Planning and Zoning

Good planning and zoning are the means for developing and maintaining a vibrant community. Stable residential neighborhoods, thriving commercial districts and well developed industrial areas make living, working and investing in the city desirable.

To accomplish these goals, the City coordinates strategic policy and physical development plans; collects data and conducts research on the physical, economic, and social factors relevant to the welfare of the community and coordinates planning programs with agencies.

It also is responsible for ensuring compliance with state building codes and the City of Rochester Zoning Ordinance. Zoning, an essential part of the urban planning process, is governed by the Official Zoning Map and the Zoning Ordinance, which are the legal instruments used to control the use of the City’s land.