Apple Valley, MN Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Apple Valley rewards better-built apartments and townhomes with more units. The code's stated reasoning in § 155.080(B)(1) is that certain design and construction features reduce the real and perceived impacts of crowding in multiple-residential buildings and contribute to neighborhood stability.

Under § 155.080(B)(2), the maximum density in each zoning district is increased for each feature incorporated, except that the increased density cannot exceed the number listed under "with bonus" in division (A). Where only a portion of the dwellings or buildings have a feature, the increase is prorated. The six bonuses are:

Common open space, 1.0 units/acre: buildings arranged so the open space between them has a minimum area of two times the lot coverage of the buildings facing it, in a regular shape, recognizable as a defined common or sheltered area, with features that encourage social interaction.

Private outdoor space, 0.50 units/acre: each dwelling unit has a contiguous private outdoor space screened or sheltered so occupants are not visible from any other dwelling unit, other private open space, or any passer-by.

Sound suppression, 1.50 units/acre: upgraded sound materials in walls, ceilings and floors between units, with the STC rating increased by ten from the Minnesota State Building Code minimum.

Basements, 0.25 units/acre: a full basement under each dwelling unit rather than a crawl space or slab-on-grade, under the entire ground floor area except any garage area.

Oversize garages, 0.50 units/acre: townhouse garages of at least 550 square feet, or apartment garages of at least 250 square feet or a locking storage locker of at least 50 square feet per unit.

Private amenities, 1.0 units/acre: each unit has a functional fireplace (0.50 units/acre) or 1¾ bathrooms (0.50 units/acre).

Densities in § 155.080(A) assume public water, storm sewer and sanitary sewer service; without it, density is limited to one dwelling unit per ten acres. Separately, § 155.078(D) allows increased density in an M-8 district only, adjacent to or within the central business district: in a four-story building, 28 units per acre, which with applicable density bonuses can reach 32; in a five-story building, 36, which can reach 40.