Chapter 11.220
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLAT

Sections:

11.220.010    Purpose.

11.220.020    Review process.

11.220.030    Action by review authority.

11.220.040    Time limit on approval of a preliminary subdivision.

11.220.010 Purpose.

The purpose of a preliminary subdivision plat is to provide a simplified process to divide property into five or more lots with a level of review that is proportional to the effect those lots may have on the surrounding area. (Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 1024 § 11.05.091, 2001).

11.220.020 Review process.

Any person, firm, or corporation may make application for a preliminary subdivision plat. A preliminary subdivision plat application shall include the following and shall be submitted to the administrator:

A. A map which clearly indicates the proposed preliminary subdivision plat, with north arrow, date, existing topography, buildings, monuments, markers, boundary lines and easements and the proposed lot configuration, infrastructure, easements, and dedications.

B. A legal description of all lands included in the proposed preliminary subdivision.

C. Name of the proposed subdivision, name of the subdivider, and name of the person preparing the preliminary plat.

D. Location of adjacent and adjoining platted areas and subdivisions showing relationships and match to all connecting streets, rights-of-way, utilities and easements.

E. All land that the applicant proposes to subdivide and all land immediately adjacent extending 100 feet in all directions from the site perimeter.

F. All adjacent land owned by the applicant on which future additional plat applications may be submitted together with general information as to the location and estimated extent of each additional plat which may be submitted.

G. Completed environmental checklist or documentation, if applicable.

H. A complete application form with applicable fees in accordance with the fee resolution adopted by the city council.

I. Authorization from the owner(s) of the property that is the subject of the subdivision application.

J. Additional information deemed necessary by the administrator including, but not limited to, supplemental technical or environmental studies or reports, topography, easements, applicable codes, covenants and restrictions, proposed roadway layouts and sections and other information to ensure a thorough and complete review of the proposed subdivision. (Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 1024 § 11.05.092, 2001).

11.220.030 Action by review authority.

A. The planning commission may recommend approval of a preliminary subdivision plat, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:

1. The proposed preliminary subdivision is in compliance with the Ritzville Comprehensive Plan, any requirements of the Adams County health district, and any other such plans developed pursuant to law. In addition, if the property, in part or total, abuts a state highway, the proposed preliminary subdivision is in compliance with any rules of Washington State Department of Transportation.

2. The physical characteristics of the site, including but not limited to topography, soil conditions, or unique natural features such as susceptibility to flooding, wildlife habitat, or wetlands, have been considered in the project design.

3. The proposed subdivision is in compliance with all applicable standards in this title.

4. The appropriate provisions have been made for dedications, easements, and reservations.

5. The public use and interest will be served by the subdivision.

6. The following facilities are adequate to serve the proposed short plat or subdivision before or concurrent with development of the preliminary plat:

a. Public and private streets and roads;

b. Water;

c. Drainage;

d. Sanitary waste collection and treatment;

e. Schools and educational services;

f. Fire and police service; and

g. Pedestrian and bike facilities.

7. If phasing is proposed:

a. The phasing plan includes all land within the preliminary plat;

b. Each phase is an independent planning unit with safe and convenient circulation and with facilities and utilities coordinated with requirements established for the entire plat; and

c. All road improvements requirements are assured.

B. The city council shall review and affirm or modify the planning commission recommendation at a public hearing held to take testimony on the proposed preliminary subdivision plat. (Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 1024 § 11.05.093, 2001).

11.220.040 Time limit on approval of a preliminary subdivision.

A. Approval of a preliminary subdivision plat shall be valid for five years, during which time an application for a final subdivision meeting all the requirements of Division IV of this title, Land Division, and of the preliminary subdivision approval shall be made.

B. The applicant may request a one-year extension prior to the expiration of the preliminary approval. The request for extension may be granted by the city council; provided, that an attempt in good faith has been made to submit the final plat within the five-year period and that there have been no significant changes to the city’s policies or this title. (Ord. 2041 § 1 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 1024 § 11.05.094, 2001).