The Community Development Board recommended adoption of an ordinance that modifies Bozeman's wetland and watercourse regulations to streamline the development review process. The amendment removes requirements for applicants to submit approved jurisdictional determinations from the Army Corps of Engineers and watercourse status determinations from the Gallatin Water Conservation District before proceeding with city permits.
Chris Saunders, representing the city's Community Development Department, and Nick Ross, Director of Transportation and Engineering, explained that the changes stem from practical challenges encountered since the city overhauled its wetland code in October 2025. Jurisdictional determinations from the Army Corps typically take 12 to 18 months to complete and are a separate process from Clean Water Act 404 permits, which applicants must obtain regardless. The Conservation District changed its policy and no longer issues initial watercourse determinations prior to permit applications due to capacity constraints. Under the revised code, applicants may assume federal Corps jurisdiction and proceed directly with the 404 permit process while still complying with the city's wetland mitigation standards and priorities.
Kathryn Barry, representing the Gallatin Watershed Council, testified in support, noting that technical experts involved in the code development had reached consensus on the changes. She also suggested the board consider moving wetland delineation requirements earlier in the development review process, though staff indicated concept plans are often preliminary and delineations have validity periods that could be exceeded before actual development.
The board approved the motion 4-0 to recommend adoption of the ordinance to the Bozeman City Commission, with a first reading scheduled for September 1st. The amendment addresses sections 38.610.030, 38.610.040, 38.620, and 38.710.120 of the Bozeman Municipal Code.