Allowed and Prohibited Uses in the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential District
The DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district in the City of Bentonville allows for single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and cottage courts by right, serving as a transition between lower and higher density areas. Residential structures in this district are generally limited to a maximum height of 36 feet, with lot coverage restricted to between 50% and 60% depending on the specific building type.
Purpose and Intent of the DN-2 District
The DN-2 district is established by the City of Bentonville to facilitate increased single-family density in areas where infrastructure and alleys support such development. The district serves as a strategic transition between large-lot residential zones and those of higher density. While predominantly focused on single-family and small-lot development, townhouses are permitted in specific locations, such as the ends of blocks [Sec 401.07-B(a)(2)].
Allowed Building Types
In the DN-2 district, only specific building types are permitted. These classifications determine the physical form and placement of structures on a lot.
| Building Type | Permission Status |
|---|---|
| Single-Family | Allowed by Right |
| Cottage Court | Allowed by Right |
| Two-Family | Allowed by Right |
| Townhouse (Block-end only) | Allowed by Right |
| Townhouse (Mid-block) | Prohibited |
| Multi-family | Prohibited |
| Mixed-use | Prohibited |
[Source: Sec 401.07-B(c)(1)]
Table of Permitted Land Uses
Land uses in the City of Bentonville DN-2 district are categorized as "Permitted by Right," "Conditional Uses" (requiring Planning Commission approval), or "Accessory Uses."
Residential Uses
- Permitted by Right: Single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, cottage courts, condominiums, modular dwellings, group homes, and assisted living facilities [Sec 401.05].
- Conditional Uses: Home Occupations (Type B) [Sec 401.05].
- Accessory Uses: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on lots with single-family structures, and Home Occupations (Type A) [Sec 401.05; Sec 401.07-B(d)(1)].
Public, Civic, and Institutional Uses
- Permitted by Right: Educational facilities (public or private), libraries, museums, religious facilities, parks (mini and neighborhood), adult day care, registered child care family homes (5 or fewer children), licensed child care family homes (6-16 children), governmental service facilities, and public safety services [Sec 401.05].
- Conditional Uses: Community centers and aquariums [Sec 401.05].
Other Uses
- Permitted by Right: Community gardens, hobby chickens, mobile food vendors, utility facilities, wireless communication facilities (cell towers), and temporary uses [Sec 401.05].
- Conditional Uses: Urban farms [Sec 401.05].
- Accessory Uses: Small wind energy systems, nonresidential accessory buildings, and donation boxes [Sec 401.05].
Prohibited Uses
In the City of Bentonville, any use not specifically marked as permitted, conditional, or accessory in the DN-2 column of the Table of Uses is prohibited [Sec 401.05(e)]. Major prohibited uses include:
- Commercial Buildings: Single-use commercial buildings are generally prohibited unless part of a mixed-use allowance in other DN districts (DN-3 or DN-4) [Sec 401.07-B(c)(2)].
- Industrial: All light and heavy industrial uses, including warehousing and salvage yards.
- Intensive Retail: Auto sales, packaged liquor stores, and drive-through restaurants.
- Specific Residential: Multi-family apartment buildings (except for those specifically categorized as condominiums) and manufactured home parks.
Development Standards for DN-2
The following technical standards apply to all developments within the DN-2 district in Bentonville to maintain the medium-density character of the neighborhood.
Lot and Area Requirements
| Standard | Single-Family (Alley Access) | Single-Family (No Alley) | Two-Family (Alley Access) | Cottage Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Lot Area | 4,000 sq. ft. | 5,000 sq. ft. | 4,000 sq. ft. | 8,000 sq. ft. |
| Min. Lot Width | 40 feet | 50 feet | 40 feet | 80 feet |
| Max. Lot Coverage | 50% (Interior) | 50% (Interior) | 50% (Interior) | 50% (Interior) |
[Source: Sec 401.07-B(d)(1)]
Setback and Height Standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Yard Setback | 12 feet minimum / 25 feet maximum |
| Side Yard (Interior) | 7 feet |
| Side Yard (Exterior/Corner) | 12 feet minimum / 25 feet maximum |
| Rear Yard Setback | 25 feet |
| Maximum Building Height | 36 feet |
[Source: Sec 401.07-B(e); Sec 401.07-B(f)(a)]
Sections Cited
- Section 401.02: Classification Of Districts
- Section 401.05: Table Of Uses For Zoning Districts
- Section 401.07-B: Downtown Neighborhood (DN) Districts Regulations
- Section 601.02: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Section 601.12: Home Occupations