ORDINANCE NO. 10
What This Ordinance Does Not Do
The Airport Affected Area Ordinance is focused on future development review near Glacier Park International Airport.
- It does not remove existing homes or businesses.
- It does not eliminate residential uses.
- It does not require existing buildings or uses to be removed.
- It does not transfer ownership of private property.
- It does not prohibit all development near the airport.
Start Here
What should I review first?
- Check Exhibit B to see which airport area may apply to your property.
- Check Exhibit C if your project may be in an Area of Special Interest.
- Check Exhibit D if your project may involve a structure over 35 feet.
- Read the FAQ for plain-language answers about existing uses and property impacts.
Upcoming Meetings
Flathead County is holding meetings for property owners and the public review process. Review Exhibit B before attending to understand which airport area may apply to your property.
Landowner Meeting
Airport Affected Area (Outer Circle)
For property owners in the outer Airport Affected Area.
- Date: May 18, 2026
- Time: 6:00 pm
- Location: 40 11th Street West, Ste 200, Kalispell, MT 59901
Landowner Meeting
Airport and Runway Protection Areas
For property owners in the Airport Protection Area or Runway Protection Area.
- Date: May 19, 2026
- Time: 6:00 pm
- Location: 40 11th Street West, Ste 200, Kalispell, MT 59901
County Planning Board
The County Planning Board meeting is part of the public review process.
- Date: June 10, 2026
- Time: 6:00 pm
- Location: Flathead County Fairgrounds Country Kitchen, 265 North Meridian, Kalispell, MT 59901
Do I Need an Airport Area Permit?
A permit or additional review may be required depending on the height of the proposed project and whether the property is located in an Area of Special Interest.
Question 1
Is any portion of the project taller than 35 feet?
If yes, airport-area review may be required. The applicant may need to complete the FAA 7460-1 Notice of Proposed Construction process.
Question 2
Is the project in an Area of Special Interest?
If yes, review may be required even if the structure is less than 35 feet tall.
Before You Apply
Applicants should use the FAA pre-screening tool at OEAAA.FAA.GOV and submit the result to Flathead County Planning & Zoning when required.
Understanding the Airport Maps
The ordinance uses several maps. Each map has a different purpose.
| Map | What It Shows | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Exhibit A: Airport Zones | Airport airspace surfaces and height-related zones. | Used to evaluate structure and tree height. |
| Exhibit B: Airport Areas | Airport Affected Area, Airport Protection Area, and Runway Protection Area. | Used to evaluate land use compatibility and subdivision density. |
| Exhibit C: Area of Special Interest | Areas where review may be required even below 35 feet. | Used to determine whether a project needs additional review. |
| Exhibit D: Airspace Review Process | The basic permit review decision process. | Used to understand whether FAA and County review may apply. |
Documents and Exhibits
Use the documents below to review the ordinance, maps, permit process, and frequently asked questions.
Plain-Language Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Start here for quick answers about property impacts, existing uses, height review, and why the ordinance is being proposed.
Main Ordinance
Airport Affected Area Ordinance
Use this to review the full ordinance text, definitions, permit requirements, review standards, variances, appeals, and enforcement.
Map
Exhibit A: Airport Zones
Use this map to review airport zones related to height, airspace surfaces, structures, and trees.
Map
Exhibit B: Airport Areas
Use this map to check whether a property is in the Airport Affected Area, Airport Protection Area, or Runway Protection Area.
Map
Exhibit C: Area of Special Interest
Use this map to see areas where additional review may apply, even for structures below 35 feet.
Review Process
Exhibit D: Airspace Review Process
Use this flowchart to understand when FAA pre-screening, FAA determination, and County review may be required.
When Additional Review May Be Required
Certain projects within the Airport Affected Area may require review before development begins.
Structure or Tree Height
Review may be required for structures or trees taller than 35 feet, or for certain structures and trees located within an Area of Special Interest.
Land Use Compatibility
Some new or expanding land uses in airport protection areas may require administrative review to evaluate compatibility with airport operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your property is within the Airport Affected Area, certain types of new development may require additional review to ensure compatibility with airport operations.
Flathead County zoning already includes a 35-foot height limit. In certain areas, additional review or permits may be required for structures below that height.
Existing lawful uses and structures are generally allowed to continue. The ordinance is focused on guiding future development rather than removing what already exists.
No. The ordinance is a land use regulation similar to zoning. It does not involve the government acquiring private property.
Questions About a Property or Project?
Contact Flathead County Planning & Zoning before beginning a project if you are unsure whether airport-area review applies.
Staff can help explain which maps, review steps, or application materials may apply to your proposal.
Contact Planning & Zoning