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Granite Falls City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 19

03 ZONING

§ 19.03.010 Introduction and purpose.

The purpose of this chapter includes but is not limited to promoting the health, safety and welfare by guiding the development of the city consistent with the maps and policies of the comprehensive plan as required under the Growth Management Act.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016)

§ 19.03.020 Zoning map.

The zoning map determines the boundaries of the following zones. Boundary interpretations shall be the responsibility of the designated official. (See the zoning map included at the end of this UDC.)
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016)

§ 19.03.030 Zone and use description.

(A) 
Purposes. The purposes of the zone districts are:
To assist in the implementation of the adopted comprehensive plan for the physical development of the city by regulating and providing for existing uses planned for the future as specified in the comprehensive plan.
To protect the character and stability of residential, commercial, industrial, and other uses and to ensure the orderly and beneficial development of these uses by:
(1) 
Reserving and retaining appropriate areas for each type of use;
(2) 
Preventing encroachment into these areas by incompatible uses;
(3) 
Regulating the use of individual parcels of land to prevent unreasonable detrimental effects of nearby uses; and
(4) 
To preserve the historic, aesthetic, and natural features of the city by:
(a) 
Establishing high standards of environmental protection; and
(b) 
Providing for design and environmental review of proposed actions and projects.
(B) 
Established – Scope. All land within the city shall be included in a zone district, and all uses and structures shall conform to the special requirements of the zone district within which they are located and the other general requirements of this UDC.
(C) 
Interpretation of Uses. The designated official shall make the final decision on allowed uses not included in this chapter.
(D) 
Established – Boundaries. The location of the various zone districts are shown on the official zoning map of the city which is part of this UDC.
(E) 
Interpretation of Boundaries. Zone district boundaries indicated on the zoning map shall be interpreted as follows:
(1) 
Where boundaries are indicated along streets, the boundaries shall be the centerline of the street.
(2) 
Where boundaries are indicated along established lot lines, the boundary shall be the lot line.
(3) 
Where boundaries are indicated on perennial watercourses, the boundary shall be the thread of the stream.
(4) 
Where boundaries are indicated on the shorelines of the city, the boundary shall extend to the city limits.
(5) 
Upon vacation of a street, the zone district boundaries of abutting properties shall be extended to the centerline of the vacated street.
(6) 
Where a zoning district boundary appears to be an extension of a section line, quarter section line, or existing property line, said extension shall be considered the zoning district boundary.
(7) 
Where none of the rules of interpretation described in subsections (E)(1) through (6) of this section apply, the city designated official shall determine the boundary by map scaling.
(F) 
Annexation Zoning Designation. All lands annexed to the city without an annexation zoning designation shall be classified as a default R-9,600 zone until such a time when annexation zoning can be established.
(G) 
Lot Divided by Zoning District Boundary. Where a zoning district boundary line shown on the zoning map divides a lot of record, the property owner shall use the zoning on the larger area for the entire lot. Under no circumstance shall an applicant move a lot line to alter the size of the areas in the two zones or include a zone not previously included in the lot.
(H) 
Zone Categories. The four basic categories of zones provided in the UDC are as follows:
(1) 
Residential Zones. Residential zones are established to provide a variety of housing types, ensure efficient utility service, minimize traffic congestion, preserve and revitalize historic structures, accommodate differing landforms and natural features and reflect the intent of the comprehensive plan.
(2) 
Commercial Zones. Commercial zones are established to provide for the sale of consumer goods and services appropriate to the area of the community they serve; to ensure compatibility with nearby land uses; and to accommodate the special requirements for revitalization of the city center.
(3) 
Industrial Zones. Industrial zones are established to provide areas for manufacturing, wholesaling, outdoor storage and other similar intensive uses in locations where these activities can be made compatible with nearby land use. Three zones are included in the code. These zones are intended to provide a variety of industrial opportunities. The heavy industrial zone is intended for heavy industry. The light industrial zone is intended for industry that occurs mostly indoors. The industrial retail zone is located along the road and allows the retail sale of goods manufactured on site.
(4) 
Public Use Zones. Public use zones are established to provide areas for public, semi-public, institutional and open space activities and uses. Three zones are included in the code. These zones are intended to provide for open space tracts, public parks, and public and semi-public facilities. The open space zone is intended for all "open space tracts" within the city retained as open space areas. The public park zone is intended for existing and planned for publicly owned parks. The public and institutional zone is intended for all existing and planned for public and semi-public facilities including City Hall, library, public schools, public utility facilities, stormwater facilities, wastewater facilities, religious institutions, and fire and police facilities.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016)

§ 19.03.035 Permitted uses.

