Preliminary Subdivision Plans
Learn more about the subdivision plan process.
Last updated Aug. 14, 2019 - 10:16 am
Development Services staff review preliminary subdivision plans to make sure all Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) requirements are met for this type of project. These requirements can be related to lot layout, roads, utilities, stormwater control, and tree conservation.
Subdivision plans are reviewed for lot size and dimensions, and for access for utility lines, services and streets, depending on the zoning district. (See UDO 10.2.5)
Most subdivisions are approved administratively without review or approval by public boards or commissions, unless a site is within a Metro Park Overlay or Historic Overlay Zoning District. Sites in those zoning districts require City Council approval. See UDO Section 10.1.8.
Before You Start Your Project
- The parcel proposed for subdivision must be recorded at the Wake County Register of Deeds Office with an assigned parcel identification number (PIN) and address.
Key Steps in the Process
- Once you submit your completed Preliminary Subdivision Plan Application (page 4 + 5 of the Preliminary Subdivision Plan Application Package) to DS.intake@raleighnc.gov, a coordinating planner will contact you to schedule the required Pre-application Conference.
- Plans for your project should be submitted to the Development Services Customer Service Center.
- The Development Services Customer Service Center routes your plans to staff members who have expertise in planning, transportation, zoning, transit, stormwater, utilities, fire, forestry and greenways. The team reviews the plans in conformance with the Unified Development Ordinance, as well as the policies, procedures and regulations in the Public Utilities Handbook, Street Design Manual, Stormwater Manual and the Solid Waste Handbook.
- Corrections and recommendations for your project can be reviwed in the Permit and Development Portal. Applicants, as well as any other project contacts, must be registered in the portal to view this activity.
- Applicants are expected to address each staff correction in writing and submit a revised plan for review.
- Staff will prepare the administrative approval action for final approval.
- The applicant receives a letter of decision, which provides the official action on the preliminary subdivision plan and any conditions of approval, at which time a 30 day appeal period begins. During this appeal period, site permitting review plans and preliminary plats may be submitted for review; however, they cannot be approved until the appeal period expires. An applicant cannot obtain permits or record a plat until receiving an approval letter and the applicant has met all conditions of approval.
Mailed Notification Requirement (For ALL Preliminary Subdivisions)
ALL Preliminary Subdivision project must submit mailed notice at the time of application.
Mailed notification requires:
Stamped, sealed envelopes each containing a notification letter (to be provided) addressed to all property owners within 100’ of subject parcel(s).
One copy of the completed notification letter (click here for template)
One copy of the list of all property owners within 100’, with address and PIN of each property (obtain from iMaps).
One copy of a map (8.5"x11") showing all properties to be notified ( to be included with letter, obtain from iMaps).
The City of Raleigh Label Maker is a helpful resource that can be used to identify addresses within 100 feet of the subject property.all preliminary subdivisions must submit mailed notice at the time of application.
Mailed notification requires:
- Stamped, unsealed envelopes each containing a notification letter (to be provided) addressed to all property owners within 100’ of subject parcel(s).
- One copy of the completed notification letter (click here for template)
- One copy of the list of all property owners within 100’, with address and PIN of each property (obtain from iMaps).
- One copy of a map (8.5"x11") showing all properties to be notified (to be included with letter, obtain from iMaps).
The City of Raleigh Label Maker is a helpful resource that can be used to identify addresses within 100 feet of the subject property.
Submittal Requirements
| STEPS | INFORMATION |
| Pre-application Conference | In order to be scheduled for the required Pre-application Conference, please email your completed Preliminary Subdivision application to: DS.intake@raleighnc.gov. A coordinating planner will then contact you to schedule the conference. |
| Required for Submittal |
|
| Required for Some Projects | If dwelling units are proposed, please complete the Wake County Residential Development Notification Form (also known as Wake County School Form) |
| Helpful Project Resources |
Expected Processing Time for Development Projects
Fee Information
- Pay online via the Permit and Development Portal
- You can also pay in person at the Development Services Customer Service Center. They accept cash, MasterCard, Visa or check made payable to the City of Raleigh
- See Development Fee Schedule for specific fees related to your project
Next Steps
Submit application for a Site Permitting Review (formerly known as Concurrent).