The Fort Dodge Board of Adjustment is in receipt of an application to allow for religious institution use in the Residential Multi-Family district.
The request to allow for a new mosque at 513 South 19th Street in Fort Dodge. That property was previously occupied by the Emmanuel Baptist Church. According to Webster County Assessor online records, the property was purchased earlier this month by Fort Dodge Islamic Center INC.
According to the application, the proposed mosque would be open for prayer services daily in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Typical prayer services are expected to be attended by approximately 15-20 individuals, with most attending Friday afternoon prayer services. Normal services are anticipated to generate 6 or 7 vehicles onsite. According to the City Engineer, a parking lot on the back side of the structure could feasibly accommodate approximately 6-8 vehicles when arranged in a typical layout.
According to the applicant, there would be no outdoor events, music, or other sounds generated onsite which would be noticeable to the surrounding neighborhood. The applicant further expressed intention to install a privacy fence along the south side of the property between the proposed mosque and the adjacent single-family residential property.
Zoning Ordinances allow for religious institution use in a Residential Multi-Family district upon the granting of a special exception by the Board of Adjustment. City staff recommend approval of the special exception to allow for the new mosque, pending public comment. The meeting is scheduled for November 4th 2025 at 4:30 PM.
