About the Community Development Department

The Community Development Department oversees Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development for the City of Avon Lake. Our mission is to guide growth and development in a way that protects community character, promotes sustainability, and ensues compliance with city regulations.

Planning staff review all development applications and support applicants through each stage of the process from the initial concept to presentation before the Planning Commission. We  know the process can feel complex, which is why our team is committed to making it as clear and efficient as possible.

About the Planning Commission

The Avon Lake Planning Commission is an advisory body to the City Council. The Commission reviews development applications, zoning requests, and land-use proposals to ensure consistency with city codes, policies, and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

The Commission plays a vita role in:

• Upholding building, zoning and housing standards.
• Promoting safety and environmental stewardship.
• Encouraging orderly, sustainable growth.
• Protecting the overall quality of life in Avon Lake..

Through careful review and public dialogue, the Planning Commission helps shape a thriving, well-planned community for residents and businesses.  

Planning Commission Members

• Holly Ma, Chair
• Christine Raymond, Pro-Tem
• Robert Haas
• Jeffrey Leitch
• Scott Orille
• Geoffrey Smith, Council Representative
• Mark Spaetzel, Mayor

Meeting Schedule

The Planning Commission meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 150 Avon Belden Road.

If a holiday falls on the first Monday of the month, the Commission will instead meet on the first Wednesday of that week. 

Meeting Agenda and Minutes

View Meeting agendas and minutes HERE

Application Process

Step 1: Development Review Committee (DRC) Meeting:

Before submitting a Planning Commission application, all applicants must meet with the Development Review Committee (DRC).

• Who is on the DRC? Representatives from  Building, Police, Fire, Public Works, Engineering, Avon Lake Regional Water, Community Development, and the Mayor's Office.
• When are meetings held? Every Monday at 10:30 a.m. Applicants will receive an email with their assigned meeting date and time after submitting the DRC form. 
• What to expect? Your project will be discussed in detail, submittal requirements will be outlined, and compliance with city codes and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan will be reviewed.
• How to prepare? Bring an overview of your project and questions. Review Chapter 1214: Review Procedures before attending.
• Submit a DRC application HERE

Step 2: Planning Commission Application

After meeting with the DRC, you may submit your Planning Commission application.

Deadline: Applications are due by the first Tuesday of the month to be considered for the following month's agenda.

Review Process:

• Staff review applications for completeness.
• Applicants will receive confirmation and instructions to submit payment.
• Once payment is received, the application is sent electronically to DRC members. 
• Two hard copy sets of drawings must be delivered to City Hall (one for Engineering, one for Avon Lake Regional Water).
• DRC members have 10 working days to complete their review. Applicants may receive requests for updates, please respond promptly to avoid delays.

Submit a Planning Commission application HERE.

Step 3: Planning Commission Meeting

When DRC review is complete, your application will be scheduled or the next Planning Commission meeting.

• First Submittal: Provide 13 sets of 11" x 17" final drawings no later than four days before the meeting.
• At the meeting: You will provide a brief presentation. Commission members will ask questions and vote to approve, deny, or provide recommendations.

Submittal Requirements
Applicants must provide site, building, and technical documentation as part of their submission package.

Site & Survey Information

* Boundary survey / existing conditions plan, including:

• Legal description and parcel number(s).
• Lot lines, dimensions, acreage.
• Easements, rights-of-way, utilities, and existing improvements.
• Topography (2’ contours typically required)

* Vicinity/Location map showing site context (roads, parcels, zoning).

* Proposed Site Plan Drawings

• Site Layout Plan: Building footprints with setbacks; parking, sidewalks, circulation; dumpster enclosures; accessory structures; open space/common areas.
• Landscape Plan: Tree preservation/removal; new plantings with species list and sizes; screening and buffers.
• Grading & Drainage Plan: Finished grades; stormwater facilities; connections to Powdermaker Ditch or regional systems.
• Utility Plan: Water, sanitary, and storm sewer connections; hydrants/valves; electric, gas, and communications.
• Lighting Plan: Fixture types, heights, photometrics.
• Signage Plan (if applicable).

* Building & Design Information

• Architectural elevations (building height, materials, façade treatments).
• Floor plans (if needed for use determination).
• Materials/color board (for commercial or multi-family projects).

 * Technical Reports & Supplemental Studies

• Stormwater management report (with calculations per City/County standards).
• Traffic impact study (if required by project size or location).
• Environmental studies (wetlands, floodplain, impact assessments).
• Utility capacity letters from providers (water, sewer).
• Fire access review (turning templates, hydrant placement).

Assistance:

For guidance throughout the process, contact:

Kelly La Rosa

Planning and Zoning Manager, Community Development Department.

440-930-4110 or klarosa@avonlake.org

Please also review the Rules and Regulations for Planning Commission to ensure compliance.

We look forward to working with you on your project and supporting responsible growth in Avon Lake.