City Commission Adopts Unified Development Code

BOZEMAN — Bozeman City Commission voted to adopt the revised Unified Development Code (UDC) at last night’s City Commission Meeting.  This vote repealed and replaced the entirety of Chapter 38 in the municipal code as well as the associated zoning map. The  UDC changes will become effective on Feb. 1, 2026.

The effort to update the UDC began in the summer of 2022 and included extensive engagement with community groups, neighborhoods, advisory boards, and the interested public at large. The City received record input through public comment, public forums, surveys, and community chats. Throughout summer of 2025, City Commission held a series of work sessions providing direction to staff based on feedback from the community. Public input continued through the work sessions and subsequent hearings before the Community Development Board and City Commission, resulting in refinements to the draft code and map.

“When our community shows up and actively engages, we get better, more sustainable results,” stated Mayor Cunningham. “This updated code helps us prepare for a future we can all be proud of.”

Key changes in the updated UDC include increased diversity of housing options, consolidated zoning districts, strengthened zone edge transitions, updated review processes, and improved document usability.  These updated regulations are the final step in complying with the Montana Land Use Planning Act by the May 2026 deadline. 

“Our staff devoted countless hours to updating this code, from researching and drafting, to leading community engagement sessions,” said Erin George, Community Development Director. “Their hard work, combined with the insight of residents across Bozeman, helped shape a code that reflects both professional expertise and community priorities.”  

For more information on the UDC Update and to view code documents, please visit engage.bozeman.net/udc.