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1. What is a setback?

It is the minimum distance that a building or structure must be located from all property lines. Do not assume that your property line is along a street or sidewalk edge. The only way to determine the exact location of your property line is to have it surveyed.

2. What is a nonconforming use?

A building, structure or use is nonconforming if it was lawful at the time the zoning code and subsequent amendments were adopted but now no longer meets the requirements of the zone district in which it is located. Any nonconforming use, structure or building may continue in existence under the following circumstances -
• The use may be extended throughout the same building, provided that no structural alteration of such building is proposed or made for the purpose of such extension.
• The use shall not be changed to any other use except a conforming use.
• A nonconforming building which does not meeting the setback, height or other site requirements may be repaired, maintained or extended, provided that any extension is in full compliance with current provisions of the zoning code.
• A nonconforming building which has been damaged or destroyed by fire or other causes may be restored to its original condition, provided that the repair work is commenced within 1 year of such event and completed within 18 months of such event.
• Where a single lot recorded in separate ownership prior to March 1, 1965, does not meet the minimum building lot area requirement for the district in which it is located, such single lot shall be considered a nonconforming building lot, and a building situated on such lot shall be considered a nonconforming building, subject to the provisions of this Subsection. Such nonconforming lot may be used for construction of a building allowed in the zone district, provided that all other zone district regulations, including, but not limited to, setbacks are met.
Whenever a nonconforming use of land or a building has been discontinued for a period of 1 year, the future use of the land or building shall be in conformance with provisions of the zoning code.

3. What is a special review use?

Each zone district includes a list of “special review uses”. These are uses that are allowed but that require the imposition of certain conditions to mitigate any negative impacts that they may have on adjacent properties. All special review uses require consideration by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Refer to Municipal Code Section 070.040.040 for more information about conditions and criteria by which these uses are granted.

4. Is my property inside the city limits?

Although you can consult the city’s street map, the only guaranteed way to determine whether or not your property is inside the city limits is to contact the Community Development Department at 970-384-6411.

5. What is my zoning?

Consult the zoning map, an unofficial copy is on the city's website; or, contact the Community Development Department at 970-384-6411.

6. What is the difference between an accessory use and an accessory building?

An accessory use is one that is incidental to, but associated with, a specific principal use that is located on the same lot.

An accessory building is a detached subordinate building that is located on the same lot as the principal building, the use of which is incidental to the principal building or use of the lot. Accessory buildings cannot be used for living or sleeping quarters in a residential zone district.

7. Where can I get a copy of the city's zoning map?

A 24' x 36" copy of the city's zoning map is available for purchase in the Community Development Department, 2nd floor, City Hall. Contact the Community Development Department at 970-384-6411 for current price.

8. How tall can I construct my fence?

The requirements for designing and locating fences differs depending on whether your property is located in a residential or a non-residential zone district. Refer to the Fence Regulations under this Zoning page.