Subdivision and Land Development

Subdivision and Land Development is an important part of most municipalities.  However, most do not know what it is and why it is needed.  “Subdivision” is the creation of new lots or changes in property lines, while “land development” is the construction of public or private improvements to land.  Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance, also referred to as SALDO, gives you and your Township protection from unwise and poorly planned growth.

Greenfield Township’s SALDO ensures proper placement of public improvements for new roads, water and sewer lines and drainage systems, as well as new residential homes and commercial buildings.  It can assist with complaints about stormwater runoff, hazardous traffic patterns, limited parking and dangerous exits and entrances.

It is easier to identify a problem before construction than correcting the matter after construction.  Which is why the Township Engineer reviews all forms and plans throughout the process to assure proper design and construction.   SALDO guarantees tax payers do not pay for these changes or improvements.  The developer is responsible for the costs and fees.

Subdivision and Land Development projects need to be submitted to the Township office with the Application for Plan Approval form and a $25 application fee.  Here are the basic steps:

STEP 1:

Submit Application for Plan Approval to Township with 8 sets of plans prior to a regular Township Board of Supervisors meeting (Official Filing Date) with the following items:

• Plans that include surveyors seal & signed.
• Ownership Certification signed & notarized by landowners.
• Application fee of $25.

STEP 2:

Submit the plan to Blair County Planning Commission for their review.

• The Township will submit plans and fee with a review request letter.
• The applicant is responsible for BCPC fees.  Please provide the Township with a check payable to Blair County Planning Commission.
• The Township needs to receive an approval letter from BCPC.
• The applicant will need to submit to the Township updated plans with BCPC seal & signed.

Note:  Some projects may need additional agency approvals, such as the DEP, Blair County Conservation District, Sewer Enforcement Officer, Greenfield Township Municipal Authority, etc.

STEP 3:

Township Approval can be given once all the above steps have been completed successfully.

• The Township has 90 days to approve or deny plans from Official Filing Date.
• The applicant is responsible for the Township Engineer’s review fees.
• The applicant is responsible for all recommended changes or modifications required for approval.

STEP 4:

After Township Approval, the applicant has 30 days to have plans recorded at the Blair County Recorder’s office.

• The applicant will need to provide the Township with proof of recording; copy of receipt or plans.
• The applicant is responsible for recording fees.