How Development Works in Parker

The Community Development Department receives many calls each month requesting information about the process that land in Parker must go through before it is developed. Because the process involves many steps, it can be quite complicated. County regulations and requirements add to the confusion.

To help citizens better understand the development process, the Planning Department has developed the following outline, which explains the basic steps involved. For additional information regarding this process, please call the Parker Community Development Department at 303.841.2332.

Annexation and Zoning
The first step in the development process is annexation. If the property is not located within Parker's town limits, it must be annexed, otherwise it must be developed under County zoning regulations. Annexation means that the land becomes part of incorporated Parker. Annexation and zoning, or a rezoning, are accomplished at public hearings conducted by the Planning Commission and Town Council.

Zoning means that a property has been designated for a particular use. Types of zoning include business, residential and industrial. Land can only be utilized for the purposes allowed under its zoning classification. All property within the Town has been designated for a particular use.

If a property owner would like to use the land for something not allowed under its current zoning classification, an owner can request a rezoning.

Subdividing
When a property is zoned properly, the next step requires the land to be subdivided. The subdivision process creates lots, blocks, streets, parks, school sites and easements. A subdivision creates a legal description for the property, guarantees improvements such as water and sewer lines and streets, and ensures that the lots are buildable.

In the Town of Parker, three steps are involved in the subdivision process: sketch plan, preliminary plan, and final plat. Each of these are drawings that show the details of how the subdivision will be laid out. The sketch plan and preliminary plan are reviewed at public hearings by both the Planning Commission and Town Council. The final plat is reviewed by the Town Council.

Site Plan
The next step in the process is the site plan. This site plan process involves the approval of landscaping, parking, lighting, building materials and colors, and other site elements. This process is required of every development except single family houses. Site plans are reviewed by the Planning Commission at regular public meetings. Public notice is not required. After this review is complete, a building permit can be requested.

Public Hearings
Public hearings are required at various steps in the development process. There is time set aside at every public hearing for any person to voice concerns or comments about the proposal. Notices of public hearings are required to be issued in three ways: publication in the legal notice section of the local newspaper, posting a sign on the property, and by sending certified mail to property owners within 500 feet of the property subject to the hearing.

Need More Information?
If you are need more information about any process, requirement, public hearing notice or proposal before the Town of Parker, feel free to contact the Community Development Department at 303.841.2332 or visit their office in the Parker Town Hall, 20120 E. Mainstreet.

To obtain an electronic version of the Land Use application, please click here. You'll need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it, which is available free of charge from the link below.