Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Planning & Development
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The majority of land in the unincorporated area of Story County is zoned A-1 Agricultural. This district is primarily intended for agricultural uses. There are some areas of Story County that are zoned for residential, commercial, and industrial uses, as well as areas between Story City and Ames with a Greenbelt-Conservation zoning designation. Please email or call the Story County Planning and Development Department at (515) 382-7245 and we will be glad to help you find out how your property is zoned. You can also go to the County Assessor's page and, in most instances, the zoning is listed in the property report.Planning & Development
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Planning & Development
The first step is to find out what your property is zoned, and then if the type of use or building you want to do is permitted in that zoning district. Our staff can prepare a Property Research Report for you, which will tell you all the information about the property and outline all steps for whatever you would like to do. There is a cost of $50 per parcel for property research. Please contact the Planning and Development Department and we will get you started through the process.
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Planning & Development
There are many things to consider when moving to the country. Please review our Guide to Rural Living for some important facts to consider.
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Planning & Development
When development proposals are submitted to our department, we notify (by the U.S. Postal Service) property owners within a quarter-mile of upcoming hearings and, if the weather allows, place a large sign on the property. If you are interested in receiving email updates on different projects and proposals, please contact us and we can add your name and address to our email list. Also, if you are interested in serving on the Planning and Zoning Commission or Board of Adjustment, applications are always welcome.
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