Definition
A site plan is a drawing of your property that shows:
- The property lines
- Any structures currently on the land, such as a house, garage and fence
- The location of your proposed addition, deck, porch, garage, fence or other planned change
Contents of a site plan
Your site plan should include:
- An arrow indicating north
- The scale of the drawing (Use the most appropriate scale, for example, 1" = 10’, 1" = 20’, 1/4" = 1’.)
- Property lines (For most additions, property lines will need to be physically located. Also, we may require a certificate of survey, signed by a licensed surveyor, in some cases.)
- Adjacent streets and any easements
- The distance between buildings and between buildings and property lines
- The dimensions of the existing buildings
- A clear indication of the proposed addition or change
- Other appropriate items for your project
See a sample residential site plan
For projects that require the submittal of construction plans for review and approval by zoning and/or building code review teams, a site plan is required whenever there is proposed work on the exterior of the structure. This can include (but is not limited to) additions, decks, garages, steps/stoops, egress window wells, new construction, etc. A site plan can be required at the request of the reviewer (if needed) based on the scope of work. Site plans associated with required permit review must be submitted via the Project Dox digital plan review system once a permit application has been submitted and approved for review.
Site plan review
A site plan review determines compliance with local ordinances and applicable state building and mechanical codes. This review is done by a city planner. When the planner gives approval, the next step is to apply for permits.
Projects that usually do not require a site plan review
Siding, roofs, window replacement (same size only), and miscellaneous repairs do not require a site plan review. Most electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits also do not require a site plan review.
Changes to the site plan
After your site plan has been approved, any changes to it must also be approved.
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