Unveiling the Future: First Draft of Bentonville’s New Development Code Set for Community Review

Join us to explore how it works, ask questions, and share your thoughts.

Since the Plan Bentonville process launched in the fall of 2023, city residents have spoken clearly and consistently about the kind of community they want to see—walkable neighborhoods, more diverse housing, vibrant public spaces, and safe streets—as well as the values, like fiscal responsibility and environmental preservation, they want prioritized. That shared vision helped shape the city's Future Land Use Plan adopted by City Council last February.

Now comes the next step: turning that vision into reality.

On Thursday, July 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bentonville Library’s Walmart Room, the City will unveil the first draft of its new Unified Development Code (UDC)—a modern, user-friendly zoning code designed to guide Bentonville’s growth in a way that reflects the community’s input and ambitions.

Whether you're a resident, a local business owner, a developer, or someone simply interested in the future of Bentonville, this meeting offers a chance to explore what’s proposed, ask questions, and share your insights. Your feedback will directly influence subsequent versions of the code.

From Vision to Action

Zoning may not always feel like the most accessible or exciting topic, but it quietly plays a major role in shaping our daily lives. It influences where and how homes can be built, what types of businesses can open, how streets connect, and how neighborhoods evolve.

Like many places, Bentonville’s current zoning code was built for a different era, reflecting different priorities and circumstances. Over time, the development it produces has become inconsistent with the city's present-day values.

The new UDC changes that. It’s one document, written in clear, accessible language, with logical organization and visual aids to help users understand exactly what’s allowed, and what’s expected. More importantly, it aligns directly with Bentonville’s Future Land Use Plan, translating policy into practice.

In short, it’s the tool we need to make our vision real.

What’s New, and Why It Matters

As residents explore the draft code, a few key updates are likely to stand out:

• Neighborhood Compatibility: New development will need to respect the scale and character of existing neighborhoods. Predictable standards for height, setbacks, and transitions will help ensure thoughtful infill that fits in, not stands out.

• Improved Connectivity: A big part of managing traffic and improving quality of life is designing a better-connected street system. The new code requires more interconnected grids, sidewalks, and multi-use trails, reducing congestion and making it easier to get around, however you travel.

• More Housing Options: By offering flexible tools for different housing types like duplexes, townhomes, and accessory units, the code helps address affordability and choice without compromising neighborhood feel.

• Mixed-Use and Infill Development: Small shops near homes. Housing options near services. These aren’t just buzzwords, they’re ways to support local businesses, reduce driving, and bring daily convenience closer to home. The code makes this kind of development easier and more predictable.

• New Neighborhoods, Built Right: For future growth areas, the UDC sets expectations upfront: walkable layouts, civic spaces, and connected streets. It’s about building complete communities, not just subdivisions.

  
  

Your Input is Essential

The July 17 gathering will include both a presentation and conversation. Stations will be set up throughout the room to help attendees explore different aspects of the draft code at their own pace. City staff and project team members will be on hand to walk you through details, answer your questions, and collect your thoughts.

Because this draft is just that, a draft, your input is essential.

What makes sense and what needs clearer explanation? What have we missed? This is your opportunity to help ensure that the final code works not just on paper, but in the neighborhoods and places we all care about.

Looking Ahead

Zoning shapes what’s possible and with this new code, Bentonville is aiming for possibility rooted in community values. A place where growth reflects character. Where nature is respected and the economics are responsible and sustainable. Where neighbors feel connected and safe with any transportation choice. And finally, where the rules are clear, fair, and built to adapt over time.

We hope to see you on July 17 as we take this important step together. Come curious, and come ready to help make Bentonville’s next chapter the best it can be.