Preliminary Development Review

A preliminary development review (PDR) checks whether your project meets design and development rules. Some projects need a PDR before you can apply for permits.

About

PDR is a critical review before you get permits or start construction. It helps you find possible issues with your project early. Several departments look at your plans together for a comprehensive review. This helps you:

  • Get all the important details in one place 
  • Fix problems before they cause delays 
  • Keep your project on track 

These departments include:

  • Public Works
  • Utility Design
  • Environmental
  • Fire Safety
  • Construction Code Services
  • Zoning and Preservation

A PDR does not check that your plan meets all building code requirements. That review happens when you apply for a building permit. Some projects may also need a land use application.

Person holding building samples over a table of plans

When to apply

PDR may be required for the following property types:

  • Commercial
  • Industrial
  • Residential (three or more units)
Apply for PDR if your project includes any of the following:
  • New building construction
  • Building expansions or additions
  • Exterior site work (parking, sidewalks, utilities, grading)

For these projects, you must have an approved PDR before you apply for permits

Requirements

To get started

  • Submit a project information form.
  • We may request drawings of the existing and proposed site to help confirm whether you need a PDR.
  • You do not need a professional to prepare these drawings.

Submit a project information form

If we determine your project requires PDR

  • You will need a signed survey.
  • The site plans must include the existing site and the proposed one.
  • A licensed professional surveyor must prepare them.
  • Your plans must meet all requirements on the PDR checklist.

See the PDR checklist

Application process

Step 1

Submit your application

  • Fill out the project information form 
  • If you are not yet working with a city planner, attach copies of your site plans 
  • We review your application and notify you if you need a PDR.

Complete the form

Step 2

Prepare your plans

  • Review the PDR Checklist
  • Make sure your site plans meet all requirements.

Review the PDR checklist

Step 3

Staff will setup ProjectDox

  • City staff create your PDR in ProjectDox, the City’s online plan review system.
  • We send you an email with login instructions.
Step 4

Upload your plans

  • Log in to ProjectDox and upload your plans.
  • If this is your first time using ProjectDox, complete your user profile.
Step 5

Staff reviews your plan

  • City staff will review your plan and add comments in ProjectDox.
  • Watch for email notifications.
Step 6

Resubmit your plans if needed

  • City staff will contact you if we need more information or need you to make changes.
  • Make your changes and resubmit your plans.
  • After you resubmit, City staff will review your plans again.
Step 7

Receive your approved PDR

If approved, you can view the plans and comments in ProjectDox.

Apply for permits

Process timeline

The initial review cycle may take around 10 business days. Resubmittals and revised plans take additional time. Watch your email for ProjectDox messages and respond as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Disclaimer

An approved PDR does not guarantee that your plans meet all building codes. Code compliance is reviewed when you apply for a building permit. PDR approval is not a “determination of completeness” under Minnesota State Statute 15.99 (60/120 Law).

ProjectDox

Find out how to use ProjectDox and submit plans.
Get help

Contact us

Minneapolis Development Review

Community Planning & Economic Development

Email Minneapolis Development Review

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 220
Minneapolis, MN 55415

Service Center hours
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.