For more information about Development Review, please contact Associate Planner Jake Morley at (530) 879-6809 or via email at jmorley@ci.chico.ca.us
DRC Application (PDF)
DRC Application (Interactive PDF)
Development Review Committee
The development review process is provided by the Planning Services Department at no cost, in order to provide the applicant with preliminary review of the proposed project. Typical projects can include use permits, subdivisions, and non-discretionary projects which are permitted within the zoning district in which they are located. The purpose of the preliminary review is to identify potential problems associated with the proposed development of the project prior to formal application for discretionary or non-discretionary entitlements.
Specific emphasis is placed on any off-site or on-site improvements such as curb, gutter, sidewalk, fire hydrants and the like, which may be cost prohibitive to develop the project. Building codes are also examined on a preliminary basis to identify extraordinary structural requirements, occupancy changes, and compliance with State Accessibility Standards.
The location of public utilities and infrastructure, including gas, water, telephone, sewer, and drainage is also analyzed in the process to ensure availability to the project site. Members of the Committee typically include City staff from various departments and, occasionally, representatives of local utility companies.
These informal meetings are held in a City conference room on the second and fourth Fridays of each month, excluding legal holidays, and the deadline for submittals is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday of the week prior to the meeting date. Applicants are asked to submit a one-page application, including an accurate site plan of the proposal, pertinent information about the project, and any specific questions they have for the DRC.
Upon application for development review, an agenda will be mailed to the applicant specifying the meeting place and date. In addition to verbal comments provided by the Committee at the meeting, a packet of material will be mailed to the applicant summarizing any comments and providing a list of staff contact names and phone numbers for any additional questions.
The preliminary review information is helpful to the applicant in preparing for cost estimates, while assisting City staff in processing subsequent permits.