Question 63

Smith should first check the appropriate ordinances and statutes.

Before proceeding with the subdivision of her land, it is essential for Smith to check the appropriate ordinances and statutes. This step ensures that her plans comply with local regulations and zoning laws, which can significantly impact the feasibility of her project.

A) Prepare a plat of the subdivision.

While preparing a plat is an important step in the subdivision process, it should be done after confirming that the subdivision complies with local ordinances and statutes. Without this knowledge, Smith risks creating a plat that may not be approved by local authorities.

B) Dedicate land for streets and parks.

Dedication of land for streets and parks is a necessary aspect of subdivision planning, but it should occur after understanding the necessary ordinances and statutes. This ensures that any dedication meets the legal requirements and aligns with community planning goals.

C) Check the appropriate ordinances and statutes.

This option is the correct first step for Smith. By checking the ordinances and statutes, she can ensure compliance with local zoning laws, which is crucial for the successful subdivision of her land. This foundational step guides all subsequent actions in the subdivision process.

D) Plan the street and clustering patterns for the subdivision.

Although planning street and clustering patterns is vital for the design of the subdivision, this should be predicated on a thorough understanding of applicable ordinances and statutes. Without this context, her planning may be misaligned with legal requirements, leading to potential issues later in the process.

Conclusion

Checking the appropriate ordinances and statutes is a crucial first step for Smith, as it lays the groundwork for the entire subdivision process. All other options, while important, depend on this initial compliance check to ensure that her plans align with legal and community standards. Thus, option C is definitively the correct choice.