Subdivision and Land Development

Developers may call or email us for a copy of the township's Information and Application packet on Subdivision and Land Development. Subdivision Land Development books are $25 and maps are $5. Zoning Ordinance books come with the maps and are $30. For more information contact the township.

We also want Hatfield Township residents to know about the Subdivision and Land Development Process. When a developer comes to the township the developer is required to submit one of five types of plans:

  • Sketch Plans - Initial, rough drawings of what is proposed. This helps the developer and the township start on the right foot by discussing options for the project.
  • Minor Subdivision Plans - When one lot is to be divided into two.
  • Minor Land Development Plans - When an existing use is being expanded and no additional storm water management facilities are needed.
  • Preliminary Land Development or Subdivision Plan - Used for multiple buildings or multiple lots, this is a preliminary submission with more details than the Sketch Plan.
  • Final Land Development or Subdivision Plan - Once the Preliminary Land Development or Subdivision Plan is approved, final changes are made. All outstanding necessary approvals from other agencies are collected. The Planning Commission recommends the plan for approval. It then goes for review by the Hatfield Township Board of Commissioners at their workshop meeting. Finally the plan goes before the Hatfield Township Board of Commissioners at their regular business meeting for approval.

In this time of suburban sprawl, residents often don't understand why township officials might approve plans for more homes or commercial development. Our commissioners have developed several long-range planning documents for zoning (what type of building or operations can go where), aesthetics (such as specifications for how large or small signs can be), and for safety of all residents and visitors to a building. Township officials cannot legally "close the door" on development. They can however, set forth guidelines for property use, which applied over time, can help our community remain an attractive and enjoyable place to live.

By law, if a plan meets all zoning requirements, development ordinances, and required approvals, the Board of Commissioners must approve a developer's plan.

Approval Process for Subdivision and Land Development

The process begins with the Planning Commission where applications are reviewed for compliance with the township codes and ordinances. The Planning Commission meeting is held on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

When the planning commissioners recommend a plan for approval, it then is sent to the Board of Commissioners for review. The Board of Commissioners Workshop meeting is held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

The Board of Commissioners considers final approvals at their regular meetings. Regular meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

All meetings are held at the Hatfield Township Administration Office, 1950 School Road, Hatfield, PA 19440.