American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

In most cases, which agency would conduct a site plan review for a new high school?

1. Planning Commission

2. Zoning Board of Appeals

3. State Planning Office

4. School District

The correct answer is: State Planning Office

The agency typically responsible for conducting a site plan review for a new high school is the School District. Site plan reviews are crucial for ensuring that proposed developments, like a high school, meet local development standards and community needs. The School District is directly involved in the planning and development of educational facilities and has a vested interest in not only the design but also the location and infrastructure required for a new high school. They are most familiar with the educational requirements, site logistics, and community engagement necessary for such facilities. While the other agencies mentioned may have roles in the broader planning and zoning process, they do not have the primary responsibility for site plan reviews specific to educational facilities. Planning Commissions typically focus on overall community planning and land use, Zoning Boards of Appeals handle variances and zoning exceptions, and State Planning Offices often influence state-level policies but are not directly involved in local site reviews.