Bentonville DN-2 Downtown Medium-Density Residential Setback Guide
In the City of Bentonville DN-2 Downtown Medium-Density Residential district, most primary structures must maintain a front yard setback between 12 and 25 feet and a rear yard setback of 25 feet. Side yard requirements for the DN-2 district range from 0 feet for attached structures to 25 feet for corner lots, depending on the specific building type and orientation.
DN-2 District Purpose and Intent
The DN-2 Downtown Medium-Density Residential district is established within the City of Bentonville to facilitate increased single-family density through smaller lot widths. This district is specifically designed for areas where alleys and infrastructure can support such development, providing a transition between large-lot residential zones and higher-density areas [Section 401.07-B (a)(2)].
Minimum Setback Standards for the DN-2 District
The City of Bentonville applies specific setback ranges to the DN-2 district to ensure consistent urban form and pedestrian-oriented character. These requirements vary based on the building type, such as single-family homes or block-end townhouses.
| Building Type | Front Yard (Min/Max) | Exterior/Corner Side Yard (Min/Max) | Interior Side (Detached) | Interior Side (Attached) | Rear Yard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Family & Two-Family | 12' – 25' | 12' – 25' | 7' | 0' | 25' |
| Townhouse (Block-End) | 12' – 25' | 12' – 25' | 10' | 0' | 25' |
| All Others Not Listed | 12' – 25' | 12' – 25' | 10' | 0' | 25' |
Source: [Section 401.07-B (e)]
Setback Standards for Cottage Courts
Cottage Courts are a permitted building type within the City of Bentonville DN-2 district, consisting of groups of four to twelve detached structures arranged around a shared courtyard [Section 201.02]. Because of their unique design, they are subject to separate setback regulations under the City of Bentonville's use-specific standards.
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 10' Minimum; 20' Maximum |
| Side Setback | 7' |
| Rear Setback | 7' |
| Minimum Distance Between Units | 7' |
Source: [Section 601.35 (c)]
General Requirements and Encroachments
All development within the DN-2 Downtown Medium-Density Residential district must adhere to the following City of Bentonville regulations regarding lot configuration and structural projections:
- Street Frontage: All lots in the DN-2 district must have a minimum street frontage of 20 feet [Section 401.07-B (e)(2)].
- Parking Placement: In the DN-2 district, off-street parking lots must be located to the rear or side of the primary building or structure [Section 501.03 (c)].
- Permitted Encroachments: Certain architectural features may project into required setbacks in the City of Bentonville. For example, eaves, sills, and cornices may project up to 18 inches into any required setback. Bay windows and chimneys may encroach up to 2 feet into a required setback but must remain at least 3 feet from the side or rear property lines [Section 401.04 (h)].
- Fences and Walls: These may be constructed up to the property line, provided they comply with the City of Bentonville Land Development Code [Section 401.04 (h)].
Sections Cited
- Section 201.02 – Definitions Of Terms And Uses
- Section 401.04 – Application Of Zoning District Regulations
- Section 401.07-B – Downtown Neighborhood (DN) Districts Regulations
- Section 501.03 – Location Of Off-Street Parking
- Section 601.35 – Cottage Courts