DESIGN REVIEW PERMITS

Overview

Design Review is a process whereby the city reviews projects for compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood.  Design review actually consists of Site Plan Review and/or Architectural Review. Site Plan Review focuses on how the development complies with the zoning standards such as siting, parking and landscaping. Architectural Review focuses on the actual exterior design taking into account materials, textures, and colors.

Both processes are acted upon by the City=s Design Review Committee. Site Plan Review is required for most principally permitted commercial developments or large multi-family residential developments. Site Plan and Architectural Review is required for most conditionally permitted uses or those uses within an area of architectural importance.  The Community Development Department staff will be happy to assist you in determining if one of these processes will be required.

How to apply

Application materials are available at the Community Development Department, 3^rd floor, City Hall. The department staff can assist you with the materials needed for a complete application packet. Once you have put together a complete application packet, return the materials to the department for processing.

The Application Review Process

Step 1: Application Acceptance, Department Review

Once you application has been accepted and fees collected, the department staff will perform a preliminary review of the application to determine if the application is complete. Should your application be found incomplete, you will receive a phone cal or notice indicating what items must be submitted before processing can continue.

Step 2: Design Review Meeting

Once the application has been accepted as complete and all other project clearances (except building permits) have been obtained, then the City will schedule the project before the Design Review Committee. You will receive a copy of the agenda stating the date, time and location of the meeting. If the project complies with the Zoning and Redevelopment Plan standards (as applicable) and is found to be harmonious with the character of the area, the project will be approved.

Step 3: Appeals

Should the Design Review Committee not be able to approve the design or should they impose restrictions that you do not accept, then the Design Review Committee will automatically make a written report to the Planning Commission. The Commission will then review the project at a public meeting and make a determination.

The Planning Commission decision may be appealed to the City Council by the applicant, provided the appeal is filed with the City Clerk within 10 calendar days of the Planning Commission=s decision. Appeals must be submitted in writing on forms provided by the City Clerk and be accompanied by the required fees (check with the Community Development Department or City Clerk for information regarding fees or the appeal process). The City Council=s decision will be final.

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