If you’re looking for a new site to build self-storage, consider making the local planning department your first stop. Different cities and counties have unique requirements for self-storage development.

Missoula County: Missoula County recently adopted its new zoning and land use ordinance. One significant change for self-storage developers is new facilities being limited to sites between one and five acres in size.

Bozeman: Self-storage facilities must be located on at least one acre of land and include two exits. Additionally, residential zoning districts do not allow self-storage.

Billings: The maximum size of a self-storage facility is three acres. For developers looking to build in Billings, screening and setbacks are critical. Some areas have additional facade requirements.

Butte: If finding the piece of land is a challenge, adaptive re-use of older buildings is an option – like Butte’s U-Haul Storage, which renovated an old K-Mart into 600+ storage units. However, be sure to perform thorough due diligence. The vacant big box in your town may have zoning or deed restrictions prohibiting redevelopment.

For more info on developing self-storage, contact Claire Matten, CCIM/SIOR.