Automotive Service and Gas Station Zoning Regulations in Bentonville
Automobile repair shops and body shops are permitted by right within the City of Bentonville's C-2 (General Commercial), I-1 (Light Industrial), and I-2 (Heavy Industrial) districts. Gas stations are permitted by right in the I-1 and I-2 districts but are categorized as a conditional use in the C-2 district, requiring approval from the Planning Commission. All such facilities in the City of Bentonville must adhere to a parking ratio of five spaces plus one space per 200 square feet of net building area [Sec 501.06(f)].
Allowed Districts and Definitions
The Bentonville Zoning Code provides specific definitions and district permissions for automotive-related businesses to ensure they are located in compatible areas.
Definitions
- Automobile Repair: Any building or structure used for the repair and maintenance of vehicles. This specifically includes body and fender work, painting, muffler or upholstery work, oil changes, tire services, and towing services [Sec 201.02].
- Gas Station: A facility designed for furnishing fuels and lubricating oils or materials for the use in operation and maintenance of motor vehicles [Sec 201.02].
Permitted Districts
According to the City of Bentonville Table of Uses, these activities are restricted to the following districts:
| Use Type | C-2 (General Commercial) | I-1 (Light Industrial) | I-2 (Heavy Industrial) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automobile Repair / Body Shop | Permitted by Right | Permitted by Right | Permitted by Right |
| Gas Station | Conditional Use (C) | Permitted by Right | Permitted by Right |
[Sec 401.05, Table of Uses]
Development Standards
Automotive businesses in the City of Bentonville must comply with specific bulk, area, and height requirements established for their respective zoning districts.
Lot and Height Standards
The following table outlines the minimum lot requirements and maximum heights for the districts where these uses are permitted:
| Standard | C-2 District | I-1 District | I-2 District |
|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Lot Area | 7,000 sq. ft. | 20,000 sq. ft. | 20,000 sq. ft. |
| Min. Lot Width | 70 feet | 100 feet | 100 feet |
| Max. Lot Coverage (Interior) | 60% | 60% | 50% |
| Max. Building Height | 60 feet | 60 feet | 60 feet |
[Sec 401.08(b), Sec 401.09(b), Sec 401.09(d)]
Setback Requirements
Setbacks in the City of Bentonville vary based on whether the property is adjacent to a residential or nonresidential district.
| District | Front (With Parking) | Front (No Parking) | Side (Adj. to Res.) | Side (Adj. to Non-Res.) | Rear (Adj. to Res.) | Rear (Adj. to Non-Res.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-2 | 50 feet | 20 feet | 30 feet | 7 feet | 30 feet | 20 feet |
| I-1 | 75 feet | 30 feet | 75 feet | 30 feet | 75 feet | 50 feet |
| I-2 | 75 feet | 50 feet | 75 feet | 50 feet | 75 feet | 50 feet |
[Sec 401.08(c), Sec 401.09(c)]
Parking and Loading Requirements
The City of Bentonville mandates specific off-street parking for automotive services to prevent traffic congestion.
| Land Use | Parking Ratio |
|---|---|
| Automotive Services (Garages/Fueling) | 5 spaces plus 1 space for each 200 sq. ft. of net building area |
| Manufacturing/Wholesaling (I-Districts) | 1 space per 600 sq. ft. of net floor area |
[Sec 501.06(f)]
In the I-1 and I-2 districts, the City of Bentonville requires that any lighting visible from outside the site be designed to reflect away from adjacent residential districts. Additionally, outdoor storage of trash receptacles must be totally encircled or screened by a sight-proof fence or suitable visual barrier [Sec 401.09(e)].
Sections Cited
- Section 201.02 Definitions Of Terms And Uses
- Section 401.05 Table Of Uses For Zoning Districts
- Section 401.08 Commercial (C) Districts Regulations
- Section 401.09 Industrial (I) Districts Regulations
- Section 501.06 Number Of Off-Street Parking Spaces Required