The City of Bismarck Community Development Department is proposing revisions to the zoning ordinance related to home-based businesses and occupations throughout the city and nearby rural areas. The intent of the ordinance amendment is to allow greater flexibility for business activity in residential neighborhoods than currently permitted, while still protecting the residential character of these areas.
A public meeting will be held exclusively on the home occupation ordinance on May 15, 2024 at 5pm in the Tom Baker Room of the City-County Office Building at 221 N Fifth Street. The Planning and Zoning Commission will be present to hear all perspectives from the public to ensure that the final version of the ordinance reflects the values of our community. The purpose of the meeting is to hear from the public on the issue and no decision or action will be taken at the May 15 meeting.
A draft of the ordinance has been released on the City’s website Agenda Center, which is also attached to this press release. The ordinance includes detailed criteria on allowable limits for home occupations, including:
Number of employees
Area of building used for home occupation
Visual appearance of residence
Outdoor storage of materials
Noise, odor, vibrations, or electrical interference
Number of visits from customers
Hours of operation
Vehicle and trailer parking
Heavy commercial vehicles
Certain adult or medical marijuana uses.
After gathering and responding to information from the public, the Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a formal public hearing to make a recommendation regarding home occupations. Ultimately, the ordinance will be submitted to the City Commission for final action at a future date to be publicly noticed.
A survey of Bismarck area residents was conducted in the Fall of 2023, and a report summarizing the results is attached.
For questions and more information, contact the Community Development Department by email at planning@bismarcknd.gov or by phone at 701-355-1840.
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