Table 19.03-I: Permitted Uses by Zoning District
(R-2.3)
Riverfront Residential
(R-9600)
Residential 9,600
(R-7200)
Residential 7,200
(MR)
Multiple Residential
(DT-2500)
Downtown Residential
(CBD)
Central Business District
(GC)
General Commer-cial
(IR)
Industrial/ Retail
(LI)
Light Industrial
(HI)
Heavy Industrial
(P/I)
Public/Insti-tutional
(OS)
Open Space
(PP)
Public Park
PUBLIC AND INSTITUTIONAL
Antennas
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
C
Community center
P
Educational institution
C
P
P
P
C
P
Essential public facilities
C
C
C
C
P
P
P
P
C
Municipal parking area
P
P
P
P
P
P
Place of worship
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
Preschool
C
P
P
P
C
Public library
P
Public parks
C
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Public safety facilities
P
C
C
P
P
P
C
P
P
P
P
Public facilities and utilities
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
Social or civic organization facility
C
C
P
P
P
INDUSTRIAL
Accessory living quarters
P (secondary use)
P (secondary use)
P (secondary use)
Building material sales and storage
C
P
P
P
P
C
Commercial laundries and cleaners
C
P
P
P
P
Commercial nurseries/greenhouses
C
P
P
P
Communication facility
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
C
General warehousing including wholesale trade
P
P
Light manufacturing and assembly
P
P
P
P
P
Mini-storage
P
Recycling facility, processing
C
P
P
P
Recycling facility, scrap and dismantling facility
C
P
P
P
Trade, transportation, and warehousing
P
P
OPEN SPACE AND PARKS
Display garden
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Community garden
P
P
P
P
P
P
Outdoor passive parks
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Park maintenance storage facility
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
P
P
P
P
Picnic area and related facilities
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Playground
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Playfields
C
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Private recreational facilities
P
C
C
C
C
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Public utility
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
P
P
P
C
Trails
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
RESIDENTIAL
Accessory dwelling unit
P
P
P
P
Adult family home
P
P
P
P
P
Assisted senior living facility
P
P
Boarding house
P
P
P
P
P
P
Courtyard apartments
P
P
Duplex
P
P
P
Dwelling, multiple-family
P
C
P4
C
Dwelling, single-family
P
P
P
P
P
Emergency temporary shelter
P
P
P
Family daycare
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
Foster home
P
P
P
P
Home occupation
P
P
P
P
P
P2
Live/work units
C
C
P
P
Manufactured home
P
P
P
P
P
Mobile home park
P
Nursing or convalescent home
P
P
C
Permanent supportive housing
P
P
P
P
P
P4
C
RVs
P
Recreational vehicle (RV) park
P
Townhouse
P
C
Transitional housing
P
P
P
P
P
P4
C
Triplex
P5
P
P
COMMERCIAL
Adult cabaret
P
Animal clinics/hospitals
C
P
P
Animal shelter
C
P
P
C
Art galleries
P
P
P
Automobile sales and rentals
P
P
P
Automobile fueling and service
P
P
P
Banks, business and drive up banking
P
P
P
Bed and breakfast
C
C
C
Boat sales and repair
P
P
P
P
Cabinet and furniture shops
C
P
P
P
P
Cafeteria or limited service restaurant
P
P
P
Cemetery
P
Commercial kennels and catteries
C
C
P
P
P
Commercial nursery/greenhouses
P
P
P
Convenience store
P
P
P
Day care centers
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P1
Dog day care
C
C
P
P
P
Drive in espresso/coffee business
P
P
P
Drycleaners/laundromats
P
P
P
C
Florists, retail
P
P
P
Fitness centers and workout gyms
P
P
P
C
Gambling premises
C
P
Health and personal care stores
P
P
P
Heavy equipment sales, service/repair, and rental
C
P
P
P
Hospitals
C
C
P
P
Hotels/motels
P
P
Light equipment sales, rental, and repair
P
P
P
P
Lodge, resort, and recreational facilities
C
C3
C
Lumberyards, retail
P
P
P
P
Marijuana retailer
P
P
Medical or dental office/clinic
C
P
P
P
P
P
Microbreweries and brew pubs
P
P
P
P
Motorcycle sales and service, interior only
C
P
P
P
Museum
P
P
P
C
P
Nursery, indoor retail sales
P
P
P
Office, business, or professional
C
P
P
P
Outdoor storage and/or display
C
C
P
P
P
Personal service establishment
C
C
C
C
P
P
P
Pet shop, grooming and supplies
P
P
P
Private kennel
C
Private parking facility
P
P
P
P
P
P
Recreation and entertainment – indoor commercial
C
P
P
P
P
Recreation and entertainment – outdoor commercial
C
C
P
P
Recreation vehicle sales and repair
P
P
P
Recycling collection station
P
P
P
Restaurant, full service
P
P
C
Retail trade – small scale (under 2,500 square foot floor area)
C
C
P
P
P
P
Retail trade – medium scale (2,500 – 20,000 square foot floor area)
P
P
P
P
Retail trade – large scale (over 20,000 square foot floor area)
C
P
P
Shoe repair, clothing alterations, etc.
P
P
P
Stables and riding schools
P
Taverns and bars
P
P
P
Notes:
1 Permitted as a secondary use.
2 Within an approved residential use
3 On parcels with any portion within 200 feet of a shoreline of statewide significance that comply with the provisions of the city's shoreline master program.
4 Permitted as a secondary use on the floor above a principal use.
5 Subject to the minimum lot size as required by the underlying zone.
(Ord. 1069, 2025; Ord. 1070 § 3, 2026; Ord. 1078-2026, 7/15/2026)

