What is the role of a planning commission in zoning?

The role of a planning commission in zoning is primarily to review and recommend zoning changes. This function is crucial because planning commissions are tasked with evaluating proposed amendments to zoning laws and regulations, assessing their potential impact on the community, land use, and growth. They gather input from the public, provide insights into planning priorities, and ultimately offer recommendations to the governing body, such as the city council or county commissioners, regarding the approval or denial of these changes.

This process ensures that zoning alterations align with the overall development plans and land use strategies of the area, promoting organized and sustainable growth. Importantly, while other responsibilities such as enforcing building codes, issuing permits, and handling code violations are essential functions in urban planning and management, they do not fall under the purview of the planning commission, which focuses specifically on the review and recommendation aspects of zoning.