The East Lyme Planning Department under the direction of the First Selectman supports the Town and the East Lyme Planning Commission. The East Lyme Planning Commission is responsible for regulating the subdivision of land through the use of local subdivision regulations, established and administered by the Planning Commission, and the development of the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development (“POCDâ€) a State mandated requirement.Â
The Planning Department reviews residential and non-residential subdivision applications, performs consistency analysis of commercial and industrial development proposals with the Plan of Conservation and Development, and provides guidance with regard to existing and future land use policies to insure the East Lyme interests and regulations are met. The Planning Department provides input and guidance to long range planning initiatives and oversees the implemented regulations.  For example, the East Lyme Planning Department is currently providing technical guidance in the development of the Plan of Conservation and Development 2009 update for the Town.  East Lyme’s update of the Plan of Conservation and Development is expected to be completed and adopted by late Fall of 2009.
Other functions of the Planning Department include the review of Inland Wetland applications, enforcement of regulations, investigation of wetland violations, and coordination and review of development proposals with local and state agencies.
The purpose of the East Lyme Planning Department is to insure the town’s objectives, goals, and strategies for sustainable development conserve open land; promote balanced and responsible growth; maintain an adequate level of community services and facilities; and ensuring a high quality of lifestyle and an atmosphere that promotes success for East Lyme citizens and business.
