Start Development Project

InquireYou are exploring a development concept and would like to speak with a planner to understand City codes and procedures involved, or there’s a unique issue that could use clarity from staff.

ScopeYou have a stormwater scoping sheet and other preliminary information to share, and you are ready for a pre-application meeting, if needed, to discuss the project with staff. All site plans and subdivisions start here.

ApplyYou understand relevant city procedures, have the required application submittal items on hand, and are ready to pay a fee and begin the formal process.



Inquire

Use this form to book a 15-minute development inquiry meeting with a planner in the Bismarck Office. You may want to review the Land Development Process or Frequently Asked Questions before making an appointment. 

You will receive an invite to a Microsoft Teams meeting. If you would prefer a phone call instead, note this under "special request" and the planner will call the number you provide at the appointed time. Please leave an address or Parcel ID of the property of interest and any questions in this box, so we can be prepared for the meeting.




Scope

Use this form to initiate all subdivisions and site plan projects. This is used to submit a stormwater scoping sheet, schedule a pre-application meeting, and submit other preliminary documents for staff review. A pre-application meeting is required for plats, but may be requested for any other project type.



Apply

The application process varies by project type.

Most Project Types:

 Unified Development Application (pdf)

Applications must be signed by all property owners and delivered to the Planning Division office at 221 N 5th Street or emailed to planning@bismarcknd.gov. See application deadlines (pdf) for each review cycle and fee schedule (pdf).

Additional Submittal Forms and Checklists

Form NameWhen Required
Affidavit of Development Application (pdf)With any application signed by more than three property owners, or optionally to add any signatories to an application.
Petition for Vacation or Release (pdf)With any application for vacation or right-of-way or easement release to allow notarization of one property owner signature.
Plat Ratification Template (Word)With recordable plats for all parties with interest in underlying property
Preliminary Plat Checklist (pdf)With all preliminary subdivision plats
Final Plat Checklist (pdf)With all final subdivision plats
Cul-de-Sac Justification (pdf)With any subdivision that dedicates a new cul-de-sac
Private Street Justification (pdf)With any subdivision that includes private streets
Subdivision Standards Waiver (pdf)With subdivision plat if a waiver from ordinance requirements is requested
Variance Written Statement of Hardship (pdf)With all variances
Utility Consent Form (pdf)With all releases, modifications, or encroachments into utility easements