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Comprehensive Plans
Planning functions in most cities are divided into  two categories, current planning and long-range planning. While zoning  and the issuance of  discretionary permits fall under the current planning category,  comprehensive planning is typically a function within the long-range  planning category. A  comprehensive plan, also known as a general plan or master plan in some  communities, is a general outline of future development projections for  local community. In most cases it is a document used to project growth patterns over a  period of time, usually from 20 to 50 years. It is used also to develop  long-term programs  for capital improvements and other programs affected by a  municipality's anticipated long-term evolution. In most states, state law requires that local municipalities the zone property in a manner consistentwith the outlines of the adopted  general or comprehensive plan. Hence, a jurisdiction is, in many ways,  restricted from changing the zoning designation of property to one that  does not match  the adopted comprehensive or general plan. Back to top
Specific Plans
Specific plans are mechanisms by which local planning  agencies can specify development regulations and land use preferences  for certain unique  physical areas. Specific planning regulations apply only in specified  geographic areas, allowing local regulatory agencies the ability to  tailor planning and  zoning regulations to unique topography or circulation patterns in  special areas. Specific plans may contain special height restrictions,  added parking  requirements and special design review requirements.