The city and county each have a zoning ordinance and a subdivision control ordinance. The city's plan and ordinance apply not only within the city limits but also to the area extending two miles beyond the corporate boundaries. These are issued by the planning department. Projects that do not meet the ordinance standards may be eligible for a conditional use or variance. The planning staff can provide information about the plans, the ordinances, and petitions to the board of zoning appeals.
Members serve without pay.
Special meetings as needed. The planning commissions make recommendations regarding amendments to the zoning ordinances or zoning maps to the common council and county commissioners. They also have authority over the subdivision of land. Information on zoning and subdivisions is available from the planning department. Information on applications to the boards is available from the Planning Department.