Community & Economic Development

The Community & Economic Development Department is responsible for many different things, but to put it as simply as possible, it is responsible for the review and issuance of building and land use permits as well as the preparation of long-range plans. In the execution of its duties, the Department will

• Vigorously serve the public interest by applying the highest level of professional expertise, skill, and critical thinking.
• Always pursue planning that achieves excellence in the design and experience of the built environment; protects and responsibly manages natural resources and systems for generations to come; ensures a high quality of life for the people of Phoenix; welcomes new people, businesses, and ideas.
• Assist and advise land-use decision-making using best practices and sound planning methods.
• Actively work to educate the public through the communication of the most accurate, comprehensive, and thorough information available to the department.
• Respectfully listen to differing points of view and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to resolve disagreement to the mutual benefit of all parties, whenever possible.
• Consistently review land use permit applications in a transparent, consistent, thoughtful, and timely manner.
• Continuously review and improve department practices, processes, and procedures.
• Always execute our responsibilities in an ethical and professional manner.