Welcome to the Department of Planning and Zoning

Our website is designed to be your online resource for information on development, zoning, agricultural and environmental preservation, and community planning in Howard County. Please take time to visit the many pages bringing you the latest information from DPZ.

We would like to know what you think about our site and how it can better serve you. If you have recommendations, comments or questions, please contact us at planning@howardcountymd.gov. Thank you for visiting.

To create collaborative, innovative plans and implement strategies that effectively address growth and redevelopment challenges. DPZ seeks to enhance Howard County’s high quality of life, prosperity, and stewardship of our natural and cultural resources.

Population Growth - 2000 to 2008: This Division of Research report summarizes intercensal population estimates recenlty released by the Census Bureau and provides regional and state comparisons. In addition, the Bureau’s estimates are compared to DPZ's population growth estimates based on new housing units. Historic population growth for Howard County is also discussed.

The Division of Land Development is pleased to present our latest Homebuilder’s Newsletter to you. The newsletter is our way to communicate the most current information on policy changes, procedural updates and interpretations of regulations. Our goal was to compile all of the latest subdivision and land development information pertaining to the Division of Land Development into one document, creating a valuable informational resource for all. While we have strived to put all of the most current information into this Homebuilder’s Newsletter, it is by no means all inclusive and should only be used as a reference tool. Please follow the link below to view the latest version of the Homebuilder’s Newsletter.

Search Development Plans & Public Meetings: DPZ has launched its new development tracking tool! The web mapping tool is much improved and was built from cutting-edge technology developed in partnership with the County’s GIS Division. It has a more intuitive user interface, is easier to use, and has better visual mapping capabilities. It contains all current development activity including presubmission community meetings, public hearings, subdivision and site development plans, and waiver petitions. All current as well as historic information back to the year 2000 can be found on the site. Video Tutorial

Planning Board Proceedings and Testimony
ZRA 113 Technical Staff Report to Planning Board
GGP Downtown Columbia Master Plan:
ZRA, GPA and Supplemental Materials

QUICK LINKS
3 Digit Signs	Customer Service Center & Large Format Imaging Services
Howard Transit	Downtown Columbia
The Land Plan	Forms, Fees, & Applications
Village Center Revitalization	Hearings
Subscribe, What is RSS?	Rt 1 Manual
	Zoning & Subdivision Regulations

Temporary office relocated to 8930 Stanford Boulevard, Columbia, MD 21045
Department of Planning and Zoning | 3430 Court House Drive | Ellicott City, MD 21043
Monday-Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm | Phone: 410-313-2350 | Fax: 410-313-3467