consumption shall not be located within
1,000 feet from another Marijuana Dispensary that allows on-site consumption.
4. Measurement
For the purpose of determining compliance with Subsection 11.17.22.I.2,
Separation from Other Uses, above, measurement shall be made in a straight line
measured from the lot line of the Marijuana Dispensary to the lot line containing a
church, school, public park, Sexually Oriented Business or another Marijuana
Dispensary.
5. Signs
In addition to the standards of Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising, signs visible
from the exterior of the structure may state there is marijuana inside.
6. Compliance with State and Federal Codes
The operation of a Marijuana Dispensary shall comply with all applicable provisions
of the Marijuana Act of the Montana Code and all applicable Federal Laws and
Regulations.
J. PROPANE BULK STORAGE
Compliance with the applicable Fire Code as adopted by the City of Laurel and all
subsequent referenced codes shall be required, such as the National Fire Protection
Association standards titled 58 Liqu efied Petroleum Gas Code. All proposed installations
shall be reviewed by the Fire Department prior to and post Conditional Use public hearings.
17.17.23 OUTSIDE STORAGE
Commercial and industrial uses permitted to have outside storage of merchandise, material or
equipment shall provide screening from neighboring properties and streets. Notwithstanding
other standards of this Ordinance regulating fences and walls, stored ma terial shall be screened
by a sight obstructing fence or wall a minimum of eight (8) feet high that prevents visibility of the
stored material from adjacent streets or properties. This requirement shall not apply to the storage
of plant material associated with nurseries, the display for sale or rent of new and used
automobiles in operational condition, recreational vehicles, boats, manufactured homes, or the
use and sale of farm and construction equipment.
17.17.24 STORAGE UNITS AND CONTAINERS
A. NON-RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, SITES
Secure Storage Units, Cargo, Freight, or Overseas Containers, Pole Barns and
Quonset Huts are permitted as accessory structures on non-residential sites in non-
residential zoning districts in accordance with the following standards.
1. These units shall be located to the rear of the building they serve and screened
from view from the street or match the architecture of the primary building.
2. Meet setbacks of the prevailing zoning district.
3. Units must comply with the most recent international building code adopted by
the city
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B. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS, SITES
Secure storage units or containers are prohibited in all residential zoning districts and
on residential sites in non-residential zoning districts except as temporary storage units
during active construction jobs.
17.17.25 WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
A. PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to provide for commercial Wireless
Communication Facilities in a safe, efficient, and orderly manner, to encourage the co-
location of facilities to reduce the number of new communication towers and to
minimize the adverse visual effects of such towers.
B. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Section, certain words and terms are defined below:
1. Antenna means the arrangement of wires, poles, rods or similar devices used in
the commercial transmitting and/or receiving of electromagnetic waves, digital
signals and other communication signals.
2. Communication Tower means an antenna support structure designed and
constructed for the primary purpose of supporting one (1) or more antennas,
including a mast, pole, monopole, guyed or lattice tower, freestanding tower, or
any similar structure.
3. Camouflage means the integration of an antenna or communication tower with
existing building, structure or natural surroundings to disguise it from the true
purpose of the facility.
4. Conceal means to place an antenna or tower out of sight by enclosing it in a
structure.
5. Co-locate means placing more than one (1) antenna or wireless communication
provider on a single communication tower or antenna support structure.
6. Wireless Communication Facility means a tower/antenna support structure and
antenna(s) that transmits and/or receives electromagnetic signals for commercial
wireless communications.
C. EXEMPTIONS
Amateur radio antennas or similar non-commercial wireless facilities shall be exempt
from this Section.
D. APPROVALS
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1. Antennas
Antennas that are co-located on existing buildings or communication towers, or
are concealed or camouflaged, shall be approved by the Zoning Administrator
pursuant to the terms of this Ordinance.
2. Communication Towers
Wireless Communication Towers may be approved with a Conditional Use Permit
pursuant to Section 11.17.10, Conditional Uses and further provided they comply
with the standards of this Section.
E. STANDARDS FOR COMMUNICATION TOWERS
1. No Attempt to Exclude
No Wireless Communication Facility owner or lessee s hall act to exclude or
attempt to exclude any other wireless telecommunication provider from using the
same building, structure or location. Wireless Communication Facility owners and
lessees shall cooperate in good faith with other wireless providers to a chieve co-
location of antennas and Wireless Communication Facilities.
2. Excess Capacity
All new Communication Towers are encouraged to be constructed with excess
capacity for co-location of future antennae or wireless facilities. Owners of
Communication Towers shall work in good faith to reach mutually agreeable terms
to allow co-location of Antennae and Wireless Communication Facilities.
3. Setbacks
Ground mounted facilities and buildings related to a Communications Tower shall
comply with the setbacks of the zoning district in which they are located. A
Communication Tower be setback from all property lines at least one (1) foot for
every foot of height of the tower but in no case less than the setback of the zoning
district in which it is located.
4. Equipment Location, Visual Mitigation
a. Roof Mounted
Roof mounted wireless communications equipment shall be located as far
from the edge of the roof as possible or screened by parapet walls.
b. Wall Mounted
Wall mounted wireless communication equipment shall be mounted as flush
to the wall as possible and shall not project above the wall on which it is
mounted.
5. Signals, Lights Prohibited
Signals, lights, illumination and signs are prohibited on a Communication Tower or
facility unless required by the FAA or other applicable regulatory authority.
6. No Hazard, No Interference
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Communications Towers shall be operated to avoid any health hazard to the
general public and any interference with the operation of public
safety/communication facilities and home appliances.
7. FAA Certification, FCC Standards
Certification shall be obtained from the Federal Aviation Administration that the
Communications Tower poses no hazard to the operation of aircraft. Wireless
Communication Facilities shall comply with the technical emissions standards of
the Federal Communications Commission.
F. REMOVAL OF ABANDONED WIRELESS
COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
If due to changes in technology or other reasons, a Wireless Communication Facility,
Communication Tower, antenna support structure or related equipment is not operated
for a period of twelve (12) continuous months it shall be considered abandoned. The
owner of such facility shall remove the facility, including antennae, attachments, related
appurtenances and equipment building, within ninety (90) days of receipt of notice fro m
the Zoning Administrator notifying the owner of such abandonment. If the abandoned
Wireless Communication Facility is not removed within the ninety (90) day period, the
City of Laurel shall have the authority to remove the facility and bill the owner for all
costs associated with the removal.
17.17.26 SHORT-TERM RENTAL
A. PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to provide for the short -term rental of
residential dwellings and avoid impact on neighboring residences.
B. DEFINITIONS
Short-term rental is the rental of a dwelling and/or a guest house for less than thirty
(30) days. The short-term rental pursuant to this Section does not include a Bed and
Breakfast.
C. STANDARDS
1. Comply with Single Household
Except as distinguished in this Subsection, the dwelling shall comply with all
standards and requirements for single-Household dwelling units in the zoning
district in which it is located.
2. Residential Character
The property shall retain the character and appearance of a singl e-Household
dwelling. The design or operation of the short-term rented dwelling shall not create
the appearance or operating characteristics of a commercial property.
3. Signage
Signage associated with a short-term rental unit shall comply with the terms of
Article 11.19.0 Outdoor Advertising that apply to residential zoning districts.
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D. FIRE AND HEALTH DEPARTMENTS
Owners of a short-term rental property shall comply with applicable rules and
regulations of the Laurel Fire Department and Yellowstone County Health Department.
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Article 17.18.0 – Standards of General
Applicability
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17.18.10 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The following general development standards are established to assure that property in all zoning districts
of the City will be developed in a uniform and orderly manner which will promote the public health safety
and general welfare and implement the Laurel Growth Policy. These general development standards shall
apply to all development in addition to specific standards for certain uses an d zoning districts set forth in
other Articles of this Ordinance.
17.18.20 HILLSIDE DEVELOPMENTS
17.18.21 PURPOSE AND INTENT
This Section is intended to provide for the orderly and reasonable use of hillside areas while
protecting the public health, safety and welfare by accomplishing the following.
A. SOIL CONDITIONS
Steer development to locations that have stable soil and utilize appropriate engineering
techniques that accommodate the natural site conditions.
B. MAINTAIN NATURAL CONDITIONS
Minimize alterations to natural hillsides to maintain significant landforms and natural
drainage patterns.
C. INTENSITY
Permit an intensity of development compatible with the natural characteristics of
hillside terrain.
D. PUBLIC SERVICES
Promote cost effective public services by encouraging development in less steeply
sloped areas and ensuring adequate access for emergency vehicles.
E. SAFETY
Protect the public from unsafe development and property damage by ensuring that
hillside development is reasonably located and properly constructed. Minor and
isolated slope variations occurring over a run of ten (10) feet or less are exempt.
17.18.22 APPLICABILITY
This Section shall apply to all development on slopes steeper eight (8) percent except
development occurring on minor and isolated slope variations in which the slope may be steeper
than eight (8) percent for a run of ten (10) feet or less.
17.18.23 GRADING AND FILLING
A. AMOUNT OF GRADING PERMITTED
The percentage of the site that can be graded and/or filled shall be determined by the
slope of the site, with more grading allowed on less steep slopes. The amount of
coverage and grading permitted is established below.
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Percent Lot Coverage, Grading and Fill Allowed on Slopes
Percent Lot Coverage, Grading and Fill Allowed on Slopes
Coverage Fill/Grade
Slope Percent Coverage
Allowed Slope Percent Grading
Allowed
0-15% NA 0-15% 70
15.1-20% 15 15.1-20% 50
>25% 0 >25% 0
Minor and isolated slope variations occurring over a run of ten (10) feet or less are exempt.
B. UNGRADED AREA
The undeveloped portion of the site that is not graded or filled shall be maintained in
an undisturbed state with natural grade and vegetation.
17.18.24 LOT COVERAGE
A. AMOUNT OF COVERAGE PERMITTED
The percentage of the site that can be covered with impermeable surfaces is
determined by the slope of the site, with more lot coverage allowed on less steep
slopes. The amount of lot coverage permitted is established in this code.
B. UNCOVERED AREA
The portion of the site that is not covered with impervious surfaces shall be revegetated
with native landscaping materials to minimize erosion and stabilize slopes. At a
minimum, the density of vegetation shall approximate the density of vegetation that
existed in the pre-construction state.
17.18.25 CUTS AND FILLS
A. MAXIMUM GRADE
The slope of a cut or fill grade shall not exceed two to one (2:1) or fifty (50) percent to
allow revegetation.
B. SETBACK
The toe of a fill slope, or top of a cut or fill slope shall be setback from the property line
at least one-half (1/2) the height of the cut or fill slope.
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C. TOE OF NATURAL SLOPE
Cutting the toe of a natural slope is prohibited.
17.18.26 DRAINAGE
Natural drainage channels shall be preserved.
17.18.27 SOILS
Development shall not be located on unstable soils. The Zoning Administrator may require a
geotechnical study to determine the stability of soils.
17.18.28 RETAINING WALLS/FENCING
Retaining walls shall not exceed the height of eight (8) feet. Fences in Residential Zones shall
not exceed six (6) feet in height above natural grade. More than one (1) retaining wall in a terraced
arrangement shall be permitted. Retaining walls lower than three (3) feet designed and
constructed to retain earth are exempt from other standards of this Ordinance that regulate walls.
Walls taller than three (3) feet are required to be permitted and must include a stamp from a
licensed Montana engineer.
Fences in Residential Zones (R – Zones) shall not exceed six (6) feet in height above natural
grade. The use of barbed wire or electric fences in residential zones is prohibited.
Fences in Business Zones (C Zones) shall not exceed six (6) feet in height above natural grade.
The use of barbed wire or electric fences in Business Zones is prohibited.
Fences in Manufacturing Zones (LI and HI) shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height above natural
grade. The use of barbed wire is allowed in Manufacturing Zones. The use of electric fences is
prohibited in Manufacturing Zones.
17.18.30 ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
17.18.31 WETLANDS
Development shall comply with all applicable state and federal wetland regulations and
standards. When a proposed development requires a state or federal wetland permit, the
applicant shall include in the application for a City permit copies of the applicable permits to
demonstrate compliance with the state or federal regulation. The Zoning Administrator may
require verification that no such state or federal permit is required.
