Development Review

The Planning and Zoning Division reviews all developments excluding single family homes. Developments are reviewed for consistency with the Bay County Land Development Regulations.

Types of Developments

The County Planning and Zoning Division reviews commercial/industrial developments, multi-family residential, and subdivisions within unincorporated Bay County. Individual single-family houses are not included in the development review process. These are handled solely by the Builders Services Division.

Process Start

It is recommended that the Development Review Process begin with a pre-application conference with staff, which is typically very informal. Next, the applicant submits a complete Application for Development Order, 4 sets of plans, and the applicable fee. Applicants are provided a Submittal Checklist to help them through the application process.

Address Application a Prior Step

It is  important to note the applicant must apply for an address prior to the  issuance of a Development Order. Once an applicant has obtained a  Development Order, the document itself, two sets of plans, and any other  appropriate documentation are provided to the Builders Services  Division so the building permit process can begin.

After Application Submittal

After the applicant submits the completed "Application for Development Order," staff reviews the application and attached material for completeness and compliance with County development standards. If the application is incomplete and/or the application does not meet County requirements, the applicant is notified in writing.

At this point, the applicant may withdraw the application, provide the requested information or if applicable, apply for a variance from the County's LDRs.

If the applicant does not apply for a variance from the County's LDRs, subsequent submittal of additional information is reviewed until the application is determined to be complete, withdrawn, or voided. Once the application is complete, a Development Order may be issued.