Charlotte’s Land Development division reviews hundreds of residential plans. These are the most common reasons they send plans back – and what we include so you don’t get the same letter.

the city does enforce tree preservation through the Charlotte Tree Ordinance (Article 20). No specific correction needed.

Charlotte enforces tree preservation. We identify protected trees, show driplines, and add required notes.

“Flood zone reference missing. FEMA panel number required – many properties near Little Sugar Creek and McAlpine Creek.”

We add the correct FEMA panel number. Even in low‑risk zones, the city wants the reference.

“ADU exceeds maximum floor area. Detached ADU limited to 750 sq ft (or up to 1,000 sq ft if larger than primary structure).”

We verify ADU size, height, and lot coverage before you order.

“Setback measured from foundation, not eave.”

Charlotte measures to the furthest projection – roof overhang, gutter, chimney. Foundation measurement is always wrong. We measure from the eave.

“A Storm Water Management Permit is required for all new development and redevelopment projects, regardless of size”

We add flow arrows, retention notes, and reference Charlotte’s stormwater design manual.

“Impervious surface calculation missing or does not match zoning district limit.”*

We calculate lot coverage and show the math. Exceed the cap? We tell you before you submit.

“Easement shown without recorded instrument number.”

“Utility easement” alone gets rejected. We add book/page references from county records.