17.18.32 WATER QUALITY
Development shall comply with all applicable state and federal water quality regulations and
standards. When a proposed development requires a state or federal water quality or discharge
permit, the applicant shall include in the application for a City permit copies of the applicable
permits to demonstrate compliance with the state or federal regulation.
17.18.33 AIR QUALITY
Development shall comply with all applicable state and federal air quality regulations and
standards. When a proposed development requires a state or federal air quality permit, the
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applicant shall include in the application for a City Permit copies of the applicable permits to
demonstrate compliance with the state or federal regulation.
17.18.34 SUBSIDENCE
When a development is proposed on areas mapped by the Montana Department of State Lands
as having a potential for subsidence, the applicant shall include in the application for a City permit
a written report by a professional engineer licensed in the State of Montana that details how the
development will avoid further damage and loss of property.
17.18.35 FLOODPLAIN
All development in the 100-year floodplain shall comply with the Flood Control Ordinance
(Chapter 2, Title 11 of City codes) on file in the Office of the Laurel Floodplain Administrator.
17.18.40 PARKING AND LOADING STANDARDS
17.18.41 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to establish off-street parking standards designed to
lessen congestion on the streets and provide a reasonable amount of parking with developments.
17.18.42 APPLICABILITY
Any building or structure erected or located, and any use of land established after the effective
date of this Ordinance, including changes of use and additions to existing uses, shall provide off-
street parking in accordance with the standards of this Section. Notwithstanding, development
and uses located in the Central Business District may be exempt from the parking requirement
as determined by the parking commission.
A. REQUIRED PARKING
All development shall provide the minimum number of off-street parking spaces as
established in Section 11.18.43 Off Street Parking Required Spaces. If two (2) or more
uses occupy the same building, lot or parcel of land, the total requirement for off-street
parking spaces shall be the sum of the requirement of the individual uses.
B. USES NOT IDENTIFIED
The required off-street parking for any building, structure or use of land not listed in
Section 11.18.43 Off Street Parking Required Spaces, shall be determined by the
Zoning Administrator based on the required parking for similar uses listed in the Table
and other reliable sources of data.
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C. PARKING FOR PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
Parking lots shall provide parking for persons with physical d isabilities pursuant to the
currently adopted International Construction Code.
D. CHANGE OF USE
When an existing use of a structure or land is changed to another use, the number of
off-street parking spaces shall be provided for the new use as established in Section
11.18.43 Off Street Parking Required Spaces.
E. EXPANSION
When an existing use is expanded, off-street parking shall be provided for the
expanded area in compliance with Section 11.18.43 Off Street Parking Required
Spaces.
Off Street Parking Required Specs
Off Street Parking Required Specs (Minimums)
Residential Public & Quasi Public
1 or 2 Dwelling 1/du Day Care Home 2
3-6 Dwellings 1/du Day Care Center 2/Staff Plus 5
>6 Dwellings 1/du Government
Buildings 3.3/1000 sf
Guest House 1/du
Health Care Facility;
Long Term Care
Facility
1/3 Employee & 1/3 Beds
Efficiency units 1/du Library 1/300 sf
Senior Housing 1/du School, Elementary or
Jr. High
1/Staff & Faculty & 1/7
students
Commercial School, Senior High 1/Staff & Faculty & 1/4
students
Auto, Vehicle Sales 2/sales associates Recreation & Entertainment
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Auto, Vehicle
Service 4/service bay Bowling Alley 5/Alley
Bank/Credit Union 1/400 sf Golf Course 6/Hole
Bed & Breakfast 1/room + 1 for
Owner/Manager Indoor Entertainment 5.5/1,000 sf
Restaurants 1/3 seats Miniature Golf Course 2/Hole
Fast Food
Restaurants 1/4 seats Private Health Club 4/Court & 1/200 Other sf
Alcohol
Establishments 1/3 seats Public Assembly 1/3 Seats
Hotel & Motel 1/room Theater 1/3 Seats
Conference
w/lodging .5/seats Industrial
Restaurant
w/lodging 1/4 seats Freight, Distribution 2/3 Employees
Retail 5/1,000 sf Manufacturing,
Assembly 2/3 Employees
Office Mini-Storage 1/10 Units
General
Professional 3.3/1000 sf Warehousing 2/3 Employees or 1/1000 sf
whichever is less.
Medical & Dental 5/1000 sf
Miscellaneous
For any other use not specifically mentioned
or provided for, the zoning administrator shall
determine the standards to be applied for
parking, using this as a guide for uses which
most closely resembles the use provided.
Notes: du = dwelling unit sf = square
feet
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17.18.44 COMPUTATION OF REQUIRED SPACES
For the purpose of computing off-street parking spaces required by this Section, the following
rules shall apply.
A. GROSS FLOOR AREA
Floor area shall mean gross floor area unless otherwise specified for a particular use.
B. BENCH SEATING
Churches and other places of assembly in which benches or pews are used in place
of seats, each twenty-four (24) inches in length of such benches or pews shall be
counted as one (1) seat.
C. FRACTIONS
When calculation of the number of off-street parking spaces results in a requirement
of a fractional space, any fraction of less than one-half (1/2) may be discarded, while
a fraction of one-half (1/2) or more shall be counted as one (1) required parking space.
D. ON-STREET PARKING
On-street parking may be used to satisfy off-street parking requirements at a
conversion rate of 2:1. No more than fifty (50) percent of the required parking can be
used for calculating off street requirements. A maximum of twe nty (20) feet extending
beyond either side of the property boundary may be used to calculate on-street parking
numbers.
17.18.45 PARKING DESIGN
All required parking spaces shall comply with the standards of this sub-section.
A. SIZE
Parking spaces shall be at least nine (9) feet by twenty (20) feet in size and have a
minimum head clearance of seven (7) feet.
B. SETBACKS
Parking shall not be located in the required minimum front setback except for driveways
to garages. Parking may encroach into the side setback but shall be setback a
minimum of two (2) feet from a property line.
C. SURFACING, GRADING
All off-street parking and access drives shall be paved with asphalt, concrete or an
equivalent surface, and shall be graded and drained to shed all surface water.
D. DRIVE ISLES
Two-way drives isles in parking lots shall be a minimum of twenty -four (24) feet wide
except the Zoning Administrator may approve narrower drive isles for parking lots with
angled parking spaces. One-way drive aisles with angled spaces shall be a minimum
of twelve (12) feet wide except the Zoning Administrator may require wider drive aisles
to ensure functional vehicle maneuverability. Parking Lots shall comply with Section
11.18.80 Storm Water Management and Erosion Control.
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E. DRIVEWAYS
Driveways shall not be used to satisfy off-street parking requirements when a garage
or carport is counted.
F. SNOW STORAGE
A snow storage area at least two (2) percent of the size of the parking lot, drive aisles,
and circulation shall be provided to avoid the loss of required parking spaces to snow
storage.
G. TREE COVER
Parking lots containing more than twenty (20) parking spaces shall contain vegetative
cover that provides shade for at least thirty-five (35) percent of the area of the parking
lot as measured on August 15th at noon, after the vegetation has reached full maturity.
The owner shall be responsible for maintaining the vegetation. The applicant proposing
the parking lot shall submit for the review and approval of the Zoning Administrator the
plan for vegetative cover designed to satisfy this standard.
H. RESIDENTIAL GARAGES
Parking spaces in residential garages sha ll count toward residential parking
requirements.
17.18.46 ACCESS, CURB CUTS
All parking lots shall have adequate and safe ingress and egress to and from a local alley or
street. The access shall comply with Intersection Visibility unless a wider approach width is
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approved by the City Public Works Director. Curb cuts to a City Street shall be approved by the
Public Works Director. Backing from a parking space into a street or alley is prohibited except for
residential districts.
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17.18.47 LOADING AREA STANDARDS
Each commercial or industrial building larger than 10,000 gross square feet shall provide at least
one (1) off-street loading area. Businesses in the Central Business District are exempt from
providing off-street loading areas.
A. CLEARANCE
Contain a vertical clearance of at least fourteen (14) feet; and,
B. DIMENSION
Be at least twelve (12) feet wide and thirty-five (35) deep.
C. LOCATION, DESIGN
Loading areas shall be on the same lot as the building requiring the loading area and
the loading area shall be designed to prevent vehicles parked in the loading area from
extending into the public right-of-way.
17.18.48 SHARED PARKING
A. GENERAL
1. Shared parking is allowed among different categories of uses or among uses with
different hours of operation, but not both.
2. Up to ten (10) percent of required parking spaces for any use may be used jointly
by a temporary commercial use.
3. Applicants must provide a shared parking agreement executed by the parties
establishing the shared parking spaces. The agreement must be filed with the
Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorder. Shared parking privileges will continue
in effect only as long as the agreement, binding on all parties, remains in force. If
the agreement is no longer in force, then parking must be provided as otherwise
required by this chapter.
4. Shared parking may be located off-site, subject to the regulations of Subsection
11.18.48.E Off-Site Parking.
5. Required accessible parking spaces (for persons with disabilities) may not be
shared and must be located on site.
B. SHARED PARKING FOR DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF
USES
A use may share parking with a different category of use according to only one of the
following subsections:
1. If an office use and a retail sales-related use share parking, the parking
requirement for the retail sales-related use may be reduced by up to twenty (20)
percent, provided that the reduction does not exceed the minimum parking
requirement for the office use.
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2. If a residential use shares parking with a retail sales-related use (expressly
excluding lodging uses, restaurants and entertainment -related uses, the parking
requirement for the residential use may be reduced by up to thirty (30) percent,
provided that the reduction does not exceed the minimum parking requirement for
the retail sales-related use.
3. If an office and a residential use share off-street parking, the parking requirement
for the residential use may be reduced by up to fifty (50) percent, provided that the
reduction does not exceed the minimum parking requirement for the office use.
4. If office, retail sales and residential uses share off-street parking, the applicant may
elect to use any one of the shared parking reductions listed in this section. The
applicant may also elect to prepare a shared parking analysis using the Urban
Land Institute’s (ULI) shared parking analysis methodology. Parking reductions
based on the ULI methodology require review and approval by the Zoning
Administrator after consultation with the City Public Works Department.
C. SHARED PARKING FOR USES WITH DIFFERENT HOURS
OF OPERATION
1. For the purposes of this section, the following uses are considered daytime uses:
a. Customer service and administrative offices.
b. Retail sales uses, except restaurants, lodging uses, and entertainment-related
uses.
c. Warehousing, wholesaling, and freight movement uses.
d. Manufacturing, production and industrial service uses; and
e. Other similar primarily daytime uses, as determined by the Zoning
Administrator.
2. For the purposes of this section, the following uses are considered nighttime, or
Sunday uses:
a. Auditoriums accessory to public or private schools.
b. Religious assembly uses.
c. Entertainment-related uses, such as theaters, bowling alleys, and dance halls;
and
d. Other similar primarily nighttime or Sunday uses, as determined by the Zoning
Administrator.
3. Up to ninety (90) percent of the parking required by this chapter for daytime use
may be supplied by the off-street parking provided for a nighttime or Sunday use
and vice-versa, when authorized by the Zoning Administrator.
4. The applicant must show that there is no substantial conflict in the principal
operating hours of the uses for which shared parking is proposed.
D. GENERAL, LOCATION OF OFF-STREET PARKING
Except as otherwise expressly stated, required off-street parking spaces must be
located on the same parcel as the building or use they are required to serve.
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E. OFF-SITE PARKING
1. General
All or a portion of required off-street parking may be provided off-site, in
accordance with the provisions of this section. Off-site parking areas must comply
with all applicable parking area design and accessibility standards. Required
accessible parking spaces may not be located off site.
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2. Location
Off-site parking areas must be located within a 500-foot radius of the use served
by such parking, measured between the entrance of the use to be served and the
outer perimeter of the furthest parking space within the off-site parking lot.
3. Control of Off-site Parking Area
The property to be occupied by the off-site parking facilities must be under the
same ownership as the parcel containing the use to be served by the parking. The
off-site parking area may be under separate ownership only if an agreement is
provided guaranteeing the long-term availability of the parking, commensurate with
the use served by the parking. Off-site parking privileges will continue in effect only
as long as the agreement, binding on all parties, remains in force. If an off-site
parking agreement lapses or is no longer valid, then parking must be provided as
otherwise required by this chapter.
