Planning and Development
The Planning & Development Department promotes growth and quality of life in the City of Caldwell by guiding residents, property owners, businesses, and design professionals in navigating the development processes and upholding community standards.
Our responsibilities include:
| Development Plan Review and Compliance | Annexation | Pre-Development Assistance |
| Infrastructure Standards and Improvements | Subdivision and Platting | Comprehensive Planning |
| Variances and Conditional Use Permits | Zoning and Land Use Compliance |
What is Cloudpermit?
Cloudpermit is the City of Caldwell's online permitting system. Residents, contractors, and developers can use the portal to manage building permit applications electronically.
Through Cloudpermit, applicants can:
- Submit permit applications and required documents.
- Track the status of applications and reviews.
- Receive notifications and requests for additional information.
- Communicate with City staff regarding applications.
- Access permit information and related documents.
To begin, visit the Cloudpermit portal and create an account or sign in to an existing account. Select the appropriate application type and follow the instructions to submit your application and supporting documentation.
Contact
Development Department
Timothy Robertson, P.E. | City Engineer
Development Manual
The Caldwell Development Manual serves as a comprehensive guide for navigating the development process within the City of Caldwell and its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). It is designed to assist property owners, developers, engineers, architects, and contractors by outlining the required steps, submittal procedures, review timelines, and regulatory standards that apply to new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure projects. Additional information can be found at the following links.
Development Steps
1. Review the Future Land Use Map
- Confirm that the proposed development aligns with the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) adopted by the City of Caldwell.
- If the proposed use does not align, the developer must apply for a Future Land Use Map Amendment. Approval is required before proceeding with rezoning or subdivision applications.
- Go to the Public Interactive Map to view the Future Land Use Layer to verify the current Future Land Use designation.
2. Verify Current Zoning
- Check the zoning designation of the property to determine if the proposed use is permitted.
- If the proposed project is not allowed by right, a zoning change (rezoning request) must be submitted and approved by the City Council.
- Go to the Public Interactive Map to view the Zoning Layer and to verify the current Zoning designation.
3. Evaluate Floodplain Status
- Determine whether any portion of the site is located within the FEMA-designated floodplain by reviewing maps via the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or contacting the Planning and Development Services Department.
- If development is proposed within a floodplain, review the City’s Floodplain Development Requirements on the City’s website before proceeding.
4. Economic Development Incentives
- If the project could qualify for City incentives, review the Economic Development Incentives Policy and application materials before scheduling a meeting.
- Incentives may apply to projects that support job creation, commercial redevelopment, or downtown revitalization.
5. Prepare a Concept Plan
- A concept plan is required prior to scheduling a pre-development meeting. The concept plan should illustrate the proposed land-use and zoning, proposed layout of the site, including number and type of units or buildings, access points, and utility demands.
- This plan is mandatory in order for staff to evaluate the project, provide informed feedback, and determine whether a utility capacity analysis is needed for the proposed development.
6. Schedule a Pre-Development Meeting
- Once the items above are reviewed and a concept plan is prepared, schedule a pre-development meeting with the Development Review Committee.
- During this meeting, City staff will:
- Review the proposed development’s alignment with the Future Land Use Map
- Discuss whether a zoning change will be required (subject to City Council approval)
- Outline the subdivision process, including platting requirements
- Determine what information is necessary to initiate a utility capacity analysis
- During this meeting, City staff will:
7. Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA)
- Developers must complete a TIA Determination Form before submitting a development application.
- This helps the City determine whether a Traffic Impact Analysis is required based on the size and impact of the proposed project.
- The form ensures proper planning for traffic safety and roadway capacity.
8. TxDOT Driveway Access & Stormwater
- Projects located on TxDOT-maintained roadways must obtain TxDOT approval for driveway access.
- Stormwater drainage impacts on the state highway system must also be reviewed and approved by TxDOT.
- Developers should coordinate with TxDOT early to prevent delays in the development timeline.