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Planning & Zoning Division
About Us
The Planning & Zoning Division is a vital component of the Engineering and Community Development Department, tasked with shaping the future of Oakland Park through comprehensive urban planning, land use management, and zoning regulation. Our division is dedicated to creating a balanced, sustainable, and vibrant community that aligns with the City’s long-term vision.
We play a central role in the City's development and redevelopment efforts, ensuring that all projects comply with Oakland Park’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. Our responsibilities extend beyond technical review and administration—we actively engage the community through public participation, ensuring that development reflects the needs and aspirations of residents, business owners, and visitors alike. By working closely with citizens, developers, and other city departments, we ensure that growth is managed responsibly, preserving the character and integrity of Oakland Park’s neighborhoods while promoting economic development and environmental sustainability.
Mission
Our mission is to foster responsible growth and redevelopment that enhances Oakland Park’s economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and community identity. Through our stewardship of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, we work to ensure that all new development contributes positively to the City's character while respecting its history and existing neighborhoods.
Core Services
Comprehensive Plan & Land Development Code Management
We oversee and update the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, ensuring they reflect the City’s long-term development goals. These essential documents guide land use, zoning, and urban design, helping to promote sustainable and responsible growth that benefits the community.
Public Participation & Outreach
We facilitate public engagement through neighborhood participation meetings, workshops, and formal public hearings. Our division ensures that residents, business owners, and other stakeholders have a voice in shaping development projects, fostering transparency and building community trust. Outreach is conducted through mailings, press releases, advertisements, and virtual platforms.
Development Review Committee (DRC) Administration
We coordinate the Development Review Committee (DRC), which involves a thorough technical review of proposed development projects. The DRC assesses projects for compliance with City regulations and provides feedback to developers, ensuring that new developments meet the City’s standards for safety, aesthetics, and community impact.
Technical Assistance to Boards & City Commission
Our division serves as a liaison to key boards such as the Planning & Zoning Board, Board of Adjustment, and Historic Preservation Board, providing expert planning advice and support. We also prepare and present planning and development proposals to the City Commission, ensuring that they are informed by technical expertise and community input.
Project Reviews & Approvals
We conduct comprehensive reviews of both commercial and residential development projects. This includes assessing site development plans, plats, land use plan amendments, rezonings, conditional uses, variances, and business licenses. Our goal is to ensure that all projects are compatible with surrounding land uses and comply with the City's policies and regulations.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Data Analysis
Our GIS capabilities allow us to perform in-depth data analysis, map preparation, and strategic planning. This service enhances decision-making, supports public participation, and allows us to provide accurate, up-to-date information to developers, residents, and other stakeholders. GIS also assists with land use studies, zoning verifications, and flood determinations.
Zoning Verification & Compliance
We provide Zoning Verification Letters upon request, which confirm the zoning status of a property and ensure that it complies with the City's zoning regulations. This service is crucial for property owners, developers, and businesses needing formal documentation of a property's zoning compliance.
Committees & Boards
The Planning & Zoning Division works closely with several key boards and committees that play a significant role in shaping the future of Oakland Park. These boards facilitate public participation and ensure that decisions align with the community’s long-term vision.
Planning & Zoning Board
This board reviews land use plans, rezonings, and development proposals, providing recommendations to the City Commission. The board ensures that projects align with the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, helping guide the City’s growth.
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment reviews variance requests and appeals related to zoning regulations. It ensures that any deviations from the Land Development Code maintain fairness and support the City’s overall goals.
Historic Preservation Board
This board is dedicated to preserving Oakland Park's architectural and cultural heritage. It reviews proposals affecting designated historic properties and ensures that development respects the historical integrity of the community.
Development Review Committee (DRC)
The DRC is an internal, multi-departmental committee responsible for the technical review of development projects. It ensures compliance with city regulations, provides feedback to developers, and helps streamline the review process for new developments.
Through these committees and boards, the Planning & Zoning Division ensures that development decisions are made transparently and in line with the City’s policies and goals, with ample opportunity for public input and expert guidance.
Planning & Zoning Resources
Zoning & Development
OP3D - Downtown Code and Design Guidelines
Landscape Streetscape Design Standards
Current Maps
Future Land Use Map - Comprehensive Plan 2022
Oakland Park Neighborhood Associations Aerial Map 2026
Development & Permitting
Development Permit Application & Instructions
Neighborhood Participation Meeting Guide
Outdoor Display of Merchandise Permit
Temporary Signs or Banners Permit
Live Local Act
Live Local Act Application
Affordable Housing
Inventory List of Property Appropriate for Affordable Housing per FS166.0451
Upcoming Neighborhood Participation Meetings (NPM)
These meetings are held in compliance with the City of Oakland Park’s Land Development Code, Section 24-163 (E), as part of the Neighborhood Participation Meeting (NPM) Program. NPMs are required before any formal development application is submitted. The materials presented are preliminary and have not been reviewed by the City. No approvals or endorsements are implied, and the information discussed does not reflect the City’s official opinion or support. View upcoming Neighborhood Participation Meetings on the city calendar.