Major subdivisions are subject to a two-step approval process. Physical improvements to the land to be subdivided are authorized by approval of the proposed subdivision by the Planning and Zoning Board at the general plan stage, and sale of lots is permitted after final plat approval by the Board of Aldermen, as provided in Section 15-79 (Major subdivision approval process). Minor subdivisions only require a one-step approval process for final plat approval in accordance with section 15-78 (Minor subdivision approval).

Subdivision Plan Departmental Review is required for the development of a subdivision to ensure that requirements of the Land Use Ordinance are met. The Subdivision Plan Departmental Review Committee is composed of multiple City department staff working together to render decisions on applications as a single decision-making body. Department staff with review and decision-making responsibilities include the Department of Development Services, Fire, Public Works, Engineering, Police, and Electric Utilities. Subdivision plans are reviewed by the committee and approved for subdivision development by the Planning and Zoning Board and Board of Aldermen. An application with 14 sets of folded site plans must be submitted to the office of the Zoning Administrator at least 7 days prior to the scheduled Subdivision Plan Departmental Review meeting. Review meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 9:00 A. M. in the Department of Development Services Conference Room, 3rd floor, Dunn Building, 248 Craven Street.