Land records · Parcel maps · October 6, 2026
What Is a Site Plan Review? Steps and What Gets Checked
What is a site plan review? A local check of a project's layout, parking, access, drainage, and landscaping against zoning rules before permits issue.
What is a site plan review? Site plan review is the process a city or county uses to check a proposed development’s physical layout against its zoning and development standards before building permits are issued. Reviewers look at where buildings sit, how cars and trucks get in and out, parking, landscaping, lighting, stormwater, utilities, and similar details. It is most common for commercial buildings, apartments, and larger subdivisions; a single-family house usually goes through a simpler plot plan check with the building permit. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
What a site plan shows
A site plan is a scaled drawing, usually prepared by an engineer, architect, or surveyor, showing:
- Property lines, easements, and setback lines.
- Building footprints and heights.
- Driveways, curb cuts, parking spaces, and loading areas.
- Sidewalks and pedestrian connections.
- Landscaping and buffers.
- Grading, drainage, and stormwater facilities.
- Water, sewer, and other utilities.
- Outdoor lighting and trash enclosures.
What reviewers check
| Topic | Typical questions |
|---|---|
| Zoning compliance | Is the use allowed? Are setbacks, height, and coverage met? |
| Access and traffic | Are driveways safely spaced? Is a traffic study needed? |
| Parking | Are there enough spaces, sized correctly? |
| Stormwater | Does runoff meet local and state rules? |
| Utilities | Is there capacity for water and sewer? |
| Fire access | Can fire trucks reach and turn around? |
| Landscaping and buffers | Are required plantings and screens shown? |
Several departments typically comment, including planning, engineering, fire, and utilities.
Administrative vs board review
Smaller projects that meet all standards may be approved by staff administratively. Larger or more sensitive projects may go to a planning commission or similar board at a public meeting. If the use itself requires special approval, a conditional use permit may be reviewed alongside the site plan. See what is a conditional use permit.
Typical steps
- Pre-application meeting with planning staff to flag issues early.
- Submittal of plans, application forms, and fees.
- Staff review with written comments.
- Revisions and resubmittal until comments are resolved.
- Approval, sometimes with conditions.
- Building permits and construction inspections.
Timelines range from a few weeks to several months depending on complexity and the local workload.
Relationship to zoning and plats
Site plan review applies existing zoning rules; it does not change them. If the project needs different rules, the owner may need a variance or rezoning first. Site plans are also separate from subdivision plats, which create lots. A project may need both. See how to find zoning of a property.
Planned developments
In planned unit developments, the site plan is often part of the zoning approval itself, and later changes may need a formal amendment. See what is a planned unit development.
Finding approved site plans
Approved site plans are usually kept in planning or permit files, not in the county land records. Many cities have online permit portals where you can search by address. Neighbors can often view pending applications and attend hearings.
Bottom line
Site plan review checks a project’s layout, access, parking, landscaping, drainage, and utilities against local zoning and development standards before permits issue. Small projects may be approved by staff, while larger ones go to a board. Approved plans are typically in planning files. Find local planning and records offices via the Platbookmapper map.
What is a site plan review FAQ
Does a single-family home need site plan review?
Usually not a full review, but many places require a plot plan with the building permit.
Who prepares a site plan?
Typically an engineer, architect, or surveyor.
How long does site plan review take?
From a few weeks to several months, depending on the project and the jurisdiction.
Can neighbors comment on a site plan?
When review goes to a public board, neighbors can usually comment at the hearing.
Is site plan approval the same as a building permit?
No. Site plan approval usually comes first, followed by building permits.