Prior to submitting a sketch plan, applicants for larger developments
are encouraged to informally discuss their proposal with the Zoning
Officer and/or other appropriate Township staff.
Prior to the submission of a preliminary plan, applicants are very
strongly encouraged to submit a sketch plan. A sketch plan review
often allows an applicant to save substantial time and engineering
costs, because many concerns about layout and issues concerning Township
ordinances can be resolved prior to detailed engineering. This can
often reduce the need for future redesign at a more detailed stage,
thereby saving the applicant significant money and time. When submitted,
sketch plans shall include the following information:
Submission Requirement. If submitted, eight print copies of the sketch
plan and the accompanying application shall be submitted to the Township
staff at least 21 days prior to a regular Township Planning Commission
meeting. This time period may be 10 days prior to such meeting for
a minor subdivision or a lot line adjustment.
Note stating the general methods of providing water and sewer
service, including sufficient information to show the general feasibility
of any proposed nonpublic central sewer service.
The Township should distribute copies of the sketch plan to the Township
Engineer, the relevant Township staff person and the Planning Commission
for advisory reviews.
The sketch plan should be reviewed by the Planning Commission and
the Board of Supervisors, with any comments reported to the applicant
or his/her representative.
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission Review. If the Planning Commission
determines that a subdivision or land development would be expected
to have significant regional impact, the Township shall submit one
copy of the sketch plan to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission to
request an informal review.
If the sketch plan would involve land along a creek or river or more
than five dwelling units or be adjacent to an existing Township park,
then a copy of the plan should be provided to any Township park and
recreation commission that may exist for a review of whether open
space or recreation fees should be required.