Before filing an application for a variance, special exception, or to change a zoning district, to change or remove a critical area classification, or for a variance in the critical area or a bog protection area, an applicant shall meet with the Office of Planning and Zoning to review a pre-file concept plan or an administrative site plan. For single lot properties the owner shall prepare a simple site plan as a basis for determining what can be done under the provisions of this Code to avoid the need for a variance.
Required for the following applications:
- Administrative Zoning District Line Corrections
- Buffer Modification Map Amendments
- Critical Area Reclassifications
- Growth Allocations
- Rezonings
- Special Exceptions
- Variances to the following:
- Related to the Critical Area Program (e.g. Buffers)
- New single family dwelling
- Accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
- Disturbance of 5,000 square feet or greater
- Environmentally Sensitive Areas (tidal wetlands, bogs, streams, steep slopes, and their associated buffers)
- Apply online using the Land Use Navigator (LUN).
- For information about getting started with the system, visit the System Help page.
Submittal Requirements
The Letter of Explanation must outline the specifics of the proposed application and the relief requested.
In accordance with the contents of administrative site plan in Article 18-16-201(d).
Contents of a pre-file plan
- the outline of the property and topography with steep slopes and buffers delineated with scale and north arrow which requirement may be satisfied by a County GIS with tax map boundary overlay;
- zoning boundaries;
- critical area and bog protection areas;
- existing and proposed structures and uses;
- setbacks and parking;
- access and interior road circulation;
- conceptual utilities and drainage structures;
- forested areas and mean high water lines;
- all natural features and required buffers; and
- a vicinity map.