Planning administers land use regulations in the City including zoning, development review, historic preservation, and long-range planning. They also serve as the first contact for developers and landowners who are considering new development or changes to existing development.

In addition, the department handles updates to, and the implementation of, the City's Comprehensive Plan. The plan defines the long-range goals and intentions regarding the direction of future development within the City. It contains elements on land use, transportation, community facilities, design, historic preservation, and housing.