Mesquite, TX: A Guide to Development Process & Building Permits

1. Pre-Application Meeting

Pre-Application Meetings are highly recommended for applicants considering a development project. These meetings provide an opportunity to meet with representatives from various City departments to discuss the development process and identify requirements or steps that may be needed before moving forward.

To request a Pre-Application Meeting:

1. Review the Pre-Application Meeting Packet, which serves as a guide to the Pre-Application Meeting process and includes instructions for submitting a meeting request.
2. Submit your request through the online Citizen Self Service Portal (CSS).
3. Once your application is received, it will be reviewed for completeness. You will then be invoiced the $75 Pre-Application Meeting fee, which must be paid online before the meeting can be scheduled.

Meeting Schedule
Pre-Application Meetings are held every Wednesday in 30-minute sessions. Meetings begin at 9:00 a.m., with the last meeting beginning at 11:00 a.m. Meeting times are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be held in person or via Zoom.
 

2. Zoning

A zoning change may be required depending on the proposed development and the existing zoning of the property. Zoning changes may include a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), Rezoning, or Planned Development (PD).

If a zoning change is identified as necessary during the Pre-Application Meeting, the following process will apply:

1. Submit a zoning change application. City staff will review the application and determine whether additional information or revisions are needed.
2. Public notification and hearings. The zoning change process includes written notice to surrounding property owners, public notification, and public hearings before the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council.
3. Allow for processing time. The zoning change process typically takes approximately 3 to 4 months from initial submission through the City Council meeting.
4. Proceed to Step 3. Once the zoning change is approved, or if a zoning change is not required, proceed to Step 3 (Site Plan).

Zoning Resources

• City of Mesquite Zoning Map
• Applications, Calendars, and other Zoning Resources

3. Site Plan

A Site Plan is required for applicable development projects to demonstrate compliance with the City’s zoning and development standards. Site Plan applications are submitted through the CSS Portal and are reviewed administratively by multiple City departments.

The Site Plan review process includes:

1. Finalize zoning. Any required zoning change must be approved before a Site Plan application can be reviewed.
2. Submit the Site Plan. Submit the Site Plan application and required materials through the Citizen Self Service Portal (CSS).
3. City review. Multiple City departments will review the Site Plan to determine compliance with applicable development standards and identify any required revisions.
4. Allow for review time. The first review typically takes 10 business days, with 5 business days for each subsequent review.
5. Address comments and resubmit. If revisions are required, updated plans must be submitted for additional review.

Resources
Site Plan Application Packet

4. Platting

A Plat Application may be required depending on the proposed development. City staff will determine whether platting is required during the Pre-Application Meeting. Plat Applications are submitted through the CSS Portal.

The platting process includes:

1. Determine platting requirements. City staff will identify whether a plat is required based on the proposed development.
2. Submit the Plat Application. Submit the application and required materials through the Citizen Self Service Portal (CSS).
3. Completeness review. The application will undergo a 10-day completeness check. Once the application is deemed complete, City staff will act on the application within 30 calendar days.
4. Approval and recording. Once approved by the City, the plat must be filed and recorded with the applicable Dallas or Kaufman County.
5. Timing requirements. The plat must be approved and filed with the County:

• Before a building permit can be issued for a single-family home, duplex, or townhome; and
• Before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued for a non-residential development.
  Concurrent processing. When appropriate, platting may occur concurrently with Step 3 or Step 4.

For application requirements and additional information, see the Platting Application Packet.