Community Planning Program Certificate

Community Planning Program Certificate
Local Planning Solutions Capstone Project

 The Community Planning Program Certificate helps local planning staff and appointed officials build a strong working foundation in planning, zoning, and public engagement. Participants take four Institute of Government planning and zoning courses, then complete a Local Planning Solutions capstone project that applies what they’ve learned to a real issue in their own community.

The program is built for the day-to-day realities of local government. It emphasizes research-informed practice, clear communication, and decision-making that respects local context, rural identity, and long-term growth goals. The focus is on strengthening the planning process itself—how communities think, engage, and choose—not on pushing any particular policy outcome.

The capstone gives participants room to test ideas, analyze local challenges, and produce usable recommendations. The goal is to support better planning and stronger communities through practical tools, grounded analysis, and a steady commitment to public trust.

Certificate Requirements: Complete 4 of the 6 training series classes (must include Planning & Zoning 101: The Basics class) and a capstone project demonstrating applied learning and local impact.

To apply for the Community Planning Program Certificate, you must register for the P&Z Certificate & Capstone seminar and complete required application with attachments by seminar date.

• Applications for the Community Planning Certificate and Local Solutions are due February 15th or July 15th, COB.
• Capstone projects are due on August 15th or January 15th.

Hours
Eligibility for the certificate requires completing 24 hours of class time since 2018, including the 3-hour Planning & Zoning Certificate & Capstone seminar.