You’ve finally found the perfect parcel for you next development project. Now what? From topographic survey and wetland delineations, to DNR permits and TIA studies, there’s a lot to consider before construction can begin. We know time is money, so to speed up the process a bit, our experts have put together a list of their best tips for kickstarting your next site assessment.

1. Do your environmental due diligence ASAP

• Schedule your Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) as soon as possible. You’ll want to know as soon as possible if a Phase II ESA and/or environmental remediation measures are necessary.

• If necessary, schedule your Endangered Resources (ER) and Cultural Resources Reviews early. The results of these investigations can drastically impact all aspects of your project.

• Check the DNR Surface Water Viewer and secure a wetland delineation if necessary. It’s important to use the information you have available to you, but it’s also important to do your due diligence in the field. The presence or absence of wetlands can have a major effect on your project (and budget).

2. Complete geotechnical investigations early

• Get to know your soil. Review Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil maps to understand what you’re dealing with, and have testing done if necessary.

• These results will impact nearly all aspects of your project, from storm water BMP’s to building foundation design.

3. Investigate Sanitary Sewer Service

• Will your parcel fall within a designated sewer service area?

• Will the DNR approve any necessary sewer extensions?

• Answering these questions will help you budget and adjust your sanitary sewer plans as necessary.

4. Evaluate topography and grading

• Will the elevation work for your sanitary and storm systems? Do you need to bring in fill? Is there significant grade that will involve additional earthwork?

• Try to obtain more information than you need. Depending on the size of your parcel, aerial flight or drone survey can be extremely beneficial (and help save on future costs).

5. Research road and highway connections

• Talk to the municipality and find out if the existing roadway is at capacity and if there is a significant accident history.

• Does there need to be a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) for the roadway or highway entrance? These can take months to complete, so factoring a necessary TIA into your schedule is essential.

• Will you be able to secure necessary DOT permits?

6. Coordinate with private utilities aSAP

• Entities like WE Energies and Spectrum do not blindly extend their services. You will need to coordinate with these providers as early as possible.

• It’s also important to involve representatives from these providers throughout the design process to avoid costly utility issues.

7. Identify all Jurisdictional Parties that may need to approve permits

• Nothing interrupts a project like an unforeseen permitting issue!

• Depending on the scope of your project, you’ll likely need to coordinate with the DNR, DOT, PSC, Army Corps of Engineers, Regional planning commission, and other governing entities to remain in compliance and avoid costly fees and project delays.

8. Obtain a Title Report

• A title report is the surefire way to confirm land ownership.

• This report will also expose other encumbrances, including any existing easements.

9. Investigate Storm water Management Requirements

• The earlier you review the municipal and DNR codes for storm water management requirements, the better equipped you’ll be to work necessary BMP’s into your design process.

10. Determine the impact of existing Zoning

• Review the municipality’s comprehensive smart growth plan and the proposed land use plan to understand the desired zoning for the parcel.

• Consider a PUD (planned unit development) or other zoning strategies to get the most out of your site.

• Lot coverage ratios and setbacks can determine how much you can develop your lot.