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1. What is my property zoned?

The majority of land in the unincorporated area of Story County is zoned A-1 Agricultural. This district is primarily intended for agricultural uses. There are some areas of Story County that are zoned for residential, commercial, and industrial uses, as well as areas between Story City and Ames with a Greenbelt-Conservation zoning designation. Please email or call the Story County Planning and Development Department at (515) 382-7245 and we will be glad to help you find out how your property is zoned. You can also go to the County Assessor's page and, in most instances, the zoning is listed in the property report. County Assessor's Page

2. What do I need to know and do to build on my property?

The first step is to find out what your property is zoned, and then if the type of use or building you want to do is permitted in that zoning district. Our staff can prepare a Property Research Report for you, which will tell you all the information about the property and outline all steps for whatever you would like to do. There is a cost of $25 per parcel for property research. Please contact the Planning and Development Department and we will get you started through the process.

3. I've submitted a development application, what's next?

From variances to subdivisions, development requests follow different processes. The Planning and Development Department has developed a set of guides for each unique type of development request to provide an overview of the steps involved. 

4. I am thinking of moving from the city to a county/rural home. What do I need to know?

There are many things to consider when moving to the country. Please review our Guide to Rural Living for some important facts to consider. Guide to Rural Living

5. How do I find a Land Surveyor in Story County?

Story County has multiple Land Surveyors from which to choose. Please use the following link to start your search.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this link is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Story County and we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the the information, products, services, or related graphics contained within such link for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Story County Land Surveyors

6. How do I stay informed and get involved?

When development proposals are submitted to our department, we notify (by the U.S. Postal Service) property owners within a quarter-mile of upcoming hearings and, if the weather allows, place a large sign on the property. If you are interested in receiving email updates on different projects and proposals, please contact us and we can add your name and address to our email list. Also, if you are interested in serving on the Planning and Development Commission or Board of Adjustment, applications are always welcome.