Big Darby Accord Advisory Panel

The Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan is being updated, and your input matters! Join us in shaping the future of conservation and responsible growth in the Big Darby Creek watershed. Learn more and get involved: Click here for more information on the Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan Amendment.

The Big Darby Accord is a multi-jurisdictional plan covering the Franklin County portion of the nationally recognized Big Darby Watershed. A fundamental goal of the Accord is to ensure that the zoning and site development review processes are fair and consistent throughout the planning area. The Panel shares responsibility with the local governing jurisdiction to review and render advisory, non-binding opinions on zoning applications and site development plans in terms of conformance with the Accord Plan. Each jurisdiction continues to be responsible for final plan approval or denial for proposals in their area. Panel membership is comprised of appointees from partner jurisdictions. 

Per City of Columbus Department of Development interim guidance, all applications will be reviewed under the framework of the guidance of the Draft Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan Amendment, also referred to as the Big Darby Accord Amendment (BDAA) (2026). City of Columbus Planning staff have developed an updated checklist to reflect this new guidance.

Proposals in the Big Darby Watershed boundary require a review and recommendation from the Big Darby Accord Advisory Panel. For City of Columbus applications, the Panel will review the proposal for consistency with the drafted Big Darby Accord Amendment (2026). The Panel’s review will address the following topics: Open Space, Conservation, Land Use Planning, Development Standards, and the Big Darby Accord Revenue Program.

Those looking to submit an application for review by the Big Darby Accord Advisory Panel should refer to the Information for Applicants(PDF, 1MB) resource for details on the process. A link to the BDAA (2026) Applicant Checklist is located below.

Meetings and Calendar

Meetings are generally held on the second Tuesday of each month at the Franklin County Courthouse, 369 S. High Street, 1st Floor Commissioner Hearing Room at 1:30 p.m.

Please note: Meeting dates and locations are subject to change or cancellation. You are encouraged to contact the Planning Division for confirmation.

See Meeting Information(PDF, 374KB) for additional information on how to participate or view a meeting as well as requesting meeting accommodations.

Contact

For Development Inquiries, please contact the Planning Information line at (614) 724-4437 or via email at planninginfo@columbus.gov

For all other inquiries please contact:
Hunter Rayfield, AICP, Principal Planner

bhrayfield@columbus.gov

Calendar and Materials