The Department of Community Development is comprised of two divisions: Planning and Building.  

The Planning Division is responsible for the maintenance and updating of the Comprehensive Plan, developing and implementing new planning programs, developing and implementing affordable housing programs, and the adminstration of the land use ordinance, a significant component of the Ashland Municipal Code.

The Building Division provides a full-inspection and plan review program for all building related needs: electrical, mechanical, plumbing and structural and also administers the minor label program, facilities master permit program and other alternate permit and inspection services authorized by the State Building Codes Division.

The Department of Community Development also oversees Ashland's Housing Program which is aimed at addressing the need for affordable workforce housing within the community. The Department also includes Municipal Code Compliance, which has the responsibility to ensure the requirements of the land use ordinance are complied with.

The Conservation Division is coordinated with the Community Development Department and shares office space, but is officially part of the Electric and Water Departments, which provide funding for Conservation Staff and programs.

COMMISSIONS

The Community Development Department also provides staff and support to the following Advisory Commissions (members appointed by the Mayor)