Master Plans - FAQ
Planned Development District
Q. What is a Master Plan?
A. A Master Plan is an exhibit or preliminary plan that graphically represents zoning conditions related to a conditional use zoning case for a Planned Development Overlay District. The plan incorporates elements to address Urban Design concepts, density, land use, massing, setbacks, height, intensity, pedestrian and vehicular circulation, signage, tree conservation, utilities and stormwater management. The zoning process is a public hearing procedure and allows public input.
Q. What are the main objectives, purpose and intent of a Master plan?
A. If a developer wishes to develop property with specific design patterns, themes or concepts, and cannot develop under another Raleigh classification due to restrictions or limitations set forth in those particular zoning districts, the Planned Development Overlay district can allow alternatives to be proposed based on specific standards. Some examples of alternatives are narrower streets, lesser setbacks, height increases, smaller lots or less parking than what is normally required. These standards are specific to each alternate and must be considered separately. The project is to be based on standards and urban design principles imbedded in to the overlay district, including pedestrian accessibility, transit and the overall approach to mixed uses and urban design. The Planning Commission and City Council consider these alternated during the case review and deliberate on the merits of the request.
Q. What are the benefits and advantages of filing for the Planned Development Overlay District with a Master plan?
A. Benefits include potential flexibility and customization of zoning and subdivision regulations to support a specific project type or concept. In addition, upon approval of the request, the applicant may proceed to the Inspections Department for permitting. All final plans are approved through an administrative process where the plans are reviewed in accordance with the final conditions of the Master Plan. This process is based on the applicant making a large investment at the beginning of the process and allow for the project to be implemented by administration upon approval.
Q. As a citizen, what is the best way to stay informed and follow the progression of a filed Planned Development Master Plan zoning case?
A. As with all conditional use zoning cases, the City of Raleigh’s website provides information under our “Business” Community. Submittal information with updated conditions and related documents are posted. If the case includes large size files which cannot be posted to the website, the public may acquire all documentation associated with the case by contacting the Planning Department and speaking with the designated case planner for the project to acquire additional information. All information associated with a case is available to the public.
Q. Are there minimal requirements for a Planned Development zoning district?
A. Currently, there are no acreage requirements or prerequisites in order to qualify for a request of the Overlay district; however, there is a minimal amount of information required on the zoning and Master Plan application. The information is provided in the form of a checklist to address details about the development concept and any alternates or exceptions that are included with the proposal. The information is required in full to process the case and due based on application deadlines.
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