They are concerned with all aspects of the environment, including the location and design of buildings, transportation systems and with the protection of natural resources, including air and water quality and population density. Planners also consider social and economic factors that will be affected by land use changes. Before producing development plans, planners conduct extensive studies of existing conditions and trends. To help evaluate land use alternatives, planners hold meetings and public hearings to get community reaction. They then summarize their findings and recommendations in written reports and submit these proposals to local authorities for adoption as the official general plan.
Planners working for local government agencies have additional tasks.
They review applications for proposed development to determine conformity with broad general plan policies and with specific zoning and subdivision standards. They conduct studies to determine the potential environmental effects of each project and may also prepare or review detailed environmental impact reports for projects that are likely to have significant harmful effects. As part of this process, planners meet with property owners, developers, consultants, and interested citizens to discuss problems and solutions. After completing their review, planners recommend either approval, denial, or approval under specified conditions to the appropriate governing body. Consultants prepare studies and general plans for planning departments that have insufficient staff or specialized expertise.