Ammon Zoning Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Ammon's zoning regulations is essential for property owners, homebuyers, and developers in this rapidly growing Bonneville County city. Whether you're buying a home, planning renovations, or developing property, knowing these rules will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
For the most current zoning information, always check the official Ammon City Code Title 10 (Planning and Zoning) and planning department resources. If you need help understanding how these regulations affect your property, our team at Bellhaven Real Estate is here to assist at no cost.
Ammon Zoning Districts at a Glance
Ammon uses a straightforward zoning system that focuses primarily on residential development, reflecting the city's character as a growing residential community adjacent to Idaho Falls. Here's a quick overview of the main zoning districts:
Zone Type | Zone Code | Primary Purpose | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
Residential | RP | Residence Park | Single-family homes in park-like settings |
RP-A | Residence Park Variation | Modified version of RP zone | |
R-1 | Single-family Residential | Traditional single-family homes | |
R-1A | Single-family Residential Variation | Modified version of R-1 zone | |
R-2 | Medium-density Residential | Single and two-family dwellings | |
R-2A | Medium-density Residential Variation | Modified version of R-2 zone | |
R-3 | Multi-family Residential | Apartments, condominiums | |
R-3A | Multi-family Residential Variation | Modified version of R-3 zone |
While Ammon's zoning code is less extensive than neighboring Idaho Falls, it provides clear guidelines for residential development, which makes up the majority of the city's land use. Commercial and industrial uses are also regulated, though they make up a smaller portion of the city's area.
Residential Zones
Ammon offers a variety of residential zones to accommodate different housing types and densities.
Feature | RP/RP-A | R-1/R-1A | R-2/R-2A | R-3/R-3A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing Type | Single-family | Single-family | Single/Two-family | Multi-family |
Minimum Lot Size | Largest | Large | Medium | Varies |
Density | Very Low | Low | Medium | High |
Commercial Uses | Very Limited | Very Limited | Limited | Some Allowed |
RP and RP-A Zones (Residence Park)
The Residence Park zones are Ammon's most exclusive residential areas, designed for single-family homes in park-like settings.
Largest lot sizes in the city
Emphasis on open space and natural features
Strict architectural controls
Limited to single-family homes
Often found in newer, upscale developments
R-1 and R-1A Zones (Single-Family Residential)
The R-1 and R-1A zones are the standard single-family residential zones in Ammon.
Traditional single-family neighborhoods
Moderate to large lot sizes
Limited to detached single-family homes
Some accessory uses permitted (home offices, etc.)
Makes up a significant portion of the city's residential areas
R-1A has slightly different requirements than R-1
R-2 and R-2A Zones (Medium-density Residential)
These zones allow for a mix of single-family and two-family dwellings.
Permits both single-family homes and duplexes
Medium-density residential development
Smaller minimum lot sizes than R-1/R-1A
Often serves as a transition between single-family and multi-family areas
R-2A allows slightly different configurations than R-2
R-3 and R-3A Zones (Multi-Family Residential)
The R-3 and R-3A zones accommodate higher-density housing options.
Allows apartments, condominiums, and townhouses
Highest residential density in the city
Some limited commercial uses may be permitted
Often located near commercial areas or major transportation routes
R-3A has slightly different requirements than R-3
Commercial and Other Non-Residential Uses
While Ammon's zoning code focuses primarily on residential development, the city does accommodate commercial and other non-residential uses. These are typically regulated through specific provisions and are concentrated in designated areas, particularly along major corridors like Sunnyside Road and Hitt Road (Ammon Road).
Commercial development in Ammon is generally designed to serve the local community, with larger regional commercial uses concentrated in neighboring Idaho Falls. The city works to ensure that commercial development is compatible with its predominantly residential character.
Supplementary Regulations
Ammon's zoning code includes supplementary regulations that apply across various zones. These regulations address:
Special provisions for certain uses
Moving of buildings
Enforcement and administration
Board of adjustment provisions
Planning and zoning commission regulations
These supplementary regulations provide additional guidance for specific situations and help ensure consistent application of the zoning code throughout the city.
Zoning Procedures in Ammon
Understanding how zoning works in Ammon is just as important as knowing the zone designations. The city has established clear processes for:
Process | Description | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
Zoning Verification | Confirming the current zoning of a property | 1-2 days |
Permission for uses allowed under certain conditions | 30-45 days | |
Permission to deviate from specific zoning requirements | 30-45 days | |
Zone Change | Changing the zoning designation of a property | 60-90 days |
Approval for comprehensive development plans | 90-120 days |
These procedures involve applications, fees, public hearings, and decisions by the Planning and Zoning Commission and/or City Council. Understanding these procedural requirements can save you time and frustration when planning a project in Ammon.
Relationship to Bonneville County Zoning
Ammon's zoning regulations apply only within the city limits. Properties in unincorporated areas of Bonneville County are subject to the county's zoning regulations instead. This distinction is important for several reasons:
Properties annexed into the city will transition from county to city zoning
City zoning is typically more detailed and restrictive than county zoning
Different procedures and authorities govern zoning decisions
Properties near the city boundary may be affected by both jurisdictions
Ammon has been growing rapidly, with ongoing annexation of previously unincorporated areas. If you're considering a property near the city limits, it's important to verify which jurisdiction's regulations apply and whether annexation might be required or beneficial.
Understanding CC&Rs and HOAs in Ammon
Beyond city zoning regulations, many properties in Ammon are subject to additional restrictions through Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) and Homeowners Associations (HOAs). This is particularly common in newer subdivisions, which make up a significant portion of Ammon's residential areas.
The Hierarchy of Property Restrictions
City Zoning: The base regulations that apply to all properties within Ammon city limits
CC&Rs: Private agreements that place additional restrictions on properties within specific developments
HOA Rules: Specific regulations created and enforced by homeowners associations
Even if city zoning allows a particular use, CC&Rs or HOA rules may prohibit it. For example, a property zoned R-1 might legally allow for certain home-based businesses according to city regulations, but the subdivision's CC&Rs might prohibit any commercial activity entirely.
Need Help with Ammon Zoning?
At Bellhaven Real Estate, we help clients understand zoning regulations throughout southeast Idaho. Whether you're:
Looking to purchase property and want to understand what you can do with it
Planning to build or develop and need clarity on zoning requirements
Considering a variance or zone change for your existing property
Trying to navigate the relationship between city zoning, CC&Rs, and HOA rules
Our team can help you understand the regulations that apply to your specific situation. Contact us today for assistance with your Ammon property questions.