The purpose of a preliminary plat application is to propose the layout for subdividing land into more than two lots.  Preliminary plats propose the conceptual layout of lots, as well as the proposed location of streets, infrastructure and stormwater requirements. Preliminary plats are reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission. 

Process: Flow Chart 

Step 1. Preliminary Meeting (Optional)
A meeting with staff prior to submittal is not a requirement, but is often helpful to applicants. Contact the Planning Department at 615.776.6704 to set up a meeting.  

Step 2. Application Submittal
An application must be submitted according to the submittal schedule.  Application fees are due upon submittal. Submit 3 paper copies and an electronic copy via thumbdrive to the Planning Department.  For a list of requirements see the Preliminary Plat checklist. Applicants are required per the Subdivision Regulations to provide evidence of notifying adjoining property owners at least seven (7) days prior to the Planning Commission Regular meeting.  

Step 3. Staff Review and Comments 

Planning Department  Review:

Staff reviews the submittal for adherence to the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. Comments are returned to the applicant according to the submittal schedule.  Comments are generally returned to the applicant within 10 days of the submittal deadline. 

Stormwater Engineering Design Review: All application plan submittals must include stormwater engineering design that complies with Ordinance #18.04. Stormwater engineering design review is conducted by our outside consultant, Michael Phillips with Neel -Schaffer.  Mr. Phillips can be reached at 615-383-8420, or via email at Email Mr. Phillips.  Applications will not be put on the agenda for Planning Commission consideration until a conditional approval letter is received by Mr. Phillips and approved by the Town Engineer.  For any questions on compliance with Ordinance #18.04, please contact the Town Engineer at 615-776-3323.

Fire Department Review: All application plan submittals must include fire infrastructure design and adequate turn around areas that are in compliance with International Fire Code. Fire infrastructure design review is conducted by our Fire Marshal Matthew Lupo.  He can be reached at (615)-719-3102.  

Step 4. Public Notice 
Ten days prior to the prior to the Planning Commission, Board of Commissioners, or Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, as applicable, the applicant is required to send out a mailed notice to all adjacent property owners. A sample notification letter is provided here.  A notarized affidavit should be submitted to the Planning Department with a sample letter.  The applicant must also place a sign on the subject property, and this sign must be on the property and clearly visible for at least ten days prior to the meeting. The Town will place a notice in the local newspaper prior to the meeting. 

Step 5. Resubmittal of the Plat
On the date determined by the submittal schedule the applicant should resubmit the plat addressing the comments provided by staff and provide a written response to each comment. 

Step 6. Final Action at Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is the approving body and takes final action on plats.  Applicants will have an opportunity to present their plans to the commission. 

Step 7. Submittal of Plans Resolving Conditions of Approval
If plats are approved with conditions the applicant should submit the plat with all conditions resolved. 

Step 8. Moving Forward
The applicant may proceed with a Site Development Plan and/or Final Plat.  Preliminary and Final Plats are not prohibited from appearing on the same Planning Commission agenda, but it is discouraged.