The City of Bozeman announced on March 31 that it will update the design review and regulation process for buildings in the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD). This initiative follows recommendations from the Historic Preservation Policy & Local Landmark Project Phase 1 Report, which was adopted by the Bozeman City Commission in May 2025 after receiving significant public input.
The planned update aims to align existing design guidelines with current best practices in historic preservation, reflect community goals and values, and support ongoing local landmark efforts. The city emphasized that community engagement will be central to this process, offering multiple opportunities for residents to contribute their perspectives.
To begin the project, a Community Open House is scheduled for April 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Bozeman Events Space in the North Ballroom at 14 S Tracy. The event will start with a presentation by the project team and include interactive activities such as mapping exercises and discussion boards focused on what is working well in historic neighborhoods and areas where improvements could be made.
Erin George, Director of Bozeman’s Community Development Department, said: “The City of Bozeman has long been committed to historic preservation and continues to be. With this project, we are dedicating time and resources to ensure the NCOD Design Guidelines are clear and effective. We hope everyone can participate in our engagement events and share your perspective on how we can best guide building design in historic areas.”
Established in 1991, the NCOD covers more than 4,000 properties across nine National Register Historic Districts near downtown Bozeman. Its purpose is both to encourage restoration of existing structures and allow new construction that complements neighborhood character. The current guidelines were first adopted in 2006 with a minor revision completed in 2015.
Further information about the NCOD Design Guidelines Update or opportunities for involvement can be found at https://engage.bozeman.net/ncodupdate.
