October 2024 Update

In October 2023, the Commission gave residents more time to share their thoughts and learn about the Unified Development Code (UDC) update. The feedback from the community helped shape a revised plan for engagement and the project’s timeline. The Commission is set to keep working on the UDC, with the schedule below showing the steps they’ll take to offer more chances for public input this fall and winter, and to create a final draft for possible approval next year.

There are state-required deadlines and rules that the city has to follow. The city will meet these standards through two projects. The "GP Transition" project will focus on updating the long-term land use plan to comply with new state rules and will start in late winter 2024. The UDC project covers standards for new development and the process for changing regulations. This project started in July 2022 but was paused late last year and will restart in October 2024 with more chances for the public to get involved.

Several state-required rules have raised concerns based on the feedback we’ve received. You can review the current UDC draft on Engage Bozeman. Public input will guide revisions before the code is finalized. Our goal is to blend state-required updates with the goals of our Community Plan in one project. Many elements of the UDC exist today with no change proposed. However, there are several standards that are of particular concern, and we look forward to working with as many members of the community as possible to complete the project. As shown on the graphic, the city must complete transition of the growth policy and adoption of state law compliant regulations (in the UDC) by May 17, 2026.

UDC Draft Schedule

Fall 2024 - Winter 2024: Engagement

Winter 2024 - Spring 2025: Drafting and Final Draft

Summer 2025: Hearings & Adoption

Fall 2025 - Winter 2025: Implementation

Winter 2025 - Spring 2026: Legislation Follow-up

MLUPA (382) May 17, 2026 Deadline