The Kalispell City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing residential development by approving a zoning text amendment that allows for eave encroachments in residential zones. This decision, made during the council's meeting on October 6, 2025, aims to provide builders with greater flexibility while addressing the growing need for efficient use of smaller lots in the community.

The amendment permits eaves to extend up to two feet into the required five-foot side yard setback, aligning local regulations with international building and fire codes. This change is expected to facilitate better home designs without necessitating larger lot sizes, ultimately contributing to more affordable housing options. Proponents of the amendment, including representatives from Hayden Homes and the Flathead Building Association, emphasized that this adjustment not only benefits builders but also enhances the overall aesthetic and livability of neighborhoods.

Council members expressed support for the amendment, highlighting its potential to reduce regulatory burdens and promote creative design solutions. The flexibility afforded by the new regulation is seen as a way to maximize usable space within existing lot footprints, which is increasingly important as housing demand rises and lot sizes decrease.

In addition to the eave encroachment discussion, the council addressed other community concerns, although the eave amendment was the focal point of the meeting. The council's unanimous vote to adopt the ordinance reflects a commitment to fostering a more adaptable and affordable housing market in Kalispell.

As the city continues to grow, this zoning change is a proactive measure aimed at meeting the evolving needs of residents and builders alike, ensuring that Kalispell remains a vibrant and accessible community for all.