F. USE OF OFF-STREET PARKING AREAS
1. Required off-street parking areas may be used solely for the temporary parking of
licensed motor vehicles in operating condition.
2. Required off-street parking spaces may not be used for the display of goods for
sale or lease or for storage of building materials.
3. Required off-street parking spaces are intended to serve residents, tenants,
patrons, employees, or guests of the principal use. Off-street parking spaces that
are required by this Zoning Ordinance must be maintained for the life of the
principal use.
4. No commercial motor vehicle repair work of any kind is permitted in a required
parking space.
G. DRIVEWAY PARKING AREA DESIGN
Parking areas must be laid out and designed in accordance with Municipal Code
requirements and City standards and specifications.
1. Driveways must be reviewed and approved by the City Public Works Department
before the issuance of a zoning compliance permit. Driveways exceeding 150 feet
in length require additional approval from the Fire Department.
2. Driveways may not exceed a grade of eight (8) percent, provided that a maximum
grade of up to 10% may be allowed for short distances, not exceeding 50 feet, if
approved by the Fire Department and the City Public Works Department.
17.18.49 BICYCLE PARKING
Bicycle parking is encouraged and when utilized by the property owner a minimum of 50% of
required bicycle parking spaces shall be located within fifty (50) feet of the front door of the
business or the resident’s entrance when bicycle parking is required. An inverted U or other
similar device, approved through Design Review, shall be required. Bicycle racks shall be made
of solid construction, resistant to rust, corrosion, hammers and saws, and be located in a well
illuminated location.
A. COMMERCIAL USES
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A minimum of two (2) bicycle parking spaces are required for every twenty (20)
automobile parking spaces required.
B. INDUSTRIAL
None required.
C. MULTI-HOUSEHOLD HOUSING
A minimum of one (1) bicycle parking space is required for every five (5) multi -housing
residential units. A minimum of two (2) bicycle parking spaces are required for multi -
Household housing units of at least five (5) units.
17.18.50 INTERSECTION VISIBILITY
17.18.51 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this Section is to avoid traffic hazards that occur from obstructed visibility at
intersections of streets, alleys and driveways.
17.18.52 APPLICABILITY
The standards of this Section apply to all developmen ts not exempted below. The standards of
this Section shall not apply to:
A. EXISTING BUILDINGS
Permanent buildings existing on the effective date of this Ordinance.
B. CONTROLLED INTERSECTIONS
Stop sign controlled or traffic signal-controlled intersections.
17.18.53 ESTABLISHMENT OF SIGHT TRIANGLE
For the purpose of this Section a sight triangle is defined and established at the intersection of
all streets, streets and alleys, and streets and driveways. The sight triangle is measured from the
center of the approaching traffic lane for each direction for a distance of 450 feet for 45 mph, 400
feet for 40 mph, and 350 feet for 35 mph, in no case shall the distance be reduced below 250
feet.
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Within the area of the sight triangle, the height of mature landscaping, walls and fences shall not
exceed thirty-six inches (36”) feet in height measured from the top of the existing curb grade or
crown of abutting road, whichever is lower.
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A. TREES
Within the sight triangle, existing trees shall be permitted as long as only the tree trunk
(no leaves, limbs, etc.) is visible within eight (8) feet of the ground. No new trees are
allowed in the sight triangle.
17.18.60 LANDSCAPING
17.18.61 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to establish landscaping requirements that promote
attractive and high-quality development and preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the City.
It is further the purpose of this Section to require landscapin g that ensures compatibility among
adjacent land uses, controls dust, glare and erosion, screens objectionable objects, visually
softens the mass of buildings, promotes air quality and enhances property values. Safe and
attractive landscaping is encouraged adjacent to public streets and throughout parking areas. It
is not the intent of this Section to prescribe a certain style of landscaping except to include plants
that are indigenous to the area and tolerant of Laurel weather conditions.
17.18.62 APPLICABILITY
The standards of this Section shall apply to the following types of development.
A. NEW DEVELOPMENT
All new developments and expansions of existing developments that result in an
increase of more than 1,000 square feet of gross floor area shall com ply with this
Section.
B. CHANGE OF USE
The change of use of an existing development shall comply with this Section.
C. CONDITIONS
Landscaping may be required as a condition of a Variance or the rezoning of a lot or
parcel of land.
17.18.63 LANDSCAPE PLAN
A. PLAN REQUIRED
A Landscape Plan is required for all developments and changes of use except for
single-household and duplex/2-household residential units.
B. PLAN CONTENTS
The Zoning Administrator shall establish a checklist of items required in a Landscape
Plan.
C. PLAN REVIEW
Review of the Landscape Plan shall be performed concurrently with the Development
Plan it accompanies.
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17.18.64 LANDSCAPE STANDARDS
A. DESIGN ELEMENTS
Landscape Plans shall be designed and installed to meet the following s tandards.
1. Landscape Area
The entire lot or parcel not occupied by impervious surface or left in natural
vegetation shall be planted with trees, grass, ground cover, or other live ground
cover plantings that are known to be tolerant to the climate of Lau rel. Xeriscape
landscaping is permitted and encouraged when appropriate, however, concrete is
not an approved xeriscape material.
2. Use of Landscape Planting
Landscape plans shall be designed and installed to landscape required setbacks,
screen parking lots, soften the mass of buildings and buffer neighboring property
from new development.
3. Landscape Material
Landscape plans shall use plant material that minimizes attraction to wildlife other
than songbirds, e.g. berries.
4. Ensure sight triangle is maintained.
B. STREET BOULEVARD
Street boulevards shall comply with provisions set forth in this section.
C. MAINTENANCE
The required landscaping shall be continually maintained by the owner after
installation. Any landscaping or ground cover or other elements of the Landscape Plan
that die or become damaged shall be replaced by the end of the growing season in
which the plant material died or became damaged. Any required landscaping that dies
or is damaged and is not replaced shall be considered a violation of this Ordinance.
17.18.65 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section is to establish outdoor lighting standards that ensure
nighttime safety and productivity while conserving energy and encouraging “dark sky” initiatives.
17.18.66 APPLICABILITY
The standards of this Section shall apply to all outdoor lighting fixtures installed after the effective
date of this Ordinance and the new development of multi-household, commercial and industrial
buildings not exempted in Subsection 11.18.67 Exemptions. These standards shall also apply to
the redevelopment, addition or remodeling of multi-Household, commercial or industrial property
that increases the gross floor area of the building(s) or the area of developed land by fifty (50)
percent or more, unless exempted.
17.18.67 EXEMPTIONS
The following types of lighting fixtures are exempt from the standards of this Section:
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A. EXISTING FIXTURES
Outdoor lighting fixtures installed prior to and operable on the effective date of this
Ordinance provided the fixtures are not a pre-existing nuisance and further provided
there is no change or replacement in use or lamp type and no structural alteration to
the outdoor lighting fixture.
B. STREETLIGHTS, TRAFFIC CONTROL
Streetlights and traffic control lights.
C. RECREATION FACILITY
Lighting related to a recreational facility up to 11:00 pm. Notwithstanding, said lighting
may continue to allow the completion of a sporting event in the recreational facility that
began earlier in the evening.
D. NAVIGATION LIGHTS
Navigation lights at the airport or located on communication towers or similar lights
providing a navigational function.
E. HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
Lights installed as holiday decorations provided, they are not installed more than forty -
five (45) days prior to the holiday and are removed within fifteen (15) days after the
holiday.
F. UNITED STATES FLAG
Up cast lights or other unshielded lights necessary to comply with United States Code,
Title 4 Chapter 1 Section 6.
17.18.68 LIGHTING STANDARDS
A. SHIELDING
All outdoor lighting fixtures shall be shielded to avoid direct view of the light source or
bulb from the property line.
B. 75 DEGREE CUTOFF
All outdoor lighting fixtures shall be installed at a 75 -degree cutoff and aimed
downward.
C. OFF SITE GLARE
Glare or light directed off-site or shining onto the adjacent property shall be prohibited.
D. FOOT CANDLES
Parking lot lighting shall not exceed an average illumination level of one (1) foot candle.
All other exterior lighting shall not exceed an illumination level of four/tenths (0.4) of a
foot candle.
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17.18.69 PROHIBITIONS
The following types of lighting shall be prohibited unless specifically exempted by Section
11.18.67 Exemptions:
A. SEARCHLIGHTS
The operation of searchlights for advertising purposes is prohibited.
17.18.70 INFRASTRUCTURE
17.18.71 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Section are to ensure required infrastructure and utilities are
constructed and maintained to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants of
developments approved pursuant to this Ordinance and the general community. Required
infrastructure and utilities include but are not limited to water distribution, wastewater collection,
vehicular circulation, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, storm water runoff and erosion control and
the private utilities of electricity, cable television, telephone, and where available natural gas.
17.18.72 REQUIRED INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITY
IMPROVEMENTS
All development shall provide and maintain safe and orderly infrastructure and utilities that
connect to the infrastructure systems of the City of Laurel and private utilities. All development
shall provide access to water and wastewater systems, public streets or roads, pedestrian trails
and/or sidewalks, and wire utilities such as electricity, cable television and telephone, and where
available natural gas. All infrastructure and utility improvements shall be extended to the furthest
extent of a property.
17.18.73 PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY, PUBLIC
WASTEWATER SYSTEM
A. CONNECTION TO MUNICIPAL SYSTEMS
All development shall connect to municipal water and wastewater infrastructure
systems which may require off-site and on-site facilities to provide the necessary
mains, lift stations, and pump stations, service lines and other appurtenances
necessary to connect the development to the City infrastructure.
B. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
1. City, DEQ
All infrastructure systems shall be constructed and maintained to the applicable
codes of the City of Laurel, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality
standards and other federal and state codes that may be duly applicable.
2. Shared Use
All infrastructure lines in new developments shall be located and constructed to
allow adjoining properties to access the infrastructure mains at the common
property lines.
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C. DEVELOPER’S EXPENSE
1. Developer’s Expense
Installation of the required infrastructure shall be the developer’s expense except
where shared expenses are approved by the City.
2. City Participation
At its sole discretion and subject to adopted ordinances controlling infrastructure,
the City may participate in funding the construction of infrastructure related to any
development when an infrastructure facility is oversized to accommodate the
current or future needs of adjacent properties.
17.18.74 PRIVATE UTILITIES
A. UNDERGROUND INSTALLATION
All wire and natural gas utilities shall be installed underground except as provided
below.
1. Above Ground Appurtenant
Transformers, switching boxes, terminal boxes, meter cabinets, pedestals, ducts
and other facilities that are necessary appurtenant to underground utilities may be
placed above ground within utility easements or street right-of-way or easements
with approval of the landowner or City Council, whichever is applicable.
2. Connections to Above Ground Facilities
Facilities reasonably necessary to connect underground utilities to existing or
permitted overhead or above ground facilities shall be allowed above ground.
3. Existing Facilities
Existing above ground utility facilities may be allowed to remain. It shall not be
required to remove or replace existing above ground utility facilities that are useful
in serving the development.
4. Transmission, Distribution Feeder Lines
Overhead electric transmission and distribution feeder lines and overhead long -
distance communication, trunk and feeder lines shall not be required to be
underground.
B. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
All utilities shall be installed and maintained pursuant to the applicable utility company
standards.
C. STRUCTURES IN UTILITY EASEMENTS
Structures shall not be located in public or private utility easements except fences.
1. Laurel Growth Policy
Legal and physical access to public streets shall be consistent with the Laurel
Growth Policy.
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2. Natural Topography
Accesses, streets, and roads shall be designed and constructed to conform to the
natural topography to the greatest extent practical and minimize ground
disturbance.
3. Drainage
Accesses, streets, and roads shall not block natural drainage ways and shall be
designed and constructed to provide positive storm water runoff.
4. Number of Accesses
The allowed number of accesses shall be determined by the Laurel Subdivision
Regulations.
5. No Commercial Access through Residential
A commercial or industrial development shall not have a principal acc ess through
a residential zoning district. This prohibition does not prevent commercial or
industrial access through a mixed-use district.
