Q. What is a Certified Plot Plan (CPP)?
A. A CPP shows the property lines of the lot as well as any structures on the site. The plan also shows the setbacks of the structure(s) from the lot lines – front, side and rear. A CPP is generated by an accurate instrument survey and is stamped by a registered land surveyor.
Q. Isn’t the Mortgage Plot I received when purchasing the property the same as a CPP?
A. Generally, no. A Mortgage Plot plan is rarely done by an instrument survey. It is an inexpensive plan created from the assessors’ maps, or perhaps hand drawn, and the measurements are usually obtained with just a tape measure.
Q. When do I need a CPP?
A. In the town of Falmouth, as well as some other communities, a CPP is required whenever you apply for a building permit. The building permit can be for a new house or a deck. The inspection officer is looking to see that the existing structure and/or any new additions meet zoning setback requirements. Often a Foundation Certification is required by the local building department. This is to determine if the new foundation has been positioned properly on the site.
Q. Does a CPP include staking or bounding the property?
A. No. Staking or bounding property lines or corners is a two-step process and is an additional service. The information gathered during the initial survey is computed in the office. The field crew then returns to the property, sets up the instruments and places the stakes and/or bounds in the requested locations.
Q. What is an Existing Conditions Plan (ECP)?
A. An ECP includes property lines, structures, driveways, and fences (if any), topography, wetlands, etc. This plan is often the first step in the process of new house construction, major renovation of an existing house, or when proposed work is on property with or near wetlands. It can also be recommended for sites with severe topography or other site anomalies.
Q. What is a Site Plan?
A. Simply, a site plan is a combination of CPP and an Existing Conditions Plan. It is used to indicate present site conditions as well as proposed changes.
Q. What is a Site & Septic Plan?
A. A Site Plan showing proposed septic installation that can be for new work or repair.
Q. What is a Subdivision Plan?
A. A Subdivision Plan is generated to turn one large parcel of land into multiple smaller parcels. It is also used when land between abutting lots is being reapportioned. There are several types of Subdivision Plans both commercial and residential, including Approval Not Required (ANR), Preliminary Subdivision Plan and Site Plan Review Plan. Subdivision Plans require review by the local Planning Board.
