Planning and Land Use Articles

Planning 101 | Administrative Land Use Permits

Not every land use approval requires a public hearing or a trip to the county commissioners.

By Hannah Dutrow - AGPROfessionals Land Planner, Specializing in Agricultural and Rural Land-Use and Development Permitting

At AGPROfessionals, we see many different land use projects. From agricultural use to commercial business, development, and divisions, we see and work with them all. Often, a client wants to divide off part of their land for a use different from the rest of their property. Many of these projects require a land use permit, which comes in several types, before a new use can begin or a structure can be built.

What are Administrative Land Use Permits?

Administrative land use permits are some of the most common approvals. These permits are reviewed and approved by planning staff and do not require a public hearing or approval from elected officials.

Administrative permits are typically used for smaller-scale or clearly defined uses that are already anticipated by the zoning code. Staff reviews the application to confirm the proposal meets zoning requirements and may circulate it to other departments for comments.

Examples vary by jurisdiction, but common administrative permits may include:

Agricultural Subdividing and Land Planning – AGPROfessionals Can Help

For farmers, ranchers, and large-acreage landowners, land is more than property — it’s the foundation of your livelihood and your legacy. You might be preparing to transition land to the next generation or subdivide your property for separate parcel sales or residential development. These decisions require expertise and foresight.

Subdividing and land use planning are complicated processes. There are many moving parts, and most landowners quickly encounter a lot of “It depends…” answers and very few clearly defined steps. Both agricultural and rural residential projects can succeed, but they require thoughtful planning, careful budgeting, and awareness of the permitting and regulatory landscape.

AGPROfessionals has been serving agricultural producers and rural landowners nationwide for over 25 years, helping ensure that subdividing and land use planning projects meet regulatory requirements, reflect long-term goals, and protect property value.

Here are some important considerations when approaching subdivision and land planning projects:

Access and Transportation

Every tract of land, whether agricultural or residential, needs reliable access. When subdividing, access permits are often required to ensure parcels connect properly to county roads or highways. Without these approvals, future landowners may face serious limitations on entry and use.

Land Use Planning with AGPROfessionals

Turn Land Potential Into Real Progress

When it comes to land development, success starts long before construction begins. Whether you're buying raw land, planning a subdivision, or launching a new business venture, understanding how to navigate zoning, permitting, and local regulations is key — and that's where AGPROfessionals comes in.

Our team of land planners, engineers, surveyors, and consultants brings decades of experience to help landowners, developers, and investors move forward with confidence and clarity.

🔍 Start Smart: Land Use Due Diligence

The most successful projects begin with one thing: preparation. AGPROfessionals helps clients evaluate feasibility, identify constraints, and uncover opportunities before land is even purchased or expanded.

Our Due Diligence Services Include:

Feasibility Studies
Environmental Assessments
Code Analysis & Conceptual Site Plans
ALTA, Boundary & Improvements Surveys
Water Rights Reviews
Utility Availability Assessments
more