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Preliminary Plats

We Can Oversee the Permitting Process From Start to Finish…

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Thinking Outside the Box for Cost Effective Solutions.

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CLD has provided preliminary plats to clients over the state of North Carolina. If you want to know if we can serve you, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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The Preliminary Plat Process

There is a number of steps that need to be taken for your property to get entitled.

Step 1 - Due Diligence

Feasibility studies for the property you're interested in.

Step 2 - Sketch Plans

Inquiry with municipalities for the feasibility of the project and generate multiple plans for the best solution.

Step 3 - Preliminary Plat Set

Plans and documents for submittal to the municipality we are working with.

Service 4 - Coodination Until Approval

It is common to undergo multiple revisions to your plat from comments with the town and neighbors. We will ensure plats get entitled in a costly and timely manner.

Getting a preliminary plat approved by a municipality in North Carolina typically involves a series of steps that align with local planning and zoning regulations. While specific requirements vary by municipality, the general process is as follows:
 
  1. Pre-Application Consultation:
    • Meet with the municipality’s planning department to discuss the proposed development, zoning requirements, and applicable regulations.
    • Confirm the submittal requirements, fees, and timelines for preliminary plat review.
    • Identify any special permits or studies (e.g., environmental, traffic, or stormwater) needed.
  2. Prepare the Preliminary Plat:
    • Hire a licensed surveyor or engineer to create the preliminary plat, which must include:
      • Property boundaries, dimensions, and acreage.
      • Proposed lot layouts, streets, and infrastructure (e.g., water, sewer, stormwater).
      • Topography, easements, and any natural features (e.g., wetlands, floodplains).
      • Compliance with zoning and subdivision ordinances.
    • Ensure the plat meets the municipality’s design standards and any state requirements (e.g., NCDEQ for environmental compliance).
  3. Submit the Preliminary Plat Application:
    • Complete the municipality’s application form and pay required fees.
    • Submit the preliminary plat along with supporting documents, which may include:
      • Site plans, engineering reports, or environmental assessments.
      • Traffic impact analysis (if required).
      • Proof of ownership or authorization.
    • Some municipalities require digital and hard copies of the plat.
  4. Technical Review:
    • The planning department and other agencies (e.g., public works, fire, utilities) review the plat for compliance with local ordinances, infrastructure standards, and state laws.
    • The review may involve multiple rounds of comments and revisions to address technical issues.
  5. Planning Board Review:
    • The preliminary plat is presented to the municipal planning board during a public meeting.
    • The board evaluates the plat based on zoning compliance, community impact, and consistency with the comprehensive plan.
    • Public input may be allowed, depending on the municipality’s process.
  6. Public Hearing (if required):
    • Some municipalities require a public hearing, especially for large or controversial developments.
    • Notify adjacent property owners and post public notices as required by local ordinances.
  7. Approval or Conditional Approval:
    • The planning board (or in some cases, the town/city council) votes to approve, deny, or conditionally approve the plat.
    • Conditional approval may require revisions or additional documentation before final approval.
    • If denied, the applicant receives written reasons and may revise and resubmit.
  8. Address Conditions (if applicable):
    • Make any required revisions to the plat or provide additional materials to satisfy conditions of approval.
    • Resubmit for final verification by the planning department.
  9. Record the Approval:
    • Once approved, the preliminary plat is typically stamped or certified by the municipality.
    • Note that preliminary plat approval does not permit construction; a final plat must be submitted and approved later, after infrastructure installation and other requirements are met.

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