6. Emergency Access
All development shall provide safe and efficient access suitable for emergency
vehicles.
7. Street Standards
Street extensions or construction shall be designed and constructed pursuant to
the street standards in the Laurel Subdivision Regulations.
8. Arterial streets
Accesses to arterial streets shall be minimized and shall comply to any applicable
access management plans in effect. A residential development that adjoins an
arterial street shall use reverse frontage or side access to minimize access to
arterial streets.
D. DEVELOPER’S EXPENSE
The construction of the required accesses, stre ets or roads shall be the developer’s
expense except where shared expenses are approved by the City.
1. City Participation
At its sole discretion and subject to adopted ordinances controlling streets and
roads the City may participate in funding the construction of an access, street, or
road related to any development when the access facility is oversized or extended
to accommodate the current or future needs of adjacent properties.
17.18.75 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS
All development and construction, including single-household structures, and existing structures
in all zones shall construct a sidewalk across the street frontages of the lot. The sidewalk(s) shall
be within the public right-of-way at a location approved by the Laurel Public Works Director and
extended to connect to existing sidewalks if present at the lot boundary. If sidewalks currently
exist, they must remain in perpetuity and be replaced if damaged.
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A. EXEMPTIONS
Expansion to existing structures that increase the gross floor area by less than fifty (50)
percent shall be exempt from installing sidewalks. Subdivisions that have been
annexed without curb and gutter shall be exempt from required sidewalks.
B. ADA
All new sidewalks shall be constructed in compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA).
C. COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
Commercial and industrial developments, not exempted above, shall provide a
sidewalk from the entrance of the commercial development to the public right-of-way
and across the frontage of the lot.
D. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
Sidewalks shall be designed and constructed to comply with the construction
specifications and widths as adopted in the Laurel Subdivision Regulations.
E. LANDOWNER’S EXPENSE
Sidewalks shall be designed and constructed at the landowner’s expense. Lots with
three (3) or more street frontages or lots with an acute angle shall be reviewed by the
city to determine appropriate locations and shall be required to provide at least two
sidewalks.
17.18.76 DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
A. AGREEMENT REQUIRED
Developments that require the construction of public infrastructure or other public
improvements shall require a Development Agreement that establishes the detailed
requirements, responsibilities, and timing of performance for both the developer and
the City.
B. CONTENT OF AGREEMENT
A Development Agreement shall contain, but not be limited to, the following items.
1. Site Plan
The Development Agreement shall incorporate or reference an approved
development plan.
2. Required Improvements
Detailed description of infrastructure and other improvements required as part of
the approved development including specifications.
3. Costs
Costs of the improvements required in the initial phase and projected costs of
improvements of any future phases.
4. Schedule for Completion
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An established schedule of completion required in the initial phase and a projected
completion schedule of any future phases.
5. City Completion
A process by which the City may, if necessary, complete the required
improvements using the surety or financial guarantee provided by the developer.
6. Renegotiation
A process by which either the developer or the city may request a renegotiation of
the agreement.
7. Transfer
A process by which the agreement may be transferred with the prior written
approval of the City Council.
8. Guarantee
The form of the financial surety or guarantee shall be specified.
9. Warranty
A statement or warranty for the materials and workmanship pursuant to Subsection
G, Warranty of Improvements, below.
C. PHASING
The construction of public infrastructure or improvements may be phased in
accordance with an approved phasing plan.
D. EFFECT OF AGREEMENT
An approved Development Agreement shall create a legal contract binding the parties
to the contract.
E. GUARANTEE
Completion of the required improvements identified in the Development Agreement
shall be guaranteed by a method in the Guarantee of Public Improvements Section of
the Laurel Subdivision Regulations.
F. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS
1. Inspection Required
All infrastructure and improvements shall be inspected by the Zoning Administrator
and/or Public Works Director for compliance with the approved development plan,
construction plans and specifications.
2. Developer Request
Upon completion of the infrastructure or improvements, the Developer shall submit
to the Zoning Administrator a written request for a Certificate of Compliance or
acceptance.
3. Improvements Accepted
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Upon a written verification from the developer and a project engineer licen sed in
the state of Montana that the infrastructure or improvements have been completed
pursuant to all approvals, plans and specifications, and upon further verification
from the inspection described in Subsection F.1, Inspection Required, above, the
Zoning Administrator or Public Works Director, whichever is designated by
adopted City ordinances, shall issue a Certification of Compliance.
Notwithstanding, some public infrastructure facilities or improvements may require
City Council approval of acceptance based upon adopted City ordinances. In such
instances, the Zoning Administrator shall place the developer’s request on the City
Council agenda following verification by the Administrator or Public Works Director
that the infrastructure or improvements have been completed pursuant to all
approvals, plans and specifications.
4. Fees
The City Council may establish fees to offset the administrative costs of inspecting
public infrastructure or improvements. Any such fees shall be paid by the
developer prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance or acceptance.
G. WARRANTY OF IMPROVEMENTS
The developer shall warrant the materials and workmanship of the public infrastructure
or improvement for a period of one (1) year from issuance of the Certif icate of
Compliance or acceptance of the infrastructure or improvement by the Mayor and City
Council, whichever is applicable.
1. Warranty Enforcement
The warranty shall be enforced or secured by one of the following methods.
a. Escrow
An escrow account containing funds equal to ten (10) percent of the
construction costs pursuant to the Guarantee of Public Improvements Section
of the Laurel Subdivision Regulations.
b. Letter of Credit
Continuing a Letter of Credit or opening a new Letter of Credit in an amount
equal to ten (10) percent of the construction costs pursuant to the in the
Guarantee of Public Improvements Section of the Laurel Subdivision
Regulations.
c. Use of Funds
The City may use funds or draw upon the Letter of Credit to correct any
deficiency in the materials or workmanship of the infrastructure or
improvement. Notwithstanding, the developer may remedy the deficiency in
lieu of the City drawing upon the funds.
2. Release of Funds
Warranty funds held in escrow, or the Letter of Credit shall be released upon
expiration of the one (1) year warranty period provided the funds were not spent
to remedy a deficiency in the infrastructure or improvement.
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17.18.80 STORM WATER MANAGEMENT AND
EROSION CONTROL
17.18.81 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purposes and intent of this Section are to ensure storm water runoff is sufficiently managed
to avoid dangerous conditions, flooding, or property damage and to further minimize erosion from
wind and water.
17.18.82 APPLICABILITY
All developments, not exempted below in Section 11.18.83 Exemptions, proposing to disturb a
cumulative total of more than 20,000 square feet of contiguous impervious coverage shall comply
with the standards of this Section, and meet Montana Department of Environmental Quality
Regulations.
17.18.83 EXEMPTIONS
Development in the Central Business Zoning District shall be exempt from this section.
17.18.84 STORM WATER RUNOFF AND EROSION
CONTROL PLAN
Any application for a development permit, including a building permit if no other development
application is required, not exempted in Section 11.18.83 Exemptions, shall include a storm water
runoff and erosion control plan. The plan shall contain plans, calculations and tec hniques that
demonstrate compliance with the standards of this Section and shall be prepared by a
professional engineer licensed in the State of Montana.
17.18.85 STANDARDS
A. PRE-DEVELOPMENT DISCHARGE
The post-development runoff rate from the site shall not exceed the pre-development
runoff rate. Storm water retention areas may be required to comply with this standard.
B. VELOCITIES MINIMIZED
Runoff velocities shall be minimized, and the receiving drainage ways shall be
designed and constructed to accommodate the runoff.
C. STORMWATER DETENTION
On-site storm water facilities shall be designed and constructed to detain a 2 -year
storm event that is one (1) hour in duration, while meeting Section 11.18.85.A Pre -
development Discharge.
D. MAINTENANCE
Storm water facilities shall be continually maintained to ensure on-going compliance
with this Section.
E. RETENTION OF VEGETATION
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Existing natural vegetation shall be maintained as much as practical and disturbed
areas that do not receive structures or impervious surfaces shall be revegetated.
F. DISTURBED AREAS MINIMIZED
The amount of ground area disturbed at any one time shall be minimized as much as
practical.
G. SILT FENCING
Silt fencing, hale bales or comparable techniques shall be used to prevent sediment
from leaving the site due to erosion during construction and until the site is fully
vegetated.
H. WATER QUALITY
Water quality of nearby streams, wetlands or other riparian areas shall be protected by
the use of vegetative buffer or other techniques as identified in the Laurel Growth Policy
or master plan for a subdivision.
17.18.90 TEMPORARY USES
17.18.91 – Intent
The definitions found in this chapter for temporary uses and structures shall be used to regulate
same, and all uses contained in temporary structures shall be considered temporary uses and
must comply with this section. All temporary uses or structures must also comply with the
Uniform Fire Code, Laurel requirements for ingress and egress, and other applicable codes in
existence at the time of the adoption of this chapter. This chapter shall not apply to sidewalk
vendors.
17.18.92 – Temporary uses in nonresidential zoning
districts
A. Group 1 Temporary Uses. This group consists of temporary uses of property
continuing for less than forty-eight hours. Such uses are exempt from this chapter.
B. Group 2 Temporary Uses. This group consists of temporary uses of property
continuing for longer than forty-eight hours but less than thirty days.
1. The following are examples of Group 2 temporary use s: carnivals, circuses,
Christmas tree sales, etc.
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2. Supplemental Standards.
i. Two signs not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area and eight feet in height
shall be allowed, excluding A-frame signs, and be removed along with the
temporary use/structure when the approved time limit or temporary
use/structure permit has expired.
ii. Clear sight vision for ingress and egress shall be provided as approved by the
public works department.
iii. Access to any public right-of-way must be approved by the public works
department.
iv. Application for a temporary use/structure permit shall be made at the city public
works department to the planning board at least one month ahead of the
planning board's regularly scheduled meeting.
C. Group 3 Temporary Uses. This group consists of tempo rary uses of property
continuing for longer than thirty days but less than one year.
1. The following temporary uses may be allowed in this group:
i. Uses, such as carryout espresso stands, less than one hundred sixty square
feet in floor area and bearing a certification of a factory-built building from the
state of Montana or a Building Permit issued by the City of Laurel as allowed
in the appropriate zoning districts.
2. Location and Time Restrictions.
i. Any Group 3 tempo rary use/structure existing upon adoption of this chapter
shall be deemed a legal nonconforming use. All existing legal Group 3
nonconforming temporary uses/structures, as of the effective date of this
chapter or any amendment hereto, shall be removed or b ecome a permanent
use by complying with the currently adopted Commercial Building Code, site
development standards, and any other federal, state, or local requirements
within two years from the date of the enactment of this chapter or any
amendment hereto.
ii. All Group 3 temporary use/structures shall be removed no later than one year
unless reapplied for and approved.
3. Supplemental Standards.
i. Two signs not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area and eight feet in height
shall be allowed, excluding A -frame signs, and shall be removed along with
the temporary use when the approved time limit or temporary use/structure
permit has expired.
ii. The temporary use must provide sufficient space to accommodate the
structure and off-street parking for customers and use -related vehicles. The
parking area, driving lanes, and egress/ingress shall be paved, drained and
the site shall be approved by the public works department.
iii. Clear sight vision for site ingress and egress shall be provided as per currently
adopted applicable codes and as approved by the public works department.
iv. Access to public right-of-way shall be approved by the public works
department.
v. Application for a temporary use/structure permit shall be made at the city
public works department to the planning board at least one month ahead of
the planning board's regularly scheduled meeting.
17.18.93 – Christmas tree sales in residential districts
In any residential district and in the agricultural district, the temporary use of land for
Christmas tree sales may be allowed for a period not to exceed thirty days when all of the
following restrictions are met:
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A. The sale must be conducted on property owned by a nonprofit organization unless
otherwise approved by city staff. The lot must provide sufficient space to accommo date
the Christmas trees and off-street parking for customers and other sale-related vehicles.
B. One sign not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area shall be allowed for this temporary
use, and such sign shall be removed along with the temporary use and structure when the
approved time limit or temporary use/structure permit has expired.
C. A business license must be obtained by the operator if located within the Laurel city limits.
17.18.94 – Roadside stands.
