Development Advisory Committee (DAC)

About


The Harford County Development Advisory Committee (DAC) advises the director of Planning and Zoning regarding major subdivisions and certain other proposed development activities. The committee is composed of representatives from county, state, and other agencies. DAC meetings are open to the public.  Anyone attending may provide comments or ask questions regarding projects on the agenda. See § 268-19 of the Harford County Code for specific information and requirements regarding the Development Advisory Committee.

Meetings

DAC meetings are held at 9 a.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month as needed.

For information regarding the Development Advisory Committee process, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning, Development Review Section at 410-638-3103.  

Plans being considered by the Development Advisory Committee can be found on the planning and zoning activity tracker. The DAC meeting agenda, as well as minutes from previous DAC meetings, are available for review via the county’s website.  

DacSign

Notification and posting

At least two weeks prior to a DAC meeting, subject properties are posted with a RED notice stating the date, time and location of the meeting. Meetings notices are also published in at least two local publications prior to the DAC meeting.  Adjoining property owners receive notice via certified mail.

Site plan application waiver

Land development activities, including the subdivision of property or establishment of a new use, require review by the Department of Planning and Zoning and other agencies prior to issuance of a building permit or zoning certificate. Initial review of a proposed project or activity may necessitate submittal of a concept plan, preliminary plan, or site plan. Site plans required for all non-residential or multi-family housing uses will be distributed to the Development Advisory Committee and processed accordingly.

The requirement for site plan approval may be waived in instances of a change in use or occupancy where no extensive construction or improvement is proposed. The waiver may be granted only upon a determination that the use will not affect existing drainage, traffic circulation, configuration of buildings, landscaping, buffering, lighting, and other considerations of site plan approval, and the existing facilities do not require significant upgrade or additional site improvements.

Approval of a Development Advisory Committee waiver does not exempt the applicant from other regulations associated with development and use of the site. Upon approval, a building permit or zoning certificate may be required.