§ 19.03.040 Riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone.

The riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone includes lots that are highly constrained riverfront lots in or near the floodplain of the Pilchuck River. This area was originally subdivided as recreational lots but critical areas and floodplains constrain development to a high degree. The R-2.3 zone is intended to provide for a narrow range of land uses compatible with the environmental constraints.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the R-2.3 zone.
(B) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone are:
(1) 
Front yards: 20 feet from property line except alleys, which setback will be 10 feet;
(2) 
Side yards: five feet on each side; provided, that corner lots shall observe the front yard setback from any street or private road;
(3) 
Rear yards: 25 feet from property line for principal buildings and five feet from property line for accessory buildings;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(C) 
Minimum Lot Width. Minimum lot width in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is 100 feet. Corner lots shall not be less than 120 feet.
(D) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is 2.3 acres or 100,000 square feet.
(E) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is 33 feet.
(F) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is 30 percent.
(G) 
Maximum Density. Maximum density in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is one dwelling unit per 2.3 acres.
(H) 
Minimum Density. Minimum density in the riverfront residential (R-2.3) zone is three dwelling units per acre.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.050 Residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone.

The residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone includes a designation that is single-family in nature and should not allow units other than single-family, townhouses, duplexes, or accessory dwelling units. This area is intended to be a transition zone between the rural areas outside the UGA and the more intense urban land uses. The character of this area is predominantly single-family developments on either larger lots or on clustered, PRD lots.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the R-6,000 zone.
(B) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone are:
(1) 
Front yard: 20 feet from property line.
(2) 
Side yard: five feet on each side; provided, that the corner lots shall observe the front yard setback from any street or private road.
(3) 
Rear yard: 10 feet from property line for principal buildings and five feet from property line for accessory buildings.
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(C) 
Minimum Lot Width. Minimum lot width in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is 60 feet. Corner lots shall not be less than 70 feet.
(D) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is 9,600 square feet.
(E) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is 33 feet.
(F) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is 40 percent.
(G) 
Maximum Density. Maximum density in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is six dwelling units per acre in a planned residential development.
(H) 
Minimum Density. Minimum density in the residential 9,600 (R-9,600) zone is four dwelling units per acre.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 827 § 2, 2012; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 960 § 5 (Exh. D), 2018; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.060 Residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone.

The residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone designation shall provide for single-family, duplex, and triplex residential development at a range of between four and six dwelling units per acre and compatible uses such as schools and churches where the full range of public facilities and services to support urban development exists. This zone is intended to support a wider variety of residential uses than the R-9,600 zone and be more flexible relative to the types of residential uses.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the R-7,200 zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is 7,200 square feet.
(C) 
Minimum Lot Width. Minimum lot width in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is 50 feet. Corner lots shall not be less than 60 feet.
(D) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone are:
(1) 
Front yard: 20 feet from the property line.
(2) 
Side yard: five feet on each side; provided, that corner lots shall observe the front yard setback from any street or private road.
(3) 
Rear yard: 10 feet from property line for principal buildings and five feet from property line for accessory buildings.
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(E) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is 33 feet.
(F) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is 45 percent.
(G) 
Maximum Density. Maximum density in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is six dwelling units per acre.
(H) 
Minimum Density. Minimum density in the residential 7,200 (R-7,200) zone is four dwelling units per acre.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 960 § 6 (Exh. E), 2018; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.070 Downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone.

The downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone designation shall provide more flexible zoning for residential uses that are compatible with the quality and character of the existing area. This area has traditionally been a single-family, duplex and triplex zone of predominantly single-family character. This zone is intended to allow for flexibility to allow the use of the existing small lots for densities of single-family, duplex, and triplex developments.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the DT-2,500 zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 2,500 square feet per dwelling unit.
(C) 
Minimum Lot Width. Minimum lot width in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 30 feet. Corner lots shall have a lot width of not less than 40 feet.
(D) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone are:
(1) 
Front yard: 10 feet from property line.
(2) 
Side yard: Five feet on each side; provided, that corner lots shall observe the front yard setback from any street or private road.
(3) 
Rear yard: 10 feet from property line for principal buildings and five feet from property line for accessory buildings.
(4) 
In the case of multistory structures over two stories high, the base yard requirements of subsections (D)(1), (D)(2), and (D)(3) of this section shall be increased by an amount equal to five feet for the sum of the side yards and three feet each for the minimum width side yard, designated rear yard and designated front yard for each story of building height over two.
(5) 
No portion of any multifamily structure shall be closer than 15 feet from any other structure, nor, in the case of multistoried structures over two stories high, closer than an additional five feet for each story over two.
(6) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(7) 
Garage, carport, fenced parking area setbacks: At least 20 linear feet of paved driveway shall be provided in front of any garage, carport, or fenced parking area. The linear distance shall be measured along a centerline of the driveway from the access point to such garage, carport, or fenced parking area to the street property line, pedestrian walkway, sidewalk, or access road easement, whichever is closest to the garage, carport, or fenced parking area.
(E) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 33 feet.
(F) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 70 percent.
(G) 
Maximum Density. Maximum density in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 15 dwelling units per acre. Density maximums do not apply to conversions meeting the requirements of GFMC § 19.06.145.
(H) 
Minimum Density. Minimum density in the downtown residential (DT-2,500) zone is 10 dwelling units per acre.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 862 § 16, 2013; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 11 (Exh. J), 2017; Ord. 1069, 2025; Ord. 1078-2026, 7/15/2026)

§ 19.03.080 Multiple residential (MR) zone.

