DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential District in Bentonville
The DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district in Bentonville is designed to provide a transition between large-lot residential areas and higher-density zones through small-lot development and alley-loaded infrastructure. The district permits building heights up to 36 feet and requires a minimum of one off-street parking space per dwelling unit. Primary allowed building types include single-family homes, two-family dwellings, cottage courts, and block-end townhouses.
General Character and Purpose
The intent of the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district is to facilitate increased single-family density within the core areas of the City of Bentonville. This is achieved by utilizing smaller lot widths in areas where alleys and existing infrastructure can support such growth. The DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district serves as a critical geographic and density transition between low-density neighborhoods and the more intensive residential or commercial zones found in the downtown area [Sec 401.07-B(a)(2)].
Development in the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district is characterized by a traditional urban form, often incorporating alley access to preserve the streetscape from excessive driveway cuts [Sec 401.07-B(a)(2)].
Permitted Building Types and Land Uses
In the City of Bentonville, all structures within the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district must be classified into specific building types defined by the code.
Allowed Building Types
Per the building types table, the following are permitted in the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district:
- Single-family dwellings [Sec 401.07-B(c)(1)]
- Two-family dwellings [Sec 401.07-B(c)(1)]
- Cottage Courts [Sec 401.07-B(c)(1)]
- Townhouses (Block-end only) [Sec 401.07-B(c)(1)]
Permitted Land Uses
The City of Bentonville allows several uses by right or by conditional permit within the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district:
- Residential Uses: Single-family, two-family, and townhouse dwellings; modular homes; cottage courts; and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) [Table of Uses; Sec 401.07-B(d)(1)].
- Civic and Institutional: Community gardens, museums, public safety services, and government services are allowed by right. Religious facilities and urban farms are permitted via a Conditional Use Permit [Table of Uses].
- Home Occupations: Type A home occupations are allowed as an accessory use, while Type B requires a Conditional Use Permit [Table of Uses].
- Lodging: Bed and breakfast establishments are allowed subject to a Conditional Use Permit [Table of Uses].
Lot and Area Standards
The DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district maintains specific standards for lot size and coverage based on the specific building type being constructed.
| Standard | Single-Family (Alley Access) | Single-Family (No Alley) | Two-Family (Alley Access) | Two-Family (No Alley) | Townhouse (Unit) | Cottage Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Lot Area | 4,000 sq. ft. | 5,000 sq. ft. | 4,000 sq. ft. | 5,000 sq. ft. | 2,000 sq. ft. | 8,000 sq. ft. |
| Min. Lot Width | 40 ft. | 50 ft. | 40 ft. | 50 ft. | 20 ft. | 80 ft. |
| Max. Coverage (Interior) | 50% | 50% | 50% | 50% | N/A | 50% |
| Max. Coverage (Corner) | 55% | 55% | 55% | 55% | N/A | 55% |
[Sec 401.07-B(d)(1)]
Setback and Height Regulations
Setbacks in the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district ensure consistent building placement and adequate separation between structures.
Minimum Setback Standards
| Setback Category | Single-Family / Two-Family | Townhouse (Block-end) |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard (Min / Max) | 12 ft. / 25 ft. | 12 ft. / 25 ft. |
| Side Yard (Exterior/Corner) | 12 ft. (Min) / 25 ft. (Max) | 12 ft. (Min) / 25 ft. (Max) |
| Side Yard (Interior - Detached) | 7 ft. | 10 ft. |
| Side Yard (Interior - Attached) | 0 ft. | 0 ft. |
| Rear Yard | 25 ft. | 25 ft. |
[Sec 401.07-B(e)]
Building Height
The City of Bentonville limits the maximum height for all permitted residential structures in the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district—including single-family, two-family, and townhouses—to 36 feet [Sec 401.07-B(a) Height Standards Table].
Parking Requirements
For residential developments within the DN-2: Downtown Medium-Density Residential district, the City of Bentonville requires one (1) off-street parking space per dwelling unit. This requirement may be satisfied through on-site parking, on-street parking, or a shared parking agreement [Sec 501.06(e)(1)a]. Surface parking must be located at the side or the rear of the building to prevent the interruption of pedestrian movement at the front of the structure [Sec 501.06(e)(1)c].
Sections Cited
- Sec 401.02 Classification Of Districts
- Sec 401.07-B Downtown Neighborhood (DN) Districts Regulations
- Sec 401.05 Table Of Uses For Zoning Districts
- Sec 501.06 Number Of Off-Street Parking Spaces Required