ZONING OFFICE (585) 428-7043

What Is Site Plan Review?

The site plan review process encourages development in a manner which is compatible with our City's character and design.  Stable residential neighborhoods, convenient commercial districts and carefully developed industrial areas are among the most appealing facets of city living and working.

A site plan review involves careful examination of design elements in development proposals to ensure that a project does not adversely affect the site or adjacent properties.   It is also a vehicle to assist applicants by alerting them of any design deficiencies which should be corrected prior to development.   This review is authorized by the City's Zoning Ordinance.

When Is Site Plan Review Required?

The Zoning Ordinance specifies development proposals which because of their size, complexity or nature, require site plan review. Examples include development for automobile-related uses, projects within 100 feet of the Genesee River, or development of large land parcels.

Who Reviews Site Plans?

The Zoning Ordinance gives the Director of Zoning the authority to review and decide on all site plan applications based on zoning standards relating to the impact of the development proposal on the site and adjacent properties.   No public hearing is required.  Appeals of the decision can be made to the City Planning Commission within 30 days of the Director's decision.

Who Can Apply?

Site plan applications may be submitted by a property owner, the owner's agent (such as a contractor, attorney, architect or real estate agent) or a person having a contractual interest in the property (such as a tenant or option holder).

How Do I Apply?

Applications are available in the Permit Office, Room 121B, City Hall, 30 Church St.  If you need assistance in completing the application, you can receive help at the permit office, or in the Bureau of Buildings and Zoning, Division of Zoning, City Hall, Room 121B.  There is a non-refundable filing fee, payable to the City of Rochester, charged for site plan applications.

What Must Be Included With The Application?

An application must include: a site plan drawn to scale, with such information as location, size and use of buildings, parking areas, driveways and curb cuts, paving and drainage, landscaping, major regrading, fencing and property boundaries; elevation drawings; and, photographs of the site.  An Environmental Assessment Form is often required as an additional submission.  A full list of submission requirements is included in the application form.

Who Prepares Site Plans?

Applicants may draw their own site plans provided they are legible, drawn to scale and include the required information indicated on the application form. An architect or engineer normally prepares complex site plans.

Additional Requirements:

Prior to proceeding with other permit applications, an Affidavit of Compliance, Letter of Credit or similar security may be required by the Director of Zoning to insure that site improvements are satisfactorily completed within a specified period of time.

For More Information:

• Zoning Ordinance Online
• Site Plan Review Application
• Complete details of the Site Plan Review process are contained in Section 120-191D of the Zoning Ordinance. Call the City's Bureau of Buildings and Zoning, Division of Zoning at (585) 428-7043 for more information.