Step 5: Land Entitlements

Land Entitlements are the approvals necessary to make a project become reality. Problem solving and creativity is not just reserved for the design and strategy of golf courses. In this phase, they will be equally revered.

When to Move Forward

Before you can move forward with a project, permission must be granted from the community and pertinent regulatory agencies. Being prepared is absolutely essential at this point, because there will likely be a lot of questions from citizens, city planners and government leaders. If you’re unable to answer these questions, you’ll have problems receiving their vote of confidence.

Engage Professionals to Assist
in Critical Areas of Concern

One way to prepare yourself is to work with professionals that have experience serving as a resource for golf course projects. Having experts on your team that can answer questions about engineering-related issues, vehicle traffic, wildlife and environmental concerns, etc. will indicate that you’ve done your homework.

Understand What Permits are Necessary

When proposing a new course, be sure to find out what permits you need to acquire and the challenges that can go along with acquiring them. Meet with appropriate local and regional planners and city leaders to discuss issues such as codes, regulations, permits and scheduling.

Also meet with community groups and individuals who have an interest in the project, in addition to the local elected officials who will vote on whether or not to approve your project. Get a feel for which way they are leaning, and if they seem unsupportive, ask what alterations would be needed for you to gain their support.

Incorporate Finding into Planning

Once you complete the first round of requesting feedback from local citizens and government officials, download all design team members on the comments received and make necessary changes to the project plan. Meet with those interested parties again and show how you’ve addressed their concerns. At this point, you either have one more round of feedback to consider integrating into your plan, or you’ve satisfied the questions and you’re ready to apply for the necessary permits.

Submit Application/Public Hearing and Approval

Now that you’re ready to apply for any required permits, ideally all the hard work you did up front in gauging support for the project will prevent any surprises from taking place. There’s nothing you’d rather have than a public hearing with only supportive comments from citizens or elected officials who are excited about having a new golfing venue in town. They know the sooner they get you through this process, the sooner they can tee up on your new course.

Next: Financing Golf Projects

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