The Planning Department is responsible for developing and implementing the City of Fairhope Comprehensive Plan, enforcing the City of Fairhope Zoning Ordinances, City of Fairhope subdivision regulations and short- and long-term planning issues.

A division of the Planning Department, Building/Inspection is responsible for plan review, code enforcement, issuing building permits and Certificates of Occupancy, and performing inspections on all building components, including structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and fire safety.

The Planning Department staff works closely with the Fairhope Planning Commission, a body of volunteer citizens appointed by the Mayor and City Council to review development proposals within the City of Fairhope and within our planning jurisdiction. They also review zoning cases and make recommendations to the City Council.