Site and development plan review of public and private projects is conducted by the Benton MPC or its designated staff to ensure compliance with stated policies of the comprehensive and other relevant jurisdictional plans, and zoning district development and design standards. Nearly all physical development necessitates the submission of a site/sketch plan before a permit can be issued. Examples include, but are not limited to fences, signs, pools. On a simpler end of the scale, is a residential garage. One must know the size of the garage, how it relates to other structures on the property, and its distance from property lines. More complex projects such as a new bank, multifamily residential, retail center, convenience store, etc., or projects in specifically designated districts, typically will require a zoning compliance and site plan review before a permit can be issued. In these cases, there are many issues that need to be addressed including access from public streets, site layout, building size, setbacks, drainage, parking, landscaping, utility connections, and lighting. Design details are also reviewed with respect to building materials, architectural style, roof, entrance details, etc.
The process of review involves comparing what is proposed on the site plan to what is required by the standards prescribed in the zoning ordinance. It is easiest to go through the development and design standards section, checking each off after confirming the plan meets or exceeds them. All dimensions and calculations should be verified and may include but are not limited to:
Zoning Compliance and Site Plan Development Jurisdiction Bossier Parish - (property located within the 5 mile unincorporated area of the Benton –Parish Metropolitan Planning Commission)
What’s required on a site plan? (also see site plan examples)
Examples of elements shown on a site plan include but are not limited to
Do You Need to Hire a Professional? Ask us. We are committed to explaining the process as clearly and concisely as possible. However, the permit process can be complex, even for those experienced with it. Depending on the size and type of your project, you may need the services of a licensed professional. In fact, certain laws may require that a portion or your entire project be prepared by a licensed architect or engineer. Our best advice is to check with the Code Inspections Plus staff to determine if the services of a licensed professional will be needed.
Where can a customer get a site/plot plan? A site/plot plan is available through the builder, contractor, property survey or recorded subdivision plat. A plot may be available through the Benton - MPC department. Note that site plan produced through the MPC may not be completely accurate.
Applying for a Permit: You may apply for a building permit when the plans for your proposed project are complete and Planning and Zoning approvals, if required, are granted. To apply you must turn in an application package to the permitting authority. The information included on the plans and the number of copies will vary, depending on the specifics of your project. Please note, you will be required to pay a site plan and permit fee. The entire plan review fee must be paid prior to issuance of the official permit.
The Review Process: What happens next? After your application is submitted, we will review your plans. Depending on the nature of the project, the review could involve several departments. The Code Inspections Plus will determine compliance with building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy conservation, disabled access compliance, and storm water control regulations. Bossier Parish Engineering Department will check for compliance with flood control, drainage, parking and driveway standards and public improvement requirements. The Benton MPC will verify compliance with zoning regulations including authorized uses within zoning districts, required parking, and property development standards such as lot coverage, building height, setback, and density requirements.
Obtaining a Permit: How long will it take? Permits are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. However, we are committed to processing your plans as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Corrections, Clarifications, and Changes: The regulating permit authority will notify you when the initial plan review for your project is completed. If the plans cannot be approved as submitted, a list will be provided with the necessary corrections from all departments that reviewed your plans. Minor corrections can be made on the original plans submitted. However, if major changes are necessary, or if there are numerous corrections, you will be required to correct the base drawings and resubmit copies of the revised plans. Submitting thorough and complete plans initially will help avoid numerous revisions. When revised plans are submitted, they will be distributed to the departments that generated the initial corrections for subsequent review. Plans submitted for recheck will generally require less processing time than required for the initial check.
Issuing the Permit: After the regulating departments determine that the plans satisfy all code requirements, you will be notified of the approval and asked to pay all remaining fees. Upon payment, a building permit will be issued.
Why is the permit process so complex? The process of issuing a building permit may seem complex, which it is. It involves many departments and outside agencies, and it may include a separate Planning process. The Parish is required by law to enforce numerous Federal, State and local construction and development regulations to insure that your project is safe and is an asset to the community.