The sale of flowers or produce at temporary stands shall be allowed when all of the following
restrictions are met:
A. Only items produced on the premises may be sold on the premises; and
B. Any structure used must be portable and removed after the temporary use/structure
ceases to operate; and
C. One sign not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area shall be allowed, and such sign shall
be removed when the use ceases; and
D. The use must provide sufficient space to accommodate the stand and off -street parking for
customer and other sale-related vehicles off the public right-of-way; and
E. Clear vision ingress and egress to the area must be provided.
17.18.95 – Fireworks stands.
The erection of temporary fireworks stands may be permitted if such meet the following
standards:
A. Located outside the city limits of Laurel and in nonresidential zones; and
B. Two signs not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area each are allowed, and such signs
must be removed along with the temporary use and structure when the approved time limit
expires; and
C. The stand must provide sufficient space to accommodate the stand and off-street parking
for customer and sale-related vehicles off the public right-of-way; and
D. The appropriate permits are secured from, and fees are paid to county departments and
the local jurisdictional fire department.
17.18.96 – Construction or construction equipment sheds.
The temporary use of buildings or modular offices or equipment sheds during construction
projects may be permitted in any zoning district. A temporary use/structure permit is not
required if the structure is part of an approved construction project and used exclusively
for the approved construction project it serves. Such structures cannot be used for
sleeping or living purposes and must be removed upon completion of the construction
project.
17.18.97 – Temporary use/structure permit required.
All Group 2 and Group 3 temporary uses must conform to the currently adopted Sign
Code. Before any Group 2 or Group 3 temporary use or structure is established, the
property owner shall obtain a temporary use/stru cture permit, as delineated in this
chapter. In addition, the property owner shall post a three -thousand-dollar money order
or cashier's check or an equivalent bond with the city to ensure timely removal of the use
and/or structure.
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17.18.98 –Action by Board of Adjustment.
After the planning director has reviewed an application for temporary use, he/she shall
make a recommendation to the board of adjustment to approve, deny or approve with
conditions. The board of adjustment shall approve, deny, or approve with conditions the
application. If approved or if approved with conditions, the application shall then obtain a
city business license prior to operating the business.
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17.18.100 OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
17.18.101 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purposes and intent of this Section is to establish performance standards that ensure
developments and land uses do not become dangerous or objectionable to neighbors or the
general community. It is the purpose and intent of this Section that all land uses and relate d
activities are maintained and operated to avoid detracting from the health, safety, and welfare of
the citizens of Laurel.
17.18.102 AIR QUALITY
Dust, ash, vapors, fumes, gasses, or other forms of air pollution shall not be emitted from any
development to an extent that can cause damage to the health of people, animals or vegetation
or can degrade neighboring property.
17.18.103 COMBUSTIBLES AND EXPLOSIVES
The storage of combustible and explosive materials shall comply with applicable standards of the
applicable Fire Code and the applicable building codes.
17.18.104 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS STORAGE
A. STATE, FEDERAL REGULATIONS
Development that proposes to generate, handle, or store hazardous materials shall
comply with all applicable state and federal regulations and standards. When a
proposed development requires a state or federal permit, the applicant shall include in
the application for a City permit copies of the applicable per mits to demonstrate
compliance with the state or federal regulations.
B. OTHER CITY CODES
Development that proposes to generate, handle, or store hazardous materials shall
comply with all applicable regulations and standards in the currently adopted build ing
code and Fire Prevention and Safety Code. When a proposed development requires
approval for such activities under these additional codes, the applicant shall include
in the application for a City permit copies of the applicable permits or plans that
demonstrate compliance with the codes.
17.18.105 NOISE
A. NOISE LEVELS
Developments and land uses shall not create noises that exceed the levels established
below.
Noise Levels
Noise Levels
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Zoning District in which
the Sound is Generated Maximum Sound Level Quiet Hours
R-7500, R-6000, RLMF 65 dBA Reduce to 55 dBA from 10:00
pm to 6:00 am
RMF, RMH 70 dBA Reduce to 65 dBA from 10:00
pm to 6:00 am
RP, NC2 80 dBA Reduce to 70 dBA from 10:00
pm to 6:00 am
CBD, CC, HC, P 85 dBA Reduce to 70 dBA from 10:00
pm to 6:00 am
LI, HI 95 dBA Reduce to 75 dBA from 10:00
pm to 6:00 am
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B. EXCEPTIONS
Notwithstanding the noise limitations established, exceptions to the Subsection are:
1. During all hours the following items are exempt: Emergency vehicle safety and
warning signals, other safety and warning signals and devices, aircraft operations
at the airport and hospital, vehicles with legal and properly functioning exhaust
systems, those noise generators that in the opinion of the Zoning Administrator or
law enforcement personnel meet the intent of this Section, and limited temporary
noises that occur for fifteen (15) minutes or less.
2. During non-quiet hours the following items are exempt: home appliances, chain
saws, lawn mowers and snow blowers in private use, those noise generators that
in the opinion of the Zoning Administrator or law enforcement personnel meet the
intent of this Section, and limited temporary noises that occur for fifteen (15)
minutes or less.
3. The City Council may grant waivers for special events (parades, street dances,
grand openings, 4th of July Celebrations, etc.) or via the Conditional Use Permit
or Use of City Owned Lands approval process. All such waivers shall be in writing
and on the property where the exemption is applicable.
4. Construction activities are exempt from the maximum sound level for any given
district from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm level for any given district.
C. MEASUREMENT
Noise levels shall be measured at the property line of the development or land use
generating the noise and shall be measured with a sound meter.
17.18.106 JUNK VEHICLES
A. CERTIFICATION
The zoning administrator or designee may inspect and certify that a vehicle meets the
requirements of a junk vehicle. Such certification shall be in writing and shall record
the make of the vehicle, the vehicle identification number, or license plate number of
the vehicle if available. The certifying individual shall also describe any vehicle
damage, any missing equipment, or condition of the vehicle, and shall also verify that
the value of the junk vehicle is equivalent only to the approximate value of the scrap in
it.
B. VIOLATION
It shall be unlawful to park or store junk vehicles on private property. Such a violation
shall be deemed a nuisance subject to abatement including fines, fees and/or removal
of vehicle from property.
C. EXCEPTIONS
The provisions of this chapter relating to junk vehicles shall not apply to a vehicle or
part thereof which: (1) is not visible from the street or other public or private property;
or (2) is stored or parked in a lawful manner on fenced private property in connection
with the business of a licensed bulk hauler, tow truck operator, dismantler, repair
facility, or motor vehicle dealer and is fenced.
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17.18.101 BUILDING DESIGN
A. STREET WALL LENGTH AND SHAPE
To avoid long and monotonous building facades, the building façade facing any street
shall not be more than one hundred (100) feet without an offset in the wall plane or
architectural features or indents designed to break up the apparent mass of the wall
and prevents the building from being a rectangle or square. LI and HI districts are
exempt from this provision.
B. USE CLARIFICATION
Unless otherwise noted in the Central Business District or within sections o f this code;
the primary use of a structure within all districts shall be classified as that use which
occupies 50.1 percent of the gross floor area of a structure. If multiple uses are within
the structure, the simple majority of gross floor area of one use shall constitute the
primary use for determining what is permitted in each district.
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Article 17.19.0 – Outdoor Advertising
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17.19.10 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this Article is to govern outdoor advertising with standards designed to balance the Interests
of businesses, organizations and individuals with the public interests of maintaining an attractive city where
advertising contributes to community character and avoids undue visual clutter.
17.19.20 APPLICABILITY
The standards of this Section shall apply to the erection, construction, relocation, installation or alteration
of any outdoor advertising sign, structure, markings, symbol or other advertising device unless exempted
in Section 11.19.30 Exemptions.
17.19.30 EXEMPTIONS
The standards of this Section shall not apply to the following:
17.19.31 OFFICIAL NOTICES, WARNING SIGNS,
HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Notices posted by an official of a public body or utility that provides legal notification or information
or warning of a dangerous area, including signs communicating information about the history of
a property or the community.
17.19.32 WINDOW DISPLAYS, INDOOR SIGNS
Indoor signs and displays that are not visible from the outside.
17.19.33 BUILDING IDENTIFICATION, MINOR
RESIDENTIAL
Signs, plaques and similar features not to exceed four (4) square feet in area containing building
names, dates of erection, commemorative information or similar content. Wall signs identifying
occupants or owners of a residential property.
17.19.34 HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Holiday lights and displays containing no commercial message and erected no sooner than forty-
five (45) days prior to the holiday and removed no later than fifteen (15) days following the holiday.
17.19.35 REAL ESTATE
Not more than one (1) real estate sign per lot, parcel or tract of land or a building “for sale” or “for
rent” that does not exceed six (6) square feet in area.
17.19.36 RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS, NON-COMMERCIAL
Religious symbols, signs conveying a non-commercial message and temporary political signs.
17.19.37 WAY FINDING, TRAFFIC CONTROL
Signs that provide directional information, identify entrances/exits and control traffic that does not
exceed six (6) square feet in area.
399
17.19.38 MURALS
Murals depicted on sides of buildings that contain no advertising message connected to a
business, service or product.
17.19.40 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Section, certain words and terms shall have the meaning as established in this
subsection.
17.19.41 SIGN
For purposes of this Ordinance the term sign shall mean any structure, marking, symbol, display,
illustration or other advertising device designed or intended to announce, market or attract
attention to a business, product or service.
17.19.42 SIGN AREA
Sign area means the surface of a sign designed to contain a message, logo, symbol, or other
communication and excludes the structural support members. The sign area for free -standing
signs or signs projecting from a building may display a message on two (2) sides that are back -
to-back and the sum total of the area of each side shall not exceed the allowed sign area.
17.19.43 NEON AND ILLUMINATED
Signs lit with neon or exposed bulbs in an historic manner.
17.19.44 INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED
Illumination in which neon, fluorescent, incandescent, or other light sources are placed within a
semi-transparent “can” and shine through sign panels, typically made of plastic.
17.19.50 PERMIT REQUIRED
The erection, construction, relocation or alteration of a sign or other advertising device not exempted in
Section 11.19.30 Exemptions requires a Building Permit. Electrical permits pursuant to the currently
adopted electrical codes may be required in addition to the Building Permit.
17.19.51 DIGITAL ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY
Signs that display moving, or electronic images shall require a conditional use permit and be
consistent with all other applicable district regulations.
17.19.60 GENERAL STANDARDS
17.19.61 SIZE
A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
400
The maximum amount of sign area allowed in a residential zoning district is six (6)
square feet per lot, parcel or tract of land. Notwithstanding, the size of sign area
announcing the name of a development is one (1) square foot of sign area per one (1)
linear foot of street frontage of the lot containing the sign, not to exceed forty (40)
square feet.
B. NON-RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
The total amount of sign area allowed in non-residential zoning districts shall not
exceed three hundred (300) total square feet. Total signage and sign area is calculated
by measuring the surface area of one face of the sign.
17.19.62 NUMBER, TYPE
There is no maximum number of signs permitted on a property and no restriction on the types of
signs provided the total sign area of all signs does not exceed the amount permitted in Section
11.19.61 Size.
17.19.63 HEIGHT
The maximum height of all freestanding signs, including all embellishments, shall not exceed the
maximum height for primary buildings in the given zoning district.
17.19.64 ON SITE/OFF SITE
Off-site signs are permitted however those signs count toward the overall sign area for that
specific property and use.
17.19.65 CONSTRUCTION, ELECTRICAL CODES
Signs and other advertising devices shall comply with applicable construction and electrical
codes.
17.19.70 PROHIBITED SIGNS
The following signs shall be prohibited:
17.19.71 INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED
Internally illuminated signs are prohibited in all residential districts and are subject to 11.19.80
Internally Illuminated Signs.
17.19.72 FLASHING AND BLINKING SIGNS
Flashing, blinking or, signs with rotating light beams, holograms, and similar devices.
17.19.80 INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGNS
Internally illuminated signs are only allowed inside Commercially and Industrially Zoned Districts.
17.19.90 NONCONFORMING SIGNS
401
Any sign legally existing on the effective date of this Ordinance which does not comply with the provisions
of this Article shall be deemed a nonconforming sign. No nonconforming sign shall be moved, altered, re -
erected, relocated or replaced unless it is brought into compliance with the standards of this Article. This
shall not prevent the repair or restoration to a safe condition any part of a nonconforming sign or sign
structure, or a change of message or normal maintenance on a sign or sign structure.
