Planning Services

About

The Planning Services Division works together with the community to enhance and maintain quality of life in Abilene by guiding specific use and arrangement of urban development through administration and enforcement of the City’s Land Development Code (LDC) and Comprehensive Plan. In addition, the Planning Services Division encourages proper growth, development, redevelopment, and stabilization of neighborhoods by providing technical assistance to the City’s Council, boards, commissions, developers, and citizens.

Boards & Commissions

The Planning staff provides expertise and policy advice for the following boards, commissions, and committees:

  • City Council
  • Planning and Zoning Commission
  • Tax Increment Redevelopment Zone (TIRZ) Board
  • Mayor’s Downtown Task Force
  • Board of Adjustment
  • Landmarks Commission
  • Development Review Committee (DRC)
  • Entertainment District Task Force

Facade Improvement Grant Program

Staff also provides other core services such as administering the City’s Facade Improvement and Demolition Assistance Grant Programs.

Rebuild ABI Program

The purpose of this program is to promote and encourage the construction and renovation of quality, affordable single-family housing in areas designated by the City of Abilene as eligible for the program.

Applications

My Gov - Cities Serving Citizens

All Planning Services applications are now online. Apply for Zoning, Plats, Conditional Use Permits, Thoroughfare Closures, and Itinerant Business Permits all from one place. 

The Planning and Zoning Commission is comprised of seven Abilene citizens who act as an advisory board to City Council in regards to land use and zoning related matters. Members are appointed by the Mayor for three year terms.

The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council hold public hearings on cases in City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. If you are interested in any case, you have the opportunity to make your opinion known to the appropriate body at that time.

It is also permissible to mail us a signed letter, which will be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Commission or City Council, whichever is hearing the case at that time.

Other Plans & Information

  1. Comprehensive Plan (PDF)
  2. Existing Community Facilities (PDF)
  3. Existing Land Use - City Center Map (PDF)
  4. Existing Land Use - City Limits Map (PDF)
  5. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction and County Boundaries (PDF)
  6. Future Land Use Development Plan (PDF)
  7. Sensitive Development Areas (PDF)
  8. Super Neighborhood Boundaries (PDF)
  9. Vacant and Undeveloped Land (PDF)
  1. What is public right-of-way and why do we need it?
  2. What is the parkway?
  3. Who is responsible for maintaining the parkway?
  4. What is an easement and why is it necessary?
  5. What do I need to do to build a carport in front of my house?
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