Bentonville PUD: Planned Unit Development Setback Regulations
In the PUD: Planned Unit Development district of Bentonville, building setbacks are not defined by fixed numerical standards in the general code but are instead established through the approval of a mandatory master site plan [Sec 401.10(b)]. While general building placement is flexible to allow for innovative design, specific structural standards for the PUD: Planned Unit Development district require that front-loading residential garages be set back at least 30 feet from the front property line [Sec 401.10(f)(4)].
Establishment of Setbacks through Master Site Plan
The PUD: Planned Unit Development district in Bentonville is designed to allow for innovative mixed-use, commercial, or residential developments that do not strictly comply with traditional zoning categories [Sec 401.10(a)]. Because of this flexibility, the Bentonville Zoning Code allows the PUD: Planned Unit Development process to modify standard development regulations, including building and garage setbacks [Sec 401.10(e)(1)].
The specific setbacks for any given project are detailed in the PUD master site plan. Once the City of Bentonville approves this plan, it becomes the governing zoning ordinance for that specific parcel, and all development must follow those established setbacks exactly [Sec 401.10(b)].
Perimeter Compatibility Requirements
When establishing setbacks for the PUD: Planned Unit Development district, the City of Bentonville requires developers to ensure the project is compatible with the surrounding environment. For all perimeter lots—those adjacent to the PUD district boundary or a perimeter street right-of-way—the Planning Commission and City Council do not apply a pre-set distance. Instead, they determine appropriate setbacks by considering the nature and character of adjacent developments and the regulations applicable to those neighboring properties [Sec 401.10(f)(3)].
Mandatory Structural Setback Standards
Although general building setbacks are flexible, the Bentonville Zoning Code imposes specific minimum requirements for residential garages within the PUD: Planned Unit Development district to maintain neighborhood character and safety [Sec 401.10(f)(4)].
| Feature Type | Minimum Setback Requirement |
|---|---|
| General Building Setbacks | As defined by the approved Master Site Plan |
| Perimeter Lot Setbacks | Variable; based on adjacent development character |
| Front-Loading Residential Garage | 30 feet from the front property line (and recessed 10 feet from the front house elevation) |
| Rear-Loading Residential Garage | 20 feet |
| Side-Loading Residential Garage | 20 feet |
Sections Cited
- Sec 401.10 PUD, Planned Unit Development
- Sec 401.10(a) Description and purpose of PUD districts
- Sec 401.10(b) PUD districts require zoning designation and a master site plan
- Sec 401.10(e) PUD districts may modify development standards
- Sec 401.10(f) Development criteria for PUD districts