17.19.100 ABANDONED SIGNS
Any sign that is not structurally sound or no longer serves to inform or attract the attention of the public,
including illegible signs and signs advertising or identifying abandoned uses, shall be considered
abandoned and its removal required. The owner of an abandoned sign shall be responsible for the removal
of the sign within sixty (60) days of the adoption of this Ordinance or within sixty (60) days termination of
the use advertised by the sign.
17.19.110 TEMPORARY SIGNS
The Zoning Administrator may approve temporary signs to be erected for not more than thirty (30) days to
advertise special events and similar short-term activities.
402
Article 17.21.0 – Administration
403
17.21.10 ORGANIZATION OF ARTICLE
17.21.11 OVERVIEW OF DUTIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Summary Table of Review Procedures, presents an overview of the roles of the various
decision makers in the review and approval processes of this ordinance.
17.21.12 DECISION MAKING AND ADMINISTRATIVE
BODIES
Section 11.21.30, Duties and Responsibilities of Decision Making and Administrative Bodies, sets
out the detailed authority, duties and responsibilities of the various decision making and
administrative bodies in the review processes of this Ordinance.
17.21.13 COMMON REVIEW PROCEDURES
Section 11.21.40 Supplementary Review Procedures Common Procedures, establishes the
common review procedure that applies to all permits unless certain supplementary procedures
are created in subsequent sections of this Ordinance.
17.21.14 PUBLIC HEARING, PUBLIC NOTICE
Section 11.21.80 Supplementary Review Procedures, establishes supplementary review
procedures for certain permits that either supplement or replace a portion of the common review
procedures.
17.21.15 SUPPLEMENTARY REVIEW PROCEDURES
Sections 11.21.80 Supplementary Review Procedures, establishes supplementary review
procedures for certain permits that either supplement or replace a portion of the common review
procedures.
404
17.21.20 OVERVIEW OF DUTIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
Summary Table of Review Procedures
Summary Tale of Review Procedures
Zoning
Administrator Building Official
Planning Board &
Zoning
Commission
Board of
Adjustment
Mayor &
City
Council
Receive Applications A
Determine
Completeness A
Residential
Development of 1 to 3
units
A
Residential
Development of 3 or
more Units
R A
PUD R R A
Design Review R R A
Appeal R A
CUP R R A
Zoning
Administrator Building Official Planning Board &
Zoning Commission
Board of
Adjustment
Mayor &
City Council
Variance R R A
Building Permit A
Certificate of
Occupancy A
Zoning Map
Amendment R R A
Zoning Ordinance
Amendment R R A
405
Enforcement Action A
Annexation R R A
Appoint Zoning
Administrator A
Appoint Building Official A
Appoint Member of
Board & Commissions A
R = Review & Recommend; A = Authority for Final Action
406
17.21.30 – Duties and Responsibilities of Decision
Making and Administrative Bodies
The following decision-making and administrative bodies shall have the duties and responsibilities in
administering this Ordinance as established in this Section.
17.21.31 MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
A. POWERS AND AUTHORITY
In addition to all powers and authority granted to the Mayor and City Council by general
or specific law, the Mayor and City Council shall have the following powers and
authority under the provisions of this Ordinance.
1. Appoint Zoning Administrator and Building Official
The Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, shall appoint a Zoning
Administrator and a Building Official. The Zoning Administrator and Building
Official may be employees of the City of Laurel or contract consultants.
2. Appoint Planning Board/Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment
The Mayor shall appoint and the City Council shall consent to appointing members
of the Planning Board/Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment.
3. Growth Policy
The Mayor and City Council shall have the authority to adopt the Laurel Growth
Policy and, from time to time, approve or disapprove amendments to the Growth
Policy.
4. Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map
The Mayor and City Council shall have the authority to adopt the Laurel Zoning
Ordinance and the Official Zoning Map of the City of Laurel, and from time to time,
approve or disapprove amendments to the Ordinance and Map.
5. Planned Unit Development
The Mayor and City Council shall have the authority to hear, consider and approve,
approve with conditions or disapprove applications for Planned Unit
Developments.
6. Annexations
The Mayor and City Council shall have the authority to approve, approve with
conditions or disapprove of applications for annexation of land to the City of Laurel.
7. Other Actions
The Mayor and City Council shall have the authority to take other action not
delegated to another decision making or administrative body that the Mayor and
City Council deem necessary and desirable to implement provisions of the Growth
Policy or this Ordinance.
17.21.32 PLANNING BOARD/ZONING COMMISSION
407
A. ESTABLISHMENT
There is hereby reaffirmation of the creation and existence of the Laurel Planning
Board and Laurel Zoning Commission to be known as the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission.
B. DUTIES AND AUTHORITY
The Planning Board/Zoning Commission shall have the following powers and authority
under this Ordinance:
1. Growth Policy
To prepare and recommend to the Mayor and City Council the Laurel Growth
Policy.
2. Amend Growth Policy
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on amendments to the Growth Policy.
3. Adopt Ordinances
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on the adoption of this Ordinance and other ordinances, regulations and
codes authorized by general or specific law.
4. Amend Ordinances
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on amendments to this Ordinance and to other ordinances, regulations
and codes authorized by general or specific law.
5. Adopt Zoning Map
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on the adoption of the Official Zoning Map of the City of Laurel.
6. Amend Zoning Map
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on amendments to the Official Zoning Map of the City of Laurel.
7. Conditional Uses
To hear, consider and make recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on
whether to approve, approve with conditions or disapprove applications for
Conditional Use Permits pursuant to the terms and procedures of this Ordinance.
8. Planned Unit Development
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on applications for Planned Unit Developments.
9. Annexation
To initiate, hear, consider, and make recommendations to the Mayor and City
Council on approval, approval with conditions or disapproval of applications for
annexation of land to the City of Laurel.
408
10. Other Actions
To undertake and execute other duties the Mayor and City Council deem
necessary and desirable to assign to the Planning Board/Zoning Commission.
17.21.33 BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
A. ESTABLISHMENT
There is hereby reaffirmation of the creation and existence of the Laurel Board of
Adjustment.
B. POWERS AND AUTHORITY
The Board of Adjustment shall have the following powers and authority under this
Ordinance:
1. Appeals
To hear and consider appeals that an error was made in order, requirement or
decision by the Zoning Administrator in the enforcement of this Ordinance and to
recommend that the City Council uphold, modify or overturn the decision.
2. Variances
To hear, consider and recommend approval, approval with conditions or
disapproval applications for variances from the terms of this Ordinance pursuant
to Section 11.21.81 Variance.
17.21.34 ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
The Zoning Administrator shall have the following powers and authority and shall perform the
following duties under this Ordinance.
A. INTERPRET ORDINANCE
Interpret, make day-to-day decisions and administer this Ordinance.
B. RECEIVE APPLICATIONS, DETERMINE COMPLETENESS
Receive applications for all permits required by this Ordinance, except applications for
Building Permits that are received by the Building Official and make determinations of
completeness of the submittal information.
C. APPROVE DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Review, consider and approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove applications for
which the terms and procedures of this Ord inance assign Final Action to the Zoning
Administrator. Applications for which the Zoning Administrator has authority to approve
or disapprove include residential development containing up to three (3) residential
units.
D. RECOMMENDATIONS
Review, consider and make recommendations to the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission, Board of Adjustment and the Mayor and City Council on applications for
which these decision-making bodies have duties to review and/or make final decisions.
409
E. MINOR DEVIATIONS
Review, consider and approve or disapprove minor deviations to a development plan
that has received final approval by a decision-making body.
F. ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES
Assist all decision-making bodies in setting agendas, providing proper legal notice and
maintaining complete record of proceedings.
G. INSPECTIONS, ENFORCEMENT
Perform all necessary inspections to enforce the provisions of this Ordinance,
conditions of approved permits and approved Development Agreements, and to initiate
enforcement actions to remedy violations of this Ordinance, permits or agreements.
H. LEGAL ACTION
Investigate and pursue legal action pertaining to violations of this Ordinance or
conditions of approved permits or the terms of approved Development Agreements.
I. OTHER DUTIES
Perform all other duties assigned by the terms of this Ordinance, deemed necessary
to assist all decision-making bodies, or determined necessary or desirable by the
Mayor and City Council.
17.21.35 BUILDING OFFICIAL
In addition to all powers and authority granted to the Building Official by general or specific law
or by other codes and ordinances, the Building Official shall have the following powers and
authority and shall perform the following duties under this Ordinance.
A. BUILDING PERMITS
Receive applications for Building Permits, determine completeness of submittal
information, review and approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove applications
for building permits pursuant to the terms and procedures of the currently adopted
Building Codes and this Ordinance.
B. ZONING ORDINANCE
Consult with the Zoning Administrator to ensure proper compliance with this Ordinance
on all Building Permits.
C. CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY
Issue Certificates of Occupancy pursuant to the terms and procedures of the currently
adopted Building Codes and this Ordinance.
17.21.40 COMMON PROCEDURES
17.21.41 GENERAL
410
Unless otherwise stated in this Article, the submission of a development plan or application, and
the subsequent steps for Determination of Completeness, staff review, notice and scheduling of
public hearings, and decisions of approval or disapproval shall comply with the procedures
established in this Section. The terms development ap plication and development plan are used
interchangeably in these procedures and refer to any submission made to the City for review and
approval under this Ordinance.
17.21.42 APPLICATION FORMS
All development applications shall be on City forms prepared and made available by the Zoning
Administrator. The Zoning Administrator shall develop application forms and a checklist of
submission items to accompany an application. The application forms and checklists shall be
distributed to the public indicating all information that must be presented in order for City officials
and Boards to evaluate applications. No application shall be accepted for consideration unless
the information required on the checklist is found by the Zoning Administrator to be in sufficie nt
detail to evaluate the application and determine whether it complies with the substantive
requirements of this Ordinance.
17.21.43 FEES
All applications shall be accompanied by the applicable fee required by the regularly adopted
City fee schedule. The fee schedule shall be established and may be revised from time to time
by the Mayor and City Council. Its purpose shall be to defray the costs of processing applications.
The fee schedule shall be available for review in the City clerk’s office during nor mal business
hours.
411
17.21.44 PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE
A. PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE
A pre-application conference may be held with the Zoning Administrator prior to
submission of an application for approval of residential development containing three
(3) or more dwelling units, all developments containing commercial, industrial, and
other non-residential land uses, a Conditional Use Permit, Design Review, a Planned
Unit Development, and for amendments to the Zoning Map and text of this Ordinance.
B. INITIATION OF PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE
An owner, developer or their authorized agent shall initiate a pre-application
conference with the Zoning Administrator by submitting a written request. Along with
the request for the pre-application conference, the applicant shall submit general
information on the proposed land use, layout, existing features of the site including
topography and other information necessary to describe the character, location, and
magnitude of the proposed development.
C. SCHEDULING OF PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE
Upon receipt of a request for a pre-application conference, the Zoning Administrator
shall schedule the pre-application conference. The pre-application conference shall be
held within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of the request for such a conference.
D. PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE PURPOSES
The purpose of the pre-application conference is to familiarize the city officials with the
general location and character of the proposed development. At the pre-application
conference, the applicant and the Zoning Administrator shall discuss the proposed
development, and based upon the information provided by the applicant, identify the
provisions of this Ordinance that apply to the proposed development. During the
subsequent review of the development plan or upon submission of more detailed
information about the proposed development, additional provisions of this Ordinance
may be identified as being applicable.
E. WRITTEN SUMMARY
The Zoning Administrator shall provide the applicant with a written summary of the pre-
application conference within fifteen (15) calendar days of the completion of the pre -
application conference.
F. EXPIRATION OF PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE
A development plan shall be based on the written summary of a pre -application
conference held no more than one (1) year previous to the plan submittal. A new pre -
application conference is required before submission of a plan if more than a year has
elapsed since the prior conference.
17.21.45 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION AND
DETERMINATION OF COMPLETENESS
The submission of an application and the Determination of its Completeness shall comply with
the following standards:
412
A. INITIATION
The appropriate application and all required information for the requested permits and
approvals shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator by the owner, developer, or
their authorized agent.
