The Planning Commission’s Role in the Permitting Process

What happens if you have an application that requires a conditional use permit or a change in zoning ordinances? A request like this needs more than a simple review—this is where the Planning Commission steps in. The Planning Commission is tasked with hearing out the applicant, considering whether the request is consistent with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and making a recommendation to the City Council.

The Planning Commission is comprised of nine Chesterfield citizens nominated by the Mayor and appointed by the City Council. Members must be residents of the City for at least one year and, once appointed, serve four-year terms. The Planning Commission is authorized to amend rules inconsistent with current laws and ordinances and vote to add regulation that supports the community’s overarching vision and development goals for the City’s future growth.

The request must begin with a public hearing held at the Planning Commission prior to proceeding to four additional City meetings, which usually occur on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. and are open to the public. After hearing the application, the Planning Commission will give its recommendation and forward it to the Mayor and City Council. Once in the hands of the Mayor and City Council, they will approve or disapprove the Commission recommendation.

For more information on the Planning Commission, please contact the Planning Department at 636.537.4733.