Planning, Building and Sustainability

The Department of Planning, Building & Sustainability manages the administration of local regulations that govern the built environment, and is comprised of three distinct prongs: planning, inspections and GIS.

The planning division is responsible for the development of the city’s master land use plan and for the implementation of the zoning code.  Boards such as the planning commission, the board of zoning adjustment and the village design review committee work closely with the planning staff to carry out planning functions related to resurveys and subdivisions, zoning code revisions, development regulations, and village design.  

The building inspections division is responsible for the issuance of building permits and for the inspections of general construction, plumbing, gas, and electrical projects.  This division is also responsible for storm water regulation and flood plain management. 

The division of geographic information systems (GIS) supports all city departments with mapping and spatial analysis, utilizing maps, analyzing spatial locations and organizing layers of information into visualizations, revealing deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships, and situations helping the city make smarter decisions. 

 All of the functions of the department of PB&S are grounded in sustainable practices that promote and enhance quality construction, civic engagement, pedestrian activity, community vitality, beautification of public spaces, respect for historic infrastructure and buildings, and environmental stewardship.

Get Involved!

Interested in serving on a board?  Apply Here

The City encourages its citizens to participate in the public hearing process. Be informed about proposed zoning and subdivision changes in your community!  View the City Calendar for upcoming meeting dates/times or review public notices posted in the following locations.

City Hall - 56 Church Street
Gilchrist Drug Company - 2805 Cahaba Road
Overton Park, 3020 Overton Road
Cahaba River Walk - 3503 Overton Road

One-Stop Development Guidance

Come chat with key city officials for preliminary feedback on your new business or multi-family proposal.  Officials in attendance each Monday morning consist of the Fire Marshal,  the Building Official, the Revenue Examiner, the City Planner and the Zoning Administrator.  Guidance given may pertain to Fire/Life Safety Code, Building Code, Licensing, Zoning Code and Design Review.  Appointments are encouraged (contact Tammy Reid, 802-3810 or reidt@mtnbrook.org).  Appointments will be given priority; walk-ins are on a first-come-first-serve basis.  Meetings are from 8-9am on Monday mornings in Room A231.  Construction drawings are not required, but bring any preliminary plans that may illustrate the design intent and facilitate discussion.