B. REQUIRED CONTENTS OF APPLICATION
The submittal requirements established by the Zoning Administrator during the pre -
application conference shall be submitted. Additional information may be required
during review of the application if the Zoning Administrator finds the information
necessary to determine compliance with this Ordinance.
C. DETERMINATION OF COMPLETENESS
Within fifteen (15) calendar days of the submittal of an application, the Zoning
Administrator shall determine if the application is Complete. An application is complete
if it contains the submittal requirements identified during the pre-application conference
in sufficient completeness and detail to commence review and evaluation of the
application.
1. Determined Incomplete
If the Zoning Administrator determines that the application is not complete, a
written notice shall be provided to the applicant specifying the deficiencies. No
further action shall be taken on the application by the Zoning Administrator until
the deficiencies are remedied. If the applicant fails to correct the deficiencies within
sixty (60) calendar days, the application shall be considered withdrawn. If the
Zoning Administrator fails to provide written notice of any deficiencies to the
applicant within fifteen (15) calendar days of submission of the application, the
application shall be deemed complete.
2. Determined Complete
When the application is determined complete, the Zoning Administrator shall notify
the applicant of the determination and commence review and evaluation of the
application to determine compliance with this Ordinance and other applicable
ordinances and regulations.
17.21.46 TECHNICAL REVIEW
A. TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
The City may establish a Technical Review Committee (TRC) and host Committee
meetings as needed to facilitate the technical review and evaluation of applications for
permits. The Zoning Administrator may schedule a complete development application
for a TRC meeting. Said meeting shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the
Determination of Completeness. The applicant is provided an opportunity to meet with
representatives of applicable utilities and governmental agencies in this meeting to
receive comments on the technical elements of the application.
1. Committee Members, Responsibilities
413
The TRC consists of the representatives of the following core departments with
their general responsibilities. After determining an application complete, the
Zoning Administrator forwards the application materials to the TRC members for
review.
a. The Planning office will review development applications for compliance with
the existing zoning of the site, compliance with this Ordinance and other
applicable ordinances, codes, and regulations, and to review the relationship
of the proposed development to the neighboring property, characteristics of
the site such as topography, floodplain and unstable soils, and the Laurel
Growth Policy.
b. Public Works Department to review development applications for the
relationship to streets and utility systems and to determine required street
improvements, rights-of-way, extensions to water and wastewater systems
and other related public improvements and dedications.
c. Building Official to review development applications for any building code
provisions that may affect the general site plan. Review of construction
drawings that are appropriate for building permit applications is not appropriate
for a TRC meeting.
d. Fire Department to review development applications for adequacy of the water
distribution system and firefighting capabilities in the vicinity, and for
compliance with applicable Fire Prevention and Safety Codes.
e. School District to review development applications to project demand for
school facilities and to identify needed land areas to reserve for development
of schools and other related facilities.
f. Police Department to review the proposed development for appropriate safety
considerations.
g. Ambulance and Emergency Response for appropriate access and other safety
considerations.
2. Additional Members
The Committee may expand to include the city engineer, City attorney,
Yellowstone County Historic Preservation Officer, and representatives from utility
companies and state and federal agencies when their review comments are
applicable to a particular development application.
B. WRITTEN SUMMARY
Within fifteen (15) calendar days following the TRC meeting the Zoning Administrator
shall provide the applicant a written summary of the TRC comments and a description
of any revisions to the plans that are necessary to comply with the technical
requirements of the applicable ordinances and regulations.
C. REVISED SUBMISSION
The applicant shall submit a revised application that incorporates the changes
necessary to comply with the technical requirements of the applicable ordinances and
regulations.
414
D. ADDITIONAL TRC MEETINGS
Extensive revisions resulting from TRC comments or by voluntary action of the
applicant may require additional TRC meetings to review the subsequent submission,
prior to the Zoning Administrator scheduling the application for a Planning
Board/Zoning Commission meeting or rendering a decision for which the Zoning
Administrator has authority for Final Action.
17.21.47 PROCEDURES FOR ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
DECISIONS
A. AUTHORITY FOR FINAL ACTION
The review and decisions on applications for which the Zoning Administrator has
authority of Final Action shall occur pursuant to the standards of this Section.
B. RECLASSIFY APPLICATION
If the Zoning Administrator determines that a proposed development, for which the
Administrator has authority for Final Action, may have a significant impact on the
surrounding neighborhood or the community, the Zoning Administrator may reclassify
the application to require review and approval by the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission. When an application is reclassified, the authority for Final Action is
transferred to the Planning Board/Zoning Commission and the administrative
procedures that are applicable to the Board/Zoning Commission’s actions shall apply.
C. STAFF REVIEW, STAFF REPORT AND DECISION
After determining an application is complete, the Zoning Administrator shall conduct
the technical review pursuant to Section 11.21.46 Technical Review, above, review the
application for compliance with this Ordinance and other applicable ordinances and
regulations, and prepare a Staff Report that describes the conclusions of the review.
Based upon the conclusions in the Staff Report the Zoning Administrator approves,
approves with conditions or disapproves the application. A copy of the Staff Report
shall be provided to the applicant.
D. TIMING OF DECISIONS
Review and final decision by the Zoning Administrator shall be made within fifteen (15)
calendar days of the TRC meeting, or within fifteen (15) calendar days of a plan
resubmission that is based upon the TRC meeting. If additional TRC meetings are
required, a decision shall be made within fifteen (15) calendar days of the final TRC
meeting or plan resubmission that is based upon the final TRC meeting.
E. ISSUANCE OF PERMIT, CORRECTED APPLICATION
415
If the Zoning Administrator finds the application complies with the applicable standards
of this Ordinance and all other applicable ordinances and regulations, the permit shall
be issued. If it is determined that the application does not comply with the applicable
standards of this Ordinance or other ordinances and regulations, the applicant shall be
notified in writing of the deficiencies and be provided sixty (60) calendar days from the
written notice to submit a corrected application. If a corrected application is received,
the Zoning Administrator shall approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove t he
corrected application based on the applicable standards of this Ordinance and other
applicable ordinances and regulations. If the application is not resubmitted within sixty
(60) calendar days from said written notice, the application shall be considere d
withdrawn.
F. PUBLIC NOTICE AFTER DECISION
The Zoning Administrator shall submit a Record of Decision on a City website or at
City Hall following a final decision. Any aggrieved party may appeal the Zoning
Administrator’s decision within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the notice appeared
in the official paper for the City of Laurel. Decisions on applications for single-
Household houses, sign permits, and grading permits are exempt from this
requirement.
G. EXPIRATION OF PERMIT
A permit shall expire on the one (1) year anniversary date of the permit issuance,
unless otherwise noted in the development approval if the next step in the normal
development process is not commenced. The next step, normal development process
includes obtaining a building permit, grading permit, or commencement of the use if no
further permit is required.
17.21.48 PROCEDURES FOR DECISIONS BY PLANNING
BOARD/ZONING COMMISSION OR BOARD OF
ADJUSTMENT
A. AUTHORITY FOR FINAL ACTION
The review and decisions on applications for which the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission or the Board of Adjustment have authority of Final Action shall occur
pursuant to the standards of this Section, except appeals of prior decisions. See
Section 11.21.82 Appeals for the applicable procedure to consider Appeals.
B. ZONING ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION
After an application has been reviewed by the TRC the Zoning Administrator shall
prepare a staff report that evaluates the application for compliance with this Ordinance.
The Zoning Administrator shall present in the staff report a recommendation for
approval, approval with conditions or denial, based upon the standards and procedures
of this Ordinance. The staff report shall be made available to the applicant, the public
and the Planning Board/Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment at least seven (7)
calendar days prior to the scheduled public meeting.
C. SCHEDULING OF PUBLIC HEARING
416
An application for which a public hearing is required shall be scheduled for meeting of
the Planning Board/Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment within 120 calendar
days of an application being determined by the Zoning Administrator to be complete.
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS, PUBLIC NOTICE
The Planning Board/Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment, whichever is
applicable, shall conduct a public hearing on the application pursuant to the procedures
of Section 11.21.60 Public Hearing Procedure, and a written notice of the public
hearing shall be mailed by first class mail to owners of all land that is adjacent/adjoining
to the site for which the application is submitted pursuant to Section 11.21.70 Public
Notice.
E. DECISION
Within thirty (30) calendar days of the close of the public hearing, the Planning
Board/Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment, whichever is applicable, shall
approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application based upon the standards
and procedures of this Ordinance. Written notice of the decision containing the
required findings of fact and conclusions reached by the Board shall be provided to the
applicant within fifteen (15) calendar days of the decision. Written notice of a denial
shall specify the reasons for denial.
F. ISSUANCE OF PERMIT
If the application is approved, the Zoning Administrator shall issue a permit at the first
practical opportunity that describes any conditions of approval established by the
Board and the expiration date if no action is pursued by the applicant.
G. EXPIRATION OF A PERMIT
A permit shall expire on the one (1) year anniversary date of the permit issuance,
unless otherwise noted in the development approval if the next step in the normal
development process is not commenced. The next step in th e normal development
process includes obtaining a building permit, grading permit, or commencement of the
use if no further permit is required.
17.21.50 PROCEDURES FOR DECISIONS BY MAYOR
AND CITY COUNCIL
A. AUTHORITY FOR FINAL ACTION
The review and decisions on applications for which the Mayor and City Council have
authority of Final Action shall occur pursuant to the standards of this Section.
B. ZONING ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION
After an application has been reviewed by the TRC the Zoning Administrator shall
prepare a staff report that evaluates the application for compliance with this Ordinance.
The Zoning Administrator shall present in the staff report a recommendation for
approval, approval with conditions or denial, based upon the standards and procedures
of this Ordinance. The staff report shall be made available to the applicant, the public
and the Planning Board/Zoning Commission, and Mayor and City Council at least
seven (7) calendar days prior to the first scheduled meeting.
417
C. SCHEDULING OF PUBLIC HEARING
An application for which a public hearing is required shall be scheduled for a meeting
of the Planning Board/Zoning Commission within 120 calendar days of an application
being determined by the Zoning Administrator to be Complete.
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS, PUBLIC NOTICE
The Planning Board/Zoning Commission shall conduct a public hearing on the
application pursuant to the procedures of Section 11.21.60 Public Hearing Procedure,
and a written notice of the public hearing shall be mailed by first class mail to owners
of all land that is adjacent/adjoining to the site for which the application is submitted
pursuant to Section 11.21.70 Public Notice.
E. PLANNING BOARD/ZONING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDATION
Within thirty (30) calendar days of the close of the public hearing, the Planning
Board/Zoning Commission shall determine a recommendation to approve, approve
with conditions or deny the application based upon the standards and procedures of
this Ordinance. Written notice of the recommendation of the Board shall be provided
to the applicant within fifteen (15) calendar days of the decision. Written notice of a
recommendation for denial shall specify the reasons for denial.
F. SCHEDULING OF PUBLIC MEETING
Following the decision by the Planning Board/Zoning Commission, the application shall
be scheduled for review and a final decision at a regularly scheduled meeting of the
Mayor and City Council. This meeting shall occur within thirty (30) calendar days of the
Planning Board/Zoning Commission decision.
G. DECISION
Within thirty (30) calendar days of the close of their meeting, the Mayor and City
Council shall approve, approve with conditions or deny the application based upon the
standards and procedures of this Ordinance. Written notice of the decision containing
the required findings of fact and conclusions reached by the Mayor and Council shall
be provided to the applicant within fifteen (15) calendar days of the decision. Written
notice of a denial shall specify the reasons for denial.
H. ISSUANCE OF PERMIT
If the application is approved the Zoning Administrator shall issue a permit at the first
practical opportunity that describes any conditions of approval established by the
Mayor and Council and the expiration date if no action is pursued by the applicant.
I. EXPIRATION OF A PERMIT
A permit shall expire on the one (1) year anniversary date of the permit issuance,
unless otherwise noted in the development approval if the next step in the normal
development process is not commenced. The next step in the normal development
process includes obtaining a building permit, grading permit, or commencement of the
use if no further permit is required.
