Planning Section responsibilities range from countywide planning to assistance to municipalities on development related issues. Guided by the County plans, Greenway Connections and Directions, the ultimate objective of the Planning Department is to maintain and enhance the County's quality of life and economic climate and  through the analysis of development alternatives and selection of the most beneficial courses of action.

Program Highlights

The Department is responsible for the administration of the Dutchess County Partnership for Manageable Growth a funding program that provides matching grants to eligible farmland and open space conservation projects.

The collection, analysis, and dissemination of data are an integral part of planning efforts. The Department provides census and demographic data to residents, municipalities, non-profit agencies, and businesses.

Pursuant to New York State law, county planning reviews certain town, city and village zoning and development applications. Goals in municipal and county plans and policies advancing the conservation of our natural and historic resources form the basis for these reviews.

In addition to encouraging citizen participation in each of its projects, the Planning section serves as staff support to the Dutchess County Planning Federation, a volunteer organization that provides educational workshops and materials for planning and zoning officials and residents.

Past and current studies, reports, and newsletters, as well as mapping resources and our model subdivision regulations, are available on this website.