Harrisburg
Pennsylvania
17120
United States
Community Planning
Community Planning and Development
Pennsylvania is “Growing Smarter.” Within the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services serves as a resource for local government officials, developers and citizens interested in planning to improve, grow and enhance communities. It provides valuable tools that will support wise land use decisions and encourage economic development, a healthy environment and strong communities.
Technical Assistance
The Governor’s Center for Local Government Services provides technical assistance on a variety of planning, land use, and development matters to planning commissions, zoning officers, zoning hearing boards, and other local government officials. Contact the Planning Team today to start the conversation. Click a region on the map below to see the contact information for that specific county or submit a Formal Request for Assistance.
Resources
- Planning Publications
- PA Local Government Training Partnership
- "Duties of a Planning Commission” Online Course (requires Flash player)
- "Multi-Municipal Planning” Online Course (requires Flash player)
- PA Land Use Law Library
- Land Use & Transportation Planning
- Land Use & Conservation Planning (click “Planning” tab near middle of page)
- PA Blight & Land Bank Library
- “Working with Consultants” Guidebook
Municipal Assistance Program (MAP) Funding
DCED provides funding to local governments for community planning through the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP). Funding supports multi-municipal, regional, and county planning and implementation efforts, including TRID studies. Access the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP) guidelines for more information.
State Land Use and Growth Management Reports
The Governor’s Center for Local Government Services is required to prepare a State Land Use and Growth Management Report every five years. These reports include information, data, and conclusions regarding growth and development patterns in Pennsylvania, as well as recommendations for coordination of executive action and programs among Commonwealth agencies.
- 2020 State Land Use and Growth Management Report
- 2015 State Land Use and Growth Management Report and Regional Trends Supplement
- 2010 State Land Use and Growth Management Report
- 2005 State Land Use and Growth Management Report
Pennsylvania State Planning Board
The State Planning Board is an advisory board within the Governor’s Office. It was established by the Administrative Code of 1929 as re-enacted and amended. There are 25 members, including citizens, legislators and state department heads.
Planning Team Assistance Contacts
Click on the Eastern or Western region on the map below to see county-specific contact information. For any additional questions, call the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services at 888.223.6837.