Rezoning Application Process (Updated March 28, 2025)

Cary reviews all rezoning applications electronically. The original application with notarized signatures will be accepted once the Planning staff deems it complete.

Do not drop off checks before the Planning Staff deems your application complete. Cary takes no responsibility for payments dropped off or mailed without prior authorization. 

Staff will notify you by email when your application is ready for payment. Fees may be paid online by credit card or in person by check or credit card.  

Step 1: Before submitting an application, complete the following: 

• Schedule a pre-application meeting with the Development Review Committee. Request a meeting on the Electronic Plan Review site. If this is your first time using the Electronic Plan Review site, you must create an account. (If you need assistance, review this resource guide.)
  
  
• If the site is outside both the corporate limits and Cary's ETJ, an annexation must be submitted with the rezoning request. Annexation applications are submitted through the electronic plan review site.  

Step 2: Submit a rezoning application for review:

• Complete the fillable Rezoning Application form and submit it through our electronic plan review.  You will upload the PDF application to the electronic plan review portal.  
• Draft conditions should be uploaded as an attachment for review.  
• If you are requesting Mixed Use District (MXD) zoning, a preliminary development plan (PDP) is required and should be uploaded with the rezoning application. Review the PDP Checklist prior to submitting.  
• If someone will be acting on your behalf,  please upload the Authorized Agent Authorization form with the application and other supporting documents.  
• Planning staff will review and provide initial comments through the electronic plan review portal within 10 business days.
• Revise the application and respond to comments in the electronic plan review portal. 
• Once the staff deems the application complete, you will receive a letter confirming its completeness.   

*Executed affidavit not required with initial application. Draft conditions may be submitted for review as an attachment. An executed affidavit authorizing conditions reviewed and accepted by Cary staff must be submitted prior to the public hearing.   

• Submit the final, complete version of your rezoning application as a new rezoning application for technical review in the electronic review portal. You must include the APPLICATION COMPLETENESS LETTER. 
• An email payment link will be sent to the representative on the application. Payment must be made within 5 business days. If this is not completed within 5 business days, the application will expire, and a new submittal will be required.
• After payment has been received, the application will be reviewed by the required disciplines.
• A neighborhood meeting will be scheduled for your rezoning request within 1-3 months, depending on meeting schedules and case load.