The Planning and Zoning Section of the Department provides current and long range land-use planning services for the City of Decatur. Current planning activities generally include administering the Zoning Ordinance; managing the development review process; administering any grant funding; supporting economic development efforts; and providing technical support to the P&Z, the ZBA and the City Council in implementing the land use element of the Long Range Master Plan. Section members work with applicants to evaluate land use proposals and zoning changes for consistency with Long Range Master Plan policies and compatibility with surrounding uses.
Staff assists property owners in determining the greatest potential for their investment, while balancing the interest of the community as a whole. Long range planning activities involve projects of a broader scope and time horizon such as the Comprehensive Plan, the annexation strategies, corridor plans and subarea or small area plans. The Planning and Zoning Section works in conjunction with the Building Inspections Section to review new construction and remodel plans for compliance with zoning regulations, including setbacks, parking, and other development standards. Section staff are the liaisons to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment.