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LAND USE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

Zoning Requirements

The land use regulations in North Liberty were discussed in regards to their flexibility in some areas and inflexibility in others. The zoning requirements need to be reviewed and revised as necessary to remain up-to-date and in line with the Comprehensive Plan.


Since 1979, in order to further define land use zoning areas, the City no longer rezones land with the R-2, R-3, C-1, or C-2 designations. All land that was previously zoned as such has been permitted to remain in this classification. The abundance of land that remains in these classifications make it difficult for the City of North Liberty to define land use. The community survey showed that the respondents are concerned with the intermixing of land use and the City’s lack of consistency in areas. This is an issue that should be addressed as a policy issue as part of the Comprehensive Plan, as well as addressed with the City’s Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update.


Impact Fees

The City currently charges impact or development fees to new construction for water, storm water, sewer and transportation. Developers are expected to bear the cost of infrastructure needed to service their sites. They are also required to extend utilities through their developments to an adjacent property line. In addition, the City may want to consider impact fees for park development. It is important to insure that the City's growth pays its own way and that service demands being generated can be adequately provided by the City. This is an issue that should be addressed as a policy issue as part of the Comprehensive Plan.


Fringe Area Development Controls/Annexation

The area surrounding North Liberty is governed by the Johnson County Zoning Ordinance, however, pursuant to Iowa State law, the City of North Liberty may extend its platting and subdivision controls two miles beyond its borders. The City and Johnson County are working towards completing a fringe area agreement in which the City and County work together in the establishment of zoning and design standards, growth areas, and an overall land use map. With this agreement, the City will have more control to insure the interests of the City are well served as well as monitor and regulate development that may be incorporated into the City in the future.

North Liberty’s municipal boundary is currently a unique configuration due to the voluntary annexation of property owners who have requested annexation. The unincorporated islands within the City are being addressed by the State of Iowa which has scheduled hearings on the annexation of these islands.

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