As first reported by eastidahonews.com: Pocatello officials are initiating a comprehensive rewrite of the city’s zoning ordinances, aiming to replace outdated regulations with a framework that supports diverse housing options and mixed-use development. The virtual kickoff event is scheduled for Tuesday at 6 p.m., marking the start of a public feedback process designed to align local land-use laws with the city’s long-term vision.
City planners have identified significant inconsistencies in the current code, which relies on traditional Euclidian zoning practices that strictly separate land uses. Jim Anglesey, Pocatello’s long-range senior planner, noted that previous attempts to amend specific sections often created new problems elsewhere in the document. “There’s some antiquated language mixed with newer language… it’s better practice to just rewrite the whole thing,” Anglesey said.
The overhaul is driven by the Pocatello Comprehensive Plan 2040, which the City Council adopted in 2023. The plan emphasizes “Smart Growth” principles, a strategy that encourages infill development and allows residential and commercial properties to coexist within the same zones or buildings. While this approach promotes density and walkability, it maintains necessary separations between incompatible uses, such as heavy industrial facilities and residential neighborhoods.
Town Planning & Urban Design Collaborative, a Tennessee-based firm specializing in Smart Growth strategies, will lead the initial presentation and question-and-answer session. The consultants are tasked with guiding the transition from rigid single-use zoning to a more flexible system that reflects modern urban planning standards.
Residents interested in participating can register for the virtual meeting or access a survey at zoningpocatello.com. Officials emphasize that this kickoff is just the beginning of a broader engagement effort, with additional opportunities for public input planned throughout the rewrite process.
“If there are major concerns that the public has, this is kind of the time to bring those up,” Anglesey told the EastIdahoNews.com. The city’s goal is to create a zoning code that not only resolves existing legal ambiguities but also fosters economic growth and housing affordability in Southeast Idaho.