During this phase, the local municipality formally approves your design concept. The two major documents associated with this phase are the Tentative Map and the Site Improvement Plans.

The Tentative Map (think of it as a preliminary design) is the starting point of the subdivision process.  It is prepared for the purpose of showing the proposed design and improvements associated with the subdivision.  The Tentative Map is required to be submitted to, and approved by, your local municipality before approval of a Final subdivision map.

The preliminary Site Improvement Plans (SIPs) show the construction details for the project.  Typical examples are:

• Grading and drainage plan
• Utility plans
• Street plans
• Storm water control plan
• Retaining wall design
• Property line locations
• Landscape plans

The goal of this phase is to obtain concept approval, or to identify significant problems, prior to the formal Tentative Map submittal to your local municipality.

Neighborhood Review: 

At your earliest convenience, prior to submittal to the local municipality, we recommend that you present your conceptual drawings to your neighbors for review and comments. It is in your best interest to try and deal with neighborhood concerns and receive their “buy-in” as soon as possible.

Local Municipality Review. 

The preliminary design documents are submitted to your municipality for initial review and comment. The approval process will include review and comments by the Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire departments, and other departments as/if required.

Your Tentative Map and Site Improvement Plans have been submitted to your neighbors and local municipality for preliminary concept approval.  Are they approved?  (Y/N)

If you receive opposition or negative feedback from neighbors and your municipality you have the option to revise the design and resubmit for concept approval.

If you receive initial design concept approval from neighbors and municipality you can then move forward with the formal Tentative Map submittal.

Submit the formal Tentative Map application to the local municipality. The application package consists of the tentative map, site improvement plans, technical reports and other documentation required by the local municipality.

Tentative Map and Site Improvement Plans Approval

Upon submittal of the Tentative Map package the contract for Phase 3 is complete. 

You will make design revisions based upon initial feedback from neighbors and from your municipality. The process of revision and approval continues in a “loop” until you:

1. Obtain conceptual approval and move forward (desired option), or
2. Decide to move forward with the known issues and opposition, or 
3. Terminate the project.