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17.21.60 PUBLIC HEARING PROCEDURE
Public Hearings required by this Ordinance shall be conducted pursuant to the standards and procedures
of this Section.
17.21.61 NOTICE
Written notice of the public hearing, pursuant to Section 11.21.70 Public Notice, shall be sent by
first class mail to the owner of the property that is subject to the public hearing and to own ers of
land that is adjacent/adjoining to the property that is subject to the public hearing. In addition to
the mailed notice, a Public Notice of the hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general
local circulation that describes the application and provides the time, date and place of the public
hearing. The Public Notices shall be mailed, and the published notice shall appear in a
newspaper of general local circulation no later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the public
hearing.
17.21.62 ANNOUNCEMENT
The presiding officer shall announce the purpose and subject of the public hearing, verify that
proper public notice was given and provide the opportunity for any member of the Board to
declare a conflict of interest. The presiding officer may excuse any member of the Board who
has a conflict of interest.
17.21.63 RIGHT TO SPEAK
Any interested person may appear at the public hearing and submit evidence or make comments
either as an individual or on behalf of an organization. Each person appea ring at the public
hearing shall be identified by name and address of residence and name of organization if
applicable.
17.21.64 STAFF REPORT PRESENTATION
The Zoning Administrator shall present the Staff Report.
17.21.65 APPLICANT PRESENTATION
The applicant shall present any information the applicant deems appropriate.
17.21.66 PUBLIC STATEMENTS
Members of the public shall be provided with the opportunity to speak about the merits or
shortcomings of the application. At the discretion of the presiding off icer, reasonable time limits
may be placed on all speakers in the interest of accommodating all people desiring to speak and
to provide for an efficient meeting. Comments shall be directed only to the presiding officer.
17.21.67 APPLICANT RESPONSE
After the public comment the applicant shall be provided the opportunity to respond to any public
comments made during the public hearing.
17.21.68 STAFF RESPONSE
After the public comment, the Zoning Administrator or any other City official shall be provided the
opportunity to respond to public comments made during the public hearing.
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17.21.69 DELIBERATION, DECISION
The presiding officer shall declare the public comment period of the meeting to be closed and
invite discussion, deliberation and a decision by the Board.
17.21.610 RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
The public hearing and meeting shall be audio taped and the tape shall be retained by the City
for a minimum of one (1) year. A recording secretary shall record written minutes of the public
hearing. All exhibits, reports, evidence and written materials submitted during the public hearing
shall be retained by the City as part of the record of the proceeding.
17.21.611 CONTINUANCE
The Board conducting the public hearing, on its own initiative, may conti nue the hearing to a
future date. The applicant has the right to one (1) continuance to a future date. Notice of
continuance shall be posted in a conspicuous and visible location at City Hall and other regular
locations determined by the Zoning Administrator.
17.21.70 PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Notice required to be mailed or published in a newspaper of general local circulation shall contain
the following information and comply with public notice requirements of state law.
17.21.71 TYPE OF APPLICATION
The type of application, such as Development Permit, Conditional Use Permit, Variance, Appeal,
Amendment to the Zoning Map or Ordinance, Planned Unit Development, Zoning Conformance
Permit.
17.21.72 DESCRIPTION OF DECISION
A brief description of the decision or action sought by the applicant.
17.21.73 NAME OF OWNER, APPLICANT
The name of the landowner and applicant.
17.21.74 LOCATION OF LAND
A legal description and a general description of the location of the subject land.
17.21.75 LOCATION, DATE, TIME
The location, date and time of the public hearing or public meeting.
17.21.76 WHERE INFORMATION AVAILABLE
The location where information about the application may be viewed and the general hours
available.
17.21.77 PROPOSED USE
A description of the type of use being proposed.
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17.21.80 SUPPLEMENTARY REVIEW
PROCEDURES
17.21.81 VARIANCE
Applications for Variances shall be reviewed and decided pursuant to the standards and
procedures of this Section.
A. PROCEDURE
The Board of Adjustment is assigned authority to hear, consider and make
recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on whether to approve, approve with
conditions or disapprove applications on Variance applications. These applications are
reviewed and decided pursuant to procedures in Section 11.21.48 Procedures for
Decisions by Planning Board/Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment.
B. STANDARDS
A recommendation for Approval or Conditional Approval of a Variance shall require the
Board of Adjustment making each of the following Findings of Fact:
1. Special Conditions
There are special circumstances or conditions that are peculiar to the land or
building for which the Variance is sought that do not apply generally to land or
buildings in the neighborhood; and
2. Not Result of Applicant
The special circumstances or conditions have not resulted from an act of the
applicant or been established to circumvent this Ordinance; and
3. Strict Application Unreasonable
Due to the special circumstances or conditio ns, the strict application of this
Ordinance would deprive the applicant of reasonable use of the land or building or
create an undue hardship on the landowner; and
4. Necessary to Provide Reasonable Use
Granting the Variance is necessary to provide a reas onable use of the land or
building; and
5. Minimum Variance
The Variance is the minimum variance necessary to allow a reasonable use of the
land or building; and
6. Not Injurious
Granting the Variance will not be injurious to the neighborhood or detrimenta l to
the public welfare; and
7. Consistent with Ordinance
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Granting the Variance is consistent with the purposes and intent of this Ordinance.
A variance to the Allowed Uses of a zoning district is prohibited.
C. CONDITIONS
Conditions or restrictions may be placed on the approval of a Variance.
D. EXPIRATION
A Variance shall expire one (1) year from the date of approval if the next logical step
in the development process is not commenced. The next step in the development
process includes but is not limited to applying for a building permit, commencing the
use or applying for a Development Permit.
17.21.82 APPEALS
Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Zoning Administrator, or the Planning Board/Zoning
Commission may appeal the decision to the Board of Adjustment. For the purposes of this
Section an aggrieved person shall be either a person who has submitted an application, received
an interpretation or a person who is adversely affected by an action on an application or by an
interpretation. Appeals shall be submitted, reviewed, and decided pursuant to t he standards and
procedures of this Section.
A. INITIATION
An appeal is initiated by the aggrieved person filing a written appeal with the Zoning
Administrator within thirty (30) calendar days of the decision being appealed or within
thirty (30) calendar days of the date the notice appeared in the official paper of the City
of Laurel, whichever is applicable.
B. CONTENTS OF APPEAL
The appeal shall include a statement describing the decision prompting the appeal, the
date of that decision, the basis for the appeal, and all supporting materials related to
the appeal.
C. SCHEDULING OF HEARING
The Board of Adjustment shall schedule a hearing on the appeal within thirty (30)
calendar days of receipt of the written notice of appeal. This deadline may be extended
by the Board of Adjustment if additional time is required to compile information that is
needed to evaluate the appeal.
D. PRODUCE RECORD
The Zoning Administrator shall organize and provide to the Board of Adjustment the
record pertaining to the decision being appealed.
E. HEARING
The appeal hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the Montana Administrative
Procedure Act.
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F. DECISION
Within thirty (30) calendar days of the close of the hearing on the appeal, the Board of
Adjustment shall recommend to the Mayor and City Council to uphold, uphold with
conditions, or overturn the decision being appealed. In rendering the decision on the
appeal, the Mayor and City Council shall have the authority of the decision-maker
whose decision is being appealed.
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Article 17.22.60 - ENFORCEMENT
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17.22.10 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose and intent of this Article is to establish procedures for the City of Laurel to ensure compliance
with this Ordinance and obtain corrections of violations that may occur. It also establishes remedies and
penalties that apply to violations of this Ordinance.
17.22.20 GENERAL
The standards, guidelines and procedures of this Ordinance shall be enforced by the Mayor and City
Council of the City of Laurel through its authority to abate any violations and enjoin and restrain any person
violating this Ordinance pursuant to Montana law.
17.22.30 VIOLATIONS
Any of the following shall be a violation of this Ordinance and shall be subject to the remedies and penalties
provided by this Ordinance.
A. ESTABLISH USE, STRUCTURE OR SIGN WITHOUT
PERMIT OR APPROVAL
To establish or place any use, structure or sign upon land that is subject to this
Ordinance without all required approvals, permits and certificates.
B. DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT PERMIT OR APPROVAL
To develop, construct, remodel, expand or any other activity of any nature that is
subject to this Ordinance without all required approvals, perm its and certificates.
C. ESTABLISH USE OR DEVELOPMENT INCONSISTENT
WITH PERMIT
To engage in a use or develop, construct, remodel or expand a structure or sign, or
any other activity of any nature that is inconsistent with the terms and conditions of any
permit, approval, certificate or any other form of authorization required for such activity.
D. ESTABLISH USE OR DEVELOPMENT INCONSISTENT
WITH ORDINANCE
To use, construct, erect, remodel, expand, maintain or move any building, structure or
sign in violation of any provision of this Ordinance.
E. CREATE A NONCONFORMING CONDITION
To reduce or diminish any lot area or structure setback, or to increase the intensity or
density of any use of land or structure, except in accordance with the standards and
procedures of this ordinance.
17.22.40 CONTINUING VIOLATIONS
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After the Zoning Administrator issues a written notice of violation to the owner of the land, building, structure,
or sign that is the subject of a violation, each calendar day the violation remains uncorrected shall constitute
a separate and additional violation of this Ordinance.
17.22.50 RESPONSIBILITY OF
ENFORCEMENT, COMPLIANCE
The Zoning Administrator shall have the responsibility to enforce this Ordinance. The owner of the land,
building, structure, or sign that is subject to a violation has the responsibility to eliminate the violation and
achieve compliance with this Ordinance.
17.22.60 ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES
In addition to any additional authorities and procedures provided to the City of Laurel by general or specific
law, the following procedures shall apply to the enforcement of this Ordinance.
A. INSPECTION
The Zoning Administrator or his designee shall have the authority to enter onto land
within the boundaries of the City of Laurel to inspect for violations of this Ordinance.
B. WITHHOLD PERMIT
The City may deny or withhold any permit, approval, certificate, or any other form of
authorization required by the provisions of this Ordinance upon determining that an
uncorrected violation of this Ordinance exists on the land, building, structure or sign for
which a permit or authorization is sought.
C. CONDITION A PERMIT
Instead of withholding or denying a permit or other authorization, the City may grant
such authorization subject to the condition that a violation be corrected.
D. REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF PERMIT
The Zoning Administrator may revoke or suspend a permit, approval, certificate, or
other authorization upon determining any of the following actions has occurred:
1. Departure from Plans
The actions of the landowner, contractor, developer, or authorized agent of the
owner have departed from the approved plans or specifications, or the conditions
or terms of an approved permit or other authorization.
2. False Representation
The permit, approval, certificate, or other authorization was obtained by false
representation or was issued in error.
3. Violation
A violation exists on the land, building, structure, or sign that is subject to the permit
or other authorization.
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E. STOP WORK ORDER
The Zoning Administrator may require that work stop on any land, building, structure,
or sign that is subject to an uncorrected violation of this Ordinance or the terms or
conditions of a permit or other authorization. This Stop Work Order may be issued in
conjunction with or separate from a revocation or suspension of a permit.
F. INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
The City may seek an injunction or other equitable relief in court t o stop any violation
of this Ordinance or the terms or conditions of a permit or other authorization.
G. ABATEMENT
The City may seek a court order in the nature of mandamus, injunction, or other action
to abate or remove a violation and to restore the premises to the condition that existed
prior to the violation.
H. CIVIL REMEDIES
The city may seek civil penalties and other punishment provided by the law.
I. CUMULATIVE REMEDY
The City shall have any and all other remedies provided by law to enforce this
Ordinance and the terms and conditions or permits, approvals, certificates and other
forms of authorization issued pursuant to this Ordinance.
427
§¨¦90
GOLF COURSE RD
BEARTOOTH DR
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WEST AVE
W 1ST ST
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Zoning Jurisdictions
Laurel City Limits 2023
City Zoning Classification
Central Business District - CBD
Community Comm ercial - CC
High way Commercial - H C
High way Industrial - H I
Light Industrial - LI
Publ ic - P
Residential 6,000 - R60
Residential 7,500 - R75
Residential Light M ulti-Fam ily - RLMF
Residential M ulti-Family - RMF
Residential Manufactured Home - RMH
Residential Professional - RP
I
0 0.5 10.25 Miles
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