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Development Review Applications & Submittal Requirements#

Architectural site plan detailing building layout, parking, landscaping, and access routes for a 2,141 sq. ft. block building

Why Development Review?

After completing the conceptual or preliminary review,  a formal application for the project is submitted to the City, moving the project from an idea to a detailed proposal.

The formal application process involves several stages: Submittal, Completeness Review, Formal Review, Project Review Meetings, and Resubmittal. These steps repeat as necessary until the project is ready for the decision maker’s review.

Key groups involved in the review include City Planning, Development Review Engineering, Poudre Fire Authority, Water Utilities, Light and Power, Traffic Operations, and others. These teams ensure the project complies with city codes and regulations.

Applicants use a project-specific checklist to ensure all required documentation and plans are submitted. The goal is to confirm that the project aligns with city standards before final approval.

Unlike earlier stages, the formal application is a paid and official submission that moves the project forward. 

Timelines and deadlines are coordinated with the project’s Development Review Coordinator, who helps guide the project through the development process with the City.

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Pre-Submittal Meetings and Conceptual Conversations#

Site plan showing access roads, parking areas, pedestrian trails, and various facilities, with marked pathways and zones.

When an owner or developer has an idea to build something new or use a piece of land in a new way, they will have a conversation with City staff prior to submitting a formal application.

Applicants can choose between the Conceptual Review or the Preliminary Design Review process to discuss their development plans with key groups and address important requirements, standards, and potential issues early on. These processes help identify and resolve major problems at a high level.  They offer an opportunity to dive into details, looking at the design specifics and any changes or exceptions that might be needed. Both reviews involve working with various departments and agencies to ensure the project meets necessary guidelines before a formal application is submitted.

Start Your Development Journey

Development Applications & Requirements#

Development Review Flowchart detailing steps for project planning, permits, inspections, and approvals, updated January 2025

Development Review Flow Chart

Development Review Fee Schedules#

Other Fees#

What Development Fees Apply To My Proposal?#

At conceptual review or preliminary design review, your Development Review Coordinator will identify the type of development review application you'll need to submit. This will determine what fees apply. If you would like more information on how to estimate fees, please contact your assigned Development Review Coordinator or DRCoord@fcgov.com.

When Are Development Review Fees Due?#

Fees are due at the time of a formal submittal of a development review application.  Including Project Development Plan, Final Development Plan, etc.  The Development Review fee amount varies and is dependent on the project type. Please see the fee schedule below for more information.

There will be additional fees required by other departments at the time of permitting.  Your Development Review Coordinator will help you determine which fees apply.

Department Specific Resources & Forms#

Applications for newly proposed development projects may be reviewed by up to two dozen departments. 

Departments that review proposed developments

Zoning Resources & Forms#

Visit Zoning for:

  • Minor Amendment Applications
  • Parkway Landscape Amendment Applications
  • Eligible Facility Request Applications

Other Zoning Applications & Forms:

  • Off-Site Construction Staging Application Form
  • Zoning Variance Request Guidelines
  • Application Request for Variance from the Land Use Code
  • Short Term Rental Denial Appeal Form
  • Home Occupation Licenses
  • Sign Permit Applications
  • Zoning Verification Letters

Engineering Development Review Resources & Forms#

Visit Engineering Development Review for:

  • Development Construction Permit (DCP)
  • Development Agreements
  • Dedications & Vacations

Other Engineering Resources:

Light & Power Development Review Resources & Forms#

Visit Utilities - Development Forms, Guidelines, & Regulations for:

  • Commercial Service Information Form (C-1)
  • Electric Service Standards
  • Ordinance Prohibiting Covenant Restrictions on Conservation
  • Electric Development FAQs

Stormwater Development Review Forms & Resources#

Visit Utilities - Development Forms, Guidelines, & Regulations for:

  • Stormwater Criteria
  • Checklists and Certifications 
    • Residential Permit Grading and Drainage Information
    • Commercial, Multi-family and Subdivision Certification
    • During Construction Inspection Checklist
    • Lot Grading Certificate
  • Construction Details
  • Permanent Stormwater Feature Inspection and Installation
  • Erosion & Sediment Controls
    • Soil Amendment Requirements

Floodplain Forms and Resources

Water/Wastewater Development Review Forms & Resources#

Visit Utilities - Development Forms, Guidelines, & Regulations for:

  • Backflow Prevention
  • Water Conservation Standards (Landscape and Irrigation) for New Development
  • Water Meters
  • Water/Wastewater Construction Details
  • Water/Wastewater Construction Specifications
  • Water/Wastewater Design Criteria Manual

We're Here to Help#

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