Working through the modifications sub-committee

I'm new to the area and do want to add a deck to the back of my house and put a shed up. I'm getting familiar with the process of going to the modifications sub-committee but wanted to know the following:

1) How long doe sit typically take to get these type of mods approved?
2) Do you then need to go to the town?
3) Are there sample modification packages that one can review to make sure one has everything they need?
4) The design guidelines discuss showing examples of the material to be used. If one is using the standard pressure treated lumber for the structural support and composite decking, is this really required?

Thanks in advance.