What entitlement and site plan approvals are needed before building permits are issued?

Before building permits can be issued for a self-storage facility—or any commercial development—developers must secure a range of entitlement and site plan approvals that demonstrate compliance with local zoning, planning, engineering, and design standards. These approvals ensure the proposed project fits with land use policies, infrastructure capacity, and community goals. The process varies by jurisdiction, but generally follows a sequence from land use verification to detailed construction approval.

1. Zoning and Land Use Entitlements

• Confirm that the site’s zoning classification allows self-storage either by-right or with conditions.
  
• If self-storage is a conditional or special use, apply for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), which involves public hearings and planning commission approval.
  
• In some cases, rezoning or a zoning text amendment may be needed if the current district does not permit the use.
  
• Consistency with the General or Comprehensive Plan must also be demonstrated, and a plan amendment may be required if the project conflicts with long-term land use vision.
  
• Any overlay zones or corridor plans may add specific design or use requirements.
  

2. Site Plan Review and Design Approval

• Submit a detailed site plan that includes:
  
  • Building layout, setbacks, and height
    
  • Driveways, circulation paths, and parking
    
  • Fencing, gates, and security features
    
  • Landscaping, signage, and lighting
    
  • Utility connections and grading
    
• The plan must comply with local development codes and is reviewed by planning, zoning, public works, engineering, and fire departments.
  
• Some jurisdictions require design review board approval for materials, colors, screening, and façade articulation—especially in overlay or gateway districts.
  
• Planning staff may grant administrative approval, or it may go to the planning commission depending on project size or public input.
  

3. Environmental and Utility Clearances

• Complete any required environmental studies (such as drainage, traffic impact, noise, or air quality), especially for projects over a certain size threshold.
  
• Stormwater management plans and erosion control measures must be approved by engineering or public works departments.
  
• Obtain “will-serve” letters or utility sign-offs from water, sewer, electric, and telecom providers confirming service availability and capacity.
  
• Sites requiring utility extensions or off-site improvements may need additional permits or easement acquisitions.
  

4. Fire Department and Life Safety Approvals

• The fire marshal must approve the site’s emergency access, hydrant placement, fire lane widths, and turning radii.
  
• A preliminary fire safety plan is often reviewed as part of site plan approval.
  
• Fire suppression systems (e.g., sprinklers in climate-controlled units) are reviewed again at the building permit stage.
  

5. Final Platting, Easements, and Legal Parcel Status

• If the property is part of a subdivision or lot consolidation, a final plat must be approved and recorded before permits are issued.
  
• Developers must dedicate any required public easements, right-of-way, or access agreements, especially at corners or adjacent to infrastructure corridors.
  
• Clear title and legal description of the site must be on record, with no encroachments or unresolved boundary issues.

Medical or Healthcare Use Land