Planning & Zoning is responsible for implementing, administering, and enforcing the Highlands County 2030 Comprehensive Plan and the sections of the Highlands County Code of Ordinances - Land Development Regulations pertaining to Zoning, Environmental Clearance and Historic Preservation.
These land use documents ensure that development occurs in the right place at the right time, that the provision of infrastructure and services is adequate and timely, and that important natural and cultural resources are protected.
The division serves as the technical staff on planning and zoning issues for the Board of County Commissioners, the Planning and Zoning Commission/Zoning Board of Adjustment, and the Historic Preservation Commission. Staff also provides planning input to the Natural Resources Advisory Commission, Recreation & Parks Advisory Committee, Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Local Mitigation Strategy Working Group, Development Review Conferences, and Technical Review Meetings.
Staff also collaborates with a number of multi-jurisdictional planning groups, including the Central Florida Regional Planning Council, Heartland Regional Transportation Planning Organization, and the Heart of Florida Section of the American Planning Association – Florida Chapter, as well as the local planning agencies in Sebring, Avon Park and Lake Placid.
To ask us a question, email us at PandZ@highlandsfl.gov
PLEASE NOTE:
You will never receive an email from the County requesting sensitive information or payment related to a development application. If you do, you should always call Planning & Zoning at 863-402-6650 or 863-402-6638 to verify its legitimacy.