Show All Answers

1. What is the First Step Process?

The First Step Process is the City of Lake Mary's development assistance program. The process provides a convenient, one-stop opportunity for business owners, developers, and other interested persons to receive project information from several City departments at one time. There is no fee for a First Step appointment. By meeting with the First Step Staff, you can find out about the regulations that apply to your project and the processes that are required for the development. If you are a resident and have questions about basic permitting, such as additions, fences, pools, and the like, a First Step Meeting is not recommended. Instead, please call 407-585-1361, to speak to a member of staff.

2. What Should I Bring to a First Step Meeting?

To get the most out of your First Step meeting bring as much information as possible about your project such as a survey, set of plans of the existing site or a sketch of your proposed development.

3. What Information is Provided?

During your First Step meeting, City staff from the Building, Community Development, Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments will provide you preliminary information to help you get your project started. During the meeting, you may learn about the availability of utilities at your site, how to submit development plans for review, sign regulations, parking requirements, transportation issues, comprehensive plan issues, fire safety requirements, zoning regulations such as setbacks and allowable activities within zoning districts, storm water management, and environmental protection requirements. By meeting with all the applicable city representatives at one time the applicant saves time and avoids having duplicate meetings with various individuals.

4. Does First Step Replace the Site Plan Review Process?

Your First Step meeting is not intended to replace the formal development review process required for most construction projects. It also does not imply approval of a project. After attending First Step, you still have to submit your completed site and development plans and work with City staff and the appropriate review board to address issues of concern and obtain approval for your project. However, property owners will find the First Step process beneficial in determining site constraints and zoning requirements prior to making costly expenditures in real estate and professional services for projects that may not be feasible.

5. How Do I Make a First Step Appointment?

To make a First Step appointment please submit the form below. If you have plans or attachments for staff to review, please send them via email to the Planning department. All meetings occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays and are being held virtually due to COVID-19. A separate link to attend the meeting will be provided to you by staff. As a reminder, if you are a resident and have questions about basic permitting, such as additions, fences, pools, and the like, a First Step Meeting is not recommended. Instead, please call 407-585-1366, to speak to a member of staff.