Special Exception (SPE)

A Special Exception (SPE) is a use that requires special consideration of its location, design, and methods of operation before it can be deemed appropriate in the zone and compatible with its surroundings. Applications for Special Exception require a site plan showing all proposed improvements. These applications are reviewed to ensure that the proposed use is compatible with surrounding uses and the neighborhood. Many Special Exceptions must also conform to a unique set of requirements defined in the Zoning Ordinance.

DSC_0108Pre-Application Conference: Required under new Zoning Ordinance.

Pre-Application Neighborhood Meeting: Required under new Zoning Ordinance.

Subdivision and Development Review Committee (SDRC): Special Exceptions applications may be referred to the SDRC, at the discretion of the Zoning Section Supervisor or at the request of the applicant.

Decision-Making Body: Special Exceptions are decided by the Zoning Hearing Examiner with recommendation from the Planning Board.

Fees
Low fee rating$2,500, plus $50 per acre for each acre over 50
Medium fee rating$4,000, plus $50 per acre for each acre over 50
High fee rating$4,000, plus $50 per acre for each acre over 50
Mobile Home as a Single-Family Dwelling$200
Day Care for Children in Single-Family Dwelling$100
ChurchNo Fee
Revision of Site Plan for an approved Special Exception1/2 of Original Fee

Public Notice Requirement: For Special Exceptions, sign postings at subject site are required 30 days prior to the hearing and mailings are required 30 days prior to the hearing to parties of record.

For Minor Changes to Approved Special Exception, sign posting at subject site are required 14 days following determination of completeness (may be waived by Planning Director) and mailings of application decision only are required to parties of record, Clerk of the Council, and municipalities within one mile of subject site. 

Estimated Review Time: 8-10 months


APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

The new Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations go into effect April 1, 2022. For a period of two years (until March 31, 2024), Applicants have the option to submit under the requirements of either the new or prior Ordinance. [Note: Review under the prior Ordinance requires a Pre-Application Conference and Statement of Justification to explain why the applicant has not chosen to develop under the provisions of the new Ordinance.

Any application accepted prior to the effective date of the new Ordinance will be reviewed and decided in accordance to the provisions of the prior Ordinance. See the Transitional Provisions Quick Reference for more information.

Find application materials below separated per the applicable Ordinance.

  1. After April 1, 2022
  2. Prior to April 1, 2022

CURRENT ORDINANCE MATERIALS

Fill out this application form and email the PDF along with required submission materials to DRDApplications@ppd.mncppc.org.

Important Documents

Application Forms and Filing Instructions

Fee Information

Public Notice Requirement

Relevant Development Review Bulletins

Guides and References