The City of Midway released updated documentation on August 4, 2026, outlining rigorous requirements for developers seeking master plan amendments or reviews. The city aims to ensure that all new developments align with its long-term vision of maintaining a family-oriented, walkable community that preserves its unique Swiss character and natural environment.
Regulatory Approval Process
Under the city's current regulatory framework, any developer proposing a master plan amendment must undergo a multi-stage review process. According to the City of Midway, these requests must be reviewed by the Planning Commission and ultimately approved by the City Council. A public hearing is required to consider the Planning Commission's recommendation before the City Council can grant approval.
Enforcement and Legal Requirements
The city mandates that any approved master plan must be accompanied by a signed Development Agreement. The City of Midway requires this agreement to be executed by both the applicant and the city to describe the specific entitlements granted for the project. This legal document must be signed within 45 days of final approval; failure to meet this deadline will render all previous approvals null and void.
Phased Development Standards
To ensure project stability, the city requires that master plan requests demonstrate the ability for the development to function autonomously. Specifically, the application must prove that the first phase of a project contains sufficient property, water rights, roads, open space, and sensitive lands protection to operate without the need for subsequent phases. This requirement ensures that if a developer halts construction, the completed portions remain functional.
Infrastructure and Utility Coordination
Midway's planning requirements place a heavy emphasis on utility and infrastructure coordination. Applicants must provide detailed information to secure preliminary approval from both the Midway Water Board and the Midway Sanitation District. This includes the scheduling of all necessary water rights, water mains, and sewer service interceptor capacity and laterals. The documentation must match the specific phasing plan of the development to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with construction.
Community Vision and Aesthetics
The city's planning documents emphasize a commitment to a specific community aesthetic and environmental standard. The City of Midway states its vision is to build a city that is aesthetically pleasing, safe, and visitor-friendly while remaining fiscally responsible. Developers are required to submit a detailed statement explaining how their project will implement this vision, specifically addressing architecture, landscaping, and the development of trails.
Application Fees and Deposits
Financial requirements for these applications are structured to cover administrative and professional costs. For a master plan amendment, the city charges a non-refundable application fee of $1,000, plus an additional $100 for every lot or unit included in the plan. Developers must also provide a professional review deposit of $1,000, plus $1 for every letter sent to property owners within a 600-foot radius of the project site.
Review Fee Structure Details
The review process for a master plan review follows a similar fee structure but with different minimums. The city requires a non-refundable application fee of $1,000 minimum, or $100 per lot or unit. Additionally, a professional review deposit is required, set at a minimum of $2,000 or $400 per lot or unit, whichever amount is greater. As with amendments, applicants must also cover the cost of $1 per letter for notifications sent to property owners within 600 feet.
