Application Review Process
Pre-Application Conference
01
In this meeting, we will provide you with the codes, ordinances and requirements that are applicable to your development. We take this opportunity to explain the process you will be following, provide you with applicable documentation including checklists and timing information, and answer any questions you might have.
Neighborhood Workshop
02
This is an opportunity for early community input into the zoning process. A neighborhood workshop is required to be held, prior to submittal of an application, for rezonings to the Planned Development district, any non-residential district, or to a residential district that increases the number of units permitted on a property. (not required for Comprehensive Plan Text Amendments)
Submittal of Complete Application
03
The application, if found to be complete, is accepted by the Department of Growth Management. In order for the application to be processed, all forms and required attachments must be submitted.
Sufficiency Determination and Review
04
The application is assigned to a planner and distributed to reviewing agencies for a sufficiency determination. If further information is needed to complete the staff report, the applicant will be notified. As part of the review process, County staff will conduct site visits to the property. If the application is found to be sufficient, then review will be completed and the application will be scheduled for a public hearing with the Planning Commission.
Posted Notice
05
The applicant is required to post the sign within 48 hours of submitting the application to the Department. The signs also must be placed at maximum intervals of 400 feet in the Urban Cluster or 1,320 feet for properties outside of the Urban Cluster. (not required for Comprehensive Plan Text Amendments)
Mailed Notice
06
A minimum of 15 days before the first scheduled public hearing,, the Department sends mailed notice to all surrounding property owners within 500 feet of the property. If the property is located within an area designated as Rural/Agriculture on the Future Land Use Map, then notice must be mailed to all surrounding property owners within 1,320 feet (1/4 mile) of the property. (not required for Comprehensive Plan Text Amendments)
Published Notice
07
At least ten (10) days before the first scheduled public hearing, the Department places an advertisement in the Gainesville Sun that describes the zoning request.
Staff Report
08
After completing the review of an application, a staff report with a recommendation is sent to the applicant and Planning Commission members.
Planning Commission Hearing
09
The Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners at a scheduled public hearing. The applicant should be present at public hearings to answer questions and address concerns.
Board of County Commission Hearing
10
The Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) conducts a public hearing and makes a final decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the request. A resolution is signed by the Board whether the request is approved or denied.
For Comprehensive Plan Amendments only the BoCC conducts a transmittal public hearing and makes a decision on whether or not to transmit the application to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for review.
Board of County Commission Adoption Hearing
11
(For Comprehensive Plan Amendments only) After receiving comments from DEO, the Board of County Commissioners conducts an adoption public hearing and makes a decision to adopt, adopt with changes or not adopt the amendment. Adopted amendments go into effect when DEO determines that they are in compliance with State law.