The multiple residential (MR) zone designation shall provide multifamily residential development at a range of densities between 12 and 24 dwelling units per acre plus compatible uses such as schools, churches and day care centers where a full range of public facilities and services that support urban development exists. Generally, this designation is appropriate for land which is located convenient to principal arterials and to industrial and commercial activity centers.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the MR zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. The minimum lot size in the multiple residential (MR) zone is 6,000 square feet.
(C) 
Minimum Lot Width. Minimum lot width in a multiple residential (MR) zone is 50 feet. Corner lots shall have a lot width of not less than 60 feet.
(D) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the multiple residential (MR) zone are:
(1) 
Front yard: 10 feet from property line.
(2) 
Side yard: five feet on each side; provided, that corner lots shall observe the front yard setback from any street or private road. Side yard setbacks are reduced to zero where the units have a common wall for zero lot line developments.
(3) 
Rear yard: 20 feet from property line for principal buildings.
(4) 
Multifamily structure adjacent to property designated single-family by the Granite Falls comprehensive plan shall have a minimum building setback of 25 feet.
(5) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(6) 
Garage or carport setback: 20 feet from property line or sidewalk, whichever is closer. At a minimum, the 20 feet shall be paved the width of the access to the garage or carport. The linear distance shall be measured along a centerline of the driveway from the access point to such garage or carport to the street property line, pedestrian walkway, sidewalk, or access road easement, whichever is closest to the garage or carport.
(E) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the multiple residential (MR) zone is 33 feet.
(F) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the multiple residential (MR) zone is 70 percent.
(G) 
Maximum Density. Maximum density in the multiple residential (MR) zone is 24 dwelling units per acre. Density maximums to not apply to conversions meeting the requirements of GFMC § 19.06.145.
(H) 
Minimum Density. Minimum density in the multiple residential (MR) zone is 12 dwelling units per acre.
(I) 
The designated official may approve a reduction in the minimum density outlined in subsection (H) of this section; provided, that the applicant demonstrates one or more of the following:
(1) 
The site is constrained due to its unusual shape, topography, location, easements, critical areas, access, or other features that preclude the minimum density being achieved; or
(2) 
The project is a mixed-use project which provides a mix of residential and nonresidential uses which are compatible with surrounding uses and meet the intent of the MR zone; or
(3) 
The applicant intends to construct only one residence; provided, that the residence is sited in such a manner that future development is not precluded.
A written justification must be provided by the applicant for all requests for relief from minimum density requirements and is subject to director approval.
(J) 
Satellite Parking. If the number of required off-street parking spaces required cannot reasonably be provided on the same lot where the principal use associated with these parking spaces is located, satellite parking may be provided in accordance with the provisions of this section. "Satellite parking" means a designated area of off-street parking spaces located on the same parcel as, or on an adjacent parcel to, the principal use, and intended to supplement the primary on-site parking area.
(1) 
Satellite parking areas shall be located within 200 feet of the primary public entrance to the building or use they serve.
(2) 
The distance shall be measured along the most direct pedestrian path between the farthest parking space within the satellite parking area and the primary entrance.
(3) 
Safe and direct pedestrian access shall be provided between the satellite parking area and the primary building entrance.
(4) 
The pedestrian route shall include clearly defined walkways, crossings, and lighting consistent with city design standards.
(5) 
Satellite parking areas shall be under the same ownership or control as the primary use, or subject to a recorded agreement ensuring shared access and maintenance responsibilities.
(6) 
All satellite parking areas shall be maintained in good condition and in compliance with applicable landscaping, drainage, and surface standards.
(7) 
Satellite parking areas shall meet all applicable requirements for off-street parking design, landscaping, and screening as provided in GFMC § 19.06.020.
(K) 
Required off-street parking spaces for single-family or townhome units shall be provided on the lot or unit it serves. If two side-by-side driveway parking spaces cannot be provided in the front, required off-street parking shall be provided as rear-loaded parking.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 862 § 17, 2013; Ord. 883 § 7, 2014; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 12 (Exh. K), 2017; Ord. 960 § 7 (Exh. F), 2018; Ord. 1069, 2025; Ord. 1070 § 4, 2026; Ord. 1078-2026, 7/15/2026)

§ 19.03.090 Central business district (CBD) zone.

