Zoning & Subdivision Code Update

The City of Johnston has been updating its Zoning and Subdivision Codes over the last 18 months to make sure its zoning and subdivision regulations are consistent with the goals, policies, and maps in Thrive 2040, the City’s recently adopted Comprehensive Plan.

Zoning and Subdivision Codes

Effective May 1, 2023, the updated Zoning and Subdivision Codes become effective. A PDF of the entire code is available here (PDF).

To supplement the updated codes, the City Council also adopted an official Desirable Trees and Shrubs list which is available here (PDF). 

For a summary of the key changes to the Zoning and Subdivision Regulations visit, the Storybook. 

Stormwater Management Requirements

Effective May 1, 2023, updated Post Construction Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Requirements become effective. A PDF of the Post Construction Stormwater Management Requirements is available here (PDF). A PDF of the Erosion and Sediment Control Requirements is available here (PDF).

To supplement the updated codes, the City Council also adopted Supplemental Specifications to the Iowa Stormwater Management Manual which is available here (PDF).

Will my property be rezoned as part of this process?

As part of the update process, some properties in the community will need to be rezoned. Effective May 1, 2023, the City Council adopted a new Official Zoning Map (PDF) which rezones properties that were previously zoned within the  R-1(90), R-1(A), R-1(150), CO, PC, IC, MUC and Merle Hay Road Overlay districts.  These districts were eliminated from the new code and have been rezoned to one of the districts contained in the new code. 

What are the Zoning and Subdivision Codes?

The Zoning Code is the set of rules that identifies how individual properties within the City can be used. It also sets standards for how buildings may be developed or changed. The Zoning Code is structured by dividing the City into districts and then identifying what can occur in each district. The Zoning Map, available here, shows where the City’s zoning districts are located. The Zoning Code also has standards that apply to all districts, such as parking, landscaping, screening, signage, etc.

The City’s Subdivision Regulations shape how properties can be subdivided into smaller parcels for development or sale. The regulations include standards pertaining to lots, streets, infrastructure such as water and sewer, and public areas. 

What is Thrive 2040?

Thrive 2040 is the City’s recently adopted Comprehensive Plan. It is a document that is a tool for guiding the growth, redevelopment, and overall improvement of the City. While the most recognized part of the Comprehensive Plan is its land-use plan, Thrive 2040 also includes a vision statement, guiding principles, goals, policies, and implementation initiatives that direct actions related to natural resources, transportation, economic development, housing, parks, trails, and open space, and utilities. Thrive 2040 also incorporates the 10 Iowa Smart Growth Principles throughout the Plan. More information about Thrive 2040 can be found here.