Once the conceptual plan has been developed, both for the building and the property, there is usually a formal process that needs to be followed with the municipality or governing authority. This is not as simple as just obtaining a building permit, but involves numerous reviewing agencies, a series of meetings from which the formal engineered plans for the site are reviewed, submission of building elevations and proposed schedule of activities. The most detailed explanation of this is contained in the section of Site Planning under Zoning and Planning regulations. 

Depending upon the complexity of the project and any controversies associated with it, you may want to delay the detailed construction plans until there is a good indication that the Town authorities will approve the project as proposed. Many times a project will move along relatively well only to get delayed by an unforeseen circumstance (e.g. the need for an archeological study). 

Worse than this, however, is when neighborhood opposition is organized against the project. These situations can easily become political “hot buttons.” Town officials, that would otherwise have no objection to such a project, will become concerned about the constituency that has raised objections. Some municipalities have adopted zero growth platforms that make it difficult for any development to occur. There are organizations and resources to help churches deal with these types of situations.  (Becket Fund, American Center for Law and Justice, Religious Land Use Act, etc.) Depending upon the municipality, the approval process may take anywhere from three months to two years. When the initial application is made, the municipality should be able to give an indication of the approximate length of the process. During this phase you will need a civil engineer and an attorney in addition to your architect.

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