Starting a site design project on the right foot is essential to keeping a project on budget, on schedule, and aligned with developer expectations. Overlooking key constraints such as wetlands, floodplains, or zoning requirements can lead to significant delays on a project and introduce unnecessary risk. While few issues are truly insurmountable, identifying them early through a thorough due diligence process is essential.
Key questions to address during early site evaluation include:
- What Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) govern the site? Does the project fall under Town, Village, City, County, or State review? Are there any extraterritorial or overlapping jurisdictions?
- Is there an adopted master plan for the area, and does the project align with its long-term vision?
- Does the proposed development comply with current zoning requirements? Will rezoning, a conditional use permit, or variances be required?
- What are the required setbacks for buildings, parking lots, and sidewalks?
- How much parking does the development require versus what is mandated by code?
- Is this a redevelopment site? Are there existing site features that must be preserved or accommodated?
- Is there a current, accurate survey available showing all existing conditions, easements, and restrictions based on an up-to-date title report?
- Have floodplain, wetland, endangered species, environmental corridor, and archaeological databases been reviewed?
- Will property lines need to be adjusted to split or combine parcels?
- Is dedication of public right-of-way required?
- Are public utilities readily available to the site? If not, can they be extended, or will the project rely on well and septic systems?
- Are there grading or topographic challenges? Is the site significantly higher or lower than adjacent roadways, or does it have steep or unusually flat terrain?
The good news is you don’t have to navigate these questions alone. Our team is ready to evaluate these factors on your behalf and help position your project for success from day one. Reach out to raSmith get the process started.
