Site Plan Review & Zoning Administration

Development Site Plan Review

Within the City limits, the construction or addition to a commercial structure, or a residential building containing more than two units requires the approval of a site plan by the Development Assistance Committee. Applications for site plan approval and a guidebook for completing the application process are available in Planning Services. The site plan review requires that a plan be submitted by a design professional that addresses development issues including;

  • Disabled Accessibility
  • Drainage Design
  • Landscaping
  • Parking Lot Design and Lighting
  • Utility Connections and Fire Protection

Zoning & Subdivision Administration

The City of Carbondale enforces a zoning and subdivision ordinance within 1 and a half miles of the city limits. The Zoning Ordinance regulates the uses that can be placed on a property as well as building setbacks, height limitations, occupancy limitations, and parking requirements.

Zoning Certificate

Prior to constructing a new building, a building addition, or placing an accessory structure on a lot, a zoning certificate must be secured from Planning Services. If a new use of a property is proposed the zoning should be checked to make sure that the zoning of the property permits such use. If the proposed use is not permitted in the existing zoning district the property owner may want to consider applying to have the property rezoned to a district that would permit the use. Rezoning applications are processed by Planning Services and require a public hearing to be held before the Planning Commission prior to the City Council making the final decision on a request.

Regulating the Division of Property

The Subdivision Ordinance regulates the division of property into new lots. Within l and a half miles of the city limits dividing a parcel into smaller lots must first have a subdivision plat approved by the City Council. The Engineering Advisory Committee (EAC) is comprised of representatives of City Departments that review the subdivision plans for compliance with applicable road standards, utility extensions, and other development requirements. Planning Services coordinates the subdivision review process.

More information

For more information, visit our Development Services page.