The central business district (CBD) zone designation is comprised mostly of retail, dining, entertainment and similar businesses, which are conducted primarily indoors. Such uses include, but are not limited to, grocery stores, drug stores, furniture stores, clothing stores, bookstores, music stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and bowling alleys. It also includes many services such as law, accounting, and escrow offices as well as many other types of services. This zone is intended to provide for smaller scale specialty retail, entertainment and professional services in offices but not larger scale retail, facilities with outdoor storage or larger footprints. This zone provides for uses that are traditional to downtown business zones.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the CBD zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the central business district (CBD) zone is 2,000 square feet.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the central business district (CBD) zone is none.
(D) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the central business district (CBD) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks for Nonmanufacturing Uses.
(1) 
Front yard: none;
(2) 
Side yard: none;
(3) 
Rear yard: five feet;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Minimum Building Setbacks for Manufacturing and/or Assembly Uses.
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation there shall be a side yard setback of five feet;
(3) 
Rear yard: five feet;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(G) 
Required Landscaping for Manufacturing and Assembly Uses.
(1) 
All street setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan residential or commercial designation shall be landscaped to a depth of at least 20 feet with natural or installed plant material which will provide total coverage of the required landscape area within three years.
(2) 
All rear and side yard setback areas which border residential zones shall be landscaped with plantings a minimum of five feet in height which will reach a mature height of eight feet from the ground level. Such plantings shall be installed and spaced to provide a continuous screen at maturity.
(H) 
Prohibited Uses. Uses prohibited in the central business district are as follows:
(1) 
Outside storage of equipment, material, products, parts, supplies or vehicles for purposes other than retail sales and rentals. Outdoor storage of vehicles will be limited to an area 25 percent or less of gross square footage of the principal use.
(2) 
Permanent construction yards for storage of equipment and construction products.
(3) 
Manufacturing and/or assembly activity that generates noise levels exceeding 65 dB (normal conversation at three feet) as measured at the property line.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 862 §§ 18 – 22, 2013; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 13 (Exh. L), 2017; Ord. 960 § 8 (Exh. G), 2018; Ord. 974 § 3, 2019; Ord. 983 § 1, 2020; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.100 General commercial (GC) zone.

The general commercial (GC) zone designation is comprised of more intensive retail and service uses than described in the CBD zone. General commercial uses typically require outdoor display and/or storage of merchandise and tend to generate noise as part of the operation. Such uses include, but are not limited to, auto, boat and recreational vehicle sales lots, tire and muffler shops, and equipment rental. The types of retail outlets are typically larger footprint stores like department stores, grocery, and large specialty stores.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the GC zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the general commercial (GC) zone is 7,200 square feet.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the general commercial (GC) zone is none.
(D) 
Maximum Height. Maximum height in the general commercial (GC) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks for Nonmanufacturing Uses.
(1) 
Front yard: none;
(2) 
Side yard: none;
(3) 
Rear yard: five feet;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Minimum Building Setbacks for Manufacturing and/or Assembly Uses.
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or a comprehensive plan residential or commercial designation there shall be a side yard setback of five feet;
(3) 
Rear yard: five feet;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(G) 
Required Landscaping for Manufacturing and Assembly Uses.
(1) 
All street setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan residential or commercial designation shall be landscaped to a depth of at least 20 feet with natural or installed plant material which will provide total coverage of the required landscape area within three years.
(2) 
All rear and side yard setback areas which border residential zones shall be landscaped with plantings a minimum five feet in height which will reach a mature height of eight feet from the ground level. Such plantings shall be installed and spaced to provide a continuous screen at maturity.
(H) 
Prohibited Uses. Manufacturing and/or assembly activity that generates noise levels exceeding 65 dB (normal conversation at three feet) measured at the property line are prohibited in the general commercial (GC) zone.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 862 §§ 23 – 28, 2013; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 14 (Exh. M), 2017; Ord. 960 § 9 (Exh. H), 2018; Ord. 974 § 4, 2019; Ord. 982 § 1, 2020; Ord. 983 § 2, 2020; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.110 Heavy industrial (HI) zone.

