(A) Purpose. The purpose of a conceptual plan submission is to obtain the general approval of the city for the development of land or property in accord with the plans, programs and schedule submitted as a part of the planned development application. It is intended that the proposal submitted will be in preliminary conceptual form and that, following the anticipated approval, the developer will proceed with preparing detailed plans for all or a portion of the site for submission as a preliminary plat. This procedure allows for approval of an overall concept without the necessity of prejudging long-range markets and preparing precise plans for unknown quantities and allows the developer to complete long-range commitments knowing the developer has a viable and acceptable project. The conceptual plan procedure is not mandatory and the developer may select to proceed directly to the preliminary plat and final plat procedure.
(B) Procedure. A request for the approval of a conceptual plan shall be submitted to the Secretary of the Plan Commission. The plan shall be presented to the Plan Commission for review and comment. The Plan Commission shall provide its comments and suggestions as appropriate. The Plan Commission may approve or disapprove the general concept of the plan. Approval or disapproval shall not necessarily require subsequent approval or disapproval. However, if requested by the applicant, a public hearing shall be scheduled as provided below in this subchapter. After the hearing, the Plan Commission shall make its formal recommendation to the City Council relative to the conceptual plan. If approved by the City Council, the approval shall constitute a zoning acceptance of the specific content of the conceptual plan and shall indicate the general acceptance of the City Council and commitment to approve a plat that carries out, refines and implements the concepts expressed in the conceptual plan. The preliminary plat and final plat shall be submitted for approval in accordance with this subchapter within a period not to exceed one year from the date of approval of the conceptual plan. If not so submitted, the approval shall be automatically deemed withdrawn. The preliminary plat, if submitted after a hearing, shall be approved as a planned development plat if it conforms substantially with the principles and concepts presented in the conceptual plan. No building permit shall be issued for any structure until the final plat has been filed, approved and recorded.
(1980 Code, § 29.905) Penalty, see § 162.999