Belgrade Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Belgrade Zoning Overview
Belgrade is a fast-growing city in the Gallatin Valley, located just west of Bozeman along Interstate 90. The city has experienced significant population growth as the Gallatin Valley has boomed, with many residents choosing Belgrade for its relatively more affordable housing compared to Bozeman. Belgrade is also home to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, the busiest airport in Montana.
The city's zoning and planning framework is adapting to rapid growth, with new residential subdivisions, commercial development along the highway corridor, and increasing demand for infrastructure and services. Belgrade's growth policy addresses the balance between accommodating new development and maintaining the community's small-town character.
Key Zoning Districts
Belgrade's zoning includes R-1 through R-3 residential districts, B-1 (General Business) and B-2 (Highway Business), and industrial zones. The city has also adopted planned unit development provisions to accommodate larger mixed-use projects.
ADU Regulations
Montana state law (SB 528 and HB 211) requires Belgrade to allow accessory dwelling units in residential zones. No owner-occupancy or additional parking can be required. In a rapidly growing community with housing affordability pressures, ADUs offer an important tool for increasing the housing supply.
Development Process
Belgrade's development review process involves pre-application consultation, building permit review, and inspections. The Planning Board and City Council handle zoning changes and major development approvals.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Belgrade
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Montana
- Building Code: Montana Building Code (based on 2021 IBC)
- State ADU Override: Yes (SB 528 and HB 211)
County — Gallatin County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 7,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 6 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 40 ft
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 8 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 40 ft
- Front Setback
- 0 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 10 ft
ADU Rules in Belgrade
- Max Size
- 900 sq ft
- Max Height
- 24 ft
- Rear Setback
- 5 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Parking
- None required (per state law SB 245)
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required (per state law)
- Permit Timeline
- 3-5 weeks
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Belgrade are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Belgrade permit fees →