Planning Departments

Planning Departments are public agencies in local governments responsible for managing land use and development within a community. They handle zoning laws, which dictate how land can be used—residential, commercial, or industrial—and ensure that growth aligns with a town's vision, sustainability, and public needs. These departments review building permits, develop long-term plans for infrastructure, and engage with the community to gather input on future projects. Their goal is to create organized, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments that promote the well-being of residents and the economy.