Before investing in full architectural plans or paying for detailed engineering studies in Scottsdale, use your feasibility period to gather critical information. This window—often right after you secure a property option—allows you to uncover zoning constraints, permitting requirements, and cost drivers before committing major resources.

Here’s how to leverage Scottsdale’s municipal tools and processes to assess your site’s development potential.

Understand Scottsdale Development Services

Scottsdale’s Development Services department oversees permits, plan reviews, inspections, and zoning compliance. Early in your feasibility period, familiarize yourself with their role and typical review steps so you can estimate timelines and required documentation.

Check Zoning and Land Use with Development Services Online

Use the city’s interactive mapping system to:

• Confirm the zoning designation for your parcel

• Identify overlay districts (historic, hillside, airport influence)

• View allowed uses, setback requirements, and maximum densities

This step ensures your concept aligns with zoning by right or flags the need for a zoning adjustment.

Estimate Permit Fees and Review Timeframes

Scottsdale bases permit fees on project valuation and scope. During feasibility, consult the fee schedule and valuation tables to project your cost. Also, review average plan review durations for:

• New commercial or residential construction

• Major additions and alterations

• Specialty permits such as grading or tenant improvements

Understanding fees and review times helps you budget both money and schedule accurately.

Use the ePermit Portal for Pre-Application Feedback

Scottsdale offers a Pre-Application Meeting process through its online permit portal. Submitting a conceptual site plan and basic project narrative yields:

• Preliminary comments from planning, engineering, and fire staff

• Identification of major code requirements or site challenges

• Advice on supporting studies (traffic, drainage, environmental)

A pre-app meeting prevents costly redesigns by catching issues early.

Review Clearance and Inspection Requirements

Your project may trigger clearances from multiple divisions—water resources, transportation, and environmental compliance. Map out:

• Required technical studies (drainage reports, traffic impact analyses)

• Specialty permits (right-of-way, right-of-entry)

• Inspection milestones tied to foundation, framing, and final occupancy

Knowing these early helps you plan submittals and avoid last-minute surprises.

Summary: Development Feasibility Checklist

• Research zoning designation and overlay districts

• Estimate permit fees and plan review durations

• Schedule a pre-application meeting via the ePermit Portal

• Identify required technical studies and clearances

• Map out inspection milestones and final sign-off requirements

Ready to Validate Your Scottsdale Project?

If you’re in your feasibility period and need a professional preliminary site plan and feasibility report, we can help. Our tailored service guides you through Scottsdale’s Development Services requirements so you can make confident decisions before investing in full design.