The heavy industrial (HI) zone designation will allow uses that involve a great deal of activity and storage outside the building; large doors are open, and there may be noise, light, heat, smoke, dust and odors detected beyond the property lines. Also, the hours of operation may fall outside of the normal 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. routine. An operation may begin very early in the morning and continue late into the evening. Such uses include, but are not limited to, fabrication, processing, storage, and assembly operations.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the HI zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the heavy industrial (HI) zone is none.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the heavy industrial (HI) zone is none.
(D) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the heavy industrial (HI) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the heavy industrial (HI) zone are:
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot of height of the structure nearest the side lot line, whichever is greater;
(3) 
Rear yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot in height of the structure nearest the rear lot line, whichever is greater;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Required Landscaping. All street setback areas and side and rear setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation shall be landscaped to a depth of at least 20 feet with natural or installed plant material which will form a sight-obscuring screen. Landscaping in setback areas which border residential zones shall include a minimum five-foot-high earth berm, and plantings which will reach a mature height of eight feet from the ground level of the lot within two years. Such plantings may be installed on the top of the berm and shall be spaced to provide a continuous screen at maturity.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 15 (Exh. N), 2017; Ord. 974 § 5, 2019; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.120 Light industrial (LI) zone.

The light industrial (LI) zone designation is intended for clean industrial uses in which most of the operation occurs indoors with little noise and emissions of industrial byproducts.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the LI zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the light industrial (LI) zone is none.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the light industrial (LI) zone is none.
(D) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the light industrial (LI) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the light industrial (LI) zone are:
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot of height of the structure nearest the side lot line, whichever is greater;
(3) 
Rear yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot in height of the structure nearest the rear lot line, whichever is greater;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Required Landscaping. All street setback areas and side and rear setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation shall be landscaped to a depth of at least 20 feet with natural or installed plant material which will form a sight-obscuring screen. Landscaping in setback areas which border residential zones shall include a minimum five-foot-high earth berm, and plantings which will reach a mature height of eight feet from the ground level of the lot within two years. Such plantings may be installed on the top of the berm and shall be spaced to provide a continuous screen at maturity.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 862 § 29, 2013; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 16 (Exh. O), 2017; Ord. 974 § 6, 2019; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.130 Industrial/retail (IR) zone.

The industrial/retail (IR) zone designation is intended to allow the sale of industrial products produced on the premises to retail customers. For example, wood products manufactured at the site could be sold in a showroom to retail buyers. This land use designation should be located near the frontage and have better visibility than the industrial zone.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the IR zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the industrial/retail (IR) zone is none.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the industrial/retail (IR) zone is none.
(D) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the industrial/retail (IR) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the industrial/retail (IR) zone are:
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot of height of the structure nearest the side lot line, whichever is greater;
(3) 
Rear yard: none, except when abutting a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation which shall then be 20 feet or one foot for each foot in height of the structure nearest the rear lot line, whichever is greater;
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Required Landscaping. All street setback areas, and side and rear setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan designation shall be landscaped to a depth of at least 20 feet with natural or installed plant material which will form a sight-obscuring screen. Landscaping in setback areas which border residential zones shall include a minimum five-foot-high earth berm, and plantings which will reach a mature height of eight feet from the ground level of the lot within two years. Such plantings may be installed on the top of the berm and shall be spaced to provide a continuous screen at maturity.
(Ord. 740 § 1 (Exh. A), 2007; Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 17 (Exh. P), 2017; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.140 Open space (OS) zone.

(A) 
The open space zone is intended to preserve and enhance public and private open, natural, and recreational areas identified in the comprehensive plan. These areas serve many functions including:
(1) 
Providing opportunities for outdoor recreation;
(2) 
Providing contrasts to the built environment;
(3) 
Preserving scenic qualities;
(4) 
Protecting sensitive or fragile environmental areas;
(5) 
Enhancing and protecting the values and functions of trees and the urban forest;
(6) 
Preserving the capacity and water quality of the stormwater drainage system; and
(7) 
Providing pedestrian and bicycle transportation connections.
(B) 
The open space (OS) zone is applied to all land designated as "open space" on the comprehensive plan future land use map and that has been retained as open space areas. They are often located in sensitive environmental areas. Open space areas may be suitable for passive and/or active recreation development such as neighborhood parks. In addition, property owners may request an open space designation for open or natural areas that meet the purpose of the zone, and for review, conservation, or similar easements that can be shown as open space.
(1) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the OS zone.
(2) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the open space (OS) zone is none.
(3) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the open space (OS) zone is 10 percent.
(4) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the open space (OS) zone is 18 feet.
(5) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the open space (OS) zone are 20 feet from all property lines.
(6) 
Required Landscaping. All street, side and rear setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan residential or commercial designation shall be landscaped with natural or installed plant material to a depth of 20 feet. Said landscaping shall be located between any fence on site and the site's property line, except where the fence is required to be on or near the property line in order to protect a wetland, geological hazard area, aquifer recharge area or flood hazard area.
(Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 18 (Exh. Q), 2017; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.150 Public park (PP) zone.

