FAQ
Have questions about zoning, permits, inspections, or development in Buena Vista? You’re not alone. The Community Development Department has compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive from residents, property owners, and businesses.
Select a question below to expand the answer. If you still need assistance, our staff is always available to help.
How many people can live in one house or apartment?
Answer: The zoning code regulates the occupancy of dwelling units. In most cases a house or apartment can be occupied by a “family,” defined as:
An individual; or
- Two (2) or more persons related by blood, marriage, adoption, or guardianship; or
- Two (2) or more persons related by blood, marriage, adoption, or guardianship and not more than two (2) persons not related by blood, marriage, adoption, or guardianship; or
- A group of not more than four (4) persons not related by blood, marriage, adoption, or guardianship.
For details, see: Buena Vista Municode Section 711- Residential Occupancy
I want to build in Buena Vista. What do I need?
Answer:
- I’m a homeowner building a shed, or addition to my house.
- You need a Zoning Construction Permit and a Building Permit.
- I’m building a new single-family house.
- You need a Zoning Construction Permit, Land Disturbing Permit (Agreement in Lieu of a Plan), and a Building Permit.
- I’m building a commercial/non-residential building or addition, or I’m building multifamily or a single-family home subdivision.
- You need a Site Plan (which includes the Zoning Construction Permit), Land Disturbing Permit (usually an engineered Erosion & Sediment Control Plan and possibly a Storm Water Management Plan), and Building Permit.
Do I need a zoning or building permit for a shed, such as a prefabricated shed from the hardware store?
Answer: YES, all enclosed structures require a zoning permit, regardless of size and regardless of whether they are on a permanent foundation. A building permit is only required if the structure is more than 256 square feet in size.
Do I need a zoning or building permit for an open carport?
Answer: YES, you need a zoning permit for a carport. It must meet setback requirements for accessory buildings.
Do I need a permit to build an addition to my home?
Answer: Yes. Any addition that increases the size of a structure requires building permits. This includes room additions, enclosed porches, garages, and similar improvements.
What are setbacks?
Answer: Setbacks are the required minimum distances between a structure and property lines, streets, or other structures. Setback requirements vary depending on the zoning district and the type of structure being built.
How do I know what zoning district my property is in?
Answer: You can determine the zoning district of your property by viewing the City’s zoning map or contacting the Community Development Department. Staff can also help explain what uses and development standards apply to your property.
Can I operate a business from my home?
Answer: Some small businesses may operate from a residence as a home occupation, provided they meet specific zoning requirements. These regulations help ensure that the business activity remains compatible with the surrounding residential neighborhood. Visit the Home Occupations page for more information.
How do I report a property maintenance concern?
Answer: Concerns such as tall grass, unsafe structures, debris, or other property maintenance issues can be reported to the Community Development Department using the City’s Report an Issue form or by contacting City staff directly.
What is required before starting construction on my property?
Answer: Before beginning construction, you must obtain all required zoning and building permits. Depending on the project, inspections may also be required during construction to ensure compliance with applicable building codes. See the Planning & Zoning and Building Inspections pages for more information.
How long does it take to receive a permit?
Answer: Permit processing times vary depending on the complexity of the project. Simple permits may be issued within a few days, while larger projects may require additional review. Contact the Community Development team to start the process and get more information.
What needs to be included on a site plan?
Answer: The following list includes the minimum requirements for a site plan. A project may have additional details that need to be shown to address conditions particular to its site.
- Property boundaries, typically shown on a survey plat
- Existing site features such as streets, parking, vegetation, buildings, utilities, etc.
- Location and dimensions of proposed buildings, including distances to property lines and existing buildings
- Existing and proposed vehicular circulation and parking
- Existing and proposed pedestrian circulation and walkways
- Grading plan, if needed
- Proposed fencing, screening, walls, curbs, and gutters
- Proposed landscaping
- Proposed site and exterior building lighting
- Proposed signage
- Existing and proposed utilities to serve the building including water, sewer, and storm sewer
All new construction of buildings, other than residential accessory buildings such as sheds, requires a Land Disturbing Permit. Oftentimes development less than 10,000 square feet will only require an Agreement in Lieu of a Plan (AIL).