Concept Plans

Rendering of buildings

The concept stage gives applicants the opportunity to present the proposed development and project schedule to the city team. In a collaborative setting, key issues that could affect design and feasibility are identified early. Staff from multiple city departments review concepts together to provide coordinated feedback. 

Concept Stage: What to Expect

The concept phase of the city’s site development plan (SDP) process will be completed in one review cycle, and no more than three review cycles as requested by the applicant for those projects seeking a greater level of certainty. 

  • Concept Meeting: The Project Champion will contact the applicant to schedule a concept meeting once the concept plan has been accepted for review.
  • Single Review Cycle: Applicants will receive one comprehensive set of comments from the city after the initial submission.
  • Progress to Next Phase: After review, projects can advance from the concept stage to the formal SDP phase unless the applicant opts to remain in concept review.
  • Project Champion: A Site Design and Neighborhood staff member will serve as the main point of contact to guide applicants through the process and answer questions.
  • Complete Submissions: Applicants shall provide thorough information upfront to streamline review and reduce delays.

Important Planning Factors for Early-Stage Projects

What to submit

Concept Submittal Checklist(PDF, 194KB)

Prop 123 Interest Form(PDF, 101KB)

Once the concept plan comments have been issued, the project may process with a formal site development plan submittal.

Ready to submit your concept plan?

View application instructions 

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