The public park (PP) zone is intended to preserve and enhance all existing and planned for publicly owned parks. The public park (PP) zone is applied to all land designated as "park" on the comprehensive plan future land use map. The purpose of the public park (PP) zone is to provide opportunities for public parks and other recreation facilities, such as playgrounds, trails, publicly accessible open space, or as meet the definition of parks in GFMC § 19.02.160. Only facilities providing such public recreation shall be allowed to locate in the public park (PP) zone.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the PP zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the public park (PP) zone is none.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the public park (PP) zone is 70 percent.
(D) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the public park (PP) zone is 50 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setbacks in the public park (PP) zone are:
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yard: five feet;
(3) 
Rear yard: five feet; and
(4) 
Alley setback: No portion of any structure shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Required Landscaping. All street, side and rear setback areas which border a residential or commercial zone or comprehensive plan residential or commercial designation shall be landscaped with natural or installed plant material. Said landscaping shall be located between any fence on site and the site's property line, except where the fence is required to be on or near the property line in order to protect a wetland, geological hazard area, aquifer recharge area or flood hazard area.
(Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 19 (Exh. R), 2017; Ord. 1069, 2025)

§ 19.03.160 Public/institutional (P/I) zone.

The public/institutional (P/I) zone is intended to provide and protect properties devoted to public and semi-public uses and uses providing social and physical services to the Granite Falls community. This purpose is accomplished by: (1) providing a zone in which uses serving public needs may be located; (2) limiting residential and privately owned operations; and (3) protecting adjacent properties from potential impacts of public uses. The public/institutional (P/I) zone is applied to all land designated as "public/institutional" on the comprehensive plan future land use map including, but not limited to, schools, government facilities, social services, hospitals, libraries, and utility facilities.
(A) 
See Table 19.03-I, GFMC § 19.03.035, for a list of permitted uses in the P/I zone.
(B) 
Minimum Lot Size. Minimum lot size in the public/institutional (P/I) zone is none.
(C) 
Maximum Hard Surface Coverage. Maximum hard surface coverage in the public/institutional (P/I) zone is 90 percent.
(D) 
Maximum Building Height. Maximum building height in the public/institutional (P/I) zone is 33 feet.
(E) 
Minimum Building Setbacks. Minimum building setback in the public/institutional (P/I) zone is 20 feet from all property lines except when abutting a commercial, industrial or public/institutional zone, then the setbacks shall be the same as the corresponding setbacks requirement for the abutting commercial, industrial or public/institutional zone. This means:
(1) 
Street/public right-of-way: 20 feet;
(2) 
Side yards abutting a residential, open space, or public park zone: 20 feet;
(3) 
Side yards abutting a central business district zone: none;
(4) 
Side yards abutting a general commercial, industrial, or public/institutional zone: five feet;
(5) 
Rear yard abutting a residential, open space, or public park zone: 20 feet;
(6) 
Rear yard abutting a central business district zone: none;
(7) 
Rear yard abutting a general commercial, industrial, or public/institutional zone: five feet;
(8) 
Alley setback: No portion of any building shall be closer than 10 feet from an alley.
(F) 
Required Landscaping. All setback areas except the minimum area necessary for paved vehicle or pedestrian access shall be landscaped with living plant material.
(Ord. 905 § 1 (Att. A), 2016; Ord. 937 § 20 (Exh. S), 2017; Ord. 1069, 2025)