Platting
The platting process can be defined as the conversion of raw, undeveloped land into legal building lots. It is called platting because a plat—an official, recordable map of the building lots, streets, easements, parks, and other improvements included in a new land development—is created during the process. No building construction can legally take place on a piece of land until it has been platted.
Plats are an important part of the development process, because they provide a visual summary of how development will take place. By viewing this information, city staff can determine whether the proposed development would comply with regulations that uphold public health and safety. For example, staff would check to ensure that the proposed development plan includes adequate water lines, streets, and drainage.
Subdivision Plats
The best place to view copies of subdivision plats is the Comal County Clerk's Office since they are responsible for filing and maintaining official documents in this county.
Platting Process
During the process, the proposed development is transformed from a general idea into a very detailed, legally recorded map. Though the amount of time the platting process takes varies with each project, the average platting process takes about 4 months.
Pre-Development Conference
The person wishing to subdivide should meet with the director to discuss the ideas and determine feasibility. The director can provide technical information that will be needed as the plat is pursued.
Master Plan
This is the first step in physically laying out the subdivision on paper. It is more general in nature and is designed to give an overall direction of the project. This document is reviewed by city staff and placed before the Planning and Zoning Commission for action. Their approval allows the project to proceed to the Final Plat stages.
Initial Review of Final Plat
This is the technical drawing that will be used for recording upon approval. This contains all of the technical data such as drainage studies, environmental assessments, traffic reports and construction estimates. The city staff reviews these documents as well as the applicable jurisdictions like electric companies, TxDOT, etc. Staff forwards all comments to the applicant.
Final Platting
The applicant must address all comments from the initial review, either by complying or requesting variances. All of the necessary paperwork for recording the plat must be submitted, such as tax certificates and mylar copies of the plat with original signatures. The Planning and Zoning Commission makes a recommendation to City Council, which takes final action. If the development meets all of the regulations set forth by the city, it must be approved.
Recording the Plat
The approved plat is taken to the Comal County Clerk's Office, where it is filed to become a part of the permanent map and plat records. The project can then be moved to the building permit / construction phase and individual platted lots sold.