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1. What is the Plan Commission?

The Plan Commission reviews development proposals and makes recommendations to the Common Council on such items as rezoning, special use permits, and amendments to the city’s official maps. In addition, the Plan Commission also has the responsibility for reviewing site, building, utility, landscaping, and other plans for proposed developments.

2. How do I appear before the Plan Commission?

Applications to appear before the Plan Commission must be received by the Department of Neighborhood Services Community Development Division by the second Thursday of the month prior to the meeting in which you wish to appear. All applications, fees, and applicable materials must be submitted at this time. Incomplete submittals will not be accepted. Applications can either be obtained online or at the Community Development Division. It is highly recommended that you contact the Community Development Manager at 414-329-5342 to determine if a pre-submittal meeting with staff is needed. 2020 Plan Commission Meeting Schedule & Deadlines

3. How long does the development review process take?

While there is no set timeline for any specific request, as the amount of change that is occurring within a project and the meeting schedules will influence each request differently, a general overall guideline is listed below. Typically, any item that does not require a public hearing ranges from 4-6 weeks from application submittal to final approval. Requests that require a public hearing will range from 6-10 weeks. Items such as a planned unit development or a subdivision will take longer and range from 6-12 months.

Request: Schedule of Meetings (Timeline)

Certified Survey Map: Staff > Plan Commission > Common Council (4-6 weeks).
Planned Unit Development: Combination of many meetings (9-12 months).
Rezoning: Staff > Plan Commission > Public Hearing > Common Council (6-10 weeks).
Site/Building/Landscape Review: Staff > Plan Commission > Common Council (4-6 weeks).
Special Use: Staff > Plan Commission > Public Hearing > Common Council (6-10 weeks).
Subdivision Plat: Combination of many meetings (6-12 months).

4. How much does it cost for applications?

Fees for different applications vary for each request. The Planning Commission Application Fees List can be obtained online or at the Community Development Division. In addition, there may be separate charges as outlined in the Engineering Charges Form.

5. What are the setbacks on my property?

Setbacks vary depending on your zoning classification. In order to find your setbacks, you first need to find out your zoning. You can find out your zoning by using the online Property Information Search or by contacting the Community Development Division. Once you know your zoning, view the Chapter 21 of the Greenfield Municipal Code to find your setback requirements or contact the Community Development Division.

6. What do I need to submit when doing a proposed development, redevelopment, exterior revision (other than 1 or 2 family units), special use, or rezoning?

All proposed actions, prior to plan approval from the Common Council, should be first submitted to Community Development staff for their recommendation. Staff will then forward the plans to the Plan Commission. The Plan Commission will then make their recommendation to the Common Council. Plans and specifications shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and character of the work proposed. A Planning Commission Checklist can be obtained online or at the Community Development Division.

7. What happens after submitting plans to the Plan Commission?

Staff will meet 2 weeks prior to the Plan Commission meeting to review your plans. You will be notified as soon as possible if any revisions are needed. You will be given an opportunity to revise your plans before the meeting; however, any revisions must be received before the agenda is sent out on the Thursday prior to the meeting. The Plan Commission will not review any plan revisions that have not been first reviewed by staff. A copy of the agenda and staff report for your item will be sent to you on the Thursday prior to the meeting. 

At the meeting, staff will present their recommendations, after which you will have an opportunity to address the Plan Commission to provide additional information or to answer any questions. The Plan Commission generally will vote on your item the same evening and forward their recommendation to the Common Council. After the meeting you will be sent a copy of the minutes of the Plan Commission meeting confirming the Commission’s recommendation, along with any conditions of approval. Once the Common Council has taken its action, please contact the Community Development Division for any necessary follow-up steps.

8. What is my property zoned and how do I find out?

To determine what the zoning designation is for a piece of property use the online Property Information Search or contact the Community Development Division.

9. What is the Greenfield Comprehensive Plan?

The Greenfield Comprehensive Plan is a comprehensive long-range plan intended to guide the growth and development of the City of Greenfield. The plan is intended for future land use and infrastructure development and protection of natural resources, developed in accordance with the requirements of Section 66.1001 of the Wisconsin Statutes. A comprehensive plan must address the 9 “Smart Growth” elements specified in the Statutes; must provide opportunities for public participation; and must be adopted by an ordinance of the governing body.

10. When and where does the Plan Commission meet?

The Plan Commission meets at 6:00 p.m. on the 2nd Tuesday of every month (holidays excepted) at: Greenfield City Hall Council Chambers Room 100 7325 W Forest Home Avenue Greenfield, WI 53220 View the meeting schedules online or contact the Community Development Division for more information.