Building Design

Overview

The city's Building Design Standards help reinforce existing and desired development patterns and building features intended to implement the Comprehensive Plan, Blueprint Boise. Site design and building orientation emphasize character and create a comfortable walking environment. Quality original and distinctive design responds to unique site characteristics, reduces impacts to wildlife, and incorporates sustainable development practices.

While this chapter details form and design standards, other sections of code may also apply. In the event of a conflict in standards, that which provides the higher level of quality and interest will be required.

Read the Code

General Site and Building Design Form Standards

Standards are outlined related to:

• Buildings and parking placement;
• Building entrances;
• Façade transparency; and
• Building façade articulation.

Zone-Specific Building Form Standards

These standards outline the hierarchy of standards based on the Table of Allowed Uses and address noncompliance with zone-specific standards. These standards also apply to all new construction or site redevelopments that result in the expansion and alteration of the gross floor area of an existing primary building by 50 percent or more. It is detailed by zoning district, including uses located in the:

• MX-1 District
• MX-3 District
• MX-4 District
• MX-5 District