The New Unified Development Code and Zoning Map Are in Effect!

(Last Updated: 3/03/26)

Missoula’s Unified Development Code (UDC) and updated zoning map have been adopted to better align our development rules with the Our Missoula 2045 Land Use Plan and community priorities—supporting housing choice, neighborhood livability, economic vitality, our climate goals, and responsible growth.

Adoption and Effective Date

• On Feb 2nd, City Council adopted the new Unified Development Code (UDC) and Zoning Map.
• As of March 4th, the new UDC, Zoning Map, and COMSSM Manual are all in effect.

Find the new UDC and supporting adopted materials here:

The project materials are listed on the sidebar, and have been updated and finalized to include all amendments made through the adoption process:

• UDC: View a pdf version of the finalized Title 22, Unified Development Code (UDC).
• Zoning Map: View an interactive version of the finalized Zoning Map here and from additional links on the sidebar.
• Manual: Find the final updated and expanded City of Missoula Standards and Specifications Manual (COMSSM).
• Plan: Find the Our Missoula 2045 Land Use Plan and recent amendments.
• Supporting Materials: View the Our Missoula Resource Library Page for a comprehensive list of Public Meetings, including for the Public Hearings that led to Final Adoption that were held at Planning Commission and City Council.
• FAQ'S: Visit Our Missoula project Frequently Asked Questions.

What’s next?

Now, our focus shifts from adoption to implementation—making sure the new rules are clear and accessible.

• A finalized, updated code is now available on the side bar.
• Implementation rollout and customer support: The City will publish clear, plain-language guidance and support resources as they are finalized.
• Updated forms, checklists, and online tools: You will see updates to application materials and online references to support a predictable and consistent process.
• Trainings and office hours: We will host opportunities to learn the new code and ask questions. More information to come.
• Early implementation focus: clarity, consistency, and transparency. We will track common questions and publish FAQs and guides as needed.
• Code Refinement: targeted refinements based on what we learn as the code is applied will occur at scheduled intervals, based on need.

What to know about permitting during the Transition Period

The new code provides for a transition period where projects submitting for approvals may be reviewed under either the new Title 22: UDC or the previous development codes. Here's what to know:

• The transition period lasts until July 2^nd. All applications submitted after July 2nd are subject to the UDC, except as otherwise expressly stated
• Development review applications that can be reviewed under either the UDC or under the applicable standards and regulations in effect immediately prior to the adoption of the UDC include:
  • Building permits
  • Zoning compliance permits
  • Design Excellence Applications submitted
• Applications that have been submitted under the current title 20 but would like to switch to review under the UDC, will need to withdraw the current application and resubmit a new application under the UDC.

For questions about permits or specific projects, please use the following contacts:

Zoning Desk: 406-552-6625, zoningdesk@ci.missoula.mt.us

Engineering Desk: 406-552-6636, ENGdesk@ci.missoula.mt.us

Permit Coordination: 406-552-6060, coordinators@ci.missoula.mt.us

What Did Code Reform Do?

Code Reform updated our zoning and development codes to implement the community vision adopted in the Our Missoula 2045 Land Use Plan. This means allowing more housing in places that allow people to live closer to where they work, shop, and find services. It also means promoting more housing diversity and affordability throughout the City, while considering how buildings integrate with the surrounding neighborhood. Lastly, Code Reform included improvements to the type and quality of public amenities that are included with new development, like streets, trails, and parks.

The Code Reform process resulted in the creation and adoption of three key materials:

1. A new Unified Development Code (UDC) - The new City MCA Title 22-UDC contains all city regulations that relate to private development, including zoning, subdivision, public works, and parks and recreation regulations.
2. A new Zoning Map;
3. An updated and expanded City Standards & Specifications Manual.
4. A new Municipal Planning Commission.

🗣️FOLLOW UP THOUGHTS AND QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OUR MISSOULA PROJECT

The public comment period is now closed. Comments received throughout the adoption process until the final vote by City Council on February 2nd, 2026, have been added to the record and are listed in the related meeting agendas in the meetings below. All comments received by staff were provided to City Council for their consideration through the adoption process.

Comments and questions about the final adoption can continue to be submitted via email to the project managers listed on this page. For questions about implementation of the new UDC, including the near term transition period, please refer to the Code Reform project page, where information and materials will be continually updated.

Where to find updates and stay involved:

Engage Missoula is the central hub for implementation updates, including guides and FAQs. Please check back regularly and sign up for notifications as we move through the implementation process. You can also reach out to the project managers listed on this page, or to the City Zoning Desk (zoningdesk@ci.missoula.mt.us) for questions.