Watertown, South Dakota Development News
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City Council Meeting - 07/20/2026
Published: Jul 20, 2026
New 'Campus District' Zoning Proposed for Watertown Institutions
The Watertown City Council reviewed an ordinance amendment to create a new 'CD Campus District' zoning classification. This district is intended to accommodate institutional or medical campuses, such as Lake Area Technical College and the hospital, which are currently retrofitted into conventional zoning districts like R3 multi-family residential. The new district aims to allow for more efficient development and expansion for these large campuses, which must be over 10 acres to qualify for rezoning under this district. The Planning Commission recommended approval unanimously. The district includes permitted uses appropriate for campuses and considers a 300-foot buffer for properties not directly adjacent to a campus. The proposed ordinance addresses student housing needs and potential expansion of campus facilities.
Watertown Considers Zoning Updates for Campus and Congregate Living Districts, Parking Incentives
Watertown City Council discussed a zoning text amendment to create a new 'CD Campus District' and an 'R3S Congregate Living Residential District.' This amendment also includes updates to other sections of the ordinance, such as increasing the density allowance for the R3 district and adding incentives for enclosed parking structures. Specific changes include clarifying setback requirements for taller buildings (over 35 feet) where additional height requires increased sideyard setbacks, and incorporating previous ordinance amendments related to alley setbacks and garage door openings. These changes aim to facilitate more efficient development, address housing goals, and streamline the application process for certain types of construction.
Watertown Adopts Updated Residential Code, Maintains Lower Snow Load Requirement
Watertown City Council conducted a second reading and approved an ordinance updating the International Residential Code (IRC) from the 2018 edition to the 2024 edition. While the state adopted the 2024 code, the city modified it to maintain the snow load requirement at 50 pounds per square foot, instead of increasing it to 64.4 pounds per square foot as in the new code. This decision was made to avoid substantial increases in building costs for developers and homeowners, as no current issues with roof collapses due to snow load have been observed. The building official and fire marshal were present to answer in-depth questions.
Watertown Adopts Updated International Building Code for Commercial Construction
The Watertown City Council approved an ordinance amending the International Building Code from the 2018 edition to the 2024 edition. This code governs non-residential and commercial construction. The adoption of the updated code is a standard practice to ensure buildings adhere to current safety and construction standards. The city's building official, Reed Peterson, and fire marshal, Adam Bloom, were present to answer any detailed questions from the council. The measure passed with all in favor.
New Zoning District to Address Student Housing Shortage in Watertown
The Watertown City Council is considering a zoning text amendment to create a new 'R3S Congregate Living Residential District.' This district is designed to allow for higher density and dormitory-style living, similar to the R3 multi-family residential district but regulated by gross floor area rather than per dwelling unit density. The primary purpose is to address the need for student housing, as identified by Councilman Hoyer and others, and to provide more affordable housing options near educational institutions. While the district is named 'Congregate Living,' it is currently intended for student housing, allowing for increased density which could help alleviate housing shortages for students and potentially other residents. The district's placement is flexible but must go through the rezoning process, with Planning Commission and City Council review for each petition.
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The Watertown News archive
Planning Commission Meeting 7/23/2026
Watertown School Board Meeting | 5:30 PM | 7/13/26
Planning Commission - 7/9/2026
Board of Adjustment - 7/9/2026
City Council Meeting - 7/6/2026
City Council Work Session 6/29/2026
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