Consult with City staff early about developing your property.

Retain the services of a competent, professional design team.

Define who will be responsible for the overall coordination of your project and serve as the contact person with City staff.

If the project is publicly sensitive (i.e., infill project or higher density than surrounding area) meet with neighbors early to receive their input.

Carefully review all applicable City codes, ordinances, policies, guidelines, and submittal requirements prior to preparing any proposal. Copies may be purchased at the Planning Department at 10500 Civic Center Drive.

Expect City to seek high standards of design and a very detailed package of development plans. Checklists are available from the Planning Department.

Follow-up conditions of approval. The conditions may require completion of certain items prior to final map recordation, grading permits, or building permits.

Carefully review with City staff all fees that will apply to your project.

Follow the filing deadlines of the Planning Department.

Call ahead for appointments to meet with City staff, indicate purpose of meeting, and how many people you'll bring.

Expect missing public improvements or right-of-way dedications to be placed as conditions of approval on your project.

Plan your construction schedule carefully -- all work must be completed prior to occupancy release.