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 Airport Affected Area Ordinance Map
- Check Exhibit B to see which airport area may apply to your property.
- Check Exhibit C if your project may involve a structure over 35 feet.
Check Exhibit C if your project may be in an Area of Special Interest.The Area of Special Interest has been removed from the most recent draft. This draft will be available for viewing soon.- Read the FAQ for plain-language answers about existing uses and property impacts.
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.
The Area of Special Interest has been removed from the most recent draft.
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: 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.
The Area of Special Interest has been removed from the most recent draft.
Review Process
Exhibit C: 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.
The sections requiring permits for trees have been removed from the most recent draft.
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