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1. What is the comprehensive plan?

The Comprehensive Plan is a policy document consisting of maps and written policy statements, and goals and objectives, addressing a number of issues relating to growth, housing, economic development, transportation, environment, parks and open space, aesthetics, community character, and neighborhood and historic preservation and conservation.

The primary emphasis of the document is to provide long-range guidance to property owners, residents and decision makers on land use issues, such as where residential, commercial and industrial development should occur in the future, and at what densities. Manhattan and Riley County updated the Manhattan Urban Area Comprehensive Plan in a two-year joint planning process, culminating in adoption by the Manhattan Urban Area Planning Board, the Riley County Planning Board and the City and County Commissions in June 2003.

2. What is a PUD?

A Planned Unit Development is a zoning process that combines all of the development review processes (zoning, subdivision and site planning) into one comprehensive approach. Within a public hearing process, the Manhattan Urban Area Planning Board reviews issues including site plans, proposed land uses, density, architecture, landscaping and screening, signage, lighting, drainage, pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular access and other related issues, to create a site specific zoning district. Unlike regular zoning districts, the process allows a more flexible approach toward site plans and land use mixtures, so that a development can be designed for a specific site. The process also gives the community and decision makers more ability to have direct input into the character and design of a project.

3. What are Zoning Regulations?

The Zoning Regulations consist of both a map of the city and a written ordinance, which divide the community into land use districts, such as residential, commercial, industrial or Planned Unit Developments, as well as the Airport Overlay, University Overlay and Flood Plain districts. The Zoning Regulations describe what type of land use activity is permitted in each district, and also regulates how buildings, signs, parking and other construction may be placed on a lot. The document also provides regulations for temporary and accessory uses, and provides standards and procedures for rezonings and actions of the Board of Zoning Appeals.

4. What are Subdivision Regulations?

The Subdivision Regulations are a written document that describes the review procedure and the minimum design and submittal requirements for creating a subdivision. The regulations ensure each subdivision provides safe, buildable lots, with adequate drainage, access for both vehicles and pedestrians, connectivity to adjacent neighborhoods, and adequate utility and public services.

5. What can I do if I can't comply with the setback requirements?

If your are unable to comply with the setback requirements, you have the option of applying for an exception. You should contact a planner with the Community Development Department at 785-587-2412 to get more information on how to apply for the exception. A pre-application meeting is required. Read more about how to apply for an exception.

6. What is my property zoned?

You may call the Community Development Department at 785-587-2412 to get this information. You need the address and possibly the legal description.

7. How do you file an application for a conditional-use permit?

Application for a conditional-use permit must be filed with the Community Development Department. For more information, please call us at 785-587-2412. A pre-application meeting is required before submitting an application.

8. How do I request the rezoning of a property?

For more information, please call the Community Development Department at 785-587-2412. A pre-application meeting is required before submitting an application. Read more about a rezoning request.

9. How do I request a variance?

For more information, please call the Community Development Department at 785-587-2412. A pre-application meeting is required before submitting an application